Occupant Body Harness Patents (Class 280/290)
  • Patent number: 10618584
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a rider securing device that includes a rider restraint, wherein the rider restraint is mountable to a portion of a bicycle, and wherein the rider restraint comprises pressing arm configured to contact and move a plunger, when the plunger is in a first position, a ball catch is securable within a catch opening, when the plunger is in a second position, the ball catch is removable from the catch opening; a cable adjuster configured to attach to the ball catch, wherein the cable adjuster comprises an adjustable amount of an adjuster cable; and a handle, the handle comprising a first arm and a second arm, wherein the second arm comprises a cable anchor configured to attach to the second end of the cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2020
    Inventor: John Glaz
  • Patent number: 9873473
    Abstract: An apparatus for connecting a rider to a bike comprises a belt with a link at the front to a coupling on the bike frame which coupling allows hands free release of the link from the frame. A strap connected to the belt at one end and to a cable at the other end which has a ball bearing attached which engages a mating recess in the coupling such that the rider can disengage the cable by moving her body forward of the coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2018
    Assignee: Enviroshower Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Jordan Walter George Vogel
  • Patent number: 9233036
    Abstract: A pressure release device and methods of using the same are disclosed. The pressure release device and/or related methods may be useful for alleviating and/or relieving pressure on skin tissue prone to developing pressure sores and/or tissue that has already developed pressure sores. The pressure release device generally includes one or more relays, logic configured to actuate the one or more relays, one or more motors, and a barrel rotatably connected to at least one of the motor(s) and having one or more straps retractably affixed thereto. Optionally, the pressure release device may be detachably or permanently connected to a surface or frame of a wheelchair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2016
    Inventors: Tracy Lee Frederick, Larry Dwayne Miller
  • Patent number: 9179646
    Abstract: A walking aid for a four-legged animal having disabled hind legs comprises an engagement member for engaging a body portion between fore legs and hind legs of the animal; a collapsible resting mechanism connected to the engagement member and to at least one wheel assembly in contact with an underlying surface; and a locking mechanism operatively connectable to the at least one wheel assembly in such a way that the at least one wheel assembly is freely rotatable during forward motion of said walking aid but is rotationally immobilizable following rearward motion of the walking aid. The resting mechanism is operational to facilitate movement from a walking state to a resting state or from a resting state to a walking state only when the at least one wheel assembly is rotationally immobilized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2015
    Assignees: NEKUDA D.M. TECHNOLOGIES AND DESIGN LTD., NIR SHALOM
    Inventor: Nir Shalom
  • Patent number: 9168191
    Abstract: An adjustable wheelchair foot bracket that is releasably attachable to the footplate of a wheelchair between an attached position and an unattached position. The foot bracket includes an attachment member having a first plate and a second plate disposed in parallel to superimpose upon either side of a wheelchair footplate and frictionally engage the footplate therebetween. A rubberlike foot guard is disposed arcuately normal the attachment member, and curves to shield the foot of a user riding in the wheelchair, around said user's toes to terminate in a position proximal the tarsus of said user's foot. Impacts of the foot guard with objects externally situated relative the wheelchair act to compress the foot bracket directionally toward the attached position, whereby the attached position in maintained during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2015
    Inventor: Helen Langley
  • Patent number: 8668219
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a bicycle thrust apparatus coupled to a bicycle having: a frame, a front wheel having a front wheel axle coupled to a forward portion of the frame, a rear wheel having a rear wheel axle coupled to a rearward portion of the frame, a seat attached to the frame via a seat post. A thrust brace having a lower portion coupled to the frame adjacent the rear wheel axle is also disclosed wherein the thrust brace comprises an upper portion telescopically coupled to the lower portion such as to provide adjustability to the vertical and horizontal dimensions of the thrust apparatus. A cushioned back engagement pad may be utilized pivotably coupled to the upper portion of the thrust brace; and a cross member interconnecting the thrust brace and the bicycle frame at a location vertically above, and horizontally forward of the rear wheel axle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Inventor: Robert E. Pare
  • Patent number: 8474851
    Abstract: A suspended rider bicycle has a suspension boom which extends from the frame above the rider's torso, and a suspension device such as a belt or sling for suspending the rider's torso from the suspension boom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventor: David M. Schwartz
  • Publication number: 20130015635
    Abstract: A suspended rider bicycle has a suspension boom which extends from the frame above the rider's torso, and a suspension device such as a belt or sling for suspending the rider's torso from the suspension boom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2012
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Inventor: David M. Schwartz
  • Patent number: 8267409
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for propelling a multiple-wheeled golf bag cart over a terrain are described. In one embodiment, the apparatus is configured to be attached to a handle of the golf bag cart and further configured to be attached to the waist of a golfer. The apparatus includes a belt member for attachment to the waist of the golfer, a deformable member configured to be disposed between the cart handle and the belt member for controlling movement of the cart while the cart is being towed, and a mounting member for attachment to the handle for connecting the deformable member to the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Inventor: William L. Gross
  • Patent number: 7900940
    Abstract: A pedestrian cycle, to which the invention provides substantial improvements. An illustrative embodiment of the pedestrian cycle is comprised of: a generally U-shaped, partible overhead cycle frame that provides an intrinsic suspension and spring-cushioned ride; front wheel and rear wheel assemblies with customary steerage and brakes; and an exemplary saddle assembly that completely averts pressure on the perinea of the rider while allowing unobstructed leg movement. The saddle assembly is suspended from the cycle frame by a plurality of flexible and adjustable straps which not only isolate the rider from vibration, but allow the rider to hold his or her body vertical while leaning the cycle into a turn as he or she walks or runs. Finally, the invention provides fun outdoor exercise, therapy, or training, with substantively enhanced ambulatory capacity and substantively reduced internal and external impact to the body in all human gaits and to all users able and, importantly, disabled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Inventor: David J. Vidmar
  • Patent number: 7611161
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for propelling a multiple-wheeled golf bag cart over a terrain are described. In one embodiment, the apparatus is configured to be attached to a handle of the golf bag cart and further configured to be attached to the waist of a golfer. The apparatus includes a belt member for attachment to the waist of the golfer, a deformable member configured to be disposed between the cart handle and the belt member for controlling movement of the cart while the cart is being towed, and a mounting member for attachment to the handle for connecting the deformable member to the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Inventor: William L. Gross
  • Publication number: 20090144886
    Abstract: A head and neck support device for an occupant of a vehicle with a shoulder harness over the shoulders of the occupant and a helmet on a head of the occupant. The head and neck support device having a yoke, a tether, and at least one sleeve member, which has a cavity defined therethrough. The tether is configured to slide through the sleeve member cavity for a defined distance, which allows the occupant a greater range of side-to-side rotary head mobility.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2008
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Applicant: HANS Performance Products
    Inventor: Mark A. Stiles
  • Publication number: 20090066055
    Abstract: A bicycle rider waist harness and attaching means comprising a dual acting, isokinetic, combination chain and bungee arrangement connected to a bicycle frame for the to provide an adjustable means of attachment for a waist harness of a bicycle rider. The combination bungee-chain arrangement has the capacity to be fixedly attached to a bicycle frame and also is capable of being readily relocated to a more mechanically efficient location by means of a U-bolt assembly or similar movable attaching means. The open linked chain also provides an attaching means for a stretchable bungee cord having hooks or other like attaching connectors to allow for quick attachment and adjustment to the chain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2008
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Inventor: Kenneth G. Lay
  • Patent number: 7429055
    Abstract: A cycling device comprising a frame a plurality of pedals a plurality of wheels coupled to said frame, and a harness coupled to said frame wherein the harness allows a user to be coupled to said frame. In this case there can be for example, two driven wheels which are driven by the pedals and a non-driven guide wheel as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Inventor: D. Curtis DeForest, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7370887
    Abstract: To provide rider restraint means capable of allowing a rider to freely leave a vehicle without a manual release operation when there is no need to restrain the rider to the vehicle. The rider restraint means includes a belt restraining a rider, buckles making the belt detachable, a guide rail making the buckles slidable, a retractor unit controlling the slide of the buckles, and coupling release means releasing coupling between the belt and the buckles in conjunction with the slide of the buckles. The coupling release means includes an inner wire, a wire stopper, and a wire end. The coupling release means releases the coupling between the belt and the buckles when the retractor unit loosens the winding after collision and the buckles slide by a predetermined distance or more or when the rider continues to pull the belt in a state other than collision and the buckles slide by a predetermined distance or more.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hisashi Matsuo
  • Patent number: 7255360
    Abstract: A rider support assembly for a bicycle, motorcycle or other multi-wheeled vehicle that utilizes a harness to suspend the rider from a support frame that is attached to a ball-type mounting structure. The support harness includes straps or a sling that is secured to the rider's torso and/or legs. A base section of the support frame includes a connecting structure (e.g., a socket) that is movably connects to and supported by the mounting structure such that the support frame can be pivoted in any direction by the rider during operation. A flexible spine extends upward along the rider's back and is secured to the rider's upper body by the support harness. An optional mounting structure pivots relative to the vehicle to facilitate a relatively stiff spine that supports the rider when sitting upright or leaning back.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Inventor: Patrick T. Bever
  • Patent number: 7017194
    Abstract: A restraint system for restraining a person in a vehicle of transportation, includes a safety harness having length adjustable shoulder belts and a buckle for connecting the shoulder belt on a chest-side of a person and a stiff U-shaped shoulder yoke having legs, which are contoured to a torso of the person, and a high collar interconnecting the legs, whereby the shoulder belts are secured by a fastening mechanism behind the collar. The legs of the shoulder yoke and the shoulder belts have confronting sides which are formed, at least partially, with an interacting engagement structure which is configured to increase friction as the shoulder belts move in relation to the legs in longitudinal direction, while inhibiting a displacement of the shoulder belts in relation to the legs in transverse direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: Schroth Safety Products GmbH
    Inventor: Carl-Jürgen Schroth
  • Patent number: 7017931
    Abstract: A personal transportation apparatus for a user, including a frame; front and rear wheels connected to the frame and being rotatable about respective front and rear axes, driving mechanism for driving at least one wheel of the apparatus, the driving mechanism being powered by the user, and a receiving structure within which the user fits to operate the apparatus. The receiving structure includes a seat and a frontal support for supporting a frontal torso region of the user, whereby the receiving area is connected to the frame and is positioned such that the user is in a generally upright position when wearing the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Inventor: Robert M. Hines
  • Patent number: 6971659
    Abstract: To provide a fuel tank capable of permitting the motorcycle rider to hang deep over the top of the fuel tank and also allowing the motorcycle rider to fix his or her position with respect to a direction laterally of the fuel tank, the fuel tank (14) has a groove-like recess (14a) defined in a portion of the top surface thereof generally intermediate of the width of the fuel tank (14), so that when the motorcycle rider (R) takes a forward tilting position, his or her head (r1) and chest (r2) can be received therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Assignee: Kawasaki Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takumi Uemoto, Keishi Fukumoto
  • Patent number: 6931669
    Abstract: A restraint device for controlling the head of a driver during a high-performance vehicle collision. The device includes a rigid member positioned along the back of the driver, a tether for attaching the member to the driver's helmet, and a strap for anchoring the device. The vehicle's seat belt assembly or the driver's own body, such as his torso, waist or legs, may be used to anchor the device. During a vehicle collision, forces from the head are transferred through the device (i.e. tether, rigid member, and strap) into the anchor in order to resist forward movement and downward rotation of the driver's head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Assignee: Safety Dynamics, LLC
    Inventor: Trevor P. Ashline
  • Patent number: 6588789
    Abstract: An adjustable support for use on a sports motorcycle. The adjustable support for sports motorcycle includes an adjustable support structure for bearing the weight of a driver's body and head while driving in an enclosed outer envelope that can also be utilized as a storage container. The support is attached to a sports motorcycle by use of straps. The support mechanism includes a cushioned portion for the chest and a second cushioned portion to place the chin. The support device is assisted through use of a spring bias to absorb shock and eliminate engine and road vibration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Inventor: Robert P. Porcella
  • Patent number: 6499149
    Abstract: A head and neck restraint device, worn by a driver when operating a high performance vehicle, which controls the driver's head from snapping forward and maintains the driver's head, neck and spine in general alignment in the event of a frontal crash. The device includes a pair of anchor straps that are worn along the back of the driver and have first end which connects to the driver's helmet by use of hooks and tethers, and second ends which extends between the driver's legs for connection to a seat belt assembly. A chest strap and a waist strap are attached to the anchor straps for keeping the anchor straps separated at a predetermined distance. When exiting the vehicle, the driver unlatches a standard vehicle seat belt assembly and the restraint device is simultaneously released from the vehicle. Since the restraint is neither rigid nor bulky, the driver can quickly exit the vehicle unrestricted by the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Assignee: Safety Solution, Inc.
    Inventor: Trevor P. Ashline
  • Patent number: 6390561
    Abstract: A restraint system of belts and buckles designed to protect every rider and passenger occupying conventional type seats in open vehicles, such as motorcycles, from injuries sustainable from flying off such vehicles in the event of a head-on collision, sudden stop or other such type circumstance. A restraint system also unique in being amenable to installation in such existing vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Inventor: Joshua Oghenogieme Osime
  • Patent number: 6273207
    Abstract: A motorcycle includes a frame having an aperture, and a seat having an insert member that is inserted into the aperture to at least partially substantially secure the seat to the frame. A strap defines a loop surrounding a portion of the seat. The strap is manually releasably attached to the frame by way of a coupling member and a bushing having a biasing member. The coupling member includes an opening having an enlarged clearance portion and a reduced retaining portion, and the biasing member includes a split ring constructed of spring steel. When the bushing is positioned within the retaining portion of the opening with the split ring in the second condition, the biasing member resists movement of the coupling member. Manually-operable thumb screws are provided to permit quick attachment and release of the seat to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Assignee: Harley-Davidson Motor Company
    Inventor: William H. Brown
  • Patent number: 6244611
    Abstract: A new bicycle seat harness for securing a rider to the seat of a bicycle. The inventive device includes a belt strap for wrapping around the waist of a rider. The first ends of a plurality of securing straps are coupled to the belt strap. A clamping portion of an anchor member is attached to a seat tube of the frame of a bicycle. The anchor member also has a securing portion to which a second end of each of the securing straps is attached to secure the rider to the seat of the bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Inventor: Cynthia R. Davis
  • Patent number: 6131935
    Abstract: An upper torso support for riders on vehicles such as motorcycles or bicycles has a padded surface for contact with the upper torso or the chest of a seated rider. The support is fixed to the vehicle framework and positioned forward of a vehicle seat. The angle of the support relative to the vehicle framework is adjustable to accommodate and provide support for riders of various statures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventor: James H. Judkins
  • Patent number: 6076846
    Abstract: A bicycle chest rest system comprising a pair of tubes. Each tube has a front and a rear end positionable in the direction of bicycle movement. The front of ends of the tubes are at an elevation above the rear ends. The tubes are curved about a common radius of curvature with an axis of rotation thereabove, and with a central cross bar therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Inventor: Carl S. Clardy
  • Patent number: 6042189
    Abstract: A restraint free wheelchair system is provided including a wheelchair having a pile fastener attached thereto. A piece of clothing is included with a pile fastener attached thereto for releasably securing to the pile fastener of the wheelchair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Inventor: Mary C. Wellman
  • Patent number: 6009566
    Abstract: An improved head and neck support device (10) for occupants (100) of high performance vehicles, is described. The device includes a restraining yoke (12) and a collar (11). The restraining yoke has two front portions (12A and 12B) which extend down from the shoulders (102) of the occupant along the torso (104) of the occupant. The restraining yoke also includes a rear portion (12C) which extends behind the neck (106) and the shoulders of the occupant. The collar of the device extends upward from the rear portion of the restraining yoke behind the head (112) of the occupant. The collar of the device is connected by tethers (15 or 215) to the helmet (108) of the occupant. The shoulder belts (110A) of the shoulder harness (110) of the vehicle extend over the front portions and rear portion of the restraining yoke when the device is mounted on the occupant such that the device is between the shoulder belts and the occupant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Inventor: Robert P. Hubbard
  • Patent number: 5768702
    Abstract: The invention is a bicycling device and method of use thereof, whereby muscle power can be more efficiently transferred from the cyclist's upper-extremities (arms) to the conventional footpedals via the cyclist's lower-extremities (legs) without need of mechanical contrivance and associated drain on fractional human-power capability. The device is attached proximally to the knee region as a method by which a cyclist may obtain a firm manual handhold, whereby the cyclist can grasp the device with his hand and proceed to exert appropriate downward-thrust or upward-thrust (during up-stroke using shoe/pedal-cleats) supplied from upper-extremities according to the regular cyclic rotation of the associated footpedal. Since upper extremity thrusting is applied directly through mechanism of the cyclist's own lower extremities, the need for manufactured mechanical contrivance and its associated weight penalty has been averted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Inventor: Sinil Kim
  • Patent number: 5607172
    Abstract: An extended bicycle frame (FIG. 2), (FIG. 3), (FIG. 4) and (FIG. 6) utilizing a top tube extended directly or at an angle rearward (12) from a forward top tube (10) at an intersection of a seat post (16) to a rear fork (14) connected downward to an axle (40) in combination with a harness apparatus (62) with front and rear male connectors (26) securable to forward (10) and rearward top tube (12) movable female connectors (24) providing a cyclist with a point of resistance at the shoulders or upper body (32) including a rotational/elevational handlebar (34). A cyclist, by either standing (FIG. 4 ) or leaning forward in various degrees (FIG. 2) (FIG. 3) is capable of efficiently implementing Newton's Law of Physics, For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 4, 1997
    Inventor: John J. Turi
  • Patent number: 5501476
    Abstract: A therapeutic wheeled vehicle particularly suited for strengthening the hip extensor muscles of a user is described. The vehicle combines the therapeutic benefits of conditioning the hip extensor muscles with the enjoyable activity of propelling oneself on a wheeled vehicle. A frame is provided following the general pattern of a tricycle with one steerable wheel and a pair of driving wheels. A seat, a back rest, and at least one strap for holding the user in position on the seat and the back rest are also provided. These user support structures securely hold the user in the proper operating position, even when the user has less than normal muscular control and strength, such as with children with cerebral palsy. Structures are included for receiving at least a portion of the user's leg between the user's knee and the user's hip and for transmitting the extension motion of the user's hips into the rotational movement of the pair of driving wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1996
    Assignee: University of Utah Research Foundation
    Inventors: Glade Howell, Jeff W. Bean, Judith L. Gooch, Donald Bloswick, Don R. Brown
  • Patent number: 5411461
    Abstract: An exercise belt which is worn around the waist or hips of the user having an outer band of neoprene (10) which expands and contracts with the pulling and releasing of the belt. A continuous band of webbing (12) with expansion loops (14) and web loops (16), is attached to the outer band of neoprene (10). The expansion loops limit the neoprene (10) from over expanding. The web loops (16) allow for connecting to a tow line. A patch of velcro pile (18) at the rear of the belt allows accessories to be attached. An inner band of neoprene (10) with velcro (18 & 20) assists in a firm fit, and adjusts for various user sizes. The belt is characterized as quick and easy to put on and take off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 2, 1995
    Inventor: Terrance A. Thomascik
  • Patent number: 5383677
    Abstract: A body support mounted to a cross tube portion of an associated bicycle includes a mounting bracket pivotally mounting a seat assembly thereto, such that the seat assembly is pivoted to a displaced position during periods of non-use relative to the mounting bracket structure, with a lock sleeve cooperatively associated with the mounting bracket and support assembly and magnetically adhered to an abutment ring relative to the seat assembly to maintain latching of the seat assembly in an operative position relative to a rider of the bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1995
    Inventors: Timothy N. Thomas, Robert P. Schladetzky
  • Patent number: 5379725
    Abstract: A reinforced safety harness for a child or adult comprising a front vest which covers the front torso, a pair of criss-crossing back straps, a waist belt which encircles the front and back torso secured by an adjustable belt buckle, a reinforcing belt which extends from the belt buckle through reinforcing loops on the front and back of the harness about the torso, a tether belt which extends from the reinforcing belt to be attached to a person's wrist or a restraining element or to be attached to the harness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1995
    Inventors: Linda K. Roberson, Cathy M. Egli, Suzanne M. McMillan, Keith J. Mackey
  • Patent number: 5326122
    Abstract: A bicycle chest support movable between a first position under the bicyclist's chest and to a second non-use position away from under the bicyclist, such structure having a chest support member pivotally mounted on an adjustable support column which in turn is pivotally mounted on the bicycle's handle stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 5, 1994
    Inventor: Paul V. Duffy
  • Patent number: 5272770
    Abstract: A head restraining system including a helmet having a chin protector formed thereon, a keeper plate overlying the shoulders, upper chest, including the sternum area, and upper back of the driver, a plurality of straps connecting the shoulder, chest and back portion of the keeper plate to aligned portions of the helmet and a pair of shoulder straps securing the keeper plate to the driver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1993
    Inventors: Richard K. Allen, Richard D. Allen
  • Patent number: 5174590
    Abstract: A compliant walker for humans having limited use of their legs and lower back includes an upright wheeled frame which at least partially surrounds an upright user wearing a partial body harness which is attached to the frame by means of cable compliant apparatus consisting of sets of cable segments and angle bracket members connected between opposite side members of the frame and adjacent side portions of the harness. The type of partial body harness utilized takes two forms, the first being a torso harness which encircles the waist or rib cage of the user, while the second type of harness is a hip harness which fits around the hips and buttocks. The frame itself lends itself to several embodiments, one of which completely surrounds the user, while the other consists of a frame open at the front end including a pair of upright side members which attach to the cable support apparatus and which is vertically adjustable to accommodate the user's height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1992
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics & Space Administration
    Inventors: James J. Kerley, Wayne D. Eklund, J. Allen A. Crane
  • Patent number: 5119767
    Abstract: A child safety device employing lightweight adjustable straps and hook and loop type fasteners to facilitate placement and removal of a child from the device. A child is placed within the harness and then left, right, and bottom straps are fastened with one motion producing a convenient and compact child restraint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1992
    Inventor: Hector J. G. Jimenez
  • Patent number: 5076598
    Abstract: A belt support system is provided to assist in securing and supporting a passenger on a vehicle seat, immediately in front of a rider sitting on the main vehicle seat. A first belt to be worn by the rider incorporates a pair of coupling members attached to shoulder straps at such locations as to be positioned on the front side of the rider's torso. A second belt to be worn by the passenger incorporates a second pair of coupling members located so as to be accessible on the back side of the passenger's body. With the passenger seated immediately in front of the rider, either on the same seat, or on an auxiliary seat, the two pairs of coupling members are releasably secured together. The passenger, who in most applications will be a child, is thus secured to and held by an adult rider.For bicycle use, an auxiliary seat in the form of an elongated cushion having a slot along its length is removably placed over the horizontal bar in front of the main bicycle seat, with the slot being pushed down over the bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1991
    Assignee: Alan Design, Inc.
    Inventor: Leonard G. Nauman
  • Patent number: 5072961
    Abstract: An all-purpose frame 1 is provided which extends at an angle from a rear-wheel fork 5 attachable to the rear axle of a bicycle to swivelable steering connection 6 to a front-wheel 17 of the bicycle. The frame 1 can be a rectangular-tube beam 40, an I beam 42, a channel beam 44, a foam beam, a honeycomb beam or such other form of beam as provides a separation of top girders 2 and bottom girders 3 with a strucutral positioning member 4. Beam material can be ferrous alloy, aluminum alloy, titanium alloy, adhered fibers, and various combinations of foamed, honeycombed or otherwise porous materials in combination with relatively solid girders. Connection of the rear-wheel fork 5 to the frame 1 can be resilient vertically for a cushioning spring effect to decrease frame-weight requirement for absorbing impact and increasing rider comfort. The front-wheel fork 7 can be provided with resilient connection for the same reasons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1991
    Inventor: Dennis P. Huppe
  • Patent number: 5063879
    Abstract: An apparatus for holding a child on the lap of an adult while traveling in a moving vehicle. The apparatus generally comprises a body-surrounding means, such as a harness, strap, vest, torso band, woven member, fabric belt, or other structure positionable about the body of a child and attachable to some stationarily anchored member or portion of the vehicle. In a preferred embodiment, the body surrounding means is attachable to a standard lap seat belt, such as those provided to adult passengers on commercial airliners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1991
    Inventor: John H. Vorbau
  • Patent number: 4981306
    Abstract: An improved bicycle harness for harnessing a rider to a bicycle includes a connector or collar portion, positioned at the riders rear buttocks and crouch area, for releasible slideable coupling engagement to the seat's forwardly extending tongue. The collar slides onto the collars or ensleeves at least a portion of the bicycles seat's tongue, permitting upwardly vertically and/or rearwardly directed forces on the collar, exerted by the rider through other portions of the harness, to, respectively, pull upwardly against the seat tongue and/or push against the main body of the seat as a backstop. In one embodiment the other portion of the harness includes straps that extend from the collar and extend around the riders shoulders, allowing the rider to pedal in either a sitting or standing position while remaining effectively tethered by the bicycle seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 1, 1991
    Inventor: Leparis D. Young
  • Patent number: 4981307
    Abstract: A suspension harness/body jacket arrangement adapted for medical applications is disclosed. The harness arrangement suspends all or part of the body weight of a patient with respect to a wheelchair's fixed seat, a bed or the floor. The body jacket is seatless, and fabricated from a mesh or fish net material which elongates and grips the patient more snugly depending upon the tension applied thereto by suspension springs. In the case of incapacitated patients confined to the wheelchair, the arrangement may be used to substantially reduce the pressure applied to the patient's buttocks, thus preventing the development of pressure sores.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 1, 1991
    Inventor: Andrew C. Walsh
  • Patent number: 4854607
    Abstract: A safety harness apparatus (10) adapted to secure a child (100) to an independent structure (50); wherein, the harness apparatus (10) comprises a harness unit (11) a tether unit (12) and a locking means (13) for operatively securing the tether unit (12) to the harness unit (11); wherein the harness unit (11) includes a belt element (30) having a cable member (31) incorporated into its construction; whereby, one end of the cable member (31) surrounds a plurality of apertures (32) formed in the belt element (30); and, the other end of the cable member (31) is provided with a discrete ring member (37) that is dimensioned to expand through the belt apertures (32) and receive a portion of the locking means (13).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1989
    Inventors: Charles D. Mandracchia, Janet A. Mandracchia
  • Patent number: 4799709
    Abstract: This invention relates to a unique safety harness particularly designed for use with all-terrain type vehicles so as to prevent possible injury to the operator of the vehicle. The safety harness includes a belly strap secured to the vehicle body with a pair of leg restraints removably attached to the belly strap and to each leg of the operator, wherein the leg restraints prevent the legs of the operator from extending downwardly from the vehicle and dangerously contacting the road or ground surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1989
    Inventor: Robert M. Francois
  • Patent number: 4796565
    Abstract: The combination of a wheeled transport unit (10) and a restraining member (50) to provide a pet transporting, restraining and exercising assembly; wherein, the wheeled transport unit (10) comprises a base member (11) having a large opening (20); a front (13) and rear (14) wheel assembly; a cage member (15) having a hinged member (16); a handle member (17); a panel member (12) associated with the base member (11) and movable from a position covering the opening (20) in the base member (11) whereby a domestic pet (100) may be confined in an ambulatory relationship relative to the wheeled transport unit (10); and, wherein the restraining member (50) comprises a harness apparatus (51) having a plurality of attachment elements (55) that are adapted to be connected either to the cage member (15) of the wheeled transport unit (10) or to one another in a variety of harness handle configurations depending upon whether or not the wheeled transport unit (10) and the restraining member (50) are to be used together or apa
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Inventor: Rodney P. Charbeneau
  • Patent number: 4673190
    Abstract: A protective bar assembly for a motorcycle comprising a side bar assembly that extends along the side of the motorcycle and operator and a vertical, U-shaped roll bar that extends upwardly from the side bars to a point above the operator. The side bars are mounted on transverse front and rear bars mounted on the frame, with the rear bar being mounted behind the seat and above the rear wheel. A vertically movable headrest is mounted on the roll bar and a storage container is removably mounted on the back of the roll bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1985
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1987
    Inventor: Russell W. Ahlberg
  • Patent number: 4638510
    Abstract: A neck protection device (10)for a driver (10) or other occupant of a high performnace vehicle adapted to reduce motions or loading in the neck and upper torso is described. The device includes in combination a stiff yoke (12) with a high collar (11) extending up from the yoke and a set of tethers (15, 15a and 15b) for attachment to the lateral and rear portions of a helmet (16) and collar. The high collar extends upward to adjacent the center of gravity of the head and helmet which is at about eye level of the occupant. The tethers on the collar allow needed head movements and yet reduce the potential for fatigue and crash injury by carrying forces which would otherwise be transmitted through the neck and by reducing extreme motions of the neck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1985
    Date of Patent: January 27, 1987
    Inventor: Robert P. Hubbard
  • Patent number: RE33178
    Abstract: A protective bar assembly for a motorcycle comprising a side bar assembly that extends along the side of the motorcycle and operator and a vertical, U-shaped roll bar that extends upwardly from the side bars to a point above the operator. The side bars are mounted on transverse front and rear bars mounted on the frame, with the rear bar being mounted behind the seat and above the rear wheel. A vertically movable headrest is mounted on the roll bar and a storage container is removably mounted on the back of the roll bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1988
    Date of Patent: March 13, 1990
    Inventor: Russell W. Ahlberg