Bracket And Article Holding Means Are Separable Patents (Class 224/547)
  • Patent number: 6561401
    Abstract: A scooter is provided with an article storage device which is formed of a base and a box body disposed slidably in the base. The base is disposed in a receiving space of the footboard of the scooter. The box body is provided in the top and in the underside with an article holding space to facilitate the storage of an article, such as a hand tool, an emergency medical aid, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Inventor: Shui-Te Tsai
  • Patent number: 6550654
    Abstract: A cargo net assembly which may be installed and removed from between a pair of seats within an automotive vehicle. The net assembly includes a substantially rectangular interwoven mesh net. A retainer is mounted to each corner of the net for supporting the net within the vehicle. A mounting frame is secured to an interior of the vehicle and includes an aperture with an insertion section and a restraint section for receiving the retainer. The net assembly is characterized by a pair of locking tabs disposed on the mounting frame for retaining the retainer in the restraint section. The retainer also includes a clamping portion for anchoring the retainer to the corners of the net and fastening portion extending from the clamping portion for mounting the retainer to the vehicle. The clamping portion includes two interconnected sections with the corner of the net sandwiched between the sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Assignee: Magna Interior Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Garth Crago
  • Patent number: 6530510
    Abstract: A system for removably securing a cigar to a structural member of a golf cart that includes a first strap that carries a first metallic member and includes a fastener for cinching down the first strap so as to releasably secure it to the golf cart. A second strap is provided that has a second metallic member secured thereto and includes a fastener for cinching down the second strap to releasably secure it to the cigar. The fasteners for the first and second straps may be Velcro, a releasable adhesive, a buckle, or the like. At least one of the first or second metallic members is magnetized and the other is of a metal that is magnetizable, so that when the first strap is secured to the golf cart and the second strap is secured to the cigar, the cigar can be firmly, but removably, secured to the golf cart due to the attraction between the first and second metallic members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Inventor: R. Keith Ferrari
  • Publication number: 20030010800
    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: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2002
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Inventors: Richard W McCoy, Thomas W Lindenman
  • Patent number: 6481604
    Abstract: A vehicle rack which supports different accessory having mounting pegs on a pickup truck bed is provided. The vehicle rack includes a plurality of retaining arms wherein each of the plurality of retaining arms are received within a stake pocket of the pickup truck bed. The invention further includes a panel and a locking member where the panel is integral with the plurality of retaining arms and may extend along a side wall of the pickup truck. The panel defines a plurality of apertures for receiving the mounting pegs of the at least one accessory. The locking member is moveably affixed to the panel, and has a plurality of obstructions which partial close the openings of the plurality of apertures when the locking member is slid into a locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Beene, Kathryn Cohen, Linda Bliss, Lauren Icken, Samuel Ferraro-Pollak, Sreekumar Vijaykumar
  • Patent number: 6460744
    Abstract: A storage unit adapted to be slidably coupled to a rear floor portion of a vehicle, such as a pickup truck, may be provided with a mounting structure and a cabinet slidably coupled to the mounting structure. The storage unit may be provided with a plurality of drawers disposed in the cabinet and positioned within the cabinet between a pair of cabinet sidewalls, each of the drawers being movable in a direction parallel to the width of the cabinet. The storage unit may have a cover operatively connected to the cabinet, the cover being movable between an open position in which the drawers may be opened and a closed position in which the cover prevents the drawers from being opened, and a cover latch associated with the cover that allows the cover to be latched in its closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Inventors: Marshall Lance, Sandra Lance
  • Patent number: 6457618
    Abstract: An all terrain vehicle (ATV) mounting bracket assembly that is adapted to mount to the rear deck of an ATV and to hold a scabbard or gun case outwardly of either side or the rear of the vehicle and in position to allow a tong gun to be easily inserted into or withdrawn from such scabbard or gun case includes a universal mounting plate to be secured to an ATV deck, a support plate extending upwardly from the universal mounting plate and outwardly from the vehicle and a holding plate carried by the support plate and capable of being tipped to insure proper angular mounting of a scabbard or gun case fixed to the holding plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Inventors: Dennis H. Hancock, Jeffrey D. Hancock
  • Patent number: 6394327
    Abstract: A two part locking system for a push-broom preferably for use in the trucking industry, the first part A being mounting bracket with means for being fixedly attached to a desired site; such as on the rear panel of the cab, generally along the driver's side thereof, or to the tractor trailer in any suitable and accessible location thereon; and the second part B being a coupling piece that is attached to the push-broom at its wooden surface base containing the bristles and also to the handle of the broom, extending longitudinally up the broom handle from the broom base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Inventor: Richard Mietlicki
  • Patent number: 6382482
    Abstract: An eyeglass case assembly includes an eyeglass case and a case seat. The eyeglass case has a coupling portion with a first magnetic member attached thereto. The case seat has a face which is disposed adjacent to the coupling portion of the eyeglass case and which is provided with a second magnetic member that is attached thereto and that attracts magnetically with the first magnetic member, thereby fixing the eyeglass case to the case seat. The case seat further includes a clamping device which is adapted to hold a sun visor thereon, thereby mounting the case seat fixedly on the sun visor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Inventor: David Yinkai Chao
  • Patent number: 6382488
    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: December 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Inventor: Dennis Hancock
  • Publication number: 20020047032
    Abstract: A device for the fixation of dimensionally stable suitcases, for example, for the cargo space of a motor vehicle. Receiving tracks are provided in a cargo space floor, which tracts are associated with securing means for the suitcases, corresponding securing elements are provided on the suitcases, which can be engaged with positive lock with securing means in the cargo space, and actuation means are provided, in the cargo space or on the suitcase, for the manual separation of the securing means and the securing elements from each other, for use, for example, in station wagons.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2001
    Publication date: April 25, 2002
    Inventor: Werner P. Schlecht
  • Patent number: 6375054
    Abstract: A vehicle mounted storage unit adapted to be mounted to a rear floor portion of a vehicle, such as a pickup truck, may be provided with a mounting structure and a cabinet mounted to the mounting structure. The storage unit may be provided with a plurality of drawers disposed in the cabinet and positioned within the cabinet between a pair of cabinet sidewalls, each of the drawers being movable in a direction parallel to the width of the cabinet. The storage unit may have a cover operatively connected to the cabinet, the cover being movable between an open position in which the drawers may be opened and a closed position in which the cover prevents the drawers from being opened, and a cover latch associated with the cover that allows the cover to be latched in its closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Inventors: Marshall Lance, Sandra Lance
  • Publication number: 20010048012
    Abstract: A system for removably securing a cigar to a structural member of a golf cart that includes a first strap that carries a first metallic member and includes a fastener for cinching down the first strap so as to releasably secure it to the golf cart. A second strap is provided that has a second metallic member secured thereto and includes a fastener for cinching down the second strap to releasably secure it to the cigar. The fasteners for the first and second straps may be Velcro, a releasable adhesive, a buckle, or the like. At least one of the first or second metallic members is magnetized and the other is of a metal that is magnetizable, so that when the first strap is secured to the golf cart and the second strap is secured to the cigar, the cigar can be firmly, but removably, secured to the golf cart due to the attraction between the first and second metallic members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2001
    Publication date: December 6, 2001
    Inventor: R. Keith Ferrari
  • Publication number: 20010048011
    Abstract: A carrier and hitch assembly comprises a rigid, elongated housing having a door covered opening on a front face. The housing is large enough to contain a standard size golf bag and a complete set of clubs. The housing is provided with wheels and a handle so that the housing may be utilized in cart-like fashion. The rear face of the housing is provided with structure for attaching the housing to a hitch assembly for transporting the housing at the rear of an automotive vehicle or golf cart.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Publication date: December 6, 2001
    Inventor: Jane Burns
  • Patent number: 6315182
    Abstract: A pouch assembly is adapted to hold a cellular phone and is adapted to be mounted on a bar. The pouch assembly includes a pouch body, an inverted U-shaped clip, a bar clamping member, a slideable coupling device, and an interlocking device. The pouch body is adapted to receive the cellular phone therein. The inverted U-shaped clip has an anchoring plate portion secured to the pouch body, a resilient engaging portion disposed behind the anchoring plate portion, and a bridging plate portion interconnecting upper ends of the anchoring and resilient engaging portions. The bar clamping member includes a base wall portion and a bar clamp portion connected to the base wall portion and adapted to clamp the bar. The slideable coupling device is formed on and couples slideably and removably the resilient engaging portion of the clip and the base wall portion of the bar clamping member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Assignee: Co-Union Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Li-Fong Chen
  • Patent number: 6293450
    Abstract: A quick-release mounting system for a motorcycle saddlebag and a method for retrofitting a motorcycle with the system. The system includes two or more couplings with which one can retrofit a motorcycle by replacing each bolt of the original mounting system with one of the couplings. Each coupling includes a first coupling portion and a second coupling portion that can be removably coupled and uncoupled with one another in a quick-release manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2001
    Inventor: Mathew R. Aron
  • Patent number: 6269992
    Abstract: An article holding apparatus is disclosed for use in conjunction with a wheeled vehicle of the type including an axle upon which the vehicle wheel is rotatably mounted. The apparatus comprises an article holder, and a mount connectable to the vehicle. According to one embodiment, the article holder is connectable to the mount so as to be rotatable independently of the rotation of the vehicle wheel. According to another embodiment, the mount defines the exclusive point of securement to the vehicle for the article holder, and the mount and the article holder each comprise slidably interconnectable mounting elements. Per this embodiment, the article holder may be rotatable independently of the rotation of the vehicle wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Inventor: Jason Samuel Miller
  • Patent number: 6230947
    Abstract: An audio equipment holder and bracket device that conveniently mounts to a vehicle. The device comprises a substantially planer platform for retaining the audio equipment, and at least one leg with the first end secured to the platform, and a second end terminating at a connection point that allows for releasable securement to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Inventor: Robert E. McClaran
  • Patent number: 6227427
    Abstract: The golf bag holder of the present invention includes a vertically adjustable clamp which is mounted to a horizontal support member. The clamp is provided with a vertical slot for insertion of a bolt. The bolt is inserted through the slot in the clamp, through a bore in the horizontal support member, and then is threadedly engaged with a nut. When a golf bag is placed adjacent to the horizontal support member, the clamp is lowered onto the lip of the golf bag. Once properly positioned, the clamp is fixed in place by tightening the nut on the bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventor: John H. Kunz
  • Patent number: 6209767
    Abstract: A device is designed to hold securely a mobile phone dialing device on the steering wheel of an automotive vehicle. The device is formed of a locating member and a restraining member. The locating member is provided at one end thereof with a connection portion for connecting the mobile phone dialing device, and at other end thereof with an arcuate recess corresponding in radian to the steering wheel. The arcuate recess makes an intimate contact with the steering wheel. The restraining member enables the locating member to be detachably fastened with the steering wheel of the automotive vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Assignee: Merry Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yi-Chaung Liou
  • Patent number: 6196605
    Abstract: A portable storage apparatus for use with motor vehicles comprises a support extending outwardly from an interior panel of a motor vehicle. The support includes an inner support member, an outer support member, and opposing side support members. The side support members extend outwardly with respect to the inner support member and support the outer support member in a spaced relation relative to the inner support member. A portable storage bin includes a storage container and a lid. The storage container includes an inner wall, an outer wall, opposing side walls, and a bottom. The walls cooperatively form a peripheral wall. The bottom is joined to the peripheral wall. The storage container is adapted to be inserted into the support. The lid is pivoted to the storage container so as to be displaceable between an opened position and a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Jason Paul Baldas, Hitoshi Ohashi, Gerald Oscar Morrison, Eileen Marie Avram
  • Patent number: 6173873
    Abstract: An arrangement for receiving a suitcase on a vehicle hood, particularly a rear opening hood of a motor vehicle, comprises at least three fastening elements arranged on a hood surface which are connected by way of fastening devices with support parts of the rear opening hood. Two of the fastening elements are arranged in a transverse plane and—relative to the driving direction—close to a forward hood edge, and another fastening element is arranged close to a rearward hood edge in a longitudinal center plane of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche AG
    Inventor: Wolfgang Schmierer
  • Patent number: 6135276
    Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicle cleaning kit which comprises a main housing, a housing lid dimensioned to cover the housing in sealing engagement proximate a perimeter thereof and a panel assembly dimensioned to removably retain a plurality of cleaning mechanisms. When the cleaning kit is secured to a vehicle in an upwardly arrangement, the cleaning kit provides compact, integrated mechanism for storing and accessing the cleaning mechanisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Inventors: Roland C. A. French, Cyril L. A. French
  • Patent number: 6135408
    Abstract: In a holder for an object, such as a mobile telephone, comprising a housing having a front part with a front wall and a rear part with a rear wall and a permanent magnet disposed in the housing adjacent the front wall thereof, the front wall has a recess formed therein and an iron plate having a shape so as to be fittingly received in the recess and having adhesive means at one side thereof is provided for attachment of the plate to an object to permit placing of the object on the holder with the iron plate mounted thereon and received in the recess for locating and holding the object on the holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Inventor: Herbert Richter
  • Patent number: 6116672
    Abstract: An adapter ring useable in a door or map pocket having an orientation within a vehicle is disclosed. The adapter ring is fittable within the door pocket to support a configured bin of standard design within the door pocket irrespective of the orientation of the door pocket. The adapter ring includes a peripheral flange having an outer edge adapted for cooperation with the door pocket to support the adapter ring in the door pocket. The peripheral flange also has an inner edge adapted for cooperation with at least a portion of the configured bin to support the bin within the door pocket. A vehicle door assembly utilizing the adapter ring for optimizing the storage capacity of a door pocket is also disclosed. Also disclosed are various inserts fittable within a door pocket for optimizing the storage capacity of the door pocket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Carter Scott Cannon, Jack Van Ert
  • Patent number: 6109494
    Abstract: A motorcycle transport system for allowing transporting of a motorcycle and convenient securing/releasing of the motorcycle from a transporting device. The inventive device includes a base mountable to a bed of a transporting device, a pair of catch structures attached to opposing sides of the base, a permanent bracket secured to motorcycle frame members, a plurality of flanged end members extending downwardly from the permanent bracket, a pair of middle brackets each having a pair of slots for catchably securing to the flanged end members, a pair of pegs extending from the pair of middle brackets for releasably attaching to the pair of catch structures. The catch structures include a pair of levers for allowing the user to release the pegs from the catch structures with their foot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Inventor: William A. Pilmore
  • Patent number: 6050627
    Abstract: A bed extender for extending the usable bed length of a vehicle. The extender includes hitch connecting apparatus, supporting apparatus, and positioning apparatus. The hitch connecting apparatus removably connects the bed extender with the orifice of a receiver hitch so as to allow the bed extender to be completely removed from the vehicle when the bed extender is not in use. The supporting apparatus supports a load when the load is substantially beyond the length of the bed of the vehicle so as to allow the weight of that portion of the load beyond the vehicle bed to be translated to the receiver hitch via the supporting apparatus and the hitch connecting apparatus. The positioning apparatus attaches the hitch connecting apparatus to the supporting apparatus and is substantially vertical.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Inventor: William R. Lee
  • Patent number: 6041717
    Abstract: A mechanic's tray assembly for holding tools and small parts, and removably adherable to both horizontal and non-horizontal surfaces. The tray assembly includes a shallow-walled tray and a pair of C-shaped support tracks fixedly secured to the tray. A pair of removably-adhering assemblies, independent of each other and preferably having magnets, are slidably and pivotally held on the C-shaped support tracks by support arms. The support arms have cylindrically-shaped holes through which the C-shaped support tracks extend. The cylindrically-shaped holes engage and grip the support tracks by means of a cantilever moment produced at the tube-shaped holes, thereby enabling the tray to be held at a desired tray angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Inventor: Dan Z. Kubat
  • Patent number: 6036071
    Abstract: An attachment apparatus for attaching a vehicle accessory to a vehicle structure including a first bracket member, a second bracket member and an interfacing member for interfacing the first bracket with the second bracket. The first bracket member includes a base member having an opening extending therethrough, and a member for attachment to a vehicle structure. The second bracket includes a carriage member having at least one post member extending outwardly therefrom, and a member for attachment to a vehicle accessory. The interfacing member interfaces the post member with the opening of the first bracket, to, in turn, maintain at least a portion of the first bracket and at least a portion of the second bracket member in overlying abutment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Assignee: Cobbs Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Jerome Hartmann, Thomas R. Steinhagen
  • Patent number: 6021936
    Abstract: A gun mounting bracket for ATV's adaptive to a variety of cargo racks generally employed by ATV's and further provides adaptability of a wide range of gun scabbards or boots designed for a variety of different type guns. The bracket includes a base plate member having a plurality of holes and slots which may be used in combination with U-bolts and clamps for attachment, a pivotal plate member which provides a method for rotating the boot to angular positions relative to the base plate and a rotatable bar loop, which is fully adaptable to gun boots having a variety of shapes and sizes. The bar loop is provided for insertion of the barrel portion of the gun boot therein to a point which generally positions the boot relative to the bracket and its latching mechanism. The bar loop, being rotatable, allows the loop to be rotated to more closely conform to the boot's width.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2000
    Inventor: Kevin D. Savant
  • Patent number: 5992718
    Abstract: A new container attachment for attaching to a hood of a vehicle for holding a wipe cloth therein. The inventive device includes a mounting bracket, a container, and a lid. The mounting bracket having first and second spaced apart panels and a connecting portion connecting the panels of the mounting bracket together. The first panel of the mounting bracket is adapted for attachment to a structure. The container has base and a perimeter side wall. The perimeter side wall of the container has a front, and a back. The perimeter side wall of the container defines an interior space. The perimeter side wall of the container has a terminal edge which defines an opening into the interior space of the container. The lid has first and second surfaces, a front, and a back. The back of the lid is pivotally coupled to the back of the perimeter side wall of the container. The lid has a slot therethrough which extends between the front and back of the lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Inventor: Fred Zaranek
  • Patent number: 5915777
    Abstract: A cab compartment storage system has a modular, unitary support structure including a rear compartment trim panel connected to the back of a pick-up passenger compartment and at least one support rod with opposite ends connected to the rear compartment trim panel and wherein the support rod is spaced forwardly of the rear compartment panel between the opposite connected ends thereof to be placed on the pick-up compartment at the same time that the trim panel is connected in place; and wherein at least one upwardly open end container is connected on the support rod to depend from the support rod for providing article stowage within the cab storage compartment at a point closely proximate to the backs of a seating system located forwardly thereof within the passenger compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Assignee: Textron Automotive Company Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher T. Gignac, Robert L. Juzwiak
  • Patent number: 5909832
    Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicle cleaning kit which comprises a main housing, a housing lid dimensioned to cover the housing in sealing engagement proximate a perimeter thereof, a fluid container dimensioned to removably fit within the housing and a panel assembly dimensioned to removably retain a plurality of cleaning mechanisms. When the cleaning kit is secured to a vehicle in an upwardly arrangement, the cleaning kit provides a compact, integrated mechanism for storing and accessing the fluid container and the cleaning mechanisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 8, 1999
    Inventors: Roland C. A. French, Cyril L. A. French
  • Patent number: 5901891
    Abstract: A carrying container that is releasably attached to various ambulatory appliances by a mounting arrangement that has a common interface. The common interface is adapted to snugly mate with several different ambulatory appliances. The carrying container includes several compartments which are dimensioned to receive articles in a snug manner to secure the same during travel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Inventor: Karl J. Douglass
  • Patent number: 5857601
    Abstract: An improved beverage holder is provided that is particularly well suited for association with the handlebar of a stroller. The beverage holder includes a flattened U-configured clip that is removably positionable over the handlebar. The beverage holder also includes a receptacle. To engage the receptacle with the clip, the receptacle is provided with an outwardly projecting stub shaft having an enlarged head, and one leg of the clip is provided with a keyhole-type slot. When the enlarged head is extended through the enlarged upper end portion of the keyhole slot, the stub shaft is slidably movable in the narrow lower portion of the keyhole slot, thereby engaging the receptacle with the clip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1999
    Assignee: Graco Children's Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark H. Greenwood
  • Patent number: 5855310
    Abstract: A removable storate container for a motor vehicle interior is disclosed. The storage container comprises first and second container halves and a hinge. The first container half has an indentation adapted to engage a projection on a floor of the vehicle. The second container half is disposed adjacent a side wall of the vehicle, and includes at least one hole adapted to removably engage a corresponding projection extending from a side wall of the vehicle. The hinge pivotably connects the first container half and the second container half. Optional features include foam padding disposed between the first container half and the second container half, and a handle connected to the storage container for carrying the storage container when the storage container is removed from the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1999
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Jack Michael Van Ert, Dan Bernard Malski
  • Patent number: 5850957
    Abstract: A business card dispenser, mountable on an exterior surface of a vehicle used by a business person, stores business cards or other promotional materials and is accessible to prospective customers located in the vicinity of the vehicle so as to permit the prospective customers to remove promotional materials from the business card dispenser. The business card dispenser preferably includes 1) a base mountable on the vehicle, e.g, by adhesive strips and 2) a card holder mounted on the base and receiving the promotional materials. The card holder is preferably removably mounted on the base to permit its removal, thus preventing theft or damage to the card holder. The card holder also incorporates measures to protect the cards from the elements. Indicia preferably are provided on the vehicle in the vicinity of the business card dispenser to draw prospective customers' attention to the business card dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1998
    Assignee: Vehicle Pockets, Inc.
    Inventor: Victor Y. Morris
  • Patent number: 5769293
    Abstract: A trunk organizer is disclosed having a holding bar assembly, a plurality of receptacles and a mechanism for attaching the receptacles to the holding bar assembly. The holding bar assembly preferably comprises three axially aligned bars which longitudinally and axially slide toward and away from each other. Two of the bars can be axially moved away from each other for adjusting the length of the holding bar assembly. A compression spring between two of the portions allows for one portion to be held in a biased position relative to the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Inventor: Boris Zaretsky
  • Patent number: 5752638
    Abstract: A rack for storing one or more pairs of water skis and wake boards including one or more pairs of forks having parallel prongs extending from and coplanar with a base plate section. The pairs of forks are mounted on a support bar extending through an opening in the base plate section and may be positioned axially along and orientationally around the bar then clamped in the selected position such that each fork is aligned with its pair member. Each pair of forks preferably has three prongs for stowing one pair of skis or two prongs for storing a wakeboard. A strap is provided for each neighboring pair of each fork having one end attached to an end of one of said neighboring pair of prongs and another end hookable to an end of the neighboring prong so that the strap may be stretched over a water ski or wakeboard nested between neighboring prongs thereby securing a pair of skis or wakeboards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Inventor: Todd Scott Meeks
  • Patent number: 5746363
    Abstract: A removable container assembly comprised of a container portion and a support portion for supporting the container portion from a support structure. The support portion includes a latch mechanism which comprises a latch portion and a release portion. The container assembly is an integral unitary member. The latch portion is normally in latched engagement with an abutment extending from the support structure which prevents the support portion from being removed from the support structure. The release portion manually rotates the latch portion about an integral connector from the latched engagement for removal of the container assembly from the support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Bill Teller, Pete McCulloch, Vaughn J. Drobnich, Jeffrey Lee Goins
  • Patent number: 5746364
    Abstract: A gas can carrier that attaches to the back of snow machines and off road vehicles. The carrier has an inner foam core that is covered with heavy duty pack cloth. A number of pockets are supplied for convenience. The top center portion of the carrier is hollowed out forming a recessed area to receive a spare gas can. An expandable pocket is also formed in the recess so that if no gas can is being carried, items can be kept within this central pocket. To hold the carrier on a snow machine or other vehicle, a set of straps is provided that loop around the vehicle's bumpers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Inventor: Jon D. Stengrim
  • Patent number: 5704527
    Abstract: An easily portable, easily attachable, light-weight, encased entertainment unit, adapted for mounting onto moving vehicles. The encasement box of the entertainment unit is equipped to fit onto corresponding modes of attachment which are secured on vehicle, and which are designed to receive the encasement box, and therefore cooperate with the mounting of the entertainment unit.The entertainment unit consists of one of the following, or a combination of some: television, radio, cassette player, c.d. player, v.c.r., and any other electronic equipment deemed suitable for the nature of this invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1998
    Inventor: Cheryl R. Struzer
  • Patent number: 5685470
    Abstract: A removable storage apparatus comprises a mechanism for subdividing a stowage area into at least two discrete subsections. A mechanism is provided for removably attaching the subdividing mechanism to a desired surface. The removable attaching mechanism comprises at least one side panel mounted on the desired surface, and two matingly engageable coupling members, one member disposed on the subdividing means, and the other member disposed on the side panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1997
    Inventor: Donal Moore
  • Patent number: 5662253
    Abstract: A simple, lightweight, removable device for transporting skis safely inside an automobile. There are two assemblies, one for the front of the vehicle and one for the back. An adjustable vertical rod provides an easy, quick way to fit the device to any car. The front support presses against the roof of the automobile and the floor or console as appropriate. The length of the support is adjustable to allow it to fit different vehicles. The rear support sits on the rear deck of the vehicle. The skis are attached to adjustable shelves on the front and rear supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 2, 1997
    Inventor: Tommy R. Goings
  • Patent number: 5657913
    Abstract: A ski rack having a pair of integrally formed hook portions and a pair of integrally formed channels which are adapted to help enable the ski rack to be secured to a cross bar or other like support member of an existing vehicle article carrier. The ski rack includes a pair of independent securing members also having a pair of hook portions which slidably engage within the pair of integrally formed channels and cooperate with the integrally formed hook portions to clamp the ski rack to an associated cross bar of the existing vehicle article carrier. The independent securing members of the ski rack are further adjustable to accommodate cross bars of varying cross-sectional widths and do not require any disassembly of the cross bar or any other component part of the vehicle article carrier before the ski rack is to be secured to the cross bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 19, 1997
    Assignee: JAC Products, Inc.
    Inventors: John S. Cucheran, Jeffrey M. Aftanas, Jon D. Sparham
  • Patent number: 5645204
    Abstract: An easily portable, easily attachable, light-weight, encased entertainment unit, adapted for mounting onto moving vehicles. The encasement box of the entertainment unit is equipped to fit onto corresponding modes of attachment which are secured on vehicle, and which are designed to receive the encasement box, and therefore cooperate with the mounting of the entertainment unit.The entertainment unit consists of one of the following, or a combination of some: television, radio, cassette player, c.d. player, v.c.r., and any other electronic equipment deemed suitable for the nature of this invention. The encasement box of the entertainment unit is designed with--a carved out portion, semi-circular, meant to fit over tubular clips fastened to place of attachment via screws and nuts--square protrusions, which fit into square rings which hang from straps which are secured to other square rings which are fastened onto place of attachment via the curved extensions, screws, and nuts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1997
    Inventor: Cheryl Renee Struzer
  • Patent number: 5593126
    Abstract: A clip attaches accessories for bicycles using a resilient leaf biased into engagement with a receiver mounted on the accessory, and released by downward actuation to disengage a pawl from the receiver, the assembly preferably being mounted on an integral seat post cap having mounting ears.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1997
    Assignee: Trek Bicycle, Corp.
    Inventor: Kenneth J. Muderlak
  • Patent number: 5579968
    Abstract: A holder for beverage containers such as cans, bottles, mugs, and insulated drink wraps that is mountable on an inclined tubular section such as a golf cart handle is disclosed. The beverage holder consists of brackets and expansion brackets, that are slid together using their reverse dovetail joints. There are also 2 thumbscrews (2 bolts), one for each side, that are screwed in until there is an equal amount of pressure against the tubular handle. This will create an outward pressure of the dovetail joints and prevent them from sliding apart. The thumbscrews also serve as the beverage container receptacle hanging point. The arm that extends from the receptacle has a keyhole-slot at the top. This keyhole slot will accept the thumbscrew head and then the shank, once pulled in a downward motion to lock in place. When in use the receptacle will be free swinging, so upon tilting the tubular section, the receptacle will tend to maintain a vertical orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Inventor: Vincent J. Staschiak
  • Patent number: 5542591
    Abstract: A side bracket for netting has a top, a bottom, two opposed sides, a plurality of net loops extending along the netting top, bottom and sides, and an elastic cord threaded through at least one of the top and bottom net loops. The bracket comprises a base having two opposed ends and located adjacent at least one of the netting sides. A net loop receiving member is disposed between the two ends. A housing is provided for the elastic cord. The bracket further comprises a mechanism for attaching the cord housing to the base, and a mechanism for attaching the netting to a desired surface. A process for assembling the netting to the bracket comprises the step of placing a row of side net loops over a corresponding number of net loop receiving members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1996
    Assignee: Tecsyn, Inc.
    Inventors: Donal Moore, Colin D. Pringle
  • Patent number: 5456393
    Abstract: A boot having a support mounted along its spine for removably supporting bracket for holding various articles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 10, 1995
    Inventors: Ronald J. Mathis, James M. Mathis, James Mathis