Vehicle Roof Or Trunk Lid Associated Carrier Mounted Within Vehicle Compartment Patents (Class 224/311)
  • Patent number: 5954252
    Abstract: A slidable support device for garments for use in a vehicle includes a support, a hook, and a locking mechanism. The support is coupled to the vehicle. The support includes two longitudinally extending grooves that are spaced from one another. The hook includes two longitudinally extending contact surfaces that are spaced from one another. The hook contact surfaces are shaped to mate with the support grooves in a sliding engagement. Upon engagement of the hook with the support, the hook slides relative to the support. The locking mechanism releasably retains the hook at various longitudinal positions along the support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Assignee: UT Automotive Dearborn, Inc.
    Inventors: Girma M. Gebreselassie, Mark F. Heinz
  • Patent number: 5946055
    Abstract: A display unit is provided, the display unit including a housing configured for mounting in an interior region of a vehicle, and a screen mounted on the housing for movement between a stowed position wherein the screen is at least partially contained within the housing and a deployed position wherein the screen projects from the housing to reveal a viewing surface of the screen. When the screen is deployed, the viewing surface typically is at an angle of between approximately 45-degrees and 90-degrees from horizontal, promoting viewability of the screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Assignee: Rosen Product Development, Inc.
    Inventor: John B. Rosen
  • Patent number: 5829813
    Abstract: A standard truck topper to which the present invention may be attached is generally designated in the Figures by reference numeral 10. The truck topper 10 consists of a front end 12, rear end 14, roof 16, and sidewalls 18. An openable door 20 is generally provided at the rear end 14 of the topper. Such a standard topper is adapted for placement on the bed 24 of a standard pickup truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Inventor: Lawrence R. LaValle
  • Patent number: 5779120
    Abstract: An improved, modular firearm support for retaining firearms in close association to a vehicle ceiling. The support includes a formed metal bracket having orthogonal top and back mounting plates and a pair of padded cradles which are fitted to opposite sides of firearm lock and trigger shroud assemblies. An adjustable lock plate offsets the lock from the back plate to fully seat the firearm at the cradles and trigger shroud. Multiple draw clamps are fitted to the back plate to retain the support to a vehicle support, for example, a roll bar, divider panel or a telescoping support, which spans the vehicle. A slide bracket is also provided at the telescoping vehicle support to vary the mounting location of the firearm support. Alternative shrouds are also disclosed to protect either the trigger or other critical firearm parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Assignee: Big Sky Racks, Inc.
    Inventor: Ted Morford
  • Patent number: 5775761
    Abstract: A holder for small articles of the invention is provided in a ceiling of an automobile. The holder is formed of a frame member fixed to the ceiling in a cabin of the automobile, and a movable member including a rotating shaft pivotally attached to the frame member, a lid portion for opening and closing an opening of the frame member, and a case portion provided at a rear side of the lid portion. When the lid portion is opened, an opening of the case portion is exposed in the cabin. A stopper projection is formed at a back portion of the case portion and has a projecting edge for defining an open position of the lid portion by engaging the frame member. The projecting edge is located on an imaginary circumferential line having a radius substantially equal to a length from a center of the rotating shaft to the opening edge of the lid portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Assignees: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha, Nifco Inc.
    Inventors: Goro Asami, Tomoo Eguchi, Osamu Takezawa, Yuji Saito, Hideyuki Abe
  • Patent number: 5762245
    Abstract: An automobile accessory to be attached to the inside of the trunk lid. When the trunk lid is open, it provides a horizontal shelf in its operative position. The horizontal shelf provides space and support for various items, such as food and beverages. The device has two planar elements hingedly attached to each other along one edge, respectively. The two opposite edges of the planar elements are attached to each other by flexible adjustable straps. One planar element is fabricated with a uniform pattern of aperatures to cooperate with the trunk lid structure and provide different attachment points necessary for different automobiles. Fasteners, extending through the selected aperatures, are attached to the appropriate points on the inside of the trunk lid by bracket, magnet or otherwise adhered thereto, affixing the planar element to the trunk lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Inventor: Andrew Hurst
  • Patent number: 5715978
    Abstract: A device for variable division of a motor vehicle boot and for securing the loaded goods has a guide rail arranged on the boot floor and one or more support panels guided by a sliding guide block in the guide rail at right angles to the guide rail and so as to be transversely displaceable therein. The support panels are mounted to rotate in the sliding block and can be swivelled up out of a horizontal position in which they lie substantially parallel to the boot floor, into a position vertical with respect to the boot floor, and can be locked. On the support panels there are provided connecting elements to which fixing modules or belt modules for securing the loaded goods or for dividing the boot in a second axis can be fixed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Assignee: fischerwerke Artur Fischer GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Peter Ackeret
  • Patent number: 5702144
    Abstract: An article storage structure has a wall defining a cavity in an inner lining of a motor vehicle tailgate, and a belt for fastening an article stored in the cavity. The belt extends along an inner surface of the wall and has opposite ends exposed in the cavity. A fastening device is connected to the opposite ends of the belt, for tightening the belt. The article storage structure effectively utilizes the space in the tailgate, and firmly and reliably holds the article in position in the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tatsuo Matsuura, Atsushi Inoue
  • Patent number: 5683021
    Abstract: A gun case for mounting in a vehicle is disclosed including a container within which the gun is substantially entirely contained and a lid which is locked to such container. An electrically actuated lock is employed which includes a plurality of latches spaced along the gun case and a common actuator plate which slides longitudinally to unlock the latches in response to an electrical actuator device such as a solenoid or an electric motor. The container pivots down to a lowered unlocked position away from the lid to enable the gun to be removed from the container. A cam actuated locking mechanism is provided to lock the container to the lid when the container is pivoted upward to a raised locked position. A key actuated mechanism moves the actuator plate to unlock the container when the electrical actuator does not operate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1997
    Assignee: J. R. Setina Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Terry L. Setina
  • Patent number: 5662253
    Abstract: A simple, lightweight, removable device for transporting skis safely inside an automobile. There are two assemblies, one for the front of the vehicle and one for the back. An adjustable vertical rod provides an easy, quick way to fit the device to any car. The front support presses against the roof of the automobile and the floor or console as appropriate. The length of the support is adjustable to allow it to fit different vehicles. The rear support sits on the rear deck of the vehicle. The skis are attached to adjustable shelves on the front and rear supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 2, 1997
    Inventor: Tommy R. Goings
  • Patent number: 5597103
    Abstract: A tool and material restraining platform for pickup trucks, which utilizes steel extruded into convoluted channels as the bed of the platform. Self-locking hardware devices are inserted therein, to provide a secure base from where chain link is placed under tension to restrain tools and materials of simple or complex and difficult shapes. This results in more reliable restraining methods than strapping, stretch cords, and ropes and the like. Furthermore, the hardware devices, adapt easy to use add-on and take-off options such as a rigid conduit container. In addition, the sides of the platform are made of aluminum for displaying unique patterns, logos, and custom designs, to achieve an enhanced appearance for the truck, as custom wheels do. Also in addition, for models equipped for use with truck bed caps, tool and material cradles are installed in the interior of the cap, to the mounting bolts of the platform, to utilize normally wasted space directly adjacent to the ceiling of the cargo cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1997
    Inventor: Kenneth E. Nichols
  • Patent number: 5593203
    Abstract: An door for an overhead rack of a luggage compartment of a bus is hinged on a bracket which extends downwardly from the ceiling of the bus. When the door is opened it rolls around the pivot away from the aisle and into the luggage compartment. The door is held in the open position by a compression spring until closed and latched. The door-hinge combination is particularly suited for retrofitting old busses which were constructed with open luggage racks. The old busses were unsafe because items in the storage racks could fall on passengers in case of accident or emergency movement of the bus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1997
    Inventor: Jay D. Abbott
  • Patent number: 5544797
    Abstract: A fishing rod carrier for use in a vehicle cab interior bounded in-part by a vehicle cab roof is provided for receiving a plurality of fishing rods having a handle at one end and a rod tip at the opposite end, and includes first and second carrier members. Each carrier member includes a first flexible non-elastomeric elongated strap having first and second ends. A second flexible elastomeric elongated strap is coupled to the first strap at selected locations but otherwise uncoupled to the first strap, and forms a plurality of elastomeric loops along the length of the first strap. Each loop defines a clearance of preselected dimensions between the first and second straps. A means is provided for releasably coupling the first and second ends of the first strap to the vehicle cab roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1996
    Inventor: John H. Silva
  • Patent number: 5531368
    Abstract: Modular, firearm support cradles, an assembled rack and means for securing the cradles and rack to a variety of vehicle configurations. The rack includes a longitudinal frame member and from which project multiple padded cradles. Strap fasteners and lock means respectively restrain firearms and sundry paraphernalia to the cradles and rack. A telescoping expander bar assembly and mating extension arms permit a vehicle ceiling mount and/or roll bar mount of the rack. Cradles having sleeves which mate to the expander bar assembly facilitate user tailored mountings. A clamp plate assembly and mating extension arms permit a vertical divider mount of the rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1996
    Assignee: Big Sky Racks, Inc.
    Inventor: Ted Morford
  • Patent number: 5526972
    Abstract: In order to partition a storage area of a vehicle so that bags of groceries and the like can be arranged in a neat orderly manner, a space organizer includes a backboard which extends laterally across the storage area and at least two wing-like partition members which can be either fixed or hinged and which partition a given area of the storage area into three cells or sub-areas for bags and the like. A lid member can be provided to enclose at least the top of the center cell and in the case where the partition members are hingedly connected to the backboard a bungee cord can be used to retain the two partition members in desired space dividing positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 18, 1996
    Inventors: Richard K. Frazier, Barry V. Davis
  • Patent number: 5522638
    Abstract: An overhead console for a motor vehicle including an integral remote control unit storage compartment is provided. The invention allows for the remote control unit to be activated directly by actuating a pivotable door to an open position or indirectly while the remote control unit remains in the storage compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1996
    Assignee: United Technologies Automotive, Inc.
    Inventors: Monte L. Falcoff, James D. Dowd, Jeffrey W. Stahlbaum, Robert D. Muller
  • Patent number: 5507423
    Abstract: A vehicle coat hook assembly in which the coat hook is recessed into the header and is actuated to hanging and recessed positions by a simple push and release by the operator which linearly moves the coat hook to such positions. The actuation of the coat hook is controlled by a push-push mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1996
    Assignee: Prince Corporation
    Inventors: Douglas A. Fischer, Todd C. Adams
  • Patent number: 5466028
    Abstract: An auxiliary storage compartment for an automobile has a compartment body with a pair of side portions and a substantially horizontal floor portion forming a U-shaped opening. The compartment body is rigidly attached to the roof and extends laterally across the width of the vehicle above the cargo storage area. The side portions, floor portion and the vehicle roof define a compartment therebetween. A bezel member, having at least one opening therein, is connected to compartment body and enclosing the U-shaped opening between the roof and the compartment body. At least one door is movably attached to the bezel opening for enclosing and providing access to the compartment. A latching mechanism on the door secures the door in a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 14, 1995
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventor: Michael D. Nicopolis
  • Patent number: 5402924
    Abstract: A visor attachment which can be easily affixed to and removed from the visor of an automobile, truck or aircraft. The device includes a "U" shapped frame constructed from a moldable plastic, a stretchable mesh panel spanning the frame and a pair of elastic bands connected to the sides of the frame and adapted to encircle the visor in a manner to hold the attachment securely in place. The mesh panel is provided with a multiplicity of contiguous openings so that articles contained within the pouch can easily be seen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 4, 1995
    Inventor: Michael Gilson
  • Patent number: 5398856
    Abstract: A tissue rack including a springy mounting plate fastened to the inside rear view mirror of an automobile and the roof thereof, and a rack body welded to the mounting plate for holding a body of tissue, wherein the rack body is made by bending a metal wire into shape, having two front clamping portions and a back clamping portions disposed in parallel for clamping on two opposite sides of the box of tissue paper, and two supporting portions connected between the front and back clamping portions at two opposite sides for supporting the box of tissue paper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 21, 1995
    Inventor: Jenn-Shyong Shyu
  • Patent number: 5392972
    Abstract: A collapsible partition for the trunk of a motor vehicle includes a transverse extending wall member to which side wall members are pivotably mounted. The collapsible partition is secured within the trunk of the motor vehicle by a pair of straps which are secured at a first end to the transverse wall member and at the second end to anchors located within the vehicle trunk. A liner is also provided and is secured to a bottom portion of the transverse and side wall members for defining a bottom for the partition device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 28, 1995
    Assignee: Atlantic Automotive Components
    Inventors: Paul C. Caruso, Daniel Vandersluis, Anthony J. Blommel, Joseph P. Fannon, Daniel J. Pauluk
  • Patent number: 5388880
    Abstract: A storage and activation system for a remote control transmitter in a motor vehicle includes a recessed compartment for receiving the remote control transmitter and a cover for enclosing the recessed compartment. The transmitter is retained against the inside face of the cover for engaging a movable pushbutton extending through the cover. The cover is removable for ease of installation of the transmitter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1995
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventor: Dennis J. Kinane
  • Patent number: 5372289
    Abstract: A motor vehicle luggage compartment having a luggage rack element mounted to a bottom portion of the trunk lid. A storage module or piece of luggage is removably mounted to the luggage rack element and the storage module can be immobilized within the luggage rack element. The storage module is slid into and out of the luggage rack when the trunk lid is open but immobilized when the trunk lid is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 13, 1994
    Assignee: Regie Nationale des Usines Renault
    Inventor: Augustin Dachicourt
  • Patent number: 5366127
    Abstract: The present invention device for supporting garment hangers within an automotive vehicle comprises an enclosed loop having a peripheral surface, an inside surface and a pair of substantially vertical faces with a horizontally accessible aperture extending therethrough. A hook portion of each garment hanger is retained and supported by the inside surface of the loop. Furthermore, an upper portion of the loop has a hook member formed within the peripheral surface thereof. The loop is pivotably attached to an aesthetically pleasing bezel such that the loop can be pivoted from a stowed position parallel with the bezel to a functional vertically planar position projecting inward from the bezel. Moreover, a lamp may be incorporated within the bezel behind the stowed loop such that a lens, mounted to the bezel, has a shape congruent with the inside surface of the loop and fits centrally therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1994
    Assignee: United Technologies Automotive, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark F. Heinz
  • Patent number: 5350094
    Abstract: Modular, firearm support cradles, an assembled rack and means for securing the cradles and rack to a variety of vehicle configurations. The rack includes a longitudinal frame member and from which project multiple padded cradles. Strap fasteners and lock means respectively restrain firearms and sundry paraphernalia to the cradles and rack. A telescoping expander bar assembly and mating extension arms permit a vehicle ceiling mount and/or roll bar mount of the rack. Cradles having sleeves which mate to the expander bar assembly facilitate use tailored mountings. A clamp plate assembly and mating extension arms permit a vertical divide mount of the rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1994
    Assignee: Big Sky Racks, Inc.
    Inventor: Ted Morford
  • Patent number: 5344020
    Abstract: A storage device for attachment to the underside of the roof of a motorized golf cart is disclosed, comprising a generally rectangular construction, including a bottom shelf, side walls, one back wall, one or more internal dividers, a continuous lip that is used to attach the storage device to the underside of the roof of the golf cart, and a retaining lip across the opening of the storage device, wherein the retaining lip is designed to prevent accessories stored in the storage device from falling out of it while the cart is in motion or parked on an incline. The storage device is fastened to the underside of the roof of a golf cart by fastening members that are disposed in apertures in the continuous attachment lip, with matching apertures being placed in the roof of the golf cart to accept the fastening members. Gasket material is utilized along the entire attachment lip to effect a water-tight seal between the storage device and the roof of the golf cart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 6, 1994
    Inventor: Steve Ferguson
  • Patent number: 5310103
    Abstract: An accessory carrier case assembly mountable on a support structure, such as the underside of a vehicle trunk lid, includes an elongated case having a latchable bottom tray and top lid. The bottom tray and top lid are padded with a foam material. The bottom tray has an interior structure defining different compartments for various items of fishing equipment. The top lid and bottom tray have sufficient interior space for accommodating fishing rods therein. The accessory carrier case assembly also includes an arrangement of rigid mounting brackets, flexible holding straps, and flexible hook and loop releasable fastening strips for supporting the carrier case on the underside of the trunk lid. The releasable fastening strips are applied respectively on the holding straps and on either the top lid or bottom tray of the carrier case for releasably supporting the carrier case from the underside of the trunk lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1994
    Inventors: Melvin W. Weber, Robert L. Olson
  • Patent number: 5310234
    Abstract: A message box is provided for a motor vehicle having a small rectangular side aperture located near the drivers seat. A side door is in the side aperture of the roof. The side door has a narrow slot to allow messages and mail to be deposited therethrough. A receptacle is mounted to the underside of the roof within the motor vehicle about the drivers seat and adjacent the side door, so as to receive the message and mail deposited through the narrow slot in the side door. A structure is in the receptacle for retrieving the messages and mail deposited therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1994
    Inventor: David Klein
  • Patent number: 5310237
    Abstract: A storage shelf is mounted on the ceiling of a motor vehicle using existing apertures in the ceiling which are exposed when the sun visors in the vehicle are removed. The storage shelf is installed on the ceiling of the vehicle without requiring that fasteners turn into and contact existing or new apertures which are in the ceiling of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1994
    Assignee: Vehicular Accessories
    Inventors: James L. McCloy, II, Gregory J. Carr
  • Patent number: 5303970
    Abstract: An accessory mounting system for mounting an accessory such as an overhead console to a vehicle opening such as a sunroof opening includes a pair of spaced, opposed mounting sockets being adjustable with respect to one another to span and engage opposite lower edges of the vehicle opening. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, one of the sockets is mounted on a rail which is telescopically adjustable with respect to the other socket and an incrementally adjustable locking mechanism allows the sockets to be finally locked into compression for removably holding the console in place. The sockets, in a preferred embodiment, include concave sockets with relatively thin upper members to engage the sunroof opening without interfering with its normal operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 19, 1994
    Assignee: Prince Corporation
    Inventors: Nathan W. Young, Robert B. Bieri, David B. Busch, Scott S. Bainbridge, James T. Hotary
  • Patent number: 5288003
    Abstract: A car-top-transportable baggage carrier is particularly suited for use on aerodynamically streamlined cars which have no rain gutters. The carrier is made from a single continuous piece of material so that no seams or joinings in the material are produced in the face of the enclosure or the top and bottom surfaces. Weight distribution paneling within a load bearing floor pad inserted at the bottom of the carrier serve to distribute the weight of articles emplaced within the carrier, yet permit the carrier to be accordion folded for storage when not in use. Straps affixed to the top of the carrier are employed to secure the carrier in position on top of an automobile. The straps are equipped with innovative door head liner hooks which secure the carrier to the interior of the automobile adjacent the top of the car door. Releasable couplings permit rapid removal and replacement of the distal ends of the strapping as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 22, 1994
    Inventor: Ron E. MacDonald
  • Patent number: 5287971
    Abstract: A rack that may readily be installed in the trunk or cargo compartment of a vehicle, the rack including at least one raised horizontal bar from which one can suspend in a row several loaded plastic-film grocery bags so that the bags then rest on the floor of the trunk or cargo compartment in an upright position with their mouths closed. The plastic film bag has an open mouth and is provided with a pair of upwardly-extending handle loops integral with the opposing sides of the bag. The raised bar has a series of hooks anchored thereon at spaced positions, each hook being formed of a resilient spring wire having a U-shaped bend therein that defines a dilatable clamp. When the loaded grocery bag is carried in one hand by a shopper by its handle loops, the loops then bunch together to form a tail. This tail is pushed into the dilatable clamp of a hook on the bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 22, 1994
    Inventor: Isidore Dorman
  • Patent number: 5285941
    Abstract: A car storage system is disclosed which mounts to the ceiling of an automobile to provide storage for small items carried by a vehicle operator such as cassette tapes, compact discs, gloves, sunglasses, nasal tissue, and/or maps. The car storage system is adjustably mountable to the ceiling of an automobile such that any of the above items are easily within reach of a vehicle operator. The car storage system comprises a support member which is adjustable to any ceiling width and is mounted using pivotable flanges secured behind the trim molding normally placed about a vehicle's ceiling. A storage member which comprises a plurality of individual storage compartments is removably connected to the support member in order to provide the storage area for any of the above items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 15, 1994
    Inventor: Paul L. Herrera
  • Patent number: 5213243
    Abstract: A tissue dispenser for a motor vehicle which is molded as an integral part of the interior trim of a motor vehicle in such a manner that no additional hardware is needed. The tissue dispenser is preferably located in a readily accessible location in the interior of the motor vehicle--such as the dashboard, the passenger rear seat arm rest compartment, the center console, the overhead console, or the door. The tissue dispenser may be color blended to match the interior trim or may be covered with fabric to match the upholstery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1993
    Inventor: Kimberly A. B. Landon
  • Patent number: 5205447
    Abstract: An apparatus for effecting the protection and concealment of a vehicular telephone is arranged for mounting to cover the telephone and receive the same therewithin and securement of the associated container upon a console or alternatively, provision is made for the mounting of the container from a telescoping mount selectively securable relative to a roof portion of an associated vehicle to utilize available space within a passenger compartment of an associated vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1993
    Inventor: Kathleen D. Hambrick
  • Patent number: 5193874
    Abstract: A storage system for motor vehicle roof inserts has two matched body portions which are mounted in a motor vehicle. Each body portion includes a pair of channels which are shaped to conform to the shape of the roof inserts. The storage bodies are spaced a distance which corresponds to the length of the roof inserts such that the edge portions of the inserts can be inserted into the channels where they are supported spanning the space between the storage bodies. Resilient opposed rollers in association with each channel guide and support the roof inserts in the channels. The storage bodies may include pin-receiving bores positioned to receive retractable roof insert posts to secure the roof inserts in position in the storage system. The storage bodies may be conveniently formed by an injection molding process using ABS plastic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1993
    Assignee: LTC Roll & Engineering Company
    Inventors: Laurence J. German, Lawrence D. Rich
  • Patent number: 5186585
    Abstract: A wheelchair security system particularly useful with vehicles used to transport individuals with ambulatory handicaps is shown having a pair of pincer elements for each wheel to be secured. The pincer elements are movable between an open wheel receiving position and a closed wheel securing position. The system is either manually or electrically actuated and can be controlled either at the wheelchair station or the driver's station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1993
    Assignee: James E. Sousa
    Inventors: James E. Sousa, Ronald A. Rogers, Allen Grota
  • Patent number: 5172952
    Abstract: A rack for use in automotive vehicles or other storage areas for supporting a ladder or similar device hanging from an overhead support such as a ceiling. A roller track is provided for the movable support at one end of the ladder, and a sling supports the opposite end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1992
    Inventor: Ron Lasnetski
  • Patent number: 5161700
    Abstract: An adjustable storage system is provided which includes a flat base, an upstanding fixed side attached to the base, and an adjustable slideable side which slides laterally on the base and cooperates with the fixed side to provide lateral support and containment for packages placed therebetween. A guiding mechanism allows the sliding side to move freely. The system further includes a locking mechanism to secure the slideable side in a given location. The slideable side also includes a hand grip and thumb control button operably connected to the locking mechanism to lock and unlock the slideable side. The preferred embodiment also includes a telescoping member which extends between the fixed and slideable sides to support the sides and to prevent packages from tipping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1992
    Assignee: Prince Corporation
    Inventors: Gordon J. Stannis, David A. Muyres
  • Patent number: 5116010
    Abstract: A firearm support rack for use in the passenger compartment of automotive vehicles and which is specifically design to retain firearms have elongate barrels such as rifles and shotguns. The firearms support rack is comprised of a pair of frame sections, one of which is telescopically arranged with respect to the other so that the frame can achieve a selected length to conform to the width of the passenger compartment of the automotive vehicle. A barrel supporting assembly is located on one of the frame sections and a stock supporting assembly is located on the other of the frame sections. The two assemblies are adjustably positionable on the respective frame sections so as to accommodate different sized and types of firearms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1992
    Assignee: Pro-Tech Design & Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: David A. McMasters, Donald Wetzel
  • Patent number: 5094351
    Abstract: A versatile fishing rod holder for use with a variety of different vehicles has forward and rear rod holder members and four hanger brackets extending up from the corners with each hanger bracket having an outwardly extending flange preferably with a downturned lip to be received in a supporting socket on a top wall or window molding of a vehicle. The hanger bracket is adjustable in height and can be readily separated into two parts. The hanger is also width adjustable relative to the holder members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1992
    Inventor: Richard W. Barney
  • Patent number: 5062559
    Abstract: An overhead console (5) for an automobile or the like includes a storage compartment (20) disposed between a headliner (30) and the roof structure of the vehicle for efficient utilization of space. The compartment is covered by the headliner for enhanced aesthetic appeal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1991
    Assignee: United Technologies Automotive
    Inventor: Monte L. Falcoff
  • Patent number: 5054668
    Abstract: A brightly colored semi-trapezoidal car trunk carrier tray made of plastic having a plurality of compartments some of which are adjustable in size by use of inclined insertable slats, some compartments having restraining modules for stabilizing the position of large or odd sized articles, spaced hangers on at least one side of the tray, a fastener and a recessed magnet on the bottom of the tray and sectionalizing the tray to make it smaller or larger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1991
    Inventor: Patrick J. Ricchiuti
  • Patent number: 5050922
    Abstract: An overhead console (5) for a motor vehicle or the like includes a wall structure (30) including a rearwardly and downwardly facing portion (55) with opening (60) therein. The opening is closed by a door (80) in the shape of a tray, which blends smoothly into wall portion (55).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1991
    Assignee: United Technologies Automotive
    Inventor: Monte L. Falcoff
  • Patent number: 5020845
    Abstract: An overhead console 5 which accommodates an electric garage door opener transmitter or similar signalling device, includes a drop-down compartment (50) stored in a housing (20). Guide means such as tracks (85) and detent (90) as well as damping means such as cams 110 and spring 115 assure smooth operation of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1991
    Assignee: United Technologies Automotive
    Inventors: Monte L. Falcoff, Edward G. Curtindale
  • Patent number: 5010670
    Abstract: Automobile window display apparatus which includes a display panel for carrying a message. The panel is pivotally mounted to the rear window molding for movement between a retracted position and a vertical display position in which the message is visible through the rear window. A cord attached to the lower edge of the display panel extends forwardly and is hooked onto the rear view mirror mount. This allows the driver to unhook the cord for rearward movement under the weight of the panel as the panel drops to its display position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1991
    Inventor: Mario J. Minervini
  • Patent number: 4984725
    Abstract: An apparatus including an elongate, rigid spine member mounting a plate member orthogonally relative to an upper end of the spine, with a flexible belt including a fastener member mounted adjacent a lower end of the spine, wherein the spine is mounted to a roof portion of a vehicle. The apparatus further includes pin members projecting orthogonally and longitudinally of the spine to be directed within the headliner of a vehicular roof to mount the spine thereto. A holster belt loop is directed about the plate, with the flexible strap securing the holster relative to the spine to position the holster in a secured orientation relative to the interior portion of the vehicular roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 15, 1991
    Inventor: Deron L. Urbom
  • Patent number: 4974537
    Abstract: A rod and reel storage system for a fishing boat. In one embodiment, trays are mounted in the gunwale walls and provided with guide tubes through which stored fishing rods extend into the gunwale cavity. The trays have separate compartments which receive and hold the reels. Hinged hatches on the gunwales cover gunwale hatchways that provide access to stored rods and reels. In another embodiment, a reel storage compartment is located to one side of the control console of the boat, and tubes extend forwardly beneath the bow fishing deck to hold the rods. A hinged door opens and closes the storage compartment and may be locked closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 4, 1990
    Assignee: Tracker Marine Corporation
    Inventor: Robert L. Martin
  • 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: 4881674
    Abstract: A fishing rod holder for securing a plurality of fishing rods within a camper shell or cap mounted on a pickup truck includes a pair of supports. The supports are secured to cross roof braces of the camper shell in parallel spaced relation. A generally rectangular first support has a plurality of U-shaped notches for the reception of handle portions of a plurality of fishing rods. A pivotal clamp bar is mounted between pairs of adjacent notches and may be pivoted between opened and closed positions for securing a fishing rod handle within each notch. A plurality of spaced apertures are provided for the reception of threaded fasteners utilized to secure the first support to a roof cross brace of the camper shell. A generally rectangular second support has a series of spaced circular apertures for the reception of tip portions of a plurality of fishing rods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1988
    Date of Patent: November 21, 1989
    Inventor: Anatoly Medianik