For A Vehicle Patents (Class 206/335)
  • Patent number: 5062560
    Abstract: A flexible protective cover constructed of elastic stretchable material to continously cover a bicycle seat, crossbar, handle bars and the front fork of a bicycle when mounted on a car top carrier. The cover can be provided to fit the bicycle either with or without the front bicycle wheel attached to the bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1991
    Inventor: Kent J. Wasden
  • Patent number: 5031769
    Abstract: An article organizer for a motor vehicle is provided and consists of a rectangular housing having an open top with a plurality of partitions crating multiple compartments to hold different articles in an orderly manner. Hand grips are on the housing so that it can be carried therefrom and a plurality of anti-skid fingers are on the bottom of the housing to a prevent it from sliding about. In a modification the housing and partitions are adjustable to compensate for different sized articles that fit into the compartments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1991
    Inventors: Francis L. Shea, George Spector
  • Patent number: 5027947
    Abstract: A reclosable package includes a container to hold a commercial article. A portion of the back of the container is left open to form an area sufficient to remove the commercial article from the container. A sleeve, working in a sliding relationship with the container, is used to cover the removal area for shipment and display. The sleeve may be removed by the customer to reveal the removal area, allowing the customer to remove or return the commercial article without the need to damage the container. The same sleeve is reused to cover the removal area without damaging the package or the commercial article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1991
    Assignee: Cooper Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard L. Reighart
  • Patent number: 5000318
    Abstract: An arrangement for anchoring automobile bodies within a shipping container including a plurality of inflatable elements which are adapted to project into corresponding openings in a horizontally positioned member in an automobile body following which the elements are inflated to engage the edges of the openings and lock the body to a lower wall of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1991
    Inventor: Julius B. Kupersmit
  • Patent number: 4991716
    Abstract: A hand cart or wheelbarrow is provided with a tub member having slanted walls, one with respect to another, together with suitably designed auxiliary members, such as a handle, wheels, axle and hardware. At the factory site the auxiliary members and hardware are placed within the tub and enveloped as a unit with a packaging material so that the resultant package is of the same general shape and configuration as the tub and contains all the elements of the complete product. In this way each package can be nested in another like package, and a plurality of such packages, so nested together, can form a compact shipping unit, storage unit or sales unit that affords maximum protection to each product and that virtually eliminates wasted space between the stacked products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 12, 1991
    Assignee: Republic Tool & Mfg. Corp.
    Inventor: Paul M. Havlovitz
  • Patent number: 4991715
    Abstract: A case for containing and protecting a bicycle during transport generally comprising a base with a front and a rear mount for attachtment to front and rear portions of the bicycle respectively. A flexible cover contains the bicycle with the case. The case may be made adjustable for different bicycle sizes by slidably engaging one of the mounts on said base. Various embodiments of the case provide a frame for protecting the gears of the bicycle and provide a wheel pad for wrapping and storing the wheels of the bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 12, 1991
    Inventor: Robert F. Williams
  • Patent number: 4944340
    Abstract: A unique travel and storage cover for covering wheeled vehicles, such as bicycles. The present invention discloses such a cover that form fits a wheeled vehicle and is sufficiently aerodynamic that the cover can be used when transporting the bicycle by motor vehicle. The cover is constructed such that it fits tightly around the wheels, pedals, frame, handle bars, and seat of the bicycle. The cover may be constructed in one piece. Alternatively, a separate seat cover may be provided such that the seat is tightly covered. Alternatively, the cover may comprise multiple pieces, each designed for covering a particular component of the vehicle.The cover is provided with zippers, VELCRO, or other suitable means of attachment at all locations comprising openings in the cover. This allows the bicycle or other vehicle to be easily placed inside the cover. Once inside the cover, the cover is secured by closing the zipper or zippers. This provides a tight, form fit which holds the cover snugly about the bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 31, 1990
    Inventor: Rainey Tortorich
  • 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: 4936409
    Abstract: A hold down apparatus for clamping a battery within a motorized vehicle for preventing movement thereof particularly during sudden accelerations and decelerations of the vehicle. The hold down apparatus includes a non-metallic tray mounted to the motorized vehicle and a strap having a two-part quick disconnect buckle for anchoring a battery within the tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 26, 1990
    Inventors: Charles D. Nix, Johnny P. Baker, William F. Huntley
  • Patent number: 4930557
    Abstract: A tube made of flexible tarpaulins or sheeting as a covering for relatively large objects for the purpose of long-term storage. The tube is provided on the outer circumference with attachments for the application of force to enable the tube to be raised to its proper shape, thus allowing entry of the object. The tube then only requires to be closed at its ends by means of removable clamps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 5, 1990
    Inventor: Jurgen Lohse
  • Patent number: 4925025
    Abstract: A packaged toy having a temporary, inexpensive battery power supply, replaceable by conventional batteries for long term use, permits the creation of a point of purchase display, activated while in the package. Two circuits may be wired in parallel so that the temporary battery power supply is disconnected after the permanent power supply is placed in the unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 15, 1990
    Inventors: Lewis Anten, Arnold Rubin
  • Patent number: 4921100
    Abstract: A shipping rack with a rack latch assembly capable of holding a plurality of vehicle parts, such as door panels, in separated arrangement during shipping and which allows easy removable of the parts and is reusable. The shipping rack is also adaptable to ship parts having slight dimensional variations in height. The door panels are supported in a vertical direction by engagement of the underside of the upper overturned flange of the door panel. Dunnage bars restrain movement of the door panel in a lateral direction and a holding bar is used to secure the lower portion of the door panel against longitudinal movement. A latching assembly is provided for securing the lower horizontally extending flange against movement in an upward direction. The latching assembly includes latching elements with a pair of vertically spaced horizontally extending arms for engaging the lower flange of door panels having slightly different vertical lengths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 1, 1990
    Assignee: Chrysler Corporation
    Inventor: Duane K. Krause
  • Patent number: 4921101
    Abstract: The present invention is a rack for shipping sun roof modules including a bottom wall having a width and length and an upstanding end wall at each end of the length of the bottom wall. A pair of laterally spaced channel members extend upwardly along each end wall and an insert extends longitudinally and having ends disposed within longitudinally opposed channel members and adapted to receive sun roof modules placed thereon. The insert includes means for allowing successive inserts to be stacked with a sun roof module contained therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 1, 1990
    Assignee: Chrysler Corporation
    Inventor: Edward W. Gatt
  • Patent number: 4905828
    Abstract: The present invention relates in general to the packaging of minature model vehicles and trading cards relating thereto, and it relates more particularly to a novel combination of a trading card including a picture of the vehicle, a picture of the driver represented by the model and information relating to the driver, a display stand for the vehicle and the associated card, and a model vehicle, all of which are carried by a single display and packaging card.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 6, 1990
    Assignee: Racing Champions, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert E. Dods
  • Patent number: 4892190
    Abstract: A bicycle case having a pair of hinged container sections having opposed upper and bottom chambers for receiving the partially disassembled parts of a bicycle. The bottom chamber includes a pair of parallel longitudinal support bars secured to the opposite end walls of the bottom container section and a pair of transverse support bars having their end portions clamped to and slidably supported upon the longitudinal support bars. One or more tie devices, each including a clamp device for securing the tie devices to a corresponding transverse support bar and including a tie or strap member, are positioned along either or both transverse support bars for securing the strap member to a portion of the bicycle frame mounted upon the support bars. The bicycle case is uniquely adapted for containing all of the partially disassembled parts of a mountain bike to facilitate transportation of the mountain bike.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 9, 1990
    Inventor: Charles B. Delgado
  • Patent number: 4884733
    Abstract: A new type of storage container for use in storing materials, such as papers, brief cases, etc. in the trunk of a vehicle for those who use the trunk as an office, comprising a rectangular open top box prepared from plastic sheet material, and preferably clear plastic sheets, plastic sheet divider members fixedly attached to the two side and dividing the box into at least three separate sections, the first and front section capable of receiving a conventional brief case, and the second and third sections being subdivided into at least two subsections each, and a plastic sheet removable top which covers all but the first section of the box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 5, 1989
    Inventor: Garry L. Geeves
  • Patent number: 4867314
    Abstract: In an airtight shelter or container having an impermeable flexible base sheet sealed to an impermeable flexible cover sheet by an inflatable tubular seal within a slotted tubular frame, the slotted tubular frame is formed of lengths of slotted tube secured together by a flexible part annular locking element having a lug or projection resiliently engaging in aligned transverse apertures through mated slotted tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1985
    Date of Patent: September 19, 1989
    Assignee: Airflex Containers Limited
    Inventor: Harold J. Clements
  • Patent number: 4860911
    Abstract: A further modification of the invention of U.S. Ser. No. 06/649,522 below discloses a closed multi purpose product container suitable for heavy duty transportation of commodity products by railroad flat cars, freight ships and land motor truck powered trailers. The modification of a full top opening has two intersecting hinged flat rigid top lids and can have side flaps extending the container length. Each one-half flat hinged lid can open and hinge from one of the opposed two long flat rigid side walls. A pair of an opposed front end wall and a hinged rear end wall door can have end wall load reinforcement designed to prevent the container end walls from bowing and deforming in shape during the acceleration and deceleration of the loaded cargo container, during the starting and stopping of a loaded train having the product containers disposed on the flat cars of the train.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1985
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1989
    Inventor: John L. Jones, Sr.
  • Patent number: 4804087
    Abstract: A stackable, knockdown shipping stand for a lawn and garden tractor includes a flat, boxlike injection molded polystyrene pallet forming a base of the stand and having a four post framework removably mounted thereon with the posts being received in stake pockets formed in the upper surface of the pallet adjacent its corners. Storage recesses are provided in the upper surface of the pallet for receiving the framework when the latter is dismantled and in the lower surface of the pallet for receiving an exposed portion of a framework located in a lower pallet when knocked-down stands are being stacked one atop another. The upper surface of the pallet, in a preferred embodiment, includes wheel wells for receiving the wheels of a tractor being shipped and a gauge roller receptacle for receiving the gauge roller of a rotary mower deck being shipped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1989
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventor: Timothy M. Smith
  • Patent number: 4796410
    Abstract: A container for a portable automobile ramp, the ramp including a platform having opposite ends and an upper surface for supporting an automobile tire, a leg extending downwardly from one end of the platform, and a ramp extending at an incline downwardly from the other end of the platform, and the container comprising a body portion for enclosing the platform of the automobile ramp, the body portion including opposite ends, a leg portion for enclosing the leg of the automobile ramp, the leg portion being integrally connected to the body portion and extending generally perpendicularly from one end of the body portion, and a ramp portion for enclosing the ramp of the automobile ramp, the ramp portion being integrally connected to the body portion and extending obliquely from the opposite end of the body portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Inventor: Philip L. Lundman
  • Patent number: 4792040
    Abstract: A cover for a motorcycle and a rain suit for a motorcycle rider are contained on opposite sides of a single pouch. The motorcycle cover is contained within one compartment of the pouch and is accessed by opening a Velcro fastened flap. The rain suit is contained on the opposite side of the pouch and is also received beneath a Velcro fastened flap. When the motorcycle rider is wearing the rain suit, the pouch containing the motorcycle cover is disposed on the rider's back. The rain suit includes a hood, removably received within a pocket on the upper back portion of the rain suit. Closures are provided at the wrists and ankles of the rain suit. When it is desired to place the cover over the motorcycle, the rain suit is folded and stored within the compartment on one side of the pouch and the motorcycle cover is withdrawn from the other side of the pouch and placed over the motorcycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 20, 1988
    Inventor: Henry C. Wagstaff, III
  • Patent number: 4792043
    Abstract: A shipping unit is provided for accommodating a relatively heavy product such as a non-riding mower with a handle therefor in a collapsed mode. The unit includes an outer container of corrugated fibreboard material in which the mower is disposed. The outer container includes a bottom section subtending the accommodated mower; side sections extending upright from the periphery of the bottom section and substantially embracing the accommodated mower; and closure members disposed at upper portions of the side sections and overlying the accommodated mower. Disposed within the container and supportingly engaged by the container bottom section is a base pad. The pad has a surface thereof provided with a plurality of relatively spaced wheel wells in which the wheels of the accommodated mower are disposed. Also positioned within the outer container is an inner packing of unitary construction for stabilizing the accommodated mower.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 20, 1988
    Assignee: Packaging Corporation of America
    Inventor: John T. Holladay
  • Patent number: 4792039
    Abstract: A carrier for storing and/or transporting a partially disassembled bicycle is disclosed as including a rigid base section and rigid left and right side sections. Quick-release hinge devices detachably and pivotably connect each of the side sections to the base section. A mounting assembly detachably mounts an upright bicycle frame on the base section. Releasable devices are also provided for mounting the bicycle wheels on either of the two side sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 20, 1988
    Inventor: Lynford Dayton
  • Patent number: 4783177
    Abstract: A seal for reusably sealing an opening formed by a slit in a sheet material portion of an envelope providing an airtight enclosure, which seal comprises an edge formation having first and second flexible members secured along respective first and second edge portions of the slit, a rigid member extending along the length of the slit and having a channel along its length for receiving and holding therein the first and second flexible members in contact with one another so as to close the opening, inflatable means operable upon inflation thereof to urge the first and second flexible members into sealing engagement with one another and to secure the first and second members within the channel of the rigid member, and retaining means for resisting withdrawal of the first and second flexible members from the channel whilst the inflatable means is deflated. The retaining means simplifies the alignment of the flexible members prior to inflation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1987
    Date of Patent: November 8, 1988
    Assignee: Airflex Containers Ltd.
    Inventor: Norman L. Reed
  • Patent number: 4775561
    Abstract: A flanged tank (1) is sealed by a covering of fiber-resin composites (16,17). At each tank flange (4,5), the composite (17) extends continuously from a point on one tank half shell (2), across the flange (4,5), to a point on the other tank half shell (3). The composite (17) is pressed and conformed to the flange surfaces (9) and flange end (10) by means of a clamping member (30) incorporated with the composite (17) by curing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1987
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1988
    Assignee: Robert W. Norris
    Inventor: Frank L. Barnett
  • Patent number: 4773456
    Abstract: A motor vehicle flood protection apparatus comprising a flexible cover of water impervious material that is adapted to be folded over a motor vehicle and sealed to form a water impervious container around the motor vehicle and a flexible vent tube that opens at one end into the said container and that is provided with a flotation collar at the other end for buoying up the other end to the surface of flood waters. A spring loaded baffle vents air within the container to the atmosphere while at the same time preventing water, mud and debris from entering the vent tube and the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1984
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1988
    Inventor: James K. Rodgers
  • Patent number: 4763783
    Abstract: A method of shrink film packaging an assembled aircraft or portion thereof for transport, storage or the like comprises the steps of covering exposed jagged or sharp edges and discontinuities, exposed irregularly shaped areas, and exposed heat-sensitive components of the aircraft with a foam material. The aircraft is then wrapped with a plurality of separate sections of heat-shrinkable polymer film with adjoining sections partially overlapping to provide a generally continuous covering. Heat is then applied to the heat-shrinkable film sections to shrink the film to tightly conform to the aircraft, to fuse together overlapping film sections and to fuse portions of the film to adjoining foam material. Elongated strips of heat-shrinkable material are then applied along seams formed by the fusing together of the overlapping film sections. Finally, heat is applied to the elongated strips to shrink and fuse the strips to the film sections on both sides of the seams to seal and reinforce the seams.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1988
    Assignee: Fana, Inc.
    Inventor: James E. Talbot
  • Patent number: 4756416
    Abstract: A knock-down collapsible carrier for storing and transporting athletic equipment such as a bicycle or the like. The carrier comprises a hollow housing unit, shaped and dimensioned in a tri-dimensional box-like structure, adopted to contain a partially dismantled bicycle. The housing unit includes a front wall, a rear wall, two side walls, and a top member, each of which comprises a pair of light-weight layers of flexible composition, for removably housing a plurality of resilient rigidifying inserts. The carrier further comprises a plurality of strap bands for retaining the bicycle inside the housing unit, leaving a clearance space therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1987
    Date of Patent: July 12, 1988
    Inventor: Alan L. Johnson
  • Patent number: 4733707
    Abstract: A vehicle wheel end assembly (10) is adaptable for use with an on-board central tire inflation system. The assembly provides a passage for the routing of air between a central source and the vehicle tire (25). The assembly comprises a stationary spindle (12) and a rotational hub (14) mounted thereon. A collar (34) is mounted on the inboard end of the spindle in interfacing relation with an inboard extension (50) of the hub. An air chamber, defined by the radial spacing of the collar (34) and hub extension (50), communicates air passages in the collar and hub (36, 44). The chamber is fitted with a pair of rotary seals (72, 74) to seal the air passage between the stationary collar (34) and rotating hub (14). The rotary seals (72, 74) each include an integral sealing lip (80) which responds to pressurization of the chamber by biasing into sealed relation with the outer surface of the collar (34).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1985
    Date of Patent: March 29, 1988
    Assignee: AM General Corporation
    Inventors: Fred L. Goodell, Michael J. Ellison
  • Patent number: 4693289
    Abstract: A protective wheelchair cover into which a wheelchair is easily introduced, and methods of using same during the transportation or storage of a wheelchair. The cover provides a complete enclosure into which a wheelchair can be easily rolled. The cover provides protection during the transportation of a wheelchair by motor vehicle, or during storage of a wheelchair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1985
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1987
    Assignee: Community of Jesus, Inc.
    Inventors: Cynthia L. Taylor, Judith E. M. Nash
  • Patent number: 4683902
    Abstract: A tubular frame structure for enclosing a storage area having a pair of tubular frame sections located in juxtaposition to each other with the storage area located therebetween. Extending across the storage area and connecting the frame sections is an enclosed housing. A flexible sheet material cover is located within the storage area. This cover has an open bottom which is to be movable between a lower (covering) position to an upper (uncovering) position. The movement of the cover is accomplished by means of a pair of cables which are conducted through the tubular frame sections. These cables are in turn connected to an electrically operated motor device mounted within the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1986
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1987
    Inventor: Ralph A. Wilson
  • Patent number: 4673064
    Abstract: The present invention includes a conversion kit having substantially four pairs of pieces including a pair of rotors, a pair of calipers, a pair of bracket plates, and a pair of hub inserts along with the necessary fastening structure. The installation or conversion is as follows: The drum brake is completely removed from the axle and the new rotor is mounted thereon. The rotor is bored out to form a longitudinal cylindrical channel therethrough and the hub insert having an elongated cylindrical portion and a flanged portion is force-fitted with the hollow elongated aperture of the hub until the flange is force-fitted within a circular recess on the outer face of the hub and fastened there so that its face is generally coplanar with the face of the hub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1986
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1987
    Inventor: Alan L. Will
  • Patent number: 4635110
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for displaying a video program in an automobile to backseat passengers. The apparatus includes one portion which securely accomodates a TV. To it is rotatably coupled a panel which securely accomodates the VCR and can be swung against the first portion to form a space for protecting the the TV and VCR from damage. One embodiment includes a padded head portion and two panels respectively suspended therefrom by a hinge. The rearward surface of the head portion has an opening in which a television set is secured and through which the screen is visible. Padding in the head is provided for passenger safety. Audio is available from an assembly mounted on the rear panel. Video tape playback is provided by a VCR mounted on the front panel. All the components are combined in a single unit to be easily installed into and removed from the automobile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1985
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1987
    Inventor: Lee S. Weinblatt
  • Patent number: 4595097
    Abstract: A toy vehicle package for providing secure, open front display of the packaged vehicle. It is constructed of carton-forming sheet material, having top, bottom and side walls and a rear wall defining a toy vehicle-receiving enclosure with an open front through which the toy vehicle is insertable and displayable. The bottom wall is provided with a bottom flap configured for being folded inwardly of the enclosure to define an enclosure floor, the flap providing a vehicle-engaging configuration for engaging the vehicle after being received in the enclosure. One or more locking tabs are carried by the bottom wall for engaging the inwardly folded flap, locking the flap in its vehicle-engaging configuration to lock the vehicle against withdrawal through the open front.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1985
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1986
    Assignee: Buddy L Corporation
    Inventor: Barry S. Herstein
  • Patent number: 4574946
    Abstract: An open-front carton for packaging and displaying a toy vehicle, the carton having an internal locking device to prevent unauthorized withdrawal of the vehicle. The carton includes a back wall, a bottom wall and a platform elevated thereabove, the vehicle being snugly received within the carton so that its inner wheels lie adjacent the back wall, and its outer wheels lie adjacent the open front. The locking device is constituted by cooperating major and minor flaps. The major flap is cut out of the platform to define a leading edge and a fold line both parallel to the rear wall, the minor flap being cut out of the bottom wall to define a leading edge and a fold line both at right angles to the back wall. The major flap is provided at its middle with a transverse slot aligned with the minor flap fold line whereby when the minor flap is folded in, it engages and raises the major flap, the leading edge of the minor flap then entering the slot to maintain this flap in an upstanding position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1985
    Date of Patent: March 11, 1986
    Assignee: Buddy L Corp
    Inventor: Hiroshi Hanazato
  • Patent number: 4570417
    Abstract: To load several self-propelled vehicles in a container with optimum utilization of the available volume in the container, the front axle and wheels are replaced by a smaller auxiliary wheel which is attached to the front end of the vehicle. The rear wheels are replaced by smaller auxiliary wheels. The resulting reduction in vehicle height and front end width makes it possible to locate more vehicles than previously possible into an open top, shipping container. The vehicles as modified for shipping are still driveable and steerable and thus, may be loaded and unloaded from the container by driving the vehicle under its own power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1984
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1986
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventor: Friedhelm Herr
  • Patent number: 4564987
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing a tail pipe replacement kit for automotive vehicle comprises forming a first arch section and a second spout section separate therefrom and connectable thereto. The two sections in kit form are secured together in overlapping relationship expediently using adhesive tape. Cardboard cheeks sandwich the bight of the arch to enclose therewith a space wherein hardware for the assembly of the kit is enclosed. The arch sections are conformed to fit within the spatial envelopes of a plurality of vehicles. It is found that some 25 different kits can service a market presently serviced by about 250 tail pipes formed as a unitary whole. The kits are easier to transport and easier to install in comparison to unitary tail pipes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1984
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1986
    Assignee: Thrush Incorporated
    Inventor: Peter Roberts
  • Patent number: 4562636
    Abstract: In a storage configuration of a clutch cover assembly, its pressure plate (14) is immobilized by at least one limiting member (41) comprising two lugs (43, 43') each having two arms (45, 46 (45', 46')). In the method of manufacturing the clutch cover assembly, the lugs (43, 43') are manufactured with a temporary shape (430, 430') and, during assembly, the pressure plate is positioned at an axial distance from the cover corresponding to the storage position. The lugs (43, 43') are then plastically deformed to their final shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1983
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1986
    Assignee: Valeo
    Inventor: Roger F. L. Carmillet
  • Patent number: 4562752
    Abstract: A housing for a master brake cylinder having a forwardly projecting piston, including a bottom wall for underlying the piston and at least the forward portion of the cylinder, a pair of upstanding side walls on laterally opposite sides of the bottom wall, and a front wall joined to the bottom wall and spanning the side walls, a top wall joined to the front wall and spanning the side walls, the top wall overlying the piston and being inclined upwardly rearwardly, the top and bottom walls being forwardly convergent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1982
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1986
    Inventor: Kenneth D. Hurley
  • Patent number: 4537304
    Abstract: A railway coupler yoke assembly is provided. A yoke, draft gear and follower are assembled as a unit assembly and maintained as such by the installation of bands at various locations about the assembly. Such yoke assembly can then be shipped and stored as an assembly until the time of installation in a railway car. At such time, the bands are cut and the assembly is placed in the railway car.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1983
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1985
    Assignee: AMSTED Industries Incorporated
    Inventors: John W. Kaim, Norman A. Berg, Russell G. Altherr
  • Patent number: 4537280
    Abstract: An exhaust extension pipe kit for replacing original equipment of different size and configuration, where the connector to which the exhaust extension pipe connects is of a ball type and the original equipment have differing ball radii, wherein the exhaust extension pipe is dimensioned to connect to the large diameter ball and an adapter is provided for connecting the smaller diameter ball which is configured as a cup-like body having an opening in the base thereof together with means for restricting the non-axial rotary movement of the adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1984
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1985
    Assignee: Thrush Incorporated
    Inventor: Peter Roberts
  • Patent number: 4529053
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a battery tray fabricated out of a battery grade polypropylene and structured to be adapted to a plurality of different sized batteries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1983
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1985
    Inventor: Walter R. Tucker
  • Patent number: 4526275
    Abstract: A seal kit for preventing the loss of transmission fluid when servicing and/or storing an automatic transmission includes first and second plugs and a retaining strap. The first plug seals the aperture which normally receives the transmission's dipstick. The second plug seals the aperture which is formed when the rearward portion of the transmission is disconnected from the vehicle's drive shaft. This plug has a handle portion and a hollow cylindrical shank having a smooth outer surface which is engaged by the lip seal surrounding this aperture. Finally, a retaining strap having apertures in opposite ends thereof which align with apertures in a flange at the transmission's forward end is secured by means of bolts for example across the forward end of the transmission to secure the torque converter contained therein when the transmission is disconnected from the vehicle's bell housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1984
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1985
    Inventor: David A. Nixon
  • Patent number: 4512503
    Abstract: An all purpose vehicle travel organizer which rests on a vehicle seat and has a fixed tray surmounted by a sliding tray. Each of the trays may contain a variety of items such as pens, pencils, tape cassettes, and cigarette packs and lighter. Special threaded drinking cups screw into threaded cylindrical openings on top of the sliding tray. A hasp and detent lock system locks the sliding tray into position once the tray position has been selected. The travel organizer also holds and organizes cans, bottles, coinage and many miscellaneous items. A built-in light provides illumination for the fixed tray or for maps or any other objects. The organizer may be tied to a seat using tie down loops provided or may be attached using hook and loop pile type material fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1984
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1985
    Inventor: John Gioso
  • Patent number: 4506786
    Abstract: A bicycle storage structure which includes an elongated housing with one closed end and an opening at the other end. The housing has a top and a bottom joined by spaced side panels with one or more laterally projecting members protruding from the side panels into the interior of the housing. Said members having a surface adapted to overlie the pedals of a bicycle within the housing and prevent turning of the pedals as the bicycle is withdrawn from the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1983
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1985
    Inventors: Alvin E. Buchanan, James E. Buchanan
  • Patent number: 4487314
    Abstract: A tire chain container apparatus which is comprised of a bottom casing or bottom having an internal storage area for receiving tire chains and which is designed so that it can stand in an upright position. A cover for the casing is formed substantially of a molded plastic material and is adapted to be used as a mounting member for installing a tire chain around a vehicle wheel tire. The container cover is provided with a pair of ramps leading to a somewhat dished or concave upward surface and is provided with a recess in the upper surface to receive a portion of the tire chain. The cover is formed so that it is not only light in weight, but includes internal ribs in order to reinforce the same and structurally accommodate the weight of the vehicle carried by that wheel and tire and supported by the cover. Carrying handles are mounted on the casing for carrying the apparatus and which handles are adapted to hold the cover in place and displaceable to permit removal of the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1983
    Date of Patent: December 11, 1984
    Assignee: Wink Corporation
    Inventor: Robert T. Stewart
  • Patent number: 4480368
    Abstract: To service an engine (10), it is frequently determined that a cylinder liner (12) and piston (18) must be replaced. It is difficult and time consuming to first install the liner (12) and then the piston (18) with the rings (20) and connecting rod (22). A pre-assembled unit (36) including the liner (12) and piston (18) may be installed on the engine according to a disclosed method. The unitary assembly simplifies steps at the service facility and, if desired, permits assembly of the unit (36) prior to shipment to the service facility to reduce shipping space and cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1983
    Date of Patent: November 6, 1984
    Assignee: Caterpillar Tractor Co.
    Inventor: Louis F. Vachon
  • Patent number: 4475737
    Abstract: A slip spline assembly includes a splined stub shaft slidably received in a splined bore of a yoke member. A sealing plug is provided at one end of the yoke bore to maintain lubricant on the splines and prevent ingress of foreign matter. A plurality of resilient fingers on the plug snap into an annular groove formed in the yoke bore to positively retain the plug. A vent opening in the plug relieves pressure in the closed end of the yoke when the splined shaft slides toward the yoke closed end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1982
    Date of Patent: October 9, 1984
    Assignee: Dana Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas J. Cook, Jr., Jay W. Thorngurgh
  • Patent number: 4470506
    Abstract: A kit for retrofitting a vehicle to include an automatic tire inflation system is disclosed. The kit includes a control box for mounting within the cabin of the vehicle. The control box includes a selector device that is manually actuable by the operator to select the desired pressure for the tires. A valve is used to inflate or deflate the tires as a function of the pressure differential between the actual and the desired tire pressures. In the preferred embodiment, the actual tire pressure is monitored by way of a static pressure tank connected to the tires through a fixed orifice. The kit permits a manufacturer to mass produce a certain vehicle and then selectively choose which ones of the vehicles are to be provided with an automatic tire inflation system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1982
    Date of Patent: September 11, 1984
    Assignee: AM General Corporation
    Inventors: Fred L. Goodell, Michael J. Ellison
  • Patent number: 4469224
    Abstract: A blank for a carton for packing bicycles and other articles is formed from a rectangular piece of sheet material such as corrugated paperboard so as to save waste material. It is cut and scored so that it may be preliminarily formed into a tube to be shipped flat to the packager and, as it is being erected, so that integral portions and parts may be folded into strut columns extending from wall to wall in two directions to prevent the contained article from tilting or migrating inside the container during shipment and to strengthen the carton against the pressures of stacking and handling by clamp trucks and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1983
    Date of Patent: September 4, 1984
    Assignee: International Paper Company
    Inventor: Dale L. Ritter