Abstract: A self-propelled trailer is provided and includes a frame, an extension device, and a storage bin. The extension device includes a first extension section with a trailing end rotatably connected to the frame and an extendable second extension section rotatably connected to a leading end of the first extension section. The storage bin is secured to the extension device.

Abstract: A lift and dump bed is movably mounted on a wheeled frame such as a trailer or truck with the dump bed being pivotally movable to a dumping position or horizontally raised to a lift position.

Abstract: A sunshade includes a cut-out panel formed by cutting a portion from a ceiling panel for opening a ceiling window and injection-molded rigid edge members made of synthetic resin and fixed to a front edge, both side edges and a rear edge of the cut-out panel so as to surround the cut-out panel. The rigid edge members are fixed to the sunshade so that the sunshade is finished such that the width thereof is made wider than the width of the opening portion of the ceiling panel and the length thereof is made longer than the length of the opening portion thereof, the rigid edge member fixed to the front edge is formed with a knob, and slide shoes are provided to the rigid edge members fixed to the both edges of the cut-out panel. The invention realizes reduced weight and manufacturing cost and increased quality of the slide sunshade of automobile sunroofs.

Abstract: A collapsible and concealable stand or pulpet for holding a device such as a cellular phone handset or an electronic map within arm's reach of an automotive vehicle driver, comprises a cradle or platform supported by an articulated or flexible arm that is secured by a rotating and swiveling joint to the floor of the vehicle or to a seat anchoring bracket. The stand can be folded down and rotated in a horizontal plane to place the device out of sight under the driver's or passenger's seat.

Abstract: A safety hand grip for use in entering and exiting the cargo door of a van or similar vehicle comprising a pair of mounting brackets, one securable to the floor of the vehicle the other securable to the sidewall of the vehicle, and a pole that is detachably securable between the two mounting brackets by the user when needed and that can be detached and removed for storage when not needed.

Abstract: The molded composition stack part (44 ) for a vehicle includes a stack including a cellular core sandwiched between a first face (46) and a second face (48). The part also has a curved surface zone (50) contiguous with the first face (48) and with a rim (54) of the part, and has a trough (52) extending in the second face (48) in the vicinity of the rim towards the first face. The part is characterized in that the rim (54) has a plane external side face (57) that is perpendicular to the first face (46), and that extends in alignment with the curved surface zone (50).

Abstract: The present invention is a low cost, easy to operate, and ever handy device of blocking views of accidents, stalled cars or other incidents. This is accomplished by an accident shield device unit installed in the trunk of official vehicles which can be assembled by a single person in a few minutes. The unit consists of a screen which is large enough to prevent most passersby (motorists or pedestrians) from viewing the scene. As a result, this device aids in maintaining traffic flow and safety by preserving the natural momentum of traffic and keeping other drivers focused on traffic conditions, rather than the accident scene or stalled vehicle.

Abstract: A passenger assist handle for use in an automobile includes a handle pivotably mounted to a base and biased in an non-use position by a helical torsion spring. The base has an upstanding mounting block for pivotably retaining the handle and a mounting clip for mounting the base to an automobile frame. The handle has first and second ends each of which is pivotably mounted to the base through a pin which extends through openings in each end of the handle and through the base pivot mounts for movement between first and second positions with respect to the base. The spring has a first end extending into and anchored in the spring hole in the base. The spring is further coiled around the pin between the pivot mounts and has a second end distal from the first end which is anchored in the first end of the handle. The handle further includes a ledge for retaining the second end of the spring in the handle.

Abstract: Thin walled B-pillar covers for an automotive vehicle comprise a thin sheet of thermoplastic material of generally uniform thickness vacuum molded about a continuous body molding surface of a molding horn to provide a main body portion having a U-shaped marginal edge along one elongated peripheral extent thereof of a shape to snugly receive therein the sheet metal marginal edge of a vehicle part and an inturned flange along an opposed elongated peripheral extent thereof of a shape to be presented to the inturned surface of the vehicle part. By vacuum molding the thin theremoplastic material about a body molding surface of a molding horn, a cover having a substantially dimple-free, smooth class A exterir surface.

Abstract: A molded article comprising a molded body and one or more layers of heat shielding material attached to the molded body and a method of making same. The heat shielding material is placed on localized areas of the molded article which are exposed to elevated temperatures. The molded article may be a fiber reinforced plastic (FRP) which comprises a fibrous material containing a resin or alternatively, the molded article may be a thermoplastic material with or without reinforcement.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a water-repellant shield for an automobile side mirror, which includes a water-repellant cover and an extension cover or a collapsible extension cover extending from the water-repellant covering whereby the extension cover or collapsible extension cover can effectively protect the side mirror from water such as rain.

Abstract: A method for enhancing the surface appearance of thermoset FRP wherein a thin rubbery coating is applied to a sheet molded compound (SMC). This coating, when applied to FRP inhibits propagation of micro cracks to the surface of compliant rubbery coating of the parts, while not sacrificing the physical properties of the molded parts. The coating also supplies a suitable smooth surface for automotive body panel applications that serves as a substrate for further paint applications.

Abstract: An arrangement for controlling solar heating of passenger cars comprises a covering material which is glued onto parts which are subjected directly to the radiation of the sun in the vehicle interior, and a switching device. The covering layer is composed of a foil with a controllable capacity to transmit light, a reflecting layer and a carrier material. When the engine is switched off during parking, the foil will transmit light, whereby the incident light is reflected on the reflecting layer. In the driving operation of the passenger car, the foil will be dull, impervious to light and absorbs the incident light.

Abstract: A cover plate for use in covering an opening in an automotive vehicle body panel is comprised of a substantially flat base having an appearance face and a hidden face bordered by a peripheral edge. The peripheral edge has a tapered frame around a majority thereof. The cover plate is further comprised of a pair of flexible legs each having a shortened member projecting from the hidden face and having an elongated member extending beyond the peripheral edge of the base partially coincidental to an overhanging portion of the base. The cover plate also has a wedge ramp with a triangular-shaped segment being mounted upon the hidden face of the base such that an intersection is created between a hypotenuse of the wedge ramp and the base. The base has a first portion which is juxtaposed to this intersection. A fastening protrudes from the hidden face of this first portion.

Abstract: A transversely resilient retaining clip for securing a trim strip over an automobile rocker panel weld flange without requiring screws or adhesive. The trim strip is retained by the resilient clip and a weatherstrip carrier member having a recess disposed longitudinally over the flange. The resilient clip and weatherstrip member cooperate to securely retain the trim strip in a predefined spaced relationship with the weld flange such that it covers the flange and weatherstrip carrier as well as overlies the vehicle carpet.

Abstract: A boot assembly (10) and method for lining at least a portion of the periphery of a passageway between two compartments (4, 6) of a vehicle (8). The boot assembly (10) includes a boot body portion (16) formed to extend between the securement devices (12, 14) having opposed, first and second shoulders (24, 26). The securement devices are mounted proximate an opening formed in each opposed wall of the two compartments (4, 6). A retaining structure (20, 22) is provided on the body portion (16) to secure the body portion (16) to the securement devices (12, 14). The retaining structure (20, 22) includes a first lip portion (34) and a spaced apart second lip portion (36).

Abstract: The present invention relates to an arrangement for attaching a decorative molding strip to an open keyhole-shaped slotted passage terminating in a lock hole provided in a vehicle body flange upper edge. A T-like fastener, integrally molded of elastomeric material, has a block-shaped head joined to the backside of a molding member by a V-shaped stem. The head inboard surface and the molding backside form layered grooves therebetween on either side of the stem. The head has a base from which project pair of upstanding forked portions separated by a V-shaped compression notch. The notch terminates in a radiused root having upwardly diverging walls disposed at a predetermined acute angle. The stem has upwardly diverging arms from a juncture the interior walls of which define a root profile matching the notch root profile.

Abstract: A safety gate for a school bus or similar conveyance. The gate is mounted on the front bumper of the vehicle and includes a barrier both in front of the bumper and between the bumper and the front wheel of the bus. Both barriers can be dropped from a travel height, in which the bus can travel on the roads, to a lower or guard height in which the barrier is close to the surface of the road so that people--particularly children--cannot go over or beneath the barriers in a location out of the view of the driver.

Abstract: A molding assembly in which an elongated plastic molding is anchored to a vehicle door via a central clip and slidably supported by end clips so that thermal expansion and contraction takes place evenly from the midpoint of the molding so that the ends of the molding are always evenly spaced from the front and rear edges of the door. The end clips having flexible straps extending transversely of the sides of the clips and the straps are engageable with abutments on the molding so that the clips can be pre-assembled on the molding.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a pneumatic brake booster assembly for a vehicle comprising a brake booster (10) formed from two shells (18; 37), a master-cylinder (14) mounted on the booster (10), a brake pedal (20) operatively linked to the booster (10) and mounted on a support bracket (22). According to the invention, one of the shells (18; 37) of the brake booster (10) is formed by a plate (26) upon which is mounted the support bracket (22), the plate (26) being destined to form a part of a firewall (12) of the vehicle.

Abstract: A vehicle rear view mirror rain shield comprising of a plurality of revolving blades attached to a plurality of rotary hubs, which are sleeved on a revolving shaft and inserted with one inside another, and operated by a motor which when opened has the shape of a sector of a circle to protect a vehicle rear view mirror from rain water is disclosed. A rubber packing is attached to the first blade to seal the gap between the rain shield and the adjacent window glass.

Abstract: A vehicle rear window reveal molding provided with a rearwardly facing groove serving as a repository for reflective material in which the overhang of an upper leg of the groove shelters the reflective material against ultraviolet deterioration but allows clear visibility thereof in its activated state when it emits light in response to ground level light of headlights from approaching vehicles impinging on the reflective material.

Abstract: An accident victim protection procedure and protector protect a vehicle accident victim from shards of glass and other debris generated during rescue and extrication of the victim from a vehicle within which the accident victim is trapped as a result of the accident, the vehicle having at least one glazed window in the form of a windshield, sidelights or a backlight, and surrounding structure, such as a dashboard and a steering column projecting adjacent the dashboard, the protector including a sheet of stowable pliable material which is essentially impervious to the shards of glass and other debris and which is to be deployed over the area of the one glazed window and secured in place between the one glazed window and the victim such that the victim is shielded by the sheet from shards of glass and other debris emanating from the one glazed window and the surrounding structure of the vehicle during rescue and extrication of the victim from the vehicle, and the procedure including deploying and securing the s

Abstract: The invention relates to a fuel filler pocket adapted to be inserted within a vehicle side panel opening in a way to surround and support a fuel tank inlet tube and wherein the pocket includes integral resilient tangs for locking the pocket within the panel opening.

Abstract: An apparatus arranged for securement to a roof positioned above a passenger compartment of a vehicle, wherein the structure includes a grasping tube receiving a flexible tether line therethrough, wherein the tether line is mounted to a securement loop and the loop is pivotally mounted to a hook clamp that is releasably mounted to the roof of the vehicle. A modification of the invention includes a plate structure with a loop member adjustably mounted longitudinally of the plate to provide selective orientation of the tether line and tube within the passenger compartment.

Abstract: An automobile jack and wheel chocks assembly for automobiles wherein a jack and wheel chocks are stored in the vehicle as a concise spacing saving unit. The chocks include structure which receives and locates the jack, and the chocks are positioned in the vehicle by locating pins.

Abstract: An assembly for flexibly securing the fuel filler pipe of a vehicle to the body of the vehicle. The assembly includes a flexible support member which is designed to provide a "break-away" connection to a housing which is attached rigidly to the body of the vehicle. Thus, in the event that the vehicle is involved in an accident, the filler pipe connector is permitted to move relative to the body thereby reducing the chance of breakage between the fuel filler pipe and the fuel tank of the vehicle. In addition a rigid connector plate is rigidly attached to the fuel filler pipe. This connector plate serves to connect the filler pipe to the flexible support member and in the event of an accident, it serves to protect the open end area of the filler pipe so as to reduce the chance of damage thereto, and also serves to lessen the change of damage or disengagement of a fuel cap attached to the filler pipe.

Abstract: An apparatus defining a generally "U" shaped convex structure mounted to an all-terrain vehicle, wherein the structure includes a wire grid mounted to a bottom "L" shaped framework, and the framework is provided with a rearwardly extending mounting bar for securement to an associated all-terrain vehicle. A modification of the invention includes a further guard securable to the guard during periods of non-use and mounted for extension relative thereto providing longitudinal adjustment as required.

Abstract: A shield for protecting the windshield and paint finish of the hood of an automobile from impact by insects and debris. The shield has an airfoil to deflect air current carrying debris and insects away from the windshield. The shield also covers the most vulnerable surface of the hood. To facilitate easy installation, the shield may be shaped like a pocket which snugly fits over the front edge of the hood panel.

Abstract: An anti-ingress system for the doors, the side windows and the rear window of motor vehicles, in particular pick-up trucks, has a mounting frame is secured to the pick-up truck adjacent the rear of the cab, a rear anti-ingress panel is connected with the mounting frame so as to cover the rear window of the cab, and, on each opposite side of the mounting frame, a side window anti-ingress panel is movably mounted to the mounting frame so as to permit each side window anti-ingress panel to be located in one of two positions: a first position clear of the door and its side window, and a second position interferingly located adjacent the door and the side window, thereby preventing unauthorized entry through the side window as well as preventing unauthorized opening of the door. There are several embodiments of preferred structures that provide selective, locable movement of the two side window anti-ingress panels.

Abstract: A vehicle theft preventing seat cushion frame. The seat cushion frame has a seat section made from a hardened material in a generally rectangular shape. The back section is hingedly connected to the seat section, and a telescoping member may be affixed between the front of the seat section and the top of the back section to form an impediment when affixed to the front seat of an automobile to the theft of that automobile. It can also be connected through the steering wheel of the vehicle to further deter theft.

Abstract: A foldable sun-shield is for use in a mini-van having wing window panels adjacent to the windshield, each wing window panel being disposed between the windshield and a door window. The foldable sun-shield includes a front panel, and two side panels. The front panel is made of a plurality of foldable panels. Each side panel forms an acute angle relative to the longitudinal edge of the front panel. The acute angles are about the same as the inclined angle between the windshield and the horizontal plane. One side panel covers one wing window panel, and the other side panel essentially covers the other wing window panel.

Abstract: A vehicle body panel is utilized to convert the large, rounded rear window of 1984-1989 Chevrolet Corvettes to a flat rear deck configuration. The replacement body panel is preferably formed from a molded fiberglass material and includes a generally horizontal rear deck portion having generally vertical side walls. Rear wheel wells are formed in the side walls and a rear roof portion extends upwardly from the deck. A generally trapezoidal planar rear window is provided in a back wall of the rear roof portion. Apertured flanges are provided on a back end on rear sidewall bottom edges of the body panel for securement to the original vehicle. A U-shaped strip is formed on a forward edge of the rear roof portion and forms a channel for weatherstripping which forms a seat for engagement with top and side portions of the original vehicle body panels. The original rear valance panel of the vehicle, including the original brake and signal lights, are secured to the rear end of the replacement panel.

Abstract: A trapezoidial louver frame is mounted on the forward top edge of the bed of a pickup truck. The frame is behind the rear window of the cab of the pickup. A plurality of rods are journaled to the sides of the frame and extend across the frame. Louver slats are welded to the rods. Two stanchions extend from the top to the bottom of the frame spaced there along. The rods also are telescoped through the stanchions. At all joints the rods are journaled within Neopreme grommets in the sides and stanchions. An operating bar is journaled to fingers extending from each rod. A remote control wire extends from the instrument panel within the cab to the operating bar to open and close the louvers.

Abstract: A double-decked apparatus has a base (4), and a movable deck (6) is rotatably connected, at one end, to one end of the base. Automobiles can be positioned on the base (4) and on the movable deck (6). The movable deck can rotate between a first position, where it is laid upon the base and positioned substantially parallel thereto, and a second position, where it is inclined upwardly. The apparatus is also provided with support rods (8, 9) which can hold the movable deck in the second position. Two automobiles can be mounted on this apparatus, one above the other. The apparatus can, therefore, help to achieve an efficient use of the space within a transport container.

Abstract: A removable arm rest apparatus for use in a truck cab utilizes an upright tubing structure and a flat arm support member projecting normally outward therefrom. Compressive mounting means enclosed within the uppermost end of the tubing structure position the tubing structure firmly between the cab roof and cab floor. A washer encircling the tubing structure positions the arm support member at the desired location. Movement of the washer along the longitudinal axis of the tubing structure adjusts the height of the arm support member relative to the cab floor. The apparatus may be easily removed and disassembled for storage and subsequent use in another truck cab.

Abstract: An article carrier for a motor vehicle is disclosed. The article carrier includes at least one generally horizontally arranged article supporting slat. The slat includes at one end a tie down mechanism. A wind deflection mechanism is positioned and secured onto the vehicle surface generally perpendicular to the slat. A second tie down mechanism is coupled with the wind deflection mechanism. The second tie down mechanism pivots from a first position to a second position. In the first position, the second tie down mechanism, is positioned within the wind deflection mechanism and has a surface substantially flush with the wind deflection mechanism. In the second position, the second tie down means projects from the wind deflection mechanism to enable ropes, hooked bungee cords, or the like to secure to the second tie down mechanism.

Abstract: A vanity mirror can be extended from the vehicle headliner and upon extension, can be pivoted about a generally vertical axis such that a single vanity mirror can be used by any of the rear seat passengers. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the vehicle roof includes a recess for receiving an illuminated vanity mirror assembly which is pivotally mounted at one edge to the recess for movement between a stored position substantially flush with a vehicle roofline to a lowered use position substantially orthogonal to the vehicle roof.

Abstract: An aerodynamic accessory, such as a front and/or a rear spoiler, is adjustable by a deployed working position and a retracted rest position, and its positioning can be controlled automatically in accordance with vehicle conditions reflecting the need for road/tire traction. These vehicle conditions may include vehicle speed, crosswinds, road surface roughness or wetness, and/or road grade, these factors taken singly or in combination. The aerodynamic accessory may be a rear spoiler retractable to lie flush with the trunk lid and/or a front spoiler capable of selectably reducing the air-flow clearance between the road surface and the front end of the vehicle. Specific vehicle condition detection devices and techniques are also disclosed.

Abstract: An arrangement for supplying cooling air to a brake disk of a front wheel brake comprises an air guiding duct that is developed to be partially flexible and, on the inlet side, has an air opening in the front end of a motor vehicle and, on the outlet side, has another air opening that is directed at the brake disk. Two air inlet openings in a brake disk guard plate are opposite said air opening and form a separate transversely directed air guiding system to the brake disk. The air guiding duct is provided with several rigid duct portions that are held so that they are be fixed at the vehicle, namely at the vehicle body, as well as at the wheel, namely at the wishbone, as well as adjacent to the brake disk at a guard plate. They are each connected with one another via flexible intermediate duct portions, in which case the rigid duct portions can be moved relative to one another together with their assorted vehicle components.

Abstract: A system for replacing component parts of an automobile body to alter the appearance of the vehicle. The system includes a frame for attachment to the chassis of the automobile in place of the original bumper. The frame effectively lengthens the chassis and provides support for a hood that is longer than the original hood. The frame carries hinges attached to the hood and also carries lifts which bias the hood upwardly for easy opening.

Abstract: A rearview mirror mounting apparatus for detachably mounting a rearview mirror onto a side portion of a vehicle body of a vehicle such as automobile, motorcycle and the like. Between a mounting seat formed on the rearview mirror and the vehicle body, there is provided an elastic connecting piece having an excessive length when the mounting seat is fixed to the vehicle body by a bolt or the like. One end of the connecting piece is retainably engagable with the mounting seat and the other end with the vehicle body. The connecting piece is contained within the rearview mirror mounting apparatus. Although, the rearview mirror is detachable from the vehicle body, it cannot be separated apart from the vehicle body any further than the length of the connecting piece since the connecting piece is retainably engaged at one end with the mounting seat of the rearview mirror and at the other end with the vehicle body.