Vehicle Supported Patents (Class 108/44)
  • Patent number: 5390608
    Abstract: A briefcase adaptor includes a planar top surface supporting nested inner and outer trays. The inner tray is removable and includes hook and loop type pile fasteners for releasable engagement with cooperating fasteners secured to the top surface of a conventional briefcase. A raised spaced floor of the adaptor includes two compartments for holding miscellaneous items such as a clipboard, books, documents, etc. A beverage holding console extends along one side edge of the adaptor and includes a top surface provided with a plurality of apertures for storage of beverage containers and miscellaneous items such as a cordless phone. Beverage receptacle apertures include slotted portions for positioning a handle on a mug type beverage container. A pyramidal positioning block extending along an opposite lateral side of the adaptor is dimensioned to be received in a central recessed portion of an automobile seat back portion adjacent a junction with the automobile seat bottom portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1995
    Inventors: Randy L. McLaren, Douglas J. Biers
  • Patent number: 5387010
    Abstract: An apparatus for mounting to a golf cart for supporting and displaying looseleaf pages, in particular for displaying golf course information. The apparatus includes a base for supporting looseleaf pages at an oblique angle relative to the cowl of the golf cart. A binder is secured to the base for holding the looseleaf pages and a first attachment element is provided for securing the base to the cowl at the edge. A second attachment element is provided for also attaching the base to the cowl. In a second preferred form, the apparatus is configured for mounting to the steering column of the golf cart, rather than to the cowl itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 7, 1995
    Inventor: Christopher G. Mohr
  • Patent number: 5386785
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a combined support section and an article-support panel for use in conjunction with a vehicle steering wheel. The steering wheel mounted support is devised for detachability mounting thereto and pivotally affix the article-support panel. Additionally, the steering wheel support section also provides the article-support panel with an underside gusseted angle bracing arrangement having an infinitely angular adjustment arrangement. Moreover, located above the article-support panel and integrally provided on the top panel of the support section, receptacles are provided for bindingly engaging and removability receiving thereto of reading material such as a newspaper, book, a magazine or the like. The article-support panel defines a working surface to hold a meal, writing material, a lap top computer or other things that are used in a car.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 7, 1995
    Inventor: Peter Naor
  • Patent number: 5370060
    Abstract: A multipurpose automobile foldaway table which includes a table pivotably connected to a frame, two retractably bars respectively and retractably fastened to the frame, and lock screws respectively threaded into screw holes on the frame for locking the retractable bars at a desired elevation, each retractable bar having a top end terminated to a swivel hook for mounting on the head rest of a car seat, the table having recessed top comportments covered by a sliding cover for holding things, and collapsible stands at the bottom for supporting the foldaway table on the ground as it is dismantled from the car seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1994
    Inventor: Liwen Y. Wang
  • Patent number: 5331904
    Abstract: An improved tool tray support assembly comprises a center section, opposed extensible lateral support members and end support assemblies. The end support assemblies fit onto end sections of the lateral support members, and support the assembly on opposed edges of an engine compartment of a motor vehicle. The lateral support members slide within the center section and can be locked at any desired position to adjust the spacing of the end supports to accommodate various engine compartments. The angular orientation of the center section can be varied by adjustment of the position of the lateral support members with respect to the end supports. Tool trays of standard dimensions fit between the opposed lateral rails of the support member to enable convenient storage of small tools and parts. The tool tray assembly may also be supported beneath a vehicle service lift or the like, and the tool trays may be supported by brackets on wheeled stools for increased flexibility in their use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 26, 1994
    Assignee: Robert P. DiSimone
    Inventors: Robert P. DiSimone, Leonard R. Clark, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5329979
    Abstract: A portable work table adapted for being removably positioned within a storage compartment of a vehicle includes a frame having an upper wall with a generally planar top surface, side walls extending from the upper wall and a bottom wall extending between the side walls. A plurality of legs are movably mounted on the frame and are movable between a first position such that the legs extend from the bottom surface for being engaged with a support surface such that the frame is positioned above the support surface to permit work to be readily carried out on the top surface and a second position such that the legs are retracted from the first position towards the bottom surface such that the frame is positionable within the storage compartment of the vehicle. A plurality of objects are movably mounted on the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 19, 1994
    Inventors: Geoffrey S. Miller, Francis A. Richard
  • Patent number: 5322021
    Abstract: A collapsible portable desk has a plurality of planar leaves that are foldably connected to selectively assume an extended configuration, in which the desk may be used, and a collapsed configuration, in which the desk may be carried by an exposed handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 21, 1994
    Inventor: Byron R. Jackson
  • Patent number: 5310100
    Abstract: A carrier preferably for use on a vehicle such as a van includes a deck surface which is supported on the rear bumper of the van. The carrier may be moved between positions adjacent the van and a position spaced rearwardly of the van. In the spaced position, the rear doors of the van may be opened. Moreover, the carrier may be utilized as a table by a person sitting on the rear bumper of the van.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1994
    Inventor: Mark E. Liscinsky
  • Patent number: 5299824
    Abstract: A wheel chair with a rotating tray which may be rotated from a first position generally parallel to a back or rear support member. In an alternative position of the rotating tray, the tray is rotated from the first position generally parallel to the arm supports through ninety degrees into a vertical position whereby the user of the wheel chair is able to get up from and return to a bottom seat of the wheel chair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1994
    Inventors: Richard D. Roberts, Matthew J. Murphy
  • Patent number: 5269229
    Abstract: A retractible tray assembly is mounted at the rear surface of a vehicle seat and can be swung between a retracted upright position within a support frame and a generally horizontal service position extending outwardly from the frame. Tracks along side edges of the tray enable the tray to be slidably adjusted toward or away from a person seated behind the tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1993
    Inventor: Niran Akapatangkul
  • Patent number: 5246240
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) for movably mounting equipment (11) on a wheelchair (12) having an armrest (12a) and a back support (12b), which comprises first and second pivot assemblies (20, 21), a longitudinal body member (40) spacing and joining the first and second pivot assemblies (20, 21) and rotatable about a fixed axle (50) of the first pivot assembly (20). There may also be provided a device (22) to attach the fixed axle (50) to the wheelchair (12), a rotatable axle (51) in the second pivot assembly (21) supporting the equipment (11), and an assembly such as pulleys (80, 81) and a cable (83) for rotating the rotatable axle (51) as a function of the rotation of the body member (40) relative to the fixed axle (50).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1993
    Inventors: Barry A. Romich, Benjamin A. Romich, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5239934
    Abstract: A portable work table adapted for being removably positioned within a storage compartment of a vehicle includes a frame having an upper wall with a generally planar top surface, side walls extending from the upper wall and a bottom wall extending between the side walls. A plurality of legs are movably mounted on the frame and are movable between a first position such that the legs extend from the bottom surface for being engaged with a support surface such that the frame is positioned above the support surface to permit work to be readily carried out on the top surface and a second position such that the legs are retracted from the first position towards the bottom surface such that the frame is positionable within the storage compartment of the vehicle. A plurality of objects are movably mounted on the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1993
    Inventors: Geoffrey S. Miller, Francis A. Richard
  • Patent number: 5205608
    Abstract: A seating arrangement for a motor car has a seat for occupation by an adult comprising a squab and a back. A child's seat is incorporated in the back of the adult seat and is movable from a retracted position, in which the child seat is accommodated within a recess formed in the back of the adult seat, to an operative position. The child seat has a squab which incorporates a mechanism adapted to move squab elements from an initial position to an operative position. The overall size of the squab when the squab elements are in the operative position is greater than the size when the squab elements are in the initial position. The mechanism is actuated on movement of a control member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1993
    Assignee: General Engineering (The Netherlands) B.V.
    Inventor: Ingemar Stig
  • Patent number: 5197381
    Abstract: A portable, collapsible bench-like outdoor seating platform attachable to the trunk of an automobile or to the cargo bed of a pick-up truck by a pair of hooks connected to adjustable straps, wherein the seating platform includes integral compartments and accommodations for necessary articles such as a shoe horns, brushes, towels, beverage containers and other items that would need to be convenienty accessible to persons changing into sporting or athletic attire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1993
    Inventor: Henry M. Mells
  • Patent number: 5193777
    Abstract: A map-note holder for attachment to an automobile steering wheel. The map-note holder is a flexible, elastic support strap which can be stretched across the steering wheel and tied thereto. The map holder has a plastic means for holding a map and has a movable light means for showing light directly on the map. For storage, it can easily be removed, folded up, and stored in the glove compartment, or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1993
    Inventor: Eugene W. Faulstich
  • Patent number: 5188421
    Abstract: An entertainment and feeding device for use by a child in the back seat of an automobile is provided. The device is preferably formed from a flexible sheet which can be readily cleaned and folded for convenience of storage, and is designed to be easily installed and removed from the back seat of an automobile. The device has a forward end and a rearward end with side portions intermediate the forward and rearward ends. The side portions extend upwardly to provide sidewalls. The forward and rearward ends are anchored within the car interior by fasteners, such as buttons, snaps or VELCRO. The rearward fastener is designed for fastening around a child's waist while the forward fastener is designed to be fastened to a front seat head rest. The device is provided on its upper surface with entertainment pieces, a food tray, and storage compartments of various sizes for the convenience of storing a child's toys and games.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1993
    Inventor: Barbara Arseneault
  • Patent number: 5177665
    Abstract: A mounting assembly for a small portable computer provides both a housing to receive the computer and releasably attach it to a vehicle steering wheel and connections for supplying electrical power to the computer, with that housing also providing a pivotally movable upper lid which may be closed to cover and protect significant portions of the computer and may be opened to provide for access to the computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1993
    Assignee: Progressive Insurance Corp.
    Inventors: Michael J. Frank, James C. Jewel
  • Patent number: 5170720
    Abstract: A food service tray for use in an automobile is supported on one end by an automobile seat, and is supported on its opposite end by an adjustable height leg stand. The adjustable leg stand includes a stanchion which is mounted for extension and retraction within a receiver pocket. The elevation of the food service tray and the extended position of the stanchion are fixed by a releasable latch. In automobiles having separately movable seats, the food service tray is stabilized by a slidable anchor arm which is inserted between the movable seats.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1992
    Inventor: Robert S. Scheurer
  • Patent number: 5143337
    Abstract: A food serving device, comprising a frame and mounting means for detachably mounting said frame to a vertical surface, said device including a cup holder and a pivotably mounted tray operable between a horizontal in-use position and a vertical storage position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1992
    Inventors: Max J. Tomayko, Jr., Robert A. Germain
  • Patent number: 5140914
    Abstract: A removable rear seat tray for use in a vehicle includes a clamp assembly nondestructibly attachable to the rear of a bucket seat, a pair of tray suppport arms attachable to the clamp, and a slidably removable tray securable to the support arms. A tiered tray construction is provided by a further slide-on tray assembly, and a removable cushion can be selectively attached to the tiered tray structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1992
    Inventors: Marc Bohbot, Neil Silver
  • Patent number: 5136953
    Abstract: A tailgate table for mounting on the rear upstanding wall of an automobile truck enclosure including: a table top, and mount mechanism depending from the table top to receive the rear wall for cantileverly mounting the table top on the upstanding rear wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1992
    Inventor: Donald R. Schmidt
  • Patent number: 5106003
    Abstract: A tray including a flat horizontal surface, positioned within a frame, with the frame tray adaptable to be positioned atop the dashboard of a vehicle, such as an automobile. There is further provided an attachment of one end of the tray to the windshield via suction cups, and for providing a second pair of suction cups which are adjustable in height to be attachable onto the dashboard, so that the tray can be supported flat during use. There may be further included a trash bag support bracket, and holders for receiving a cup thereinto to maintain the cup in a vertically supported position on the tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1992
    Inventor: Mark Ma
  • Patent number: 5098146
    Abstract: This invention is a sliding floor for utility vehicles. The sliding floor consists of longitudinally C-shaped channels disposed at either side of the truck bed and extending parallel to each other. A sliding plate adapted for lengthwise movement to and fro over the floor of the truck is mounted for movement dictated by the channel mounting and acting as race ways for the sliding plate. The sliding plate rests upon rollers interposed between the C-shaped channels which permits the sliding plate to be easily moved inwardly and outwardly of the truck bed. At the back of the sliding floor, stop means are provided to prevent the sliding plate from moving beyond a designated end of the truck bed. A lock is preferably provided that locks the sliding plate in several extended positions. Also support legs are provided to provide surface support for the floor, if desired, when the floor is extended.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1992
    Inventors: Helmut Albrecht, John Fabing
  • Patent number: 5092507
    Abstract: A modular workstation (2) is disclosed comprising a base container (4) for positionment on an automobile seat. A top surface (10) of the base container constitutes a writing surface, which is movable from a storage position to a second position in writing proximity to the workstation user. A secondary storage container (6) is integrally molded with the base container, inboard thereof, and a channel (64) is provided for receiving a seat belt. A third storage container (8) can be attached to an outward surface of the base container, for use in transporting files to and from the vehicle. The writing surface (10) mounted to the top of the base container is removable from the container, whereby providing the user with a transportable writing surface if so needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1992
    Assignee: Rubbermaid Incorporated
    Inventors: Michael J. Szablak, Glen E. Tomblin
  • Patent number: 5090335
    Abstract: For use in the bed of a truck, a generally rectangular table approximately the size of the truck bed, and designed to normally repose in the truck bed. This novel table has a forward portion and a rearward portion, and a series of rollers on its underside such that when the truck has been parked, the table can be extended rearwardly to a desired extent from the bed of the truck. In the interests of providing stability to the table, the forward portion of the table can be readily caused to enter into a locking relationship with a rearward portion of the truck bed, such that the table can then serve, by virtue of its relationship to the truck, as a particularly stable means upon which detailed work can be conducted. This new table also has a series of hingedly mounted legs on its underside, which can be selectively utilized to provide ample support for the table when it has been deployed in a position in which it is at least partially extended from the bed of the truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1992
    Inventor: Kenneth R. Russell
  • Patent number: 5085153
    Abstract: A desk structure is provided which is readily adaptable for removable positioning within a vehicle interior, preferably upon the front arm rest thereof. The desk structure disclosed includes a supporting base framework which may be sized for seating upon a variety of arm rest configurations, and mounted upon the base framework is a table top member having conveniently disposed cavities formed therein imparting to the desk structure multifunctionality while the vehicle is in motion and also at rest. Illustratively, the cavities may receive a writing pad, writing implements, miscellaneous loose items, and electronic equipment exemplified by a mobile telephone on a dictation machine. Objects within the cavities are readily accessible to the driver without distraction from normal vehicle operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1992
    Inventor: Carl B. McKee
  • Patent number: 5069375
    Abstract: There is disclosed a food support tray that is intended to be secured while resting on the lap of an occupant of a motor vehicle. The tray has a fastener which detachably secures it on the lap of the occupant. Preferably, the fastener is a clip which secures the tray to the seat belt of the vehicle when the seat belt is fastened about the occupant. The tray is generally planar with longitudinal forward and rear edges and opposite and shorter end edges. The rear edge is arcuately bowed inwardly, contouring to the waist of the occupant. The forward edge can also be bowed inwardly at a central location to provide clearance for the steering wheel, thus permitting its use by the driver of a vehicle. The tray has vertically walled recesses on its upper surface, preferably at least one is provided for reception of a beverage cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1991
    Inventor: Sandra Flick
  • Patent number: 5065922
    Abstract: This container system can be used for a delivery van (10) having an interior floor covering (18) providing the loop component of a hook and loop fastener. The floor covering provides attachment for a tray (24) having VELCRO strips (32) on the bottom (26) providing the hook component of the hook and loop fastener. The tray (24) can have tapered sides (28) adapted to receive the compatibly configurated container (40) of a relatively tall floral package (22). The floral package (22) includes a cooperating, tapered sleeve (42) which is sandwiched between the two containers when the floral package (22) is placed within the awaiting tray (24). The gripping interaction between the VELCRO strips (32) on the tray (24) and the floor covering (18) resists the tendency of the package to overturn and slide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 19, 1991
    Inventor: Charles C. Harris
  • Patent number: 5060581
    Abstract: A foldable stowable portable steering wheel mounted tray apparatus of inexpensive construction permits the automobile driver to comfortably dine while seated behind the steering wheel. The tray apparatus provides a tray surface on which to dispose food and to prop reading material in an upright position. Adjustments are provided for accommodating the tray to the angular orientation between the steering wheel column and the horizontal, the tilt angle, as differs between various models of automobiles, to maintain the tray level. The tray is pivotally mounted along a longitudinal edge to a back panel that in turn is supported on the steering wheel. Straps extending from the back panel to the tray suspend the opposed end of the tray maintaining same to a level position. Angular adjustment is achieved by changing the length of restraining straps. A brass brad is inserted through slits in the strap to bunch together a portion of the strap's end thereby adjusting the length of the remainder of the strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1991
    Inventor: Carole S. Malinski
  • Patent number: 5046433
    Abstract: An adjustable folding table apparatus for attachment to a seat back for use primarily within an automobile or other vehicle, including a tray portion rotatable between a substantially vertical stored position and a substantially horizontal extended position, suspended from a portion of the seat back and employing a series of flexible straps to enable both facilitated attachment and detachment of the apparatus from the seat back, as well as adjustment of the vertical and/or angular orientation of the tray apparatus. A latch or catch serves to retain the tray portion in a folded up or stored position until it is dislodged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 10, 1991
    Inventors: Randall Kramer, Mary Kramer
  • Patent number: 5040467
    Abstract: A stowable patio for use with an RV having a pair of spaced-apart support members, each member carrying an inclined roller track, a platform disposed between the support members which carries rollers disposed adjacent the roller tracks, whereby its patio may be moved between a stored position and an extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1991
    Inventor: Lanora G. King
  • Patent number: 4995322
    Abstract: A foldable table structure mounted externally on a R.V. which is capable of being quickly and easily unfolded and set up in a stable condition thereby forming a table for various uses and purposes and which is also capable of being quickly and easily folded and stowed externally of the wall of a R.V. The table includes a two-part foldable tabletop having one end hinged to the R.V. and the other end supported by a pivotal, braced and adjustable leg structure. The table is mounted either by add-on bracket structures or by a recessed tray structure which securely retains the table in stowed position but yet enables the table to be quickly and easily moved between its operative position and its stowed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1986
    Date of Patent: February 26, 1991
    Inventor: Percy R. Frederick
  • Patent number: 4995637
    Abstract: A work platform for mounting on the steering wheel of a motor vehicle is disclosed. The platform has a generally flat underside and a top side which defines a generally flat writing surface. The platform also includes securing means for engaging the outer rounded edge of a steering wheel to mount the work platform on the steering wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 26, 1991
    Inventor: Noboru Muraishi
  • Patent number: 4993088
    Abstract: A portable bed assembly for use on a pick up truck, camper, station wagon or other recreational vehicle includes an elongate framework having a width designed to fit between rear wheel wells on a motor vehicle, and a length which fits snugly within the vehicle when the rear thereof is closed. The portable bed is mounted on rollers which ride on rails mounted on the original deck or bed of the motor vehicle. The framework includes a pair of foldable leg assemblies with one mounted on each end of the portable bed assembly. A locking mechanism maintains the portable bed assembly in mounted position along the rails on the original motor vehicle bed or rear deck. When the locking mechanism is released and the rear of the motor vehicle is opened, or the tailgate is positioned horizontally, the portable bed assembly will roll outwardly of the back of the motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 19, 1991
    Inventor: David Chudik
  • Patent number: 4974805
    Abstract: A clipboard for removably mounting on the steering wheel of a vehicle, as well as a boat, which clipboard includes a flat support plate provided with a top flange having a slot for receiving a top segment of the steering wheel and a bottom flange terminating the bottom end of the plate for engaging a bottom portion of the steering wheel. A center clip is attached to the upper center portion of the support plate and one or more side clips can also be secured to the support plate on one or both sides of the center clip or elsewhere on the support plate, as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 4, 1990
    Inventor: Cameron F. Douglas
  • Patent number: 4962709
    Abstract: A lightweight auxiliary deck for utility, recreational and conventional passenger vehicles comprising a rectangular laminated deck having thin upper and lower sheets, a peripheral wall adjoining the sheets, an inner rigid cellular core and an outer resilient molding. A resilient cushion is detachably retained to the upper surface of the deck. In the first aspect the deck is installed in a vehicle with the vehicle's rear seat removed and has a pair of foldable tubular legs attached to the lower surface of the deck which are rotatably adjustable outwardly to an operative position for supporting the deck and inwardly toward the deck to a position in bearing relationship to the deck for storing the deck and a structure for securing the legs to a vehicle floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 16, 1990
    Inventor: Roy L. Huber
  • Patent number: 4953771
    Abstract: A pivoting cup holder for supporting a beverage container in a vehicle. The cup holder comprises a flat movable drawer which can slide into and out of a retainer set into or below the dashboard or an armrest of an automobile. A semicircular indentation is formed in each side of the drawer. Pivotally mounted to the drawer are a pair of cup rings, each of which is formed with a curved edge complementary to the semicircular indentation. The cup rings are spring-loaded to rotate horizontally to a use position when the drawer is pulled outwardly of the retainer. In the use position the cup rings cooperate with the semicircular indentation to form complete circular retainers for supporting the side wall of a beverage container. The cup holder further comprises a spring loaded bail and cup support which, when the drawer is opened, vertically pivot to a position centered below the circular retainers to brace the bottom surface of the beverage container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 4, 1990
    Assignee: Lescoa, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas A. Fischer, Joseph S. Meinke
  • Patent number: 4948195
    Abstract: A vertical cardboard wedge of adjustable length and thickness with an accordion pleated horizontal top for closing the gap between the front seats and console of an automobile for preventing objects from dropping into the gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 14, 1990
    Inventor: William W. Saunders
  • Patent number: 4946120
    Abstract: A support (10) for securing a lap type computer (14) to a car seat (12). The support has upper and lower pivotally interconnected units (32, 30 respectively), the lower unit carrying a belt (54) so that it may be belted to the car seat (12). The upper unit also carries a belt (54) for the purpose of securing the lap top computer to the upper unit. In order to provide for suitable adjustment of the computer for ease of viewing and use, the lower unit is provided with a pair of opposed downwardly extending legs (42 and 44, 46), one of which legs (44, 46) may be secured in various positions of vertical adjustment. The upper unit and lower unit are provided with means (74, 76, 78, 80) to secure the upper unit in various positions of swiveling adjustment. In addtion, the upper unit is provided with a vertically adjustable auxiliary suppport (34) so that the angle of inclination of the lap type computer may be varied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 7, 1990
    Assignee: Posting Equipment Corporation
    Inventor: David O. Hatcher
  • Patent number: 4943076
    Abstract: A safety trailer step provides improved footing for a person launching or loading a boat onto a trailer. The safety trailer step comprises a step formed with a platform and two parallel side plates. The side plates snugly receive the trailer tongue therebetween and extend below the tongue. Tightening bolts through the side plates sandwiches the tongue therebetween to rigidly mount the safety trailer step to the trailer tongue. The platform may be centered over the tongue, or it may be laterally offset therefrom. A non-skid plastic plate may be attached to the platform upper surface. The present invention includes spacers that fit between the tongue and the step such that the safety trailer step can be used with a variety of trailer tongue widths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 24, 1990
    Inventor: Randall K. Tripke
  • Patent number: 4942827
    Abstract: A desk for use in an automobile has a base which is provided with adjustable spring urged retaining hook members for engagement with the bottom edge of the seat back portion of a conventional vehicle seat. The retaining hook members may be adjusted in selected extended positions for use with a wide variety of different configurations of conventional vehicle seats. The adjustable hook members comprise spring biased retaining flanges which, in a first position, may be easily inserted beneath the bottom edge of the automobile seat back portion. The retaining flanges are spring biased to a second position for clamping engagement with the vehicle seat back portion. The desk has an adjustable writing surface which may be pivoted about a vertical mounting post, for enabling occupants seated at either side of a vehicle to easily use the desk. A writing surface of the desk is formed by a slidable cover of a compartmentalized storage tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 24, 1990
    Inventor: Ronald Norgaard
  • Patent number: 4940003
    Abstract: A car seat table is designed for securement on a horizontal seat portion of a rear vehicle seat utilizing a conventional central seat belt. An upper and a lower tray are secured in spaced parallel relation by a frame formed from rigid tubular members. A pair of circular openings are formed through the upper tray for supporting beverage containers. Removable inserts may be utilized to adapt the tray for use with various different dimensioned beverage containers. The inserts may include resilient radially inwardly extending fingers for engagement with and accommodation of various different diameter beverage containers. The upper tray preferably includes an upstanding peripheral rim and a central recessed area for containing various food and other items for use by back seat vehicle occupants. In a second embodiment, the upper and lower trays may be mounted for vertical adjustment between raised and lowered positions by a parallelogram linkage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 10, 1990
    Inventors: Susan L. Mayhew, Richard K. Mayhew, II
  • Patent number: 4938401
    Abstract: An automobile passenger seat divider base unit to rest upon the rear seat of an automobile which provides easily reachable storage cylinders in which the place items such as drinks and snack cups, and two convenient storage bins in which to place items such as crayons or miscellaneous small toys. Another feature, located at the rear portion of the invention, is the unit's anchoring device which helps prevent the unit from tipping over or sliding off of the car seat. The most unique feature is that it provides a sturdy insert sleeve in which to place various insert attachment units. One such attachment is a large rectangular-shaped insert board unit whose main purpose is to serve as a safety feature for the driver of the automobile by providing him with the means to temporarily install a divider between two quarrelsome children thus creating a barrier which limits physical and visual contact between these children.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 3, 1990
    Assignee: R&D Ventures, Inc.
    Inventors: Diane B. Weisbrodt, Richard G. Weisbrodt
  • Patent number: 4928865
    Abstract: A bilateral beverage container (2) mounts within a hinged vehicle armrest (4). The container has an upper container housing (22), a lower container housing (26) and a hinged game surface (24) therebetween suitable for playing board games upon. The upper container housing includes a flap (34) that defines a compartment suitable for storing writing paper, magazines and the like. The lower container housing includes fixed and user-definable compartments (48, 50) for storing beverage containers (76), game pieces and other objects, and hinged lids (60) to cover the fixed compartments. The lower container housing includes a hinged bilateral tray (62) with openings (68) sized to receive beverage containers. The bilateral tray holds beverage containers in both a stowed position, overlying the hinged lids covering the fixed compartments, and in a deployed position, spaced apart from the lower container housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 29, 1990
    Assignee: Chivas Products Limited
    Inventors: Brian S. Lorence, Richard A. Phelps, David N. Grabowski
  • Patent number: 4915035
    Abstract: A novel compact rigid food serving tray horizontally attached to an automobile steering wheel at any elevation regardless of the steering wheels inclination to the vertical.The tray being supported on the steering wheel by two right angle frames slidably engaging longitudinal slots on each side of the bottom of the tray. The transverse portions of the frames inwardly turned towards each other and having means for adjusting the spacing therebetween.A leakproof beverage container well located on the front center of the tray for holding cans, bottles, glasses and so forth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 10, 1990
    Inventors: Bobby D. Clark, Shirley J. McMillan
  • Patent number: 4915437
    Abstract: A tool tray 10 which is attachable to the underside of a flatbed utility truck 1 and slidably supported by a pair of receiving channels 19 and 20 which are attached to the underside of a flatbed.Tool tray 10 is constructed from a rectangular frame having a pair of side members 11 and 12 and a pair of end members 13 and 14 which define the front and back ends. A rectangular bottom panel 15 is welded to the lower edges of side and end members thereby constructing a tray. A first pair of rollers 16 are each attached toward the back end of each side member and are disposed toward the upper edges of their respective side members to engage the upper lips of receiving channels 19 and 20. Likewise, a second pair of rollers 17 are disposed on respective side members toward the lower edges of the side members to engage the lower lips of the receiving channels 19 and 20.A rod 21 is provided and is rotatably attached substantially along the length of left side member 12.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 10, 1990
    Inventor: Kim Cherry
  • Patent number: 4911083
    Abstract: An accessory tray (10) for use in the engine compartment of a vehicle. The tray (10) includes an aperture (24) for receiving a mounting stud (14) which extends upwardly from a carburetor (12). A pair of flanges (36) extends outwardly from the sides of the tray, and each flange (36) has a plurality of holes (38) therethrough for receiving spark plugs or tools. Securable to the underside of the accessory tray (10) is at least one inverted cup-shaped retainer (40), the retainer being selected so as to circumscribe the upper portion of the carburetor (12) for supporting the accessory tray (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1988
    Date of Patent: March 27, 1990
    Inventor: Thomas D. Considine
  • Patent number: 4909159
    Abstract: A support table for a desk top computer, which is positionable in the front seat of the automobile, adjacent the driver's seat, the apparatus comprising a horizontal support surface, so as to support a computer such as a desk top computer, a frame, supporting the surface; a pair of rear leg members, positionable along the rear wall of the frame, the lower ends of the leg members resting on the "passenger seat" of the automobile, and a pair of front leg members, along the front edge of the frame, the front leg members extending downward to rest on the floor of the automobile, the relative height of the front and rear leg members so as to provide a substantially horizontal support surface for the computer; and further including a slidable tray as a portion of the support surface upon which the computer sets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1988
    Date of Patent: March 20, 1990
    Inventor: Don Gonsoulin
  • Patent number: 4901901
    Abstract: A shopping cart desk is set forth including a first and second rigid plate with a flexible spine enabling overlying alignment of a first and second plate together with securement members to secure the first and second plates utilizing hook and loop fasteners. A plurality of aligned handles are positioned at uppermost edges of the plates for portability of the desk. Upon opening of the first and second plates into a horizontally aligned orientation relative to one another, first and second slide bolts secure the first and second plates in alignment to present storage, writing, and calculation facilities therewithin for use by an individual.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1990
    Inventor: Peggy B. Reitenour
  • Patent number: 4890559
    Abstract: A table device mountable upon a steering wheel, said device including a box-like structure provided with a bottom opening for placement over and reception of a steering wheel; a table pivotally engaging the box-like structure; a pair of laterally disposed support legs pivotally engaging the table; and a latch for holding the table at a selected angle relative to the box-like structure and hence the steering wheel. The device folds into a compact unit for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1990
    Inventor: Gail E. Martin