Cover Patents (Class 296/136.01)
  • Patent number: 11904767
    Abstract: An embodiment system for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle is provided. The charging port is provided in a vehicle body for supplying electrical power to a vehicle driving battery, and the system includes a charging port door configured to open and close the charging port, and a lamp device disposed on the charging port door and configured to illuminate the charging port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2024
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Corporation
    Inventor: Sinkook Kim
  • Patent number: 11566938
    Abstract: Methods and systems for controlling tintable windows based on cloud detection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2023
    Assignee: View, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen Clark Brown, Jason David Zedlitz, Jack Kendrick Rasmus-Vorrath, Nitin Khanna, Ruican Zhong, Vashisth Parekh, Nidhi Tiwari, Kriti Sharma
  • Patent number: 11285742
    Abstract: A half cutter includes a blade, a blade holder to which the blade is fixed, a blade receiving member which the blade approaches to or departs from, a blade receiving holder to which the blade receiving member is fixed, a spacer which is provided to at least one of the blade and the blade receiving member and generates a gap between the blade and the blade receiving member when the blade approaches the blade receiving member, and a fixing member that fixes the spacer to at least one of the blade holder and the blade receiving holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2022
    Assignee: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION
    Inventor: Hirosuke Yasuki
  • Patent number: 10919371
    Abstract: A vehicle enclosure includes a roof element that rotates upward from the occupant space to increase the passenger opening and increase ease of entry. The roof element is secured to and rotates about a horizontal vehicle frame element. The roof element also supports a windshield at the upper edge of the windshield during travel. The horizontal frame element is formed of a rigid tubular cross-section member including tubular hinge elements to which the roof element is secured to enable the rotating action of the roof element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2021
    Inventor: Paul Hirneise
  • Patent number: 10227051
    Abstract: A cargo liner for an enclosed vehicle has a water proof flexible material with a central section and a pair of butterfly wings. A number of first attachment points are space along an edge of one of the pair of butterfly wings. A pair of straps is located on a first edge of the central section. A number of adjustable straps each have a second attachment point at a first end of the adjustable straps. A number of suction cups are attached to the adjustable straps. The cargo liner is easily installed, is inexpensive to ship because it can fold down to a small package, and is adjustable to fit a wide variety of vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2019
    Assignee: K&H Manufacturing, LLC
    Inventor: James Donald Koskey
  • Patent number: 9428039
    Abstract: A motor vehicle (V), the vehicle including an outer body (E) and provided with a protective tarpaulin system including a flexible tarpaulin (1) for covering the outer body (E) at least in part. The tarpaulin (1) is windable around a drum (2) between a wound-in storage position and a wound out position. The tarpaulin includes a connection edge secured to the drum, and an opposite edge that is free. The free edge of the flexible tarpaulin includes at least one traction element (13) made of ferromagnetic material; and the vehicle (V) includes at least one magnet (4) movable under the outer body (E), the magnet (4) attracting the traction element (13) of the tarpaulin through the outer body (E) and entraining the traction element (13) of the tarpaulin, so as to bring the tarpaulin into the wound-out position of the tarpaulin by sliding over the outer body (E).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2016
    Inventors: Andre Sassi, Jocelyne Sassi
  • Patent number: 9180763
    Abstract: A cover for covering at least partially a vehicle comprises a cover body and at least two clips connected the cover body. Each of the at least two clips includes a first portion connected at least partially to the cover body. The first portion is adapted to bias the cover body toward the vehicle when the cover covers the vehicle. A second portion has a first end and a second end. The first end is connected to the first portion. The second portion is adapted to selectively connect to a first vehicle portion. A third portion has a first end and a second end. The third portion is adapted to selectively abut against a second vehicle portion. The first end of the third portion is connected to the second end of the second portion. The third portion is at an angle with respect to the first portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2015
    Assignee: BOMBARDIER RECREATIONAL PRODUCTS INC.
    Inventors: Eric Fournier, Jean-Simon Lavallee, Daniel Girard, Annie Leclerc
  • Publication number: 20150137552
    Abstract: A device for covering an object which is transported in an air stream, including a cover which at least partially traverses the object, and a differential pressure device disposed on the cover which creates a pressure differential between the air under the cover and the air passing over or around the cover, where the pressure differential causes the air under the cover to exhaust to an exterior of the cover, drawing the cover toward the object, and where the pressure differential device creates the pressure differential when the covered object is transported in a frontward position with respect to a direction of travel and in a rearward position with respect to the direction of transport.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2015
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventors: Samuel Mazzarelli, David Mazzarelli
  • Publication number: 20150115647
    Abstract: An automobile cover is provided. The cover includes an inner sheet, an outer sheet and an insulating material in between. The cover is sectioned into a plurality of panels. The plurality of panels may include at least a front panel sized to cover a windshield of the automobile, a top panel sized to cover a top of the automobile, side panels and a rear panel sized to cover the rear windshield of the automobile. The front panel is joined to the top panel by a seam and the top panel is joined to the rear panel by a seam. The inner and outer sheets may be made of breathable water proof or water resistant fabric. The seams of the present invention allow for easy opening and folding of the cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2014
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventor: Shiladitya Niyogi
  • Patent number: 8905459
    Abstract: A cover that replaceably attaches to a hood having peripheral edges of a vehicle having an engine bay without interfering with the engine bay of the vehicle and to thereby cover and protect an ambient-facing surface of the hood of the vehicle. The cover includes a sheet, and a strap arrangement. The sheet covers, protects, and lies flat on, the ambient-facing surface of the hood of the vehicle. The strap arrangement is attached to the sheet, and replaceably attaches the sheet to the hood of the vehicle without interfering with the engine bay of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventor: James A. Wiggins, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8764097
    Abstract: A cover for covering at least partially a vehicle comprises a cover body and at least two clips connected the cover body. Each of the at least two clips includes a first portion connected at least partially to the cover body. The first portion is adapted to bias the cover body toward the vehicle when the cover covers the vehicle. A second portion has a first end and a second end. The first end is connected to the first portion. The second portion is adapted to selectively connect to a first vehicle portion. A third portion has a first end and a second end. The third portion is adapted to selectively abut against a second vehicle portion. The first end of the third portion is connected to the second end of the second portion. The third portion is at an angle with respect to the first portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.
    Inventors: Eric Fournier, Jean-Simon Lavallee, Daniel Girard, Annie Leclerc
  • Patent number: 8740283
    Abstract: An arrangement structure for a charging port cover includes a charging port (15) having a charging inlet (21) in a charging port opening portion (17) provided on a vehicle body, and a lid (7) that covers the charging port opening portion and is openable and closable on the vehicle body. The arrangement structure further includes a charging port cover (35) attached to the lid in an opened state to cover open sections (16, 18) between the charging port opening portion and the lid. The lid is fixed to the vehicle body by hinges (5) in an openable and closable manner. The open sections are located in side portions of the lid and the charging port opening portion in an axis direction (X) of the hinges and in a front portion in a direction (Y) orthogonal to the axis direction of the hinges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Junichi Yamamaru, Daisuke Takashima, Masaaki Takagi, Masato Inoue, Tooru Yamashita
  • Patent number: 8684444
    Abstract: The present invention provides a compact covering for automobiles. This device is configured to be located on a windshield of vehicles, where it is anchored to the necks of side mirrors by elastic straps. The device has four rolls of cover-sheets and a housing which is constructed of two halves inserted fitly into each other. It is easily placed onto its working position by way of a wheel and suction-cups. Cover-sheets will be pulled out via apertures on the housing and stretched over the vehicle. To help pulling easily, each of the cover-sheets will have a pipe-shaped stopper attached at its outer end. Each of the pipe-shaped stoppers will have hooks which hooks onto the edge of the chassis of the vehicle. The axes of cover-sheets rolls are mounted with the constant springs, so they can rewind after each use. Brushes above the apertures will swipe off dust, tree leaves, etc. from cover-sheets when they are rewound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Inventor: Thang Manh Dao
  • Patent number: 8646823
    Abstract: A cover assembly is provided for a vehicle-mounted device having an alignment feature on a face of the device. The cover assembly includes a rod portion, a securing arrangement coupled to the rod portion to secure the cover assembly to the device, and a cover portion coupled to the rod portion and configured to cover the alignment feature on the face of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Andreas Mehs, Oliver Schwindt
  • Patent number: 8608223
    Abstract: A cover removal and installation roller assembly for an automobile that is particularly suited to be operated by hand, by an individual, in order to install or remove a cover from the automobile. The roller assembly includes a self-storing hand crank that is removably connectable to a cover spool whereby the cover spool can be rotated in order to wind the cover therearound or play the cover out from the spool. The cover in one embodiment is removably connectable to the cover spool. Methods for using the cover roller and installation roller assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Cruisin' Solutions
    Inventors: Don M. Taylor, James N. Filippi
  • Publication number: 20130320703
    Abstract: Disclosed are example devices configured to secure a cover to a motor vehicle. According to one example device a strap may be connected to at least two securing clips affixed to opposite ends of the strap. The securing clips are also affixed to the cover which is covering the motor vehicle. The straps may be affixed to various parts of the motor vehicle cover to secure the cover to the vehicle and the straps may be tightened and loosened around a vehicle wheel to securely maintain the position of the cover on the vehicle body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Inventor: KEVIN JAGIELLO
  • Publication number: 20130214554
    Abstract: A cover removal and installation roller assembly for an automobile that is particularly suited to be operated by hand, by an individual, in order to install or remove a cover from the automobile. The roller assembly includes a self-storing hand crank that is removably connectable to a cover spool whereby the cover spool can be rotated in order to wind the cover therearound or play the cover out from the spool. The cover in one embodiment is removably connectable to the cover spool. Methods for using the cover roller and installation roller assembly are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2012
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Applicant: CRUSIN' SOLUTIONS
    Inventors: Don M. Taylor, James N. Filippi
  • Patent number: 8439423
    Abstract: Elongated side rails for attachment to a sidewall of a truck cargo box as a portion of a tonneau cover assembly. Each assembly includes a flexible cover that can be operatively secured to side rails. One side rail includes a securing portion that can be operatively connected to the sidewall; an inclined portion extending from the securing portion, the inclined portion having first and second sides; a connecting member extending downwardly away from the inclined portion from a position located between the first and second sides; and a longitudinal portion extending from the connecting member opposite the inclined portion. To secure the cover to the side rails, hook fastener is preferably attached to loop fastener on the cover. One preferred side rail has a ridge to prevent premature engagement of the fasteners. Another preferred side rail has directional hook fastener to prevent premature engagement of the fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Agri-Cover, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles M. Schmeichel, Steven C. Schmeichel
  • Patent number: 8430441
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a removable bed liner. In one embodiment, the bed liner is comprised of a flexible material, such as polyethylene, nylon, or canvas. These embodiments may be used as a supplement to a rigid bed liner. Side curtains prevent loose material from spilling over the edge of the truck tailgate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Inventor: Bruce Waterman
  • Patent number: 8430445
    Abstract: An impact resistant cover for protecting a vehicle windshield is made up of a plurality of spaced apart rectangular panels, the panels having a flexible, puncture resistant, covering, the covering enclosing a resilient material having a thickness of between 0.5 and 1.5 inches. Flexible webs interconnect the panels while enabling the panels to lie in a common plane in a first selective positioning of the panels, and alternately to lie one panel atop the next panel in a vertically aligned stack of all of the panels, in a second selective positioning of the panels. Handles permit the stack to be carried easily and straps allow the cover to be secured to a vehicle's doors or windows while lying on the vehicles windshield.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Inventor: James Williams
  • Publication number: 20130092072
    Abstract: A cover assembly for use to protect the contents of a boat including a pair of channels, a semi-rigid guide member slidably disposed within a passage of one of the channels, a crossrod supported on each end by one of the pair of channels and connected on one end to the semi-rigid guide member, and a cover sheet connected to the crossrod. The cover assembly configured such that as a retraction mechanism moves the semi-rigid guide member in the passage, the cover is extended or retracted to the desired position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2011
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Inventor: Jeffrey Larson
  • Patent number: 8376448
    Abstract: A tailgate cover includes at least one pocket to securely fit over a tailgate. In some embodiments, the tailgate cover includes two or three pockets. The tailgate cover is made of stretchable material such as a stretchable fabric which enables the cover to be stretched securely over the tailgate. To further secure the tailgate cover over the tailgate, any coupling device is able to be used. The tailgate cover is able to include any graphic and/or text.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: David Sierra
  • Publication number: 20120313395
    Abstract: An automotive vehicle including a removable table and char set is described. The set is constructed from a removable front passenger seat configured to releasably engage a seat mounting member secured to the vehicle and includes at least two legs configured to support the front passenger seat when positioned on a surface outside of the vehicle. A removable structural component of the vehicle is configured to releasably engage the vehicle and includes at least two extendable leg elements configured to support the structural component as a table when positioned on a surface outside of the vehicle. A removable rear passenger seat is configured to releasably engage a seat mounting member secured to the vehicle and includes at least two legs configured to support the rear passenger seat when positioned on a surface outside of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2011
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventors: Travis Newberg, Yousuf Riad, Christopher David Hall, Michael P. Hullihan, Joshua Kramer
  • Publication number: 20120313393
    Abstract: A tailgate accessory drill-less adapter for connecting a tailgate accessory to a tailgate portion of a pick-up truck includes an elongated body having a first side, a bottom edge, a first side edge, and a second side edge, the first side edge having a tailgate latch bolt slot transverse to the first side edge and through the elongated body, the slot positioned a predefined distance from the bottom edge, and an offset hook anchor having a hook portion and a hook body portion, the offset hook anchor connected to the first side adjacent to but spaced from the second side edge where the hook portion is adjustably extendable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2011
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Applicant: LOCK N LOAD SYSTEMS LLC
    Inventors: Thomas A. Tardif, Douglas J. Lambert
  • Patent number: 8235450
    Abstract: A cover system for a vehicle comprising a vehicle cover and a first retaining cord. The vehicle cover is configurable to cover a vehicle to the extent desired. The first retaining cord comprises a cord member, a first clip and a second clip. The first clip is coupled to the vehicle cover in a spaced apart orientation relative to the second clip. The cord member extends between the first clip and the second clip to maintain the vehicle cover in the desired orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Inventor: M. Lawrence Parker
  • Patent number: 8216650
    Abstract: A protective and decorative ornament that remains substantially in place on a vehicle's outer surface under substantially all vehicle operating conditions. The ornament includes a top decorative layer, upper and lower foam layers beneath the top layer, fastening members that extend outward from at least two edges thereof, a weighted element between the upper and lower foam layers and proximate an edge that does not include a fastening member, a substantially rigid element beneath the lower foam layer, and a substantially smooth bottom layer coupled to contact the vehicle's surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventor: Joseph S. Douglas
  • Patent number: 8167356
    Abstract: An automated vehicle sunshade includes a compartment mountable to a roof of a vehicle, a flexible shade, a plurality of rods coupled to the flexible shade and a drive device coupled to the plurality of rods. The plurality of rods are retractable and extendable so that the sunshade repeatably alternates between an extended position and a retracted position. In the retracted position, the flexible shade, plurality of rods and drive device are enclosed within the compartment. The sunshade also includes guide wires and support wires for properly guiding and supporting the flexible shade during retracting and extending.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Inventor: Harold Morazan
  • Publication number: 20120091748
    Abstract: A device for covering an object which is transported in an air stream, including a cover which at least partially traverses the object, and a differential pressure device disposed on the cover which creates a pressure differential between the air under the cover and the air passing over or around the cover, where the pressure differential causes the air under the cover to exhaust to an exterior of the cover, drawing the cover toward the object, and where the pressure differential device creates the pressure differential when the covered object is transported in a frontward position with respect to a direction of travel and in a rearward position with respect to the direction of transport.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2011
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Applicant: COMMERCIAL SEWING, INC.
    Inventors: Samuel Mazzarelli, David Mazzarelli
  • Patent number: 8136865
    Abstract: A windbreaker for a motorcycle prevents airflow between the front wheel assembly and the fairing connected to the handlebars, by flexibly connecting to the handlebars and the crash bars. An indentation allows airflow to cool the engine. Releasable connectors allow proper turning of the front wheel, even if mis-mounted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Inventor: Ronald R Beck
  • Patent number: 8132839
    Abstract: A recreational vehicle cover is provided which is compact and easy to use. The cover has an attached storage pouch, and remains attached to the vehicle during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Inventor: Val Penman
  • Patent number: 8070211
    Abstract: An automatic car cover system, driven by electric motors, for a car, which is equipped with an automatic opening/closing trunk lid, is provided. The automatic car cover system according to current application is comprised of one cover runner, one holster, one holster casing, one guide, one cover sheet, and one cover sheet un-folder. The cover runner is a small electric motor driven vehicle equipped with caterpillars, which are comprised of magnetic plates covered with rubber. The holster pushes out/rewinds the cover runner, the guide, and the cover sheet with un-folder. The holster comes out of and goes into trunk of the car with aid of a line connected to a reverse power motor installed in the holster.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Inventor: Ted Justin Suh
  • Patent number: 8066318
    Abstract: A device for covering an object which is transported in an air stream, including a cover which at least partially traverses the object, and a differential pressure device disposed on the cover which creates a pressure differential between the air under the cover and the air passing over or around the cover, where the pressure differential causes the air under the cover to exhaust to an exterior of the cover, drawing the cover toward the object, and where the pressure differential device creates the pressure differential when the covered object is transported in a frontward position with respect to a direction of travel and in a rearward position with respect to the direction of transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Commercial Sewing, Inc.
    Inventors: Samuel Mazzarelli, David Mazzarelli
  • Patent number: 8061761
    Abstract: A tailgate cover includes at least one pocket to securely fit over a tailgate. In some embodiments, the tailgate cover includes two or three pockets. The tailgate cover is made of stretchable material such as a stretchable fabric which enables the cover to be stretched securely over the tailgate. To further secure the tailgate cover over the tailgate, any coupling device is able to be used. The tailgate cover is able to include any graphic and/or text.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Inventor: David Sierra
  • Patent number: 8033591
    Abstract: Elongated side rails for attachment to a sidewall of a truck cargo box as a portion of a tonneau cover assembly. Each assembly includes a flexible cover that can be operatively secured to side rails. One side rail includes a securing portion that can be operatively connected to the sidewall; an inclined portion extending from the securing portion, the inclined portion having first and second sides; a connecting member extending downwardly away from the inclined portion from a position located between the first and second sides; and a longitudinal portion extending from the connecting member opposite the inclined portion. To secure the cover to the side rails, hook fastener is preferably attached to loop fastener on the cover. One preferred side rail has a ridge to prevent premature engagement of the fasteners. Another preferred side rail has directional hook fastener to prevent premature engagement of the fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Agri-Cover, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles M. Schmeichel, Steven C. Schmeichel
  • Patent number: 8020917
    Abstract: The ice screen includes a plurality of brackets that attach said screen to a top surface of a tractor-trailer for securing ice formed atop said trailer. The brackets attach to the top surface of the trailer or box truck via attaching means comprising bolts, rivets, or screws. The ice screen is suspended above the top surface of the trailer or box truck via tubing, which forms channels of ice thereon. The ice screen enables ice to form between the ice screen and the top surface, but will prevent ice from accumulating above said ice screen in affect bonding the ice screen above the screen to the ice screen. The ice screen may be installed upon a utility trailer, flat top truck, tractor-trailer, or box truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Inventor: David Senter
  • Publication number: 20110156436
    Abstract: The Armor Car Cover provides a specially designed protective covering, configured specifically to be anchored to the vehicle tires, thus ensuring that the cover remains securely in place over the vehicle, regardless of wind activity. The tire covers additionally comprise a strip of hook and loop fastener, such as Velcroâ„¢, encircling the tire and an adjustable belt that fastens to the lower part of the tire to keep the tire covering portion in place. Comprised primarily of heavy duty UV treated vinyl or canvas material, the same material utilized in the manufacture of convertible car roofs, the Armor Car Cover is similar in appearance to traditional vehicle covers and can be produced in a myriad of sizes and shapes to fit the various makes and models cars, vans and trucks on the road. The covering encompasses the entire body of the vehicle, as well as expands downward over each tire, covering the wheel and rim completely.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2010
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Inventor: Debra An Eggeman-Steffen
  • Patent number: 7871117
    Abstract: A materials handling vehicle is provided. The vehicle comprises a main body, a seat deck assembly including an operator seat, and structure for movably mounting the seat deck assembly to the main body. The seat deck assembly moves relative to the main body along a varying radius path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignee: Crown Equipment Corporation
    Inventors: Ryan R. Berger, Michael P. Gallagher, John P. Jones, Thornton K. Lothrop, Donald E. Luebrecht, Rainer B. Teufel, Juergen Buchmann, Edgar Wahnemuehl
  • Publication number: 20100289293
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a rolling type cover device, and more particularly, to a device, which draws out a cover and covers a two-wheeler or automobile with the cover to protect the vehicle and winds the cover to enable it to be kept conveniently when the cover is not utilized. The rolling type cover device comprises a mid-sheet shaft (100) having a mid-sheet (110) wound thereon; a cover shaft (200) rotating by a rotational force-inputting means to allow a cover (210) and the mid-sheet (110) to be stacked and wound on the cover shaft; a power transmission means (300) for transmitting rotational force of the cover shaft (200) to the mid-sheet shaft (100); and a body (400) accommodating the mid-sheet shaft (100) and the cover shaft (200) and rotatably supporting them in parallel with each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2008
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Inventor: Jong Su Kwag
  • Patent number: 7815239
    Abstract: Elongated side rails for attachment to a sidewall of a truck cargo box as a portion of a tonneau cover assembly. Each assembly includes a flexible cover that can be operatively secured to side rails. One side rail includes a securing portion that can be operatively connected to the sidewall; an inclined portion extending from the securing portion, the inclined portion having first and second sides; a connecting member extending downwardly away from the inclined portion from a position located between the first and second sides; and a longitudinal portion extending from the connecting member opposite the inclined portion. To secure the cover to the side rails, hook fastener is preferably attached to loop fastener on the cover. One preferred side rail has a ridge to prevent premature engagement of the fasteners. Another preferred side rail has directional hook fastener to prevent premature engagement of the fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Agri-Cover, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles M. Schmeichel, Steven C. Schmeichel
  • Patent number: 7780220
    Abstract: A sunshade apparatus for use with an automobile having a roof includes a plurality of panels, the panels, in use, having respective retracted positions wherein they are disposed on top of one another in stacked relation on or in the roof, and each being movable from its retracted position to an extended position projecting beyond the roof. The panels are substantially coextensive with one another when viewed in overhead plan in their respective retracted positions. In their extended positions, the panels define a substantially contiguous sunshade extending beyond the roof both lengthwise and sideways with respect to the automobile. The apparatus also comprises a panel guide mechanism for constraining each panel for movement along a respective substantially linear path between its extended and retracted positions. One version of the apparatus can shade both the roof and the windows of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Inventor: Zafar Aqeel
  • Patent number: 7699380
    Abstract: An impact protection device and a method for protecting an object, such as a vehicle, using the impact protection device. The impact protection device is particularly useful for protecting a vehicle from damage due to hail storms. The impact protection device includes a layer of high tensile strength polymer and a metallic layer disposed adjacent to the high tensile strength polymer layer. The impact protection device is advantageously thin and lightweight and can be easily stored in the trunk of a vehicle for rapid deployment during a hail storm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Inventor: Roberta Coleman
  • Patent number: 7677637
    Abstract: A protective cover for motor vehicle, motor vehicle components, machines, etc., includes a cover protecting the principal part of the object, and at least one protective covering for at least one component movably affixed on the object. The protective covering for the movable component is a protective covering that is separate from the cover for the principal part of the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Volkswagen AG
    Inventors: Nalan Aydar, Uwe Lehrmann
  • Patent number: 7677638
    Abstract: A car covering for covering and protecting a car and the windows from elements and harsh weather comprising an outer shell having the shape of a vehicle; a set of window coverings removably attached to the outer shell via a set of fastening devices, wherein the set of fastening devices can be detached to allow a set of rigid plate members to be inserted into said window coverings, wherein when the set of rigid plate members are inserted into said window coverings the set of rigid plate members are sandwiched between the respective window coverings and the outer shell, the outer shell comprising a foam layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Inventor: Godfrey Wayne Kerr
  • Patent number: 7669913
    Abstract: A protective cover for covering at least a portion of an external surface of a motor vehicle, the protective cover includes a first segment comprising a pliable material configured to cover at least a portion of a first external surface of the motor vehicle. The first external surface is disposed substantially on a first side of a reference plane centrally positioned between two opposing lateral sides of the motor vehicle and extending between a front end and a rear end of the motor vehicle. The protective cover further includes a second segment comprising a pliable material configured to cover at least a portion of a second external surface of the motor vehicle, wherein the second external surface is disposed substantially on a second side of the reference plane and extends between the front end and the rear end of the motor vehicle. The first and second segments are positioned adjacent to one another on opposing sides of the reference plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Inventor: Eliseo DaSilva
  • Patent number: 7644975
    Abstract: A mounting arrangement for securing a cladding to a vehicle body includes a vehicle body defining at least one aperture and a cladding having a body portion and at least one integral attachment structure extending from the body portion. The attachment structure includes a retaining portion received through the at least one aperture for securing the body portion to the vehicle body and a plurality of spaced apart ribs connecting the retaining portion to the body portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: James P. Ryan, Andrew K. Swayne, Jeremy J. Weinandy, Jason B. Ruminski
  • Publication number: 20090261616
    Abstract: A recreational vehicle slide out roof block prevents foreign material such as water, dirt, or debris from accumulating on a recreational vehicle slide out roof. A slide out roof block has a size and shape selected to fill a gap between a slide out roof and an awning sheet extending over the slide out roof. Embodiments of a slide out roof block comprise a compressible bolster having a rain flap along a bottom edge of a front side. The bolster includes a block of compressible polymer foam in some embodiments. One or more pole sleeves may optionally be attached to the front side of the bolster. A pole inserted into a pole sleeve may be used to install or retrieve a slide out roof block. Some embodiments have an airtight cover and a valve, enabling a slide out roof block to be compressed for storage and reinflated for installation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2008
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventor: Richard E. Young
  • Patent number: 7562928
    Abstract: An automated vehicle sunshade includes a compartment mountable to a roof of a vehicle, a flexible shade, a plurality of rods coupled to the flexible shade and a drive device coupled to the plurality of rods. The plurality of rods are retractable and extendable so that the sunshade repeatably alternates between an extended position and a retracted position. In the retracted position, the flexible shade, plurality of rods and drive device are enclosed within the compartment. The sunshade also includes guide wires and support wires for properly guiding and supporting the flexible shade during retracting and extending.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Inventor: Harold Morazan
  • Publication number: 20090140541
    Abstract: An automatic car cover system, driven by electric motors, for a car, which is equipped with an automatic opening/closing trunk lid, is provided. The automatic car cover system according to current application is comprised of one cover runner, one holster, one holster casing, one guide, one cover sheet, and one cover sheet un-folder. The cover runner is a small electric motor driven vehicle equipped with caterpillars, which are comprised of magnetic plates covered with rubber. The holster pushes out/rewinds the cover runner, the guide, and the cover sheet with un-folder. The holster comes out of and goes into trunk of the car with aid of a line connected to a reverse power motor installed in the holster.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2007
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Inventor: Ted Justin Suh
  • Publication number: 20090051195
    Abstract: An improved access and retention system for sedans includes a protective cover for safeguarding a lower peripheral region of a rear cargo region while loading, unloading, and transporting cargo. The protective cover can conveniently and remotely stow within the cargo region. An integral tie-down assembly, exposed by deploying the protective cover, secures cargo loaded in the rear cargo region and cargo placed along the protective cover. The system also includes a double hinging rear closure member which has a rear facing portion which can be locked in open and closed positions. Arranging the rear facing portion in the open position is particularly advantageous for hauling oversized cargo articles which may extend from the rear of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2007
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventor: Kip Alan Ewing
  • Patent number: RE44700
    Abstract: A materials handling vehicle is provided. The vehicle comprises a main body, a seat deck assembly including an operator seat, and structure for movably mounting the seat deck assembly to the main body. The seat deck assembly moves relative to the main body along a varying radius path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Crown Equipment Corporation
    Inventors: Ryan R. Berger, Michael P. Gallagher, John P. Jones, Thornton K. Lothrop, Donald E. Luebrecht, Rainer B. Teufel, Juergen Buchmann, Edgar Wahnemuehl