Racks Patents (Class 296/3)
  • Patent number: 11964701
    Abstract: Disclosed is a collapsible rack assembly for pickup trucks to aid in the storage and transportation of material that is greater than the length of the pickup truck's rear cargo area bed. A base frame, being primarily hollow, tubular, and rectangular in shape, is mounted to the pickup truck's rear cargo area bed. Legs are hingedly attached at each inside corner of the base frame to support a crossbeam assembly to which ladders and other long loads may be attached thereto. The entire rack assembly may be collapsed into a single layer to minimize the amount of space the rack assembly occupies in the pickup truck's rear cargo area bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2022
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2024
    Inventor: Eric Leatherwood
  • Patent number: 11964702
    Abstract: A rack assembly configured to mount to sidewalls of a truck bed can include a pair of side rails defining a support surface positionable over the sidewalls and at least one cross rail having a first end, a second end, a first length extending between the first and second ends, and one or more channels extending along a portion of the first length. In some embodiments, each of the pair of side rails includes at least a first mounting station. In some embodiments, each of the first and second ends of the at least one cross rail can secure to one of the first mounting stations of the pair of side rails such that, when the at least one cross rail is secured to the pair of side rails at the first mounting stations, the at least one cross rail is transverse with respect to the pair of side rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2023
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2024
    Assignee: Lund Motion Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony Smith
  • Patent number: 11958540
    Abstract: An off-road vehicle includes a vehicle body with a passenger compartment and a cargo compartment adjacent to, and rearward of, the passenger compartment. A base is supported by the vehicle body and disposed over the cargo compartment, the base having a forward end, a rearward end, a first side, and a second side. A partition extends from the forward end of the base. A side panel is pivotally attached to the first side of the base about a longitudinal axis and attachable to the partition in a first configuration to facilitate storage, and moveable in an outward direction to provide a raised platform with the base in a second configuration. A rear panel is pivotally attached to the side panel about a transverse axis and connectable to the vehicle body in the second configuration to support the side panel without engaging an underlying external surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2024
    Assignee: MAHINDRA AUTOMOTIVE NORTH AMERICA INC.
    Inventors: John P. Pacella, Anthony A. Pacella, Timothy L. Sheldon, Robert B. Georgeff
  • Patent number: 11897321
    Abstract: A recreational vehicle with side by side seating has or can receive an overhead tubular framework with an accessory rail removably attached to an overhead cross member of the tubular framework. The accessory rail providing an anchor for a forward edge of a soft top with the soft top wrapping around the overhead cross member and extending rearwardly and being supported by and secured to the tubular framework. The soft top covering the side by side seating region. The accessory rail having three functional portions positioned circumferentially about an axis of the rail. A first functional portion providing the fixed anchor for the forward edge of the soft top, another functional portion providing interface and attachment features for connecting the rail to the overhead cross member, and another functional portion providing accessory mounting with variable positioning and attachment of an array of accessories above and forward of the side by side seating region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2024
    Assignee: Polaris Industries Inc.
    Inventors: Brian T. Utter, James A. J. Holroyd, Scott T. Mazour
  • Patent number: 11891124
    Abstract: According to some illustrative embodiments, a modular mounting system for mounting accessories on vehicles includes: a) a plurality of support members, each of said plurality of support members having i) a lower upright planar member configured to extend downward along a peripheral wall around a vehicle bed, ii) a cross planar member extending laterally from the lower upright planar member and configured to extend across the peripheral wall around the vehicle bed, and iii) an upper upright planar member extending upwardly from the cross planar member and configured to extend upwardly above a height of the peripheral wall around the vehicle bed; and b) at least one of: i) a removable cross-bar removably supported by a plurality of said upper upright planar members; and ii) a removable side panel removably supported by a plurality of said upright planar members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2024
    Assignee: N.B. ADVENTURES LLC
    Inventors: William H. Kiefer, IV, Nathan T. Sutherland
  • Patent number: 11878657
    Abstract: The disclosure provides a rack system for securing articles. The rack system can include a longitudinal elongate rail traversing a longitudinal direction, and a lateral rail adjustably mounted to the elongate rail. The lateral rail can be orthogonally oriented (or obliquely oriented) with respect to the longitudinal elongate rail. The lateral rail can be configured to be mounted at a plurality of longitudinal positions along the longitudinal rail. The rack can further include one or more upwardly extending brackets that are adjustably mounted to the lateral rail. The upwardly extending bracket(s) can be mounted at one or more lateral positions along the lateral rail. The lateral rail and the upwardly extending bracket(s) cooperate to form a concavity for at least partially surrounding a portion of an article to hold the article in position when mounted to the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2024
    Inventor: Richard B. Pauli
  • Patent number: 11787347
    Abstract: A ladder rack system (also referred to as a utility rack system) that is universal in that the ladder rack system can be used with different brands and models of pick-up trucks. The described ladder rack system is also “no drill” whereby the described ladder rack can be fixedly, yet removably, secured in the box of the pick-up truck without requiring any drilling of holes or requiring other significant permanent damage to the pick-up truck to mount the ladder rack system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2023
    Inventor: Howard Myron Dunham
  • Patent number: 11690447
    Abstract: A track system configured for use with a storage rack assembly is provided. The track system comprises first and second forward wheel assemblies, first and second rearward wheel assemblies and a forward axle assembly. The forward axle assembly is coupled between the first and second forward wheel assemblies in an operating position. The forward axle assembly comprises a first intermediate member, a first forward axle member and a second forward axle member. The first forward axle member has a first end coupled to the first forward wheel assembly and a second end slidably coupled to the first intermediate member. The second forward axle member has a first end coupled to the second forward wheel assembly and a second end slidably coupled to the first intermediate member. The first intermediate member inhibits rotation of the first and second forward axle members along their respective axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2023
    Assignee: Compact Engineering LLC
    Inventor: Jordan Luther
  • Patent number: 11649669
    Abstract: The present soft barrier includes sheeting and a frame. The frame includes longitudinal and lateral support members. The sheeting is in a relaxed state when the lateral support members are in a retracted state. The sheeting is in a taut state when the lateral support members are in an extended fixed state. The sheeting may be in either the relaxed state or taut state when the longitudinal support members are in a retracted state or an extended state. A first adjustment mechanism for increasing or decreasing the longitudinal length of the barrier is a quick slide mechanism. A second adjustment mechanism for finely increasing or finely decreasing the longitudinal length of the barrier is a rotatable mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2023
    Assignee: Regalo International, LLC
    Inventors: Mark A. Flannery, Michael P. Lane
  • Patent number: 11585048
    Abstract: In a method for producing different rail variants from an assembly set, and system having a vehicle which is movable on a rail part, the assembly set includes a rail profile part and two different reactive components, and the rail profile part includes an interface at which one of the different reactive components is optionally able to be connected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: SEW-EURODRIVE GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Josef Schmidt, Ralf Berger, Markus Thome
  • Patent number: 11577637
    Abstract: A truck bed rack includes a first side panel and a second side panel coupleable to a truck bed. A first upper bar, a second upper bar, and a third upper bar may be coupled to a top, inside surface of the first side panel and the second side panel. A first lower bar and a second lower bar may be coupled to a lower, inside surface of the first side panel and the second panel. The upper and lower bars may be adjusted to expose the entire truck bed to receive any type of cargo. The first and second side panels may couple to the truck bed and be self-supporting. The first and second side panels may include support brackets and support members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2023
    Inventor: Jon A. Petty
  • Patent number: 11548446
    Abstract: A vehicle rack includes two cross beams, the cross beams being hollow square rods parallelly placed, the bottom center of the cross beam being provided with a sliding slot along the beams; two fixing rods, the fixing rods being hollow and each including an H-shaped reinforcing seat, the H-shaped reinforcing seat forming an upper sliding slot I on a top surface of the fixing rod and forming a lower sliding slot I on a bottom surface of the fixing rod, the fixing rods being particular to the two cross beams; a plurality of connecting seat, the connecting seats movably connecting the cross beams and the fixing rods, the connecting seats including upper bolt connecting parts; a plurality of supporting frames, the fixing rods each connecting two supporting frames, the supporting frames including lower bolt connecting parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2023
    Assignee: FORCOME (ZHEJIANG) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Xiaojun Ni, Chengsheng Fang, Jing Xiong, Jiancheng Wang
  • Patent number: 11485425
    Abstract: A modular support system for a vehicle with multi-component support structures that include a pair of side supports, a pair of base supports, and a horizontal support suspended between the pair of side supports. Each side support can include a vertical portion, a base portion extending from the vertical portion and coupled, directly or indirectly, to the base support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2022
    Assignee: Cord Group LLC
    Inventors: Robert Crandall, William H. Cord
  • Patent number: 11325664
    Abstract: A reconfigurable bed rack system and methods of manufacture and use that is dynamic, adaptable, lightweight, and easy to install are provided. The bed rack system may include a plurality of U-shaped modular telescoping support structures that allow for a height adjustment to the rack without uninstalling the rack from the truck bed. Through the telescoping feature of the U-shaped support structures, a height dimension of the bed rack system may be increased or decreased. One or more side and/or upper rails may extend between the plurality of U-shaped modular telescoping supports for attaching one or more mounting brackets to secure equipment, tools and/or supplies to the bed rack system. The rack system may also include a tire hoist bracket assembly including a hoisting system to store a spare tire against an upper, inner surface of the rack system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2022
    Assignee: Overkill Motorsports, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Hanson, Christopher Faustmann
  • Patent number: 11267405
    Abstract: Cargo systems for use in a vehicle cargo compartment that provide a range of selectable cargo carrying configurations. A cargo shelf system includes a first support wall, a second support wall, at least one set of removable shelves supported between one of the support walls and an interior side panel of the vehicle, and a set of retractable shelves supported between the first and second support walls. A cargo divider system includes a tray bin attached to a frame structure of the vehicle, a load floor supported upon the tray bin, a flip-wall divider supported upon the tray bin, and a plurality of laterally displaceable divider walls. Another cargo divider system includes a storage bin, an independently moveable seat-side load floor, and an independently moveable gate-side load floor, the seat-side load floor and the gate-side load floor collectively covering the storage bin to form a generally planar continuous load floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2022
    Assignee: ABC TECHNOLOGIES INC.
    Inventors: Harman Gill, Avinash Jayakumar, Usman Dulatov
  • Patent number: 11034280
    Abstract: A foldable counter assembly for use within the interior of a vehicle. The assembly comprises a first lower support member and a second lower support member, a first panel having a first end rotatably affixed to the first lower support member and a second end, and a second panel having a first end rotatably affixed to the second lower support member and a second end, the first and second panels configured to be converted from a non-deployed configuration to a substantially horizontal deployed configuration to form a substantially horizontal support surface. The first and/or the second panel include a pair of foldable support legs vertically extendable beneath the second end of the respective panel towards a bottom surface of the vehicle when the panel to which it is attached is in the deployed configuration to provide support in the substantial center of the substantially horizontal support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2021
    Assignee: STORYTELLER OVERLAND, LLC.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Hunter, Daniel Freyermuth, Adam Donaldson, Mark Isbell, Brent Lang, Dave Slater
  • Patent number: 10913384
    Abstract: A vehicle retrofit system comprising a storage receptacle, a collapsible privacy/shower curtain receptacle, a folding counter assembly, and a seat/bed conversion assembly each of which is configured to be contained and deployed within an interior of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2021
    Assignee: STORYTELLER OVERLAND, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey Hunter, Daniel Freyermuth, Adam Donaldson, Mark Isbell, Brent Lang, Dave Slater
  • Patent number: 10752297
    Abstract: An extendable safety rail assembly for an utility trailer is provided. The assembly includes: a plurality of extendable side rails, provided with a set of horizontally tubular bars rails braced along the length thereof for rigidity on stationary sleeve assemblies, terminating with a set of vertical end posts at each rail end, each post adaptable for vertical movement slidably fitting inside suitably sized sleeves of stationary sleeve assemblies mounted onto trailer sides; and a locking mechanism is adapted to lock at least one of extendable side rail of the plurality of extendable safety rails at different heights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Inventor: Rick Bullis
  • Patent number: 10592851
    Abstract: Systems and methods for delivering a requested payload using an autonomous delivery vehicle are described herein. In some embodiments, a cargo system for use with an autonomous delivery vehicle can include a frame defining a cargo space having an opening. A plurality of partitions can be positioned within the cargo space and configured to divide the cargo space into compartments. In some embodiments, the partitions are movable so that the cargo space can be divided into efficiently-sized compartments based on, for example, size characteristics of the payload. The cargo system can further include an access system configured to selectively define an aperture over the opening of the cargo space. The access system can vary the size and position of the aperture to provide access to only a selected one of the compartments regardless of the size and/or position of the selected compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2020
    Assignee: UDELV INC.
    Inventors: Akshat Patel, Daniel Laury
  • Patent number: 10569692
    Abstract: A cargo support system including a truck bed having longitudinal extending sidewalls, longitudinally extending rails mounted above the sidewalls, each having a longitudinal slot on an underside connected to a longitudinal channel, and arms suspended from the underside of the rails above the sidewalls, each pivotable between a longitudinal orientation under the respective rail and a lateral orientation extending over the bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2020
    Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Swadad A. Carremm, Mahmoud Yousef Ghannam, Ronald David Kurth
  • Patent number: 10556546
    Abstract: A mount is disclosed for attaching a fixture to a tubular structure. The mount includes an extended mounting member having an inner surface shaped to conform to the tubular structure, and a flat outer surface having a plurality of attachment locations for facilitating attachment of the fixture to the extended mounting member. The mount also includes a plurality of securing members having an inner surface shaped to conform to the tubular structure, each securing member removably attachable to the extended mounting member so as to removably secure the extended mounting member to the tubular structure. The flat outer surface of the extended mounting member includes a plurality of mounting holes to accept bolts to attach the fixture thereto, or the flat outer surface can have an L-track tie-down rail formed therein to secure easily removable L-track fasteners attached to the fixture to attach the fixture to the extended mounting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2020
    Inventor: Thomas Burton
  • Patent number: 10369933
    Abstract: An autonomous all-terrain vehicle includes a frame structure, left and right frame rails mounted to the frame structure, and a rack mounted to the frame rails. A forward frame member of the rack includes left and right forward uprights and a forward cross member. The forward uprights include forward mounts each extended inwardly in a lateral direction of the vehicle. A rear frame member of the rack includes left and right rear uprights and a rear cross member. The rear uprights include rear mounts each extended inwardly in the lateral direction. A left rail is disposed between the left uprights of the forward and rear frame members. A right rail is disposed between the right uprights of the forward and rear frame members. The forward and rear left mounts are connected to the left frame rail, and the forward and rear right mounts are connected to the right frame rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2019
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Justin M. Winter
  • Patent number: 10183560
    Abstract: Systems for a truck box cover and more particularly to a truck box cover system configured to transform to suit multiple load types and still protect the load from outside elements. The truck box cover system has a plurality of electrically controlled telescoping columns and sides made of compliant material for raising and lowering the cover and maintaining a closed configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2019
    Inventor: Michael J. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 10160397
    Abstract: Provided are a cargo system for supporting cargo on a vehicle, and a vehicle provided with the cargo system. The cargo system includes a plurality of racks to be arranged at different positions along a length of the vehicle comprising. The racks include a frame assembly configured to cooperate with an internal structure of the vehicle. A rack arm is adjustable relative to the frame assembly, and a coupling system couples the rack arm to the frame assembly in a plurality of different positions. The different positions include at least: (a) a recessed position relative to a body panel of the vehicle, and (b) a deployed position extending vertically above the body panel of the vehicle for supporting the cargo vertically above a portion of the vehicle. A rack support cooperates with the rack arm and is configured to support the cargo.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2018
    Inventor: Milorad Zlojutro
  • Patent number: 10000146
    Abstract: A loading apparatus for a tailgate-equipped cargo bed of a pickup truck features a cargo bed platform assembly, and a tailgate platform assembly pivotally connected to the rear end of the cargo bed platform assembly. The tailgate platform assembly is pivotable relative to the cargo bed platform assembly between a stowed position overlying the cargo bed platform assembly and a deployed position forming a rearward extension of the cargo bed platform. Between uses, the tailgate platform is storable in the cargo bed in a secured manner behind a closed tailgate. When needed, the tailgate is opened and the tailgate platform is folded down onto the open tailgate. An overall effective length of the apparatus is adjustable to fit different cargo bed sizes by extension of retraction of a longitudinal adjustment member that extends forwardly from the cargo bed platform to abutting against a front wall of the cargo bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2018
    Inventor: Ryan Robert Vipond
  • Patent number: 9771028
    Abstract: A load carrying assembly for use with a pick-up truck having a load carrying bed, includes a first load bearing structure and a second load bearing structure which are both mounted to the truck above the bed. The structure includes a cross member and a pair of spaced apart upright support members. The structure includes a cross member and a pair of spaced apart upright support members. The assembly further includes an interlocking system comprising connecting formations in the form of bolt holes defined through the members and nuts and bolts for releasably bolting the structures to one another in an arrangement wherein certain members abut one another, thereby to form a unitary combined load bearing structure to provide for enhanced stable support of the load by the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2017
    Inventor: Jack Finestone
  • Patent number: 9586629
    Abstract: A rack system that is configured to allow the omission of cross bars. The cross bars can be easily removable and replaceable or can be adjustable along a length of the rack system. In some configurations, the rack system includes at least one side support arrangement comprising a first vertical support and a second vertical support. Two or more side support arrangements can be provided on each side of the truck bed. Pairs of support arrangements on one side of the truck bed can be connected by one or more longitudinal supports. Accessories, such as tool boxes or gas cans, can be connected to the one or more longitudinal supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Inventor: Bernhard Leitner
  • Patent number: 9481512
    Abstract: The present invention is a system for transporting and storing construction materials for a job site using a trailer having a plurality of openings, a container having a frame carrying support feet for being received into the trailer openings, a plurality of attachment points carried by the frame on the floor of the interior of the container, a plurality of shelves carried by the interior of the container; and a door carried by the container having a lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2016
    Inventor: Steven Diniaco
  • Patent number: 8991889
    Abstract: An ergonomic ladder rack assembly mounted on the roof of a topper for a pick-up truck bed or on the roof of a cargo van, the topper having a ladder rack assembly mounted thereon, the ladder rack assembly designed to lift, move and return a ladder load between a stowed position atop the roof of the topper or van and a deployed position alongside of the vehicle. The roof of the topper or van has recessed areas formed therein for containing components of the ladder rack to thereby lower the height profile of the combination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Inventors: Avraham Y. Levi, Francois Boisvert
  • Publication number: 20150028616
    Abstract: An industrial cart has an accessory mounted thereon. A locking mechanism is provided for securing the cart and accessory together. The locking mechanism can be disengaged to remove the accessory from the cart.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Inventors: John Wayne Kroening, Zachary Tate Lamoreux, Andrew M. Battermann
  • Patent number: 8864001
    Abstract: A variable load support system for enhancing the load carrying capabilities of a bed of any one of a variety of variously sized pickup trucks, the support system comprising a first pair of elongated, longitudinally-extendable pickup truck sidewall engageable side rails, a forwardly arranged first and a rearwardly arranged second, elongated, longitudinally-extendable pickup-truck-bed-traversing transverse rails, and a roller member housingly arranged about the rearwardly arranged pickup truck bed traversing transverse rail so as to permit the widthwise adaptability of the second transverse rail to a pickup truck side wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Inventor: Jay Langseder
  • Publication number: 20140300123
    Abstract: An upper frame swingable between an inclined posture and a substantially horizontal posture along a trajectory of movement of a four-bar linkage is held in the substantially horizontal posture by a simple operation when necessary. A front link mechanism control gives an external force for pushing down an operation member to thereby control a front link mechanism so as to displace the upper frame rearward while lowering a front side of the upper frame. Since a displacement direction for bringing the upper frame into the substantially horizontal posture and an operation direction for locking the front link mechanism or a rear link mechanism by the operation of the operation member are substantially the same direction, it is possible to perform two movements, the displacement movements to the substantially horizontal posture and the locking movements, only by operating the operation member in a predetermined direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Applicant: Delta Tooling Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroki Oshimo
  • Patent number: 8820811
    Abstract: A vehicle interface rack includes at least one twist-lock bracket configured to be inserted into a vehicular twist-lock receptacle and rotated a predetermined distance within the vehicular twist-lock receptacle to define a locked position. The vehicle interface rack also includes a rack structure configured to rest upon a vehicle bed when the rack structure is in a secured position defined by a securing portion of the rack structure being coupled with the at least one twist-lock bracket disposed in the locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Joshua Hemphill, Philip Van Wyk
  • Publication number: 20140197653
    Abstract: A collapsible truck rack that can be assembled and disassembled easily without the use of tools. The rack can be stored in the interior periphery of the truck bed so as not to appreciable diminish the capacity of the truck bed for the placement therein of items to be transported. The rack does not increase the profile of the vehicle when in the collapsed position and therefore reduces drag during transport. An X-load is added to reduce shift of the load during turns. An optional brace can be bolted to the top surface of the periphery of the truck bed. An optional canvas cover can be used to cover the collapsed rack to secure and protect the rack when not in use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2014
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Inventor: Goorgen Stepanians
  • Patent number: 8777288
    Abstract: Disclosed is a roof rack for carrying cargo items with a pickup truck. The device comprises a load bar for supporting cargo items, a pair of telescoping uprights attached to the load bar, and a pair of mounts attached at a first end to the telescoping uprights, and to the side rails of the pickup truck at a second end. The load bar, telescoping uprights, and mounts are movable from an extended position to a folded position. This allows the uprights to be extended for use when carrying cargo items, and folded down for storage. The rack permits a user to transport large items with a pickup truck without requiring use of the pickup bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Inventor: Abram Johnasen
  • Publication number: 20140191527
    Abstract: The apparatus and system for supporting and attaching loads on a vehicle, is adapted for installation on side walls of pick up truck beds, providing discrete attachment points for ratcheting straps and the like for securing the loads. The attachment points include attachment slots incorporated along rails on or incorporated with the tops of the walls. The rails can be integrated into a cap structure mounted on or integrated with the upper surface of the wall, or formed in the wall when manufactured, and the rails can extend along all or a part of the length of the wall. If mounted on the top of a wall, the rail can be permanently or removably integrated with the cap structure, and mounted in a variety of manners, including with fasteners or clamps, such as in existing stake holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2013
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Inventor: Rick Riley
  • Publication number: 20140167436
    Abstract: A reversible rear cargo carrying member that is raked at a selectable forward or rear angle with respect to the vertical and which is selectably positioned in one of a plurality of selectable positions along rails of a truck bed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2013
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Inventors: Damon Maxwell, Peter Andonian, Kristina Andonian, Kevin Prchal
  • Patent number: 8746377
    Abstract: An electric utility cart to assist in transportation and hauling various items is disclosed. The utility cart includes a handle with a throttle to control the speed of the cart during use. A single 360° rotatable front wheel in combination with a pair of wide rear wheels which are joined to a differential allows the cart to turn in tight circles. A directional switch proximate the handle allows the user to drive the cart in either a forward or rearward direction. An auxiliary rack can be mounted on the cart as needed for carrying surf boards or other large items. A hitch rod allows the cart to be suspended and transported by a conventional vehicle such as a car, SUV or pickup truck having a typical tubular hitch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Blue Comet Ventures, LLC
    Inventor: Chris T. Dunbar
  • Patent number: 8740277
    Abstract: The truck bed with extensible rails includes a front set of rails, a pair of side sets of rails, and a rear set of rails which selectively vertically translate from within the walls and tailgate defining a truck bed, such as those typically found in pickup trucks. The front set of rails and the pair of side sets of rails desirably vertically translate separately from the rear set of rails, and each set of rails can be selectively raised and lowered, under hydraulic power or the like, through actuation of a cabin-mounted control panel. The cabin-mounted control panel allows the vehicle operator to easily control the selective raising and lowering of the sets of rails through actuation of a hydraulic pump which is powered by the vehicle battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Inventor: Saad Mohommed Al-Qahtani
  • Publication number: 20140138974
    Abstract: A system and a method for preventing damage to a vehicle caused by a rack mounted thereon and by a load mounted on the rack. The system and the method use a leash and an alarm system to alert at least the driver when the load becomes disengaged from the rack. Thereby, the system and the method may prevent damage to other vehicles when the load becomes disengaged from the rack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2014
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Inventors: Yaron MANTEL, Ravid PELEG
  • Publication number: 20140119860
    Abstract: A support rack for a side loading arm of a refuse vehicle has a frame to secure with the refuse vehicle. A rack is pivotally coupled with the frame. A biasing member is coupled between the rack and frame. The biasing member enables pivotal movement of the rack between a first and second position. The biasing member returns the rack to the first position after movement into the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Inventors: Bryan STEWART, David C. GENTRY
  • Patent number: 8690219
    Abstract: Telescoping cap-rails for a trailer are extensible, hidden vertical pillars within two opposing side walls of a trailer. The extensible vertical pillars are connected at the top by a cap-rail sitting atop the side walls. A set of telescoping pillars is added to each of the two side walls bordering the bed of the trailer. When extended, either manually or via a powered option, the vertical pillars, which are joined at the top by the cap-rail, form a skeleton structure of a tall side wall. The cap-rail is a stabilizing connection. The skeleton structure can be used alone or with added horizontal beams inserted through horizontal access ports in the extended pillars. Preferably, the access ports allow passage of a standard 2×4 or other stake through the pillars to create added structural stability to each set of telescoping pillars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Telescoping Associates
    Inventor: S. Mill Calvert
  • Patent number: 8684439
    Abstract: Telescoping side rails for a pickup truck are extensible, hidden vertical pillars within each side wall of a pickup truck. The extensible vertical pillars are connected at the top by the side rail sitting atop the side walls. A set of telescoping pillars is added to each of the two side walls bordering the bed of the pickup truck. When extended, either manually or via a powered option, the vertical pillars, which are joined at the top by the side rail, form a skeleton structure of a tall side wall. The side rail is an added stabilizing connection. The skeleton structure can be used alone or with added horizontal beams inserted through horizontal access ports in the extended pillars. Preferably, the access ports allow passage of a standard 2×4 or other stake through the pillars to create added structural stability to each set of telescoping pillars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: TSR Associates
    Inventor: S. Mill Calvert
  • Patent number: 8678459
    Abstract: Load protection assembly mounted on a truck, that comprises two side panels edge supported to pivot between horizontally extending down positions and operative up positions extending generally longitudinally, forward, intermediate, and rearward bars having end portions pivotally supported to enable bar pivoting between retracted positions proximate the panel and extended positions in which the bars extends laterally between the panels in panel supporting relation, and side bracing connected to the panels to move into supporting position when the bars are extended laterally between the panels, the bracing including a telescoping strut assembly having first and second elongated struts, and an actuator manually swingable to relatively extend and retract the struts configured to lock to bar structure in response to actuator swinging, and there being a carriage to which the forward and intermediate bars are end connected to be bodily moved with the carriage longitudinally forwardly and rearwardly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Inventor: Joseph T. S. Win
  • Patent number: 8667765
    Abstract: Applicant has disclosed a method and device (i.e., support tool) for installing sheathing (e.g., drywall or plasterboard). This tool enables a single person to easily attach the sheathing (e.g., by nails or screws) to an underlying structure (e.g., a wall stud, joist or rafter). In the preferred “device” embodiment, Applicant's tool is generally J-shaped with four tapered spikes (“teeth”) on its backside. The spikes are equally spaced from one another. By hammering the tool, its spikes can be driven into the underlying structure. No separate nail or screw is needed to hold the tool in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Inventor: Jennifer M. McCarthy
  • Patent number: 8668124
    Abstract: An adjustable width headache rack capable of accommodating the widths of multiple pick-up truck vehicles and mounting thereon including a frame member having an upper load bar and a lower cross bar each extending between two upright members spaced a distance from one another. Leg members extend from each upright member in a rearward direction on top of bed rails of the pick-up truck. The leg members have a sleeve portion which slidingly engages the lower cross bar thereby enabling width adjustment. Screen members are interchangeable within the truck rack frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Thule Sweden AB
    Inventors: Neil J. Kennedy, Andrew James Hughes, John Laverack, Douglas B. Winner
  • Patent number: 8662366
    Abstract: A ladder rack for a vehicle having a cab and a cargo area behind the cab. The rack has two front and two rear upwardly extending legs affixed to the cargo area proximally to and distally from the cab, respectively. Two side sections extending between longitudinally adjacent front and rear legs, respectively; and front overhang sections extending from the front legs, respectively, over and displaced above the cab. The sections each including an upper bar assembly, a lower bar and an attachment for attaching the sections to an adjacent leg. Each of the attachments has a plate and fasteners, the upper bar assemblies and lower bars being end abutting against one or more plates, being fixed to the plates and being displaced from one another at the plates. The plates extend between the upper bar assemblies and the lower bars and outwardly beyond each. The fasteners of the attachments are received by a plate and an adjacent leg beyond the upper bar assembly and the lower bars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Inventors: Dudley DeZonia, Rodney Monroe, Marc San Paolo
  • Patent number: 8651349
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an attachment device by means of which, in use, an object is attached to a roof rack which is or at least can be connected to roof rails of a car, comprising a housing, at least two movable jaws extending to outside the housing, which jaws engage round a roof rack in use, and actuating means provided with an operating element for moving said at least two jaws together, wherein the actuating means are designed to translate the jaws and comprise at least one rack, which rack is engaged when the operating element is operated. The invention further relates to a combination of a roof rack and such an attachment device and to a combination of an object to be attached to a roof rack and such an attachment device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Hapro International B.V.
    Inventors: Michael Meissner, Joost Marinus Van Rooijen, Oscar Toetenel
  • Patent number: 8608219
    Abstract: A vehicle tailgate is provided with a rack having a transverse cross-member extendable vertically between raised and lowered positions with telescoping supports. A powered cable-drive is connected to the supports move the cross-member between the raised and lowered positions. When the rack is in the lowered position, the cable-drive and supports are concealed within the tailgate and the cross-member forms at least a portion of a top surface of the tailgate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Gordon M Platto, David Michael Lechkun, Paul Geoffrey Roberts, Terry Lee Steller, William K. Moore
  • Publication number: 20130300143
    Abstract: A Truck Bed Payload Support having a plurality of side stakes having a horizontal bar extending between the side stakes. The side stakes fitted into the rear truck side stake holes. Legs supporting the horizontal bar where the legs rest on the truck bed. The horizontal bar is higher than the tailgate and truck side beds.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventor: JAMES DUNN