Exterior Patents (Class 280/762)
  • Patent number: 11805718
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a coupling device. This is known below as a docking receptacle. The docking receptacle comprises an approximately U-shaped pilot centring device with an insertion trough tapering approximately conically in an insertion direction for pre-centring a docking insert designed to mate with the docking receptacle, at least a first and a second centring device, with the first and the second centring devices each comprising two coupling elements which are designed for centring a docking insert with respect to the docking receptacle along four centring axes in an insertion direction, and wherein a drawing-in device with two hydraulically actuated drawing-in or capture hooks are provided. The disclosure further relates to a docking insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2023
    Assignee: SYN TRAC GMBH
    Inventor: Stefan Putz
  • Patent number: 11729382
    Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for temporal prediction of parameters in non-linear adaptive loop filtering are described. In an exemplary aspect, a method for visual media processing includes configuring, for a current video block, one or more parameters of a clipping operation that is part of a non-linear filtering operation; and performing, based on the one or more parameters, a conversion between the current video block and a bitstream representation of the current video block, wherein the one or more parameters is coded in accordance with a rule.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2023
    Assignees: BEIJING BYTEDANCE NETWORK TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD, BYTEDANCE INC.
    Inventors: Li Zhang, Kai Zhang, Hongbin Liu, Yue Wang
  • Patent number: 11091202
    Abstract: A chassis brace includes a body having a first end and a second end, a chassis structure abutment at the first end and a body structure abutment at the second end. Together, the chassis brace, the chassis component secured the chassis structure abutment of the chassis brace and the body component secured to the body structure abutment of the chassis brace form a small offset rigid barrier reinforcement assembly. A method of reinforcing a vehicle is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2021
    Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Kevin Alexander Gardner, Krishnakanth Aekbote, Hassen Hammoud, Brent Michael White, Steve William Gallagher
  • Patent number: 11031684
    Abstract: A hydraulic excavator includes: a vehicular body; a cab placed on the vehicular body; and a plurality of antennas for receiving satellite positioning signals, the plurality of antennas including a main antenna and a sub-antenna. The main antenna is attached to the cab. The sub-antenna is attached to the vehicular body without the cab being interposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2021
    Assignee: KOMATSU LTD.
    Inventors: Takeo Yamada, Hiroshi Abe, Ryosuke Okui, Gousuke Nakashima
  • Patent number: 10479423
    Abstract: An underbody panel for a motor vehicle, in particular a passenger vehicle, has at least one first underbody panel element which is arranged in a region of a pivotable vehicle wheel and moves with the wheel during a pivoting movement of the wheel and at least one second underbody panel element which is arranged in the region of the wheel and which is pivotable with the wheel during a pivoting movement of the wheel in the opposite direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2019
    Assignee: Daimler AG
    Inventors: Uwe Seidler, Xiao Fei
  • Patent number: 10384870
    Abstract: A method and device for order picking in a warehouse with an independently freely movable transport vehicle is disclosed. The device includes a vehicle housing having a carrier plate adapted for accommodating and transporting a load rack having transportable goods, a robot adapted for grasping goods, a transverse link connecting drive wheels, which are in each case by way of an angular lever pivotable about a rotation axis, such that the drive wheels are configured to execute mutually independent vertical motions, a centrally arranged actuating element for moving two front lifting rods and two rear lifting rods with a lifting rotary lever and a push rod connected to the lifting lever in order to raise or lower the carrier plate, and a 3-D scanner, light field sensor, and WLAN antenna.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2019
    Assignee: GRENZEBACH MASCHINENBAU GMBH
    Inventors: Ruediger Geiger, Gunar Baier
  • Patent number: 10189517
    Abstract: An active side panel assembly having at least one deployable panel(22) and at least one actuator (30). The deployable panel deploys and retracts based on vehicle requirements and provides valuable reduction in vehicle drag, thereby reducing emissions and improving fuel economy. Additionally, it allows for the system to retract so the vehicle can still meet ground clearances, ramp angles, off-road requirements, etc. The active side panel provides a fully deployable system with object detection, declutching of the actuator to help prevent damage, and communication with the vehicle to determine proper deployment and function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Magna Exteriors, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony J. Povinelli, Martin R. Matthews
  • Patent number: 10053338
    Abstract: A spreader bar apparatus provides a bar member having a bar length and first and second bar end portions. A plurality of transverse bar openings are spaced between the bar and end portions. A first bar lifting portion or link assembly is movable relative to the bar and into different positions. A second bar lifting portion or link assembly is movable relative to the bar and into different positions. Each bar lifting portion or link assembly has a trunnion sleeve fitted with multiple links. One or more lifting lines are each attachable to the lifting portions such as to an upper link or lower link. Each lifting member includes an upper link, a lower link, and a trunnion sleeve, wherein the trunnion sleeve has a bore that is sized and shaped to receive the bar, wherein the upper and lower links are rotatably mounted to the trunnion sleeve. One or more pins enable the trunnion sleeve to be attached to the bar at a selected bar opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2018
    Assignee: VERSABAR, INC.
    Inventor: Matthew Khachaturian
  • Patent number: 9932004
    Abstract: A sensor bracket assembly is configured to extend between a sensor beam and a bumper beam of a vehicle. The sensor bracket assembly can include a bracket first section that is configured to be directly or indirectly connected to the bumper beam. The sensor bracket assembly can also include a bracket second section that is configured to be directly or indirectly connected to the sensor beam. The sensor bracket assembly can further include a spacer section that projects from the bracket first section and is configured to extend towards but be spaced from one of the bracket second section and the bumper beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Adam M. Mihm, Yuta Kashiwase, Lando C. Hamlett
  • Patent number: 9789832
    Abstract: A hitch plate includes a hitch plate body having a heightwise extending portion sized and configured to extend alongside a rear of a utility vehicle and a lengthwise extending portion sized and configured to extend underneath the utility vehicle. The hitch plate further includes a male receiver hitch portion extending outwardly from the heightwise extending portion of the hitch plate body over the lengthwise extending portion of the hitch plate body and a female receiver hitch portion extending outwardly from the heightwise extending portion of the hitch plate body in a direction opposite the male receiver hitch portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Inventor: Mark Altemeier
  • Patent number: 9764781
    Abstract: A stowable side fairing for a tractor-trailer having a frame includes first and second panels rotatably coupled to the frame and extending downward from the frame. A cross-member is rotatably coupled at a first end to the first panel and at a second end to the second panel. The side fairing further includes a drive arm rotatably coupled at a first end to the frame and at a second end to the cross-member. An actuator is configured to rotate the drive arm about the first end to move the side fairing between a deployed position and a stowed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2017
    Assignee: PACCAR Inc
    Inventor: Bruce Bezner
  • Patent number: 9764706
    Abstract: A vehicle air dam assembly is provided which includes a motor, a drive linkage and an active air dam which can be deployed or stowed on a vehicle. The motor is mounted to a vehicle bumper. The drive linkage is coupled to the motor and is affixed to the vehicle bumper. The drive linkage includes a drive member and a biasing means. The active air dam may be coupled to the drive linkage via a four bar linkage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2017
    Assignee: FLEX-N-GATE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Guido Benvenuto, Geoffrey Brooks, David Shaw, Wayne Doswell
  • Patent number: 9713978
    Abstract: A headache rack system for a truck includes a truck bed and a removable and vertically adjustable headache rack. The truck bed is adapted to be attached to a truck frame and includes a floor and a side panel connected to the floor. The side panel includes a first flange and a second flange. The removable headache rack includes a first side support, a second side support, a top support connected to an upper end of the first side support and an upper end of the second side support, and a panel connected to a lower end of the first side support and a lower end of the second side support. The first and second flanges, respectively, may extend beyond a leading edge of the floor and wrap around a portion of the front of the truck bed to define a slot configured for receiving the lower ends of the first and second side supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2017
    Assignee: Trailboss Equipment, LLC
    Inventor: Jonathan Petru
  • Patent number: 9463759
    Abstract: An underride collision protection system for a truck. In one example, a rear bumper brace gusset is attached to a truck body and extends a rear bumper toward and connects it to the side edge of the truck. A front panel bracket is also attached to the truck body. A fabric side underride guard panel has a front end and a rear end. The front panel bracket and the rear bumper guard hold the fabric side underride guard panel into place at the front end and rear end respectively. A stretching mechanism pulls the side underride guard panel taut between the front end and the rear end. This abstract is not to be considered limiting, since other embodiments may deviate from the features described in this abstract.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2016
    Inventor: Aaron J. Kiefer
  • Patent number: 9365224
    Abstract: A collapsible and expandable carrying device for pulling, carrying, or otherwise transporting luggage, cargo, or any other items. The carrying device comprises a frame comprised of and combined with additional telescopic rods for adjustment of parameters for ease of use. The frame is pivotally attached to a handle, support straps, shoulder straps, and/or a belt to be attached to a user's waist. The device is meant for both short and long travel, and it allows for a user to vary angles and lengths of the constituent parts in order to minimize gravitational load on the user and optimize the force of the center of gravity from the load being carried.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Inventor: Igor Koshutin
  • Patent number: 9308950
    Abstract: A method for operating a motor vehicle (10) includes selecting one of an economical driving mode in which an air resistance is minimized, a performance driving mode in which an optimum lift balance is set at the front and rear axles, and a sport driving mode in which front and rear axle downforces are maximized. The rear diffuser (12) and the rear spoiler (12) are transferred into first deployed positions when the economical driving mode is selected. The rear diffuser (12) and the rear spoiler (13) are transferred into second deployed positions when the performance driving mode is selected. The rear diffuser (12) is transferred into a retracted rear diffuser position and the rear spoiler (13) is transferred into a third deployed rear spoiler position when the sport driving mode is selected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2016
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Thomas Wolf
  • Patent number: 9303702
    Abstract: The present invention is an anti-counter rotation device that includes a gear wheel and a latch. The gear wheel is attached to the shaft of a trailer landing gear. The base plate mounts the latch to the trailer landing gear and includes an axle. In a first position, the latch engages the gear and permits rotation of the shaft a first direction (e.g. clockwise (CW)), but prevents rotation of the shaft in the opposite or second direction (i.e. counter clockwise (CCW)). In a second position, the latch operates in an opposite manner; that is, the latch permits rotation in the second direction (i.e. CCW), but prevents rotation in the first direction (i.e. CW). The latch has a width sufficient to accommodate multiple horizontal positions of the crank handle or shaft. One or more spacers on the axle or base plate may be utilized to locate the latch in relation to the gear. A locking pin may be used to insure the spacers and latch remain on the axle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Inventor: Donald A Vogt
  • Patent number: 9004538
    Abstract: A motor vehicle mud flap is a plate-like body having a suspension section, a quadrant section, and an extension section. The suspension section is adapted for attachment to a mud flap bracket for suspension of the mud flap therefrom. The quadrant section is coupled with the suspension section and has an array of elongate through-openings. The extension section is coupled with the quadrant section and has an array of elongate through-openings. The array of elongate through-openings is defined by alternating recesses and ribs in parallel and longitudinal disposition. Each recess is configured as a pair of opposed elongate shallow recesses fluidly coupled by an elongate through-opening having a width less than the width of each recess. Water and air can flow through the recesses, and debris larger than the width of the through-openings is deflected by the mud flap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Fleet Engineers, Inc.
    Inventors: Wesley K. Eklund, Thomas Gerst, Gary Roberts, Walter Hill
  • Patent number: 8991860
    Abstract: Disclosed is an external airbag apparatus. The apparatus includes, a back beam disposed on one surface directed toward a bumper on which an airbag module is disposed. The apparatus additionally includes a deployment guide disposed between the bumper and the back beam, both ends of which are coupled to the back beam, and a middle end of which is supported on the bumper. Furthermore, the apparatus includes a sensor disposed between the deployment guide and the back beam to sense impact when pressed by the deployment guide during impact to the bumper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Yong Sun Kim, Seoung Hoon Lee, Seung Mok Lee, Jin Ho Bae, Tae Wook Chung
  • Publication number: 20150027813
    Abstract: An adjustable deer stand support system for that supports various types of deer stands having different widths. The adjustable deer stand support system generally includes a stand support arm having a support member and a first pair of adjustable support units adjustably positioned upon the support member. Each of the first pair of adjustable support units includes a sliding bracket that adjustably connects to the support member, an extended member that extends upwardly from the sliding bracket and an engaging member to secure the sliding bracket in a desired longitudinal position along the support member. The extended member is adapted to extend into a lower opening of a lower leg within a deer stand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Applicant: Excel Plastics, LLC
    Inventor: Curtis J. Hill
  • Publication number: 20140373400
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a wear pad assembly for mounting on a tool. The problem addressed is the mounting of the wear pad assembly such that it can be quickly attached to a tool in a non-permanent manner. The disclosure provides a wear pad assembly for a tool comprising first and second elements which are movable relative to each other from an open position to a closed position. The wear pad assembly comprises a wear-resistant pad and a mounting bracket configured for attachment to the wear-resistant pad. The mounting bracket is configured to enable it to be securely clamped between the first and second elements of the tool when in the closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2012
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Applicant: CATERPILLAR INC.
    Inventors: Paul Anthony Sheehan, Adrian Paul Forrester
  • Patent number: 8888119
    Abstract: The device sometimes called a boat ramp buddy is a generally triangular device that attaches to a trailer frame. The device is used to help the trailer skid across uneven or washed out boat ramps or uneven ground so as not to damage the trailer itself or remove its wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Inventor: Charles Guetersloh
  • Publication number: 20140333054
    Abstract: A marking device that is supported by a personal mobility vehicle, such as a scooter, is movable from a first position, in which the marking device does not contact the riding surface, and a second position, in which the marking device contacts the riding surface. The marking device includes an attachment portion and a marking portion that creates markings on the riding surface as a result of frictional contact with the riding surface. The marking device can also include an actuation portion which is accessible to the user and allows the user to move the marking device to the second position. In one arrangement, the marking device includes an elastic marking member which is configured to bend in order to maintain contact with the riding surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2014
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Applicant: RAZOR USA LLC
    Inventors: Robert Hadley, Steve Sramek, Bradley James Williams
  • Patent number: 8870208
    Abstract: A side-step device that includes a driving unit, a pinion gear, a driving gear unit, and a step. The driving unit is mounted on a vehicle body, and the pinion gear is connected to the driving unit and is configured to rotate. The driving gear unit is composed of an outer gear surrounding a portion of the pinion gear and engaging with the pinion gear and a rack gear extending from one end of the outer gear to the vehicle body. The step connects to the opposite side of the vehicle body to the driving gear unit, folds in a normal state, unfolds out from the vehicle body when the pinion gear and the outer gear are interlocked, and extends out from the vehicle body from the unfolded state when the pinion gear and the rack gear interlock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Dong Eun Cha, Bock Cheol Lee, Seung Mok Lee, Phil Jung Jeong, Hyun Gyung Kim, Young Sub Oh
  • Publication number: 20140312602
    Abstract: A wind resistance apparatus removably attachable to a bicycle is provided. The apparatus includes a disc oriented to provide wind resistance as the bicycle moves; and a connecting piece coupled to the disc at one end of the connecting piece and including a mounting portion at another end of the connecting piece arranged to mount the connecting piece onto a the bicycle in an orientation where a periphery of the disc is substantially included within a plane that is substantially perpendicular to a plane passing through a rear wheel of the bicycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Inventor: Andrew CASINO
  • Patent number: 8857822
    Abstract: The invention provides a bike with wheels and skis that can be used to ski on the bike downhill in snow and other surface conditions. The bike can also be used to travel on many different surface conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Inventor: Darin Albert Schultz
  • Patent number: 8840143
    Abstract: A novelty vehicle side step accessory kit is provided that offers users an interactive and aesthetically pleasing means of customizing their vehicle. The device has one or more pressure plates disposed on a vehicle side rail. Two end portions are disposed on opposing ends of the side rail. These end portions are thematically decorated to resemble an animal, vehicle, plane, or other object. A sound emitter is disposed within the front end portion and a motion generator is disposed within the rear end portion. Both elements are electrically connected to the pressure sensitive plate. When a user steps on the pressure plate the sound emitter and motion generator are activated, creating audible and tactile feedback.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Inventor: Thomas Higgins
  • Publication number: 20140232094
    Abstract: Improvements to base beams and self-propelled derrick rigs are described. The base beam can have two or more stabilizer arms which can be deployed. The base beam is also designed to support the derrick rig. An optional counterweight assembly can be connected to the front of the rig. The self-propelled derrick rig can be easily and quickly mounted to the base beam, and when mounted, the assembly will be able to withstand high hook loads and wind loading without the danger of the rig coming off of its wheels or falling over.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2013
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Applicant: BLACK HAWK ENERGY SERVICES
    Inventors: Stuart BUCKINGHAM, Matt J. MICHEL
  • Publication number: 20140151990
    Abstract: Disclosed is an external airbag apparatus. The apparatus includes, a back beam disposed on one surface directed toward a bumper on which an airbag module is disposed. The apparatus additionally includes a deployment guide disposed between the bumper and the back beam, both ends of which are coupled to the back beam, and a middle end of which is supported on the bumper. Furthermore, the apparatus includes a sensor disposed between the deployment guide and the back beam to sense impact when pressed by the deployment guide during impact to the bumper.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2013
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY
    Inventors: Yong Sun Kim, Seoung Hoon Lee, Seung Mok Lee, Jin Ho Bae, Tae Wook Chung
  • Patent number: 8733792
    Abstract: A castor wheel for a vehicle or an attachment for a vehicle, the castor wheel comprising; a wheel having an axle about which the wheel can rotate, an offset pivot mounting for mounting the castor wheel to the vehicle or vehicle attachment, the pivot mounting being connected to the wheel axle and defining a pivot axis perpendicular to and offset from the wheel axle, the wheel capable of pivoting about the pivot axis, and wherein the castor wheel also comprises a restrainer for restraining the pivoting of the wheel is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Noah No. 1 Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Des Wallace
  • Publication number: 20140138339
    Abstract: In a vehicle having a stationary frame and a rotating upper body, and wherein the frame includes a plurality of outriggers with pads, a safety barrier is provided, comprising a barrier support member attached to each of the pads, and extending away from the vehicle, wherein the support member includes an upper section adapted to retain a flexible barrier; and a flexible barrier attached across the upper sections of the support members to establish a safety perimeter around the vehicle. A storage rack is also provided for retaining the support members when not attached to the pads, wherein the rack includes a upper bracket having a U-shaped portion adapted to attach to the vehicle; and a frame adapted to carry all of the support members, wherein the frame includes a retention member to retain the support members within the frame in a secured position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2013
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Inventors: Grant C. Chustz, Michelle R. Chustz
  • Patent number: 8696024
    Abstract: A coupler for securing an accessory to a motorized vehicle and comprising an accessory attachment component securable to the accessory and a coupler frame securable to the vehicle. The accessory attachment component includes an accessory pivotal connector and an accessory positioning connector. The coupler frame has a coupler pivotal support defined in the coupler frame configured to receive and pivotally support the accessory pivotal connector and a coupler positioning support configured to receive and guide the accessory positioning connector in a coupled configuration. The accessory positioning connector is aligned with the coupler positioning support when the accessory pivotal connector is received in the coupler pivotal support and slidable toward the coupled configuration. The coupler further comprises a locking mechanism engageable with the accessory attachment component and the coupler frame to lock the accessory attachment component and the coupler frame in the coupled configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: LA Compagnie Normand LTEE
    Inventors: Denis Theriault, Patrick Fortin
  • Publication number: 20140097627
    Abstract: A safety guard for a vehicle, such as a school or transit bus, tractor trailer or the like-type vehicle, includes a front guard positioned at an angle in front of a wheel of the vehicle that will function to push individuals and other animate objects lying in the path of the vehicle out of the path of the wheels for safety purposes, while being mounted for telescoping movement to protect the safety guard from damage upon abutting an inanimate object during operation of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2013
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: Public Transportation Safety International Corp.
    Inventor: Mark B. Barron
  • Publication number: 20140091540
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a wheelbarrow having a wheelbarrow lateral support. The wheelbarrow lateral support includes a first arm, a second arm, and a horizontal support area configured to connect the first arm and the second arm. The wheelbarrow lateral support further includes a first extension of subjection connected to the first arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2013
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Inventor: Moises Sheinberg Frenkel
  • Publication number: 20140062074
    Abstract: A novelty vehicle side step accessory kit is provided that offers users an interactive and aesthetically pleasing means of customizing their vehicle. The device has one or more pressure plates disposed on a vehicle side rail. Two end portions are disposed on opposing ends of the side rail. These end portions are thematically decorated to resemble an animal, vehicle, plane, or other object. A sound emitter is disposed within the front end portion and a motion generator is disposed within the rear end portion. Both elements are electrically connected to the pressure sensitive plate. When a user steps on the pressure plate the sound emitter and motion generator are activated, creating audible and tactile feedback.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventor: Thomas Higgins
  • Patent number: 8662535
    Abstract: Restraints for restraining a vehicle at a loading dock are described. An example restraint described herein includes a brace movable between a holding position and a release position. A first portion of the brace engages a supporting portion of the vehicle and a second portion of the brace engages a non-movable location at the loading dock to restrain the vehicle relative to the loading dock when the brace is in the holding position. For the holding position, the first portion of the brace moves in one direction underneath the vehicle to engage the supporting portion and the second portion moves in a second direction underneath the vehicle to engage the non-movable location. The first and second portions retract to allow the vehicle to move relative to the loading dock when the brace is in the release position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Rite-Hite Holding Corporation
    Inventors: Jonathan Andersen, Ben Wieberdink, Timothy Cotton, Pamala Pietrangelo, Kurt Lessard, Norbert Hahn, Henk De Lang
  • Publication number: 20140015237
    Abstract: An adjustable hitch receiver system provides multiple attachment points to adequately secure accessories such a pop-up canopy to an automobile. The mounting system includes a T-bar that connects to the hitch receiver with two adjustable arms. The adjustable arms of the hitch receiver system can be equipped with different attachment arms that are configured to attach to various accessories. The two adjustable arms can be used to secure two different accessories or secure a single accessory at two attachment points. In particular, a canopy attachment arm is configured to attach to a pop-up type canopy to securely and adjustably support the canopy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2013
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Applicant: GTM Products, LLC
    Inventors: Tony Dean Mayfield, Eugene Phillip Mayfield, Justin Lynn Porter
  • Publication number: 20140015236
    Abstract: A golf cart is disclosed with a device for holding a golf club head cover. The device has an arm greater than 3 inches and less than 15 inches in length. The arm has a free end generally opposite the mounting with at least a portion of the arm and the free end pointed in a generally upright direction and adapted to receive and hold a golf club head cover thereover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2012
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Inventor: Thomas Coble
  • Patent number: 8622426
    Abstract: A height-adjustable support for semi-trailers and the like includes a shaft tube body, a slidable support inner tube arranged in the shaft tube and body and having a foot mounted to an end region thereof by a nut located on a spindle which is drivable by a transmission, wherein the transmission has a switchable spur gear region and a beveled gear stage. The shifting region of the transmission comprises a low-gear pinion and a fast-gear wheel, wherein the low-gear pinion is coupled to a drive shaft that can mesh with a low-gear gearwheel, the fast-gear gearwheel is adapted to drive a fast-gear pinion, and wherein the fast-gear gearwheel is coupled to the drive shaft. The drive shaft is supported in an unrotatable and axially slidable manner in a sleeve bearing that is supported rotatably in at least a select one of a bearing block or load bearing base supporting the spindle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: SAF-HOLLAND GmbH
    Inventor: Reinhold Riedl
  • Publication number: 20130277953
    Abstract: The spider web clearing device is designed to be a cost efficient and simple means of clearing spiders and spider webs from the upcoming path of an ATV. In one embodiment, the spider web clearing device can be installed on all flat ATV surfaces and platforms on the front and center of an ATV. Another embodiment of the spider web clearing device can be installed on tubular surfaces on the front and center of an ATV. Placing the spider web clearing device on the leading, center portion of the ATV efficiently clears spiders and spider webs from the trail, lawn or road in the forward path of the ATV. The above-described embodiments of the spider web clearing device utilize the naturally-occurring tension of spider webs to clear away spiders and spider webs from the upcoming path of an ATV.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventor: Mark Alex Matthews
  • Patent number: 8523196
    Abstract: A convertible beach cart and canopy apparatus includes a lower frame portion having front and rear support members and side members extending between opposed ends of the front and the rear support members. Wheels are coupled to opposed ends of the rear support members. The apparatus includes a rear frame portion having at least one upstanding support bar fixedly attached to the rear support member, the rear frame portion include a top support member coupled to an upper end of the at least one support bar. An upper frame portion is rotatably coupled to the top support member such that the canopy frame portion is movable between a stowed configuration generally adjacent the lower frame portion and an expanded configuration extending away from the top support member. A canopy is coupled to an end of the canopy frame portion and configured to shade an area adjacent the rear frame portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Inventor: Mark J. Appleby
  • Publication number: 20130214519
    Abstract: A coupler for securing an accessory to a motorized vehicle and comprising an accessory attachment component securable to the accessory and a coupler frame securable to the vehicle. The accessory attachment component includes an accessory pivotal connector and an accessory positioning connector. The coupler frame has a coupler pivotal support defined in the coupler frame configured to receive and pivotally support the accessory pivotal connector and a coupler positioning support configured to receive and guide the accessory positioning connector in a coupled configuration. The accessory positioning connector is aligned with the coupler positioning support when the accessory pivotal connector is received in the coupler pivotal support and slidable toward the coupled configuration. The coupler further comprises a locking mechanism engageable with the accessory attachment component and the coupler frame to lock the accessory attachment component and the coupler frame in the coupled configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2012
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Inventors: Denis Theriault, Patrick Fortin
  • Publication number: 20130200603
    Abstract: A pedestrian protection airbag system for a vehicle includes an airbag that is adapted to be deployed along a windscreen and/or A-pillars of the vehicle, is inflatable to a deployed state and has projected periphery. The airbag system further comprises at least one tethering member connecting a first region of the airbag with a second region of the airbag along a path, the path being arranged within the projected periphery of the airbag when the airbag is in the deployed state. A vehicle comprising such a pedestrian protection airbag system and a method of deployment of an airbag of such a pedestrian protection airbag system are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2012
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Applicant: VOLVO CAR CORPORATION
    Inventor: Volvo Car Corporation
  • Patent number: 8470414
    Abstract: A vehicle ornament and a kit containing components to form the vehicle ornament that can be attached to an outer surface of a vehicle. The components of the kit include at least one vehicle ornament base member having a circular, substantially flat lower surface and at least one vehicle ornament upper shaped member having a three-dimensional cone-like, pyramid-like or thorn-like shape. The base member and the upper shaped member include complementary engagement members that are operatively adapted to enable non-rotatable connection of the base member to the upper shaped member. The overall height of the vehicle ornament is from about 10.2 cm to about 20.3 cm and the diameter of the circular, flat lower surface of the base member is from about 10.2 cm to about 20.3 cm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Inventor: Corey Custer
  • Publication number: 20130154247
    Abstract: A gasbag for a pneumatic personal protection device on a motor vehicle is provided. The gasbag has a membrane at least locally comprising an inner layer and an outer layer that exhibits a higher tolerance to a frictional load than the inner layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2012
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventor: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
  • Patent number: 8465053
    Abstract: A protective shield for a vehicle is provided. The protective shield may include a plurality of shield panels configured to shield particular areas of a vehicle from damage, and a connecting member that connects the shield panels. The shield panels may be adjustable along a length of the connecting member. The shield panels may each include a planar main body, and at least one opening that extends through the planar main body, configured to receive the connecting member threaded therethrough. At least one magnet may be embedded in the planar main body of the panel shield, configured to magnetically adhere the shield panel to the vehicle. A clasp member may be disposed at each end of the connecting member. The connecting member may extend through each shield panel at least twice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Inventor: Grady King, IV
  • Publication number: 20130140801
    Abstract: A mobile robot configured to be widely versatile in its use. For example, the mobile robot can be configured for being used on a wide assortment of surfaces, regardless of the orientation and/or shape of the surfaces. Alternatively or in combination, the mobile robot can be configured for effective and efficient movement on the surfaces it traverses. In some cases, the mobile robot is configured with two or more component units. In some cases, the component units are configured with magnets and a control system for orientating the magnets. In some cases, one or more component couplings join the component units. In some cases, the mobile unit is configured with Mecanum wheels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Applicant: HELICAL ROBOTICS, LLC
    Inventor: HELICAL ROBOTICS, LLC
  • Publication number: 20130127143
    Abstract: The invention relates to a safety device for blocking access to the voluminous gap (VG) below a vehicle. An object, physically prevents access to the VG is deployed by a deploying mechanism, which is otherwise stored or kept in a stand by position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2010
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Inventors: Zeev Erlich, Amir Ohad
  • Publication number: 20130088000
    Abstract: The hitch cleat is a mechanism that that joins a hitch mount to a cleat to secure objects for pulling. A cleat by nature is advantageous for tying and untying knots. This concept is beneficial since ropes need to be carefully secured when pulling objects with vehicles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2011
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Inventor: Mack Thomas Boyte
  • Publication number: 20130051971
    Abstract: A stowable platform for side access doors of trailers for commercial trucks is provided. The platform is designed to compactly fit into a storage cavity built into the trailer. This cavity can be underneath the floor of the vehicle. The platform is designed to slide out from its storage cavity and be positioned against the vehicle to provide side access to the vehicle. After removal from storage, the platform can be expanded to a much more convenient size for loading or unloading of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Inventors: Gene Wyse, Randy Gene Wyse