For A Vehicle Exterior Patents (Class 150/166)
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Patent number: 6948739Abstract: A pallet truck has a power unit including a main casing for housing drive apparatus and a platform onto which an operator may step and ride while controlling the truck. The casing includes at least one substantially rigid wall member and an operator support pad associated with the wall member. The support pad includes a main body having first and second ribbed portions with the first portion defining a deformable pocket.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2003Date of Patent: September 27, 2005Assignee: Crown Equipment CorporationInventors: Michael P. Gallagher, Robert J. Henshaw
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Patent number: 6918626Abstract: A cover assembly for covering an object subjected to an airstream due to transportation of the object in open air. The cover comprises a flexible cover adapted to fit over the object so as to conceal a portion of the object. An aperture is provided in the cover. A deflector is provided on an exterior surface of the cover and forward of the aperture with respect to a direction of transportation. The deflector is positioned such that a low pressure zone is created proximate to the aperture during transportation of the object in the direction by an airstream being deflected by the deflector, whereby air located between an interior of the cover and the object being transported exhausts through the aperture to an exterior of the cover to cause the cover to at least partially conform to the object.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2004Date of Patent: July 19, 2005Assignee: Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.Inventors: André Morin, Marc-André Morin
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Patent number: 6879250Abstract: The invention relates to an outside element for a motor vehicle, the element being designed to be fitted to the vehicle, e.g. on its bodywork, and comprising an essentially non-conductive protective screen (3), the element being characterized in that behind said protective screen if further comprises an electrically insulating film having two faces, each of which is covered at least in part in an electrically conductive material. The invention also provides a piece of bodywork provided with such a conductive element.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2002Date of Patent: April 12, 2005Assignee: Compagnie Plastic OmniumInventors: Arnold Fayt, Olivier Hilmarcher, Sebastien Guyon
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Patent number: 6874806Abstract: A trailer hitch cover assembly includes a bumper fascia for attachment to a motor vehicle having an aperture for allowing a hitch tube to extend therethrough. The trailer hitch cover assembly also includes a main body adapted to be disposed over the hitch tube and adapted to allow insertion of a hitch into the hitch tube. The trailer hitch cover assembly further includes a cover plate hingedly connected to either one of the main body and the bumper fascia for moving between a closed position to close the aperture to conceal the hitch tube and an open position to open the aperture to expose the hitch tube.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2003Date of Patent: April 5, 2005Assignee: Blake Design Group, LLC.Inventor: Robert B. Blake
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Patent number: 6857652Abstract: A cover shield for a trailer coupler comprising an elongated hollow, tubular shield, internally sized to receive the forward portion of a trailer coupler and coupler means mounted thereon. The shield is preferably of flexible two-ply padded material and impervious to moisture. The shield includes a pouch-like portion sized to snugly encompass and cover the trailer coupler means. A seam means extends longitudinally from an aft opening toward the front opening and may be selectively manually opened to an open mode and closed to a closed mode.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2003Date of Patent: February 22, 2005Inventor: Edward H. Dougherty
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Patent number: 6857384Abstract: A first strip of a fastener is securable to the vertical rear wall in a horizontal orientation at an elevation above the container and parallel with a horizontal platform. A shading member fabricated of a flexible material is in a rectangular configuration. The shading member has an upper horizontal edge, a parallel lower horizontal edge, and parallel side edges. The shading member has a second strip of a fastener. The second strip of fastener is adapted to separably coact with the first fastener.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2003Date of Patent: February 22, 2005Inventor: Paul-William Connor
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Patent number: 6837006Abstract: A prefabricated home covering designed to protect a prefabricated home as it is being transported. The prefabricated home covering has a generally rectangular sheet of tarpaulin material used to cover an open middle section of a prefabricated home half being transported. There are also two generally trapezoidal sheets of tarpaulin material used to cover the ends of a prefabricated home half being transported, with the generally rectangular sheet of tarpaulin material and the two generally trapezoidal sheets of tarpaulin material being attached from the bottom of a trailer frame transporting the prefabricated home half with a plurality of rubber straps and D-rings with S-hooks. A plurality of strap buckle assemblies attach the generally rectangular sheet of tarpaulin material to the two generally trapezoidal sheets of tarpaulin material and a plurality of grommets attach the prefabricated home covering to the prefabricated home being transported.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2002Date of Patent: January 4, 2005Inventor: James T. Deskin
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Publication number: 20040238089Abstract: A self roll-up car cover has a built-in spring between waterproof sheets or a synthetic sheet with a built-in memory to return to a spiral shape when rolled out of the spiral configuration and then released. The rear half of the cover has an end rod and a central opening that allows it to be hooked over a trunk lock mechanism and kept secure when the trunk is then shut. The front half of the cover has a lead rope or belt with two hooks for securing under the hood of the vehicle or any other edged surface. The tension in the cover keeps it stretched out and the overlapping portion of the front and back covers maintains at least a portion of the cover elevated above the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 28, 2003Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Xingkang Li, Qiang Li, Xingjian Li
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Publication number: 20040238088Abstract: An apparatus for protecting an exteriorly mounted mirror is provided. The apparatus contains a first portion having an interior portion and an exterior portion, and a second portion having an interior portion and an exterior portion, wherein a portion of the first portion and the second portion is attached to define an inner volume within the apparatus, and wherein an opening is defined by a portion of the first portion and the second portion that is not attached. A first connecting means is attached to the exterior portion of the first portion and a second connecting means is attached to the exterior portion of the second portion, wherein fastening the first connecting means and the second connecting means decreases a size of the opening.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 27, 2003Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventor: Richard D'Andrea
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Publication number: 20040221935Abstract: The present invention is directed to a vehicle covering system comprising a continuous supply of flat sheet material and means for attaching said flat sheet material to the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 29, 2003Publication date: November 11, 2004Inventor: Robert David Steinberg
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Publication number: 20040187991Abstract: A retractable cover attachment for a vehicle, preferably an all terrain vehicle (ATV) having a frame. The cover attachment has a housing, a connection and a cover. The housing attaching to the frame at the rear end of the vehicle. The housing is utilized for housing the cover. The housing defining an opening therein allowing the cover to be stored within the housing and configured for attachment to the vehicle frame. Attaching to the housing is a connection, this connection having an proximal end and a distal end with the housing attaching to the connection's proximal end. This connection also for connecting the housing to the cover. Attaching to the connection's distal end is the cover. The cover is for covering the vehicle. The cover attaches to the housing via the connection.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 19, 2003Publication date: September 30, 2004Inventor: Michael W. Poe
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Patent number: 6794317Abstract: A protective cover system (100) for inhibiting corrosion of a metallic object. The protective cover system includes a cover (101, 200, 600) for defining a microenvironment and a corrosion inhibitor source for releasing one or more corrosion inhibitors into the microenvironment. In one embodiment, cover 200 comprises an outer liquid-impermeable layer (204), an inner liquid-permeable layer (202), and a superabsorbent layer (206) located between the outer and inner layers. In another embodiment, cover 600 includes a water-vapor-permeable layer (602) and a porous support layer (606) for supporting the water-vapor-permeable layer. In both of these embodiments, one or more corrosion inhibitors may be incorporated into the cover in one or more of the corresponding above-mentioned layers or in a layer separate from these layers, or may be provided in a separate container that fluidly communicates the corrosion inhibitor(s) to the microenvironment.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2002Date of Patent: September 21, 2004Assignee: Creare Inc.Inventors: Nabil A. Elkouh, Jeffrey J. Breedlove, Bruce R. Pilvelait
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Patent number: 6789495Abstract: A self-supporting boat cover includes a cover member having a plurality of sleeves that extends substantially longitudinally from a bow end of the cover member to a stern end. A corresponding plurality of flexible poles are insertable in the sleeves through either end of the sleeves and are releasably securable in the sleeves. The self-supporting boat cover is easily installed and inexpensive to manufacture. Additionally, the flexible poles can be readily disassembled into a plurality of pole sections into a compact and easily transportable configuration.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2002Date of Patent: September 14, 2004Assignee: Nelson A. Taylor Co., Inc.Inventors: Richard M. Brower, Jason Pajonk-Taylor
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Patent number: 6733038Abstract: A protective cover having a non-slip surface for mounting to a motorcycle frame area is shaped to conform to the motorcycle frame area and includes an interior surface formed from rubber and an exterior surface formed from an epoxy mixture to which a granulated material is applied for providing the non-slip surface. The protective cover has a carbon fiber layer formed between the interior surface and the exterior surface, and the carbon fiber layer is affixed to the interior surface and the exterior surface by epoxy resin material. Holes are formed through the interior surface, the exterior surface, and the carbon fiber layer for inserting fasteners therethrough to mount the protective cover to the motorcycle frame area, and, when the protective cover is mounted to the motorcycle frame area, the interior surface is adjacent to the motorcycle frame area to prevent the protective cover from scratching the motorcycle frame area.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2001Date of Patent: May 11, 2004Inventor: Michael R. Prather
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Patent number: 6725871Abstract: A portable cover unit includes a fabric cover supported by a flexible frame. The fabric cover has sleeves that secure members of the flexible frame, which is constructed with primary frame members extending in a first direction and at least one secondary frame member extending in a second substantially perpendicular direction between the primary frame members. A plurality of connectors are attachable to an object to which the portable cover unit is installed, each including an aperture sized to receive the primary frame members. Structure is also provided for securing the fabric cover to the object to which the portable cover unit is installed. The portable cover unit can be mounted to any open portion of a vehicle such as a boat, golf cart or the like or can be used independently. The structure can be readily disassembled and stored in a compact package.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2002Date of Patent: April 27, 2004Assignee: Nelson A. Taylor Co., Inc.Inventors: Robert R. Shearer, Kevin Stancil, Terry Burk
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Publication number: 20040074577Abstract: Protective structure for a vehicle, suitable for being withheld and blocked, by means of fixing elements, on said vehicle (2), so as to cover the bodywork, comprising a sheet (10) having an internal layer (11), in contact with said vehicle, made of a soft scratchproof material, and an outer layer comprising an interlacing of yarns.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 26, 2003Publication date: April 22, 2004Inventors: Andrea Tavelli, Bruno Tavelli
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Publication number: 20040060627Abstract: A car cover in a container with a 4-unit suspension system that keeps the tarp from the painted surface of the vehicle while protecting the paint, rubber and interior. Another feature of the invention is its attachments to protect the vehicle from hail or sleet. The tarp, container, and the suspension units will be marketed in 3 different sizes to fit all vehicles including duallys, vans and passenger autos. The tarp container can be hung on a building with 2 removable oval hangers with 3 slotted positions to adjust the height. The slotted holes will fit over two bolts permanently attached to a building. When the tarp container is attached to a building 3 of the suspension units are eliminated. Another feature is the invention can be repaired or parts replaced using standard plumbing pipe that can be purchased at most lumber and plumbing merchandisers.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 27, 2002Publication date: April 1, 2004Inventor: Clyde Thomas Davis
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Patent number: 6686026Abstract: The present invention relates to a film comprising a backing and an adhesive. The backing comprises a base layer comprising a first major surface and a second major surface, and at least two rails, each rail comprising a tip surface. The rails extend from the second major surface of the base layer and define micro-channels therebetween. The micro-channels comprise a channel surface. The film comprises an adhesive on the tip surface of the rails. At least a portion of the channel surface is substantially free of adhesive. The present invention also relates to a method of protecting an automobile comprising preparing an automobile surface for application of a protective tape and applying a protective tape to the automobile surface. The present invention is additionally related to a method of manufacturing a protective film.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventors: Brian E. Spiewak, David W. Hegdahl
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Patent number: 6672647Abstract: Vehicle body protectors for protecting external mirrors and a lower portions of the vehicle extending from a rear surface of the front wheel well to a front surface of the rear wheel well under the doors of the vehicle are constructed from conformable sheets of impact absorbing material having peripheral means for coupling the protector to non-external portions of the vehicle body and to other portions of the protector so that the body protectors remain in fixed position on the vehicle body during motion of the vehicle. The body protectors can be formed from more than one layer of material to form an outer layer, a liner layer of resilient energy absorbing material positioned on the under surface of the outer layer for engagement with an outer surface of the vehicle body, and optionally an intermediate reinforcing layer.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2003Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Inventor: Carolyn T. Santiago
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Publication number: 20030226627Abstract: An automobile cover apparatus and system is described. The automobile cover generally includes a main cover body having a hood end, a trunk end, an upper surface and a lower surface, connectors located on the hood end and the trunk end, trunk cords connected to the connectors on the trunk end, a trunk anchor connected to the trunk cords on ends of the trunk cords opposite the ends connected to the connectors, hood cords connected to the connectors on the hood end and a hood connection device connected to each of the hood cords opposite the ends connected to the connectors. The cover can be combined with a winder for a automobile cover kit.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 14, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventor: Garry E. Clark
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Patent number: 6659035Abstract: A two-piece boat cover for use with open fishing boats as well as boats with a single console or double console is described.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Inventor: William Treytiak
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Patent number: 6641203Abstract: Systems and methods which provide a cover having a retaining piping disposed along an edge thereof to tether the cover to a vehicle or other object. Retaining piping is preferably disposed. such that a portion of the cover passes through an opening in the vehicle and the retaining piping cannot pass through the opening, thereby preventing the removal of the cover from the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2002Date of Patent: November 4, 2003Inventor: Ross W. Everett
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Publication number: 20030168879Abstract: A ladder rack cover designed for the pick up truck and four post utility ladder rack mounted on the walls or bed of the truck which is fabric based, attached to the ladder rack and bed of the pick up truck creating a weather resistant shell for the protection of goods in the bed or on the ladder rack.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 4, 2003Publication date: September 11, 2003Inventor: Mike Grudek
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Patent number: 6607235Abstract: A full-body, self-deploying cover for a vehicle is shown. The cover consists of a fabric sheet with a sleeve formed in its periphery. Within the sleeve is an elastic rod with two free ends. The rod is foldable between an expanded state and a stored state. In the expanded state the rod outwardly tensions the periphery of the fabric sheet and forms a semi-rigid frame, with the spring tension of the rod causing the cover to self-deploy. A connector joins the ends of the elastic rod together after the cover is placed over the vehicle, with the rod beneath the vehicle's undercarriage, and the fabric sheet may be tightened securely within the perimeter of the undercarriage.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2001Date of Patent: August 19, 2003Inventor: Frederick T. McGrath, Jr.
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Patent number: 6588827Abstract: A protective cover (1) for motor vehicles, machines or the like for the preventive protection of the surface against abrasive or chemical emissions, moisture caused by condensation and waterlogging and penetrating moisture as well as against mechanical damage during parking, storage and transportation. The protective cover that optimally protects the entire surface, is adaptable to different and complicated surface shapes as well as to projecting and movable as well as accessible parts, can be handled easily and in a site-independent manner, can be used repeatedly, and guarantees the movement and the control of the object being protected as well as the temporary use of movable parts or of parts that are to be opened without damaging the protective cover.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2002Date of Patent: July 8, 2003Assignee: Heinrich Heiland GmbHInventor: Rolf Heiland
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Patent number: 6578900Abstract: A portable shade assembly for vehicle that includes an elongated, wide fabric sunscreen member having weights provided along the bottom of the opposed shorter side edges thereof, and a number of gap-producing spacer members, of cylindrical or elongated polyhedral shape, attached to the vehicle-facing surface of the sunscreen; each of the spacer members includes an attachment strap extending from each end thereof that are adapted to be secured between a proximate door and its door jam of a vehicle such that when the door of the vehicle is in the closed position, the sunscreen members is secured to the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2002Date of Patent: June 17, 2003Inventor: Daniel Joseph Riportella
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Publication number: 20030098108Abstract: A cover for all-terrain vehicle is provided. The cover may also serve as an extra cushion for the vehicle or a seat for carrying into the field.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 28, 2001Publication date: May 29, 2003Inventor: Keith Littlefield
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Patent number: 6547313Abstract: A motor vehicle or other large object of manufacture can be selectably masked for painting, sanding or other finishing processes by disposing the article within a large polymeric bag having a drawstring closure. The bag is closed about at least a portion of the vehicle, and an opening is formed in the bag by selectably tearing away a portion of the bag to provide access to a section of the article to be treated. Portions of the opening thus formed can be taped to the vehicle. When the process is completed, the bag can be torn away from the vehicle. In some instances, the bag includes selectably weakened portions, such as perforated portions, which facilitate tearing of the bag. Also disclosed are specific bag structures.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2001Date of Patent: April 15, 2003Inventor: John Syron
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Patent number: 6517141Abstract: A water-proof car covering includes an integral water-proof plastic sheet having a base portion that is adapted to confine a bottom side of a car and that has a periphery, and a plurality of side portions that extend from the periphery of the base portion, that are adapted to confine the remaining sides of the car, and that respectively have peripheral side edges which are connected to form a continuous loop. A closure unit is secured to and extends along the entire length of the loop, and includes male and female interlocking members that are engageable with each other so as to permit watertight enclosing of the car by the plastic sheet.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2002Date of Patent: February 11, 2003Inventor: Tsun-Cheng Su
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Patent number: 6516844Abstract: The invention is a sunscreen protector for motorcycles that covers the seat and fuel tank area to protect these components from the deteriorating effects of sunlight. The protector shade includes a rectangular sheet of tightly woven nylon/lycra elastomeric material sized to cover only the motorcycle seat and fuel tank. Four elastic strap members and a plurality of hook loop members with attached, coated J-hook members are employed for attachment to selected attachment points on the motorcycle.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2001Date of Patent: February 11, 2003Inventor: Daniel A. Henry
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Patent number: 6513858Abstract: A spring tensioned roller and spaced tension bar have a vehicle cover folded in half and rolled around the spring tensioned roller. The rear half of the cover has an end rod and a central opening which allows it to be hooked over a trunk lock mechanism and kept secure when the trunk is shut. The front half of the cover has a lead rope or belt with two hooks for securing it under the hood of the vehicle or any other edged surface on the front of the car. The tensioned cover is elevated above the roof of the vehicle by the roller and tension bar for purposes of ventilation.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2002Date of Patent: February 4, 2003Inventors: Xingkang Li, Qiang Li, Xingjian Li
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Patent number: 6491335Abstract: An automobile body cover for positioning over an automobile body. The automobile body cover has a plurality of individual covers that together completely cover the automobile body. The body cover includes a front cover, a rear cover, a front middle cover, and a rear middle cover. Each cover fits over the corresponding part of the automobile. Each cover has an inner layer and an outer layer, an open bottom end, and a bottom edge. The layers are bound together at the bottom edge. When in place over the automobile, the inner layer rests against the automobile body. A plurality of C-shaped hooks extend downward from the bottom edges of the covers. These hooks secure the covers in place under the automobile. A plurality of magnets are positioned along the cover bottom edges, between the inner layer and the outer layer.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2002Date of Patent: December 10, 2002Inventor: Jerry Cohill
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Patent number: 6485086Abstract: A self-deploying cover for the cab of a vehicle, includes a roof, windshield, rear window and side windows. The cover comprises a fabric sheet having substantially the general dimensions of the cab for enclosing the cab when the cover is placed on the vehicle. A collapsible, semi-rigid frame or spring rod is provided along the periphery of the sheet for deploying the cover to an expanded state from a stored state. Connectors are provided for attaching the cover to the vehicle, suitably at the wheel wells. In another embodiment, the cover includes a skirt for covering other lower areas of the vehicle. In a third embodiment, the skirt also has a collapsible, semi-rigid frame or a spring for deploying the skirt.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2001Date of Patent: November 26, 2002Assignee: PopCover, Inc.Inventor: Frederick T. McGrath, Jr.
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Publication number: 20020171259Abstract: The bra, or protective cover, fits over the front-facing panel of a trailer. Trailers have a line of trim around the circumference of the front-facing panel, and the fixing means for the trailer-bra is incorporated into the trim. The (detachable) fixing means comprises posts inserted in place of the trim fixing screws, or comprises tapes of Velcro, aligned alongside the trim. The trailer-bra is thereby fixed immovably to the panel, and does not tend to nib or scuff the panel.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 17, 2001Publication date: November 21, 2002Inventor: Reginald Karl Reich
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Patent number: 6468612Abstract: A light weight plastic cover for a snowmobile that is locked in place on an enclosed snowmobile by a pair of lower bars. The cover is a hollow plastic molded cover which has two spaced pairs of through side holes located near its opened bottom. A plastic bar fits into each pair of aligned through holes and under the snowmobile. Each bar end and has a removable end nut. The cover has an opened bottom and a canvas material may be added to cover this bottom. Two holed rolled ends on the bottom material act to receive the retaining bars to form a complete cover enclosure. The snowmobile is confined within the formed enclosure with the bars locked in place near its bottom. The upper surface of the cover may have two ski surfaces molded into it. By turning the cover upside down, these cover skis surfaces engage the ground which then allow the cover's top surface to act as a sled to be pulled by the snowmobile, by hand or any other means desired.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2001Date of Patent: October 22, 2002Inventor: Loran S. Symonds
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Publication number: 20020139408Abstract: A lightweight, portable, inflatable cover to protect a vehicle from the elements that can dent and damage a vehicle surface, a tent for summer camping or winter ice fishing a cover or cushion to protect items in transit. Having a multitude of air chambers (26) vertical walls adhered to a top layer and a bottom layer with openings (28) in inner vertical walls allowing air to pass through openings filling air chambers as cover is inflated. An air valve stem (46) an air release screw in plug (32) to inflate and deflate cover. Elastic opening for antenna (40), grasp handles (42), reflector strips for safety with a identification name or number (22). Doors or flaps (11) with large zippers (20), and clear inserts (48). A cord (18) and locking pulley (16) to secure cover to vehicle and grommets (36). Air vents covered with breathable material (25) prevents air lifting, and circulation of air keeps interior of vehicle cooler in the summer and air vents are insulated for winter.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 26, 2001Publication date: October 3, 2002Inventor: Phyllis Muriel Mitzner
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Publication number: 20020125686Abstract: A trailer hitch cover assembly for a hitch receiver including a main body operatively connected to a hitch tube and adapted to allow insertion of a hitch into the hitch tube. The trailer hitch cover assembly also includes an insulating member disposed between the main body and the hitch tube. The trailer hitch cover assembly further includes a cover plate hingedly connected to the main body and being movable between a closed position and an open position.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 12, 2001Publication date: September 12, 2002Inventor: Robert B. Blake
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Patent number: 6443476Abstract: A device for covering a fifth wheel on a frame of a tractor. The covering device includes a tarpaulin and a storage device positioned on a first side of the frame for storing the tarpaulin when a semi-trailer is connected to the fifth wheel. The tarpaulin is held in a position above the fifth wheel by an elevating device upon removal of the tarpaulin from the storing device and into an extended position. A device is connected to the frame on a side of the fifth wheel opposite the storing device for selectively retaining the tarpaulin in an extended position above the elevating device and covering the fifth wheel. The covering device blocks dirt from contacting the fifth wheel and maintains the fifth wheel in a well lubricated state after the semi-trailer is removed thereby increasing the life of the fifth wheel. The cover also eliminates the possibility of a water and grease mixture normally caused by the greasy fifth wheel being exposed on a rainy day forming on the ground beneath the tractor.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2001Date of Patent: September 3, 2002Inventor: Rudolph O Molock, Jr.
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Patent number: 6439644Abstract: The present invention discloses a device for a cover on a vehicle, group of vehicles or building whereby the vehicles are protected from falling hail during a hail storm. The present invention comprises a flexible cover having an air blower for constantly supplying air to the cover along with spring-loaded outlet air valves whereby a preset pressure is maintained in the cover. The cover operates somewhat on the principle of a hovercraft according to dynamic physics. An air blower is also provided along with straps for holding the cover onto the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2001Date of Patent: August 27, 2002Inventor: Shaun P. Jester
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Patent number: 6431944Abstract: A toy including at least one endless stretchable loop supporting or defining a figure or representative object, the toy being sized and shaped for removable placement around a toy wheeled vehicle by tension exerted by the loop against selected exterior portions of the toy wheeled vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2000Date of Patent: August 13, 2002Assignee: Genie Toys, plc.Inventors: Casey William Norman, David Gamlin, Tony Thatcher
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Patent number: 6415832Abstract: A protective vehicle cover for protecting a vehicle from hail damage. The protective vehicle cover includes a bottom panel. The bottom panel has a top surface, a bottom surface and a peripheral edge. A top panel has a top surface, a bottom surface and a peripheral edge. The peripheral edge of the top panel is securely attached to the peripheral edge of the bottom panel. The bottom surface is securely attached to the top surface of bottom panel along a plurality of longitudinal lines and latitudinal lines in a grid pattern such that a plurality of discrete packets are defined. Each of a plurality of cushioning members is positioned within one of the packets. A first cinching means cinches a front edge of the top and bottom panels. A second cinching means for cinch a back edge of the top and bottom panels. The attached panels are positioned over a vehicle and the front and back edges are cinched to removably secure the panels to the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2000Date of Patent: July 9, 2002Inventor: Gene W. Ricks
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Patent number: 6412806Abstract: A cushioned cover for protecting the exposed metal parts of a hitch assembly. In its preferred embodiment, the cover is comprised of tubular segments. The segments are transected longitudinally by a seam which allows the cover to be opened and easily placed over a hitch assembly. The invention further comprises cinching straps which allow the cover to be tightly fastened to the hitch assembly.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2000Date of Patent: July 2, 2002Inventor: Doyle F. Peacock
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Patent number: 6405862Abstract: A motor vehicle flood protection apparatus includes a plastic container member having a bottom panel and integrally joined end, and side panels that have edges joined to form a vehicle container. The end and side panels have a vertical height that is less than the height of a vehicle to be flood protected but well above the float level for the motor vehicle and of sufficient height that, when surrounded by flood waters, the container floats with the vehicle carried therein. A pair of reinforcement strips joined to the bottom panel resists puncture of the plastic container member. One or more flap members are joined to the side of the container and a plurality of grommets are provided in the one or more flap members. A tether line for securing the plastic container member (with a vehicle thereon) to a stationary object that can be coupled to the grommets on the flaps.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 1998Date of Patent: June 18, 2002Inventors: Mark Allain, Joseph Allain, Jr.
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Publication number: 20020069947Abstract: A cover is provided to protect an object being transported in an air stream. The cover is configured and disposed to have at least two surfaces, a windward surface and a leeward surface. The leeward surface has at least one vent therein disposed such that a zone of negative air pressure caused by the change in the air stream causes air trapped inside the cover to be sucked out of the cover through said vent.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2001Publication date: June 13, 2002Inventors: Josee Frechette, Jef Stewart
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Patent number: 6371144Abstract: A tent having the overall appearance and shape of a NASCAR vehicle has fabric suspended between two sections of flexible pipe manufactured from PVC or fiberglass. The flexible tube sections cross forming two gentle smooth curves which when viewed from above form a flattened X. The bottom panel of the tent is a rectangle which has two parallel long sides and two parallel short sides and which may be staked to the ground. Two sides extend upwardly from the two long sides of the rectangle, and have the appearance of the sides of an automobile. The front bumper, the hood, the front windshield, the car top, the back window, rear spoiler and the rear bumper are formed by a panel which is joined to the tent bottom and the tent sides having printed indicia thereon representative of the various automotive parts. The driver's side of the car has a door formed by a zipper. A screen flap within the door forms an inner screen door.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2000Date of Patent: April 16, 2002Assignee: Capital Concepts, LLCInventor: Jeffrey C. Ragatz
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Patent number: 6371547Abstract: A scratch resistor for a vehicle having a front shield and a rear shield. The front shield is carried by a vehicle and covers at least in part a front portion of the vehicle. The rear shield is carried by the vehicle and covers at least in part a rear portion of the vehicle. A method of protecting a vehicle from scratches is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2000Date of Patent: April 16, 2002Inventor: William K. Halbrook
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Publication number: 20020007888Abstract: A decorative cover is employed for covering all or a portion of a vehicle or other large object to be protected. The cover comprises a base formed of generally flexible material, the base being sized and shaped to cover, at least a portion of the object to be covered when placed on or over the object. The base has an inner surface for engaging the object to be covered and an exposed outer surface. The outer surface of the base includes a decorative pattern.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2000Publication date: January 24, 2002Inventor: Mark Gregorek
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Patent number: 6325121Abstract: A side view mirror cover is disclosed. The mirror cover includes a bonnet-like cover portion designed to conform to the exterior shape of the side view mirror housing. An elastic gather is provided along the open rear of the cover. A first pair of securement straps are provided for bringing together the ends of the elastic gather. A separate securement is provided for the open base of the cover about the stem attaching the mirror housing to the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Inventor: Shea D. Hudnall
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Patent number: 6318426Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and associated method for protecting an object from the effects of inclement weather. In one aspect, the present invention provides an apparatus comprising a cover which has a central portion and a skirt portion. The central portion further comprises a plurality of pad members which are disposed about the central portion to allow an efficient and convenient method for folding the apparatus. The skirt portion further comprises webbing and eyelets which are used to secure the apparatus to an object in the presence of inclement weather.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2000Date of Patent: November 20, 2001Inventor: Gerald R. Thomas
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Patent number: 6318393Abstract: A portable vehicle covering device including a roof portion coupled with respect to the roof of the vehicle. A hood portion is slidably received within the roof portion in a retracted orientation. The hood portion slides outwardly of the roof portion in an extended orientation for covering the hood of the vehicle. A trunk portion is slidably received within the roof portion in a retracted orientation. The trunk portion slides outwardly of the hood portion in an extended orientation for covering the trunk of the vehicle. A first side door portion is slidably received within the roof portion in a retracted orientation. The first side door portion extends outwardly of the roof portion in an extended orientation for covering the door of the first side of the vehicle. The first side door portion includes front and rear portions for selectively covering the forward and rearward portions of the first side of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2000Date of Patent: November 20, 2001Inventor: Winstun Glasgo