Patents Examined by Lori L. Colleta
  • Patent number: 6857678
    Abstract: A device for selectively adjusting and maintaining the angular position of a truck's tailgate relative to the truck's bed. The device generally includes an elongated threaded rod, a clamp attached to one end of the rod and adapted for engagement with a pin on the truck's bed, and a clevis attached to the opposite end of the rod and adapted for engagement with the tailgate's latching mechanism. A roller interconnected to the clevis permits smooth, pivotal movement of the tailgate between its modified (partially) open position and its fully closed position, and also permits attachment to various truck models.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Inventor: Stanton E. Lisk, III
  • Patent number: 6428079
    Abstract: A foldable canopy that, when unfolded, encloses the rear section of a motor vehicle. The canopy comprises two folding, longitudinally aligned canopy members pivotally connected to the opposite sides of the motor vehicle. Each canopy member includes a lower planar member pivotally connected with hinges. The upper and lower planar members are selectively stowed in a stacked, vertical position along the outer sides of the motor vehicle. During use, the lower planar member is raised into a vertical orientation and the upper planar members are extended transversely over the center axis of the bed of the motor vehicle. Two rotating bracing members connect the two upper planar members to the rear surface of the motor vehicle's cab. A horizontally disposed support member also attaches to the rear surface of the motor vehicle's cab to support the front edges of the upper planar members. A water resistant seal is created between the adjoining edges of the upper planar members to prevent water leakage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Inventor: Bryce Van Dyke