Removable Carrier Collapsible For Storage Patents (Class 224/314)
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Patent number: 12115942Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of vehicular roof top platforms that can be used to carry cargo as well as to enable individuals to stand thereupon. More specifically, the disclosed device relates to vehicular roof top platforms which are assembled from modular components enabling a great degree of control in regard to configuring the fore/aft size and width of such carriers. Furthermore, the present invention discloses roof top cargo platform which enable such platforms to be mounted parallel to the overall horizontal planar surface of a vehicle's roof despite such roofs presenting varying fore/aft as well as inboard/outboard curvature at the peripheral portions thereof.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2023Date of Patent: October 15, 2024Inventor: Jason Huang
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Patent number: 11877637Abstract: A light-weight, easily portable luggage combination is described. The combination comprises a garment bag and a general purpose bag and optionally a utility bag, wherein the garment bag and general purpose bag may be reversibly secured together or used separately if desired. The combination provides for a first interior space in the garment bag so that hanging clothes can be stored in the garment bag and a second interior space in the general purpose bag so that other items (for example, clothing, shoes, accessories, and toiletries) can be stored separately from the hanging clothes.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2020Date of Patent: January 23, 2024Assignee: RJH CREATIVE SOLUTIONS, LLCInventors: Robert P Davis, Rashmi Jain Hudson
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Patent number: 11872960Abstract: Disclosed herein are embodiments of a roof rack assembly for use with a vehicle and related methods. The roof rack assembly can include a plurality of attachment assemblies with gutter inserts configured to extend within rain gutters of a vehicle. The attachment assemblies can also include clamps that are configured to at least partially wrap around a frame of the vehicle. The roof rack assembly can be attached to a vehicle without drilling and can be adjustable such that it is compatible with various vehicles.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2022Date of Patent: January 16, 2024Assignee: Lund Motion Products, Inc.Inventor: Jason Gauci
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Patent number: 11780376Abstract: The vehicular sanitary product dispenser comprises a storage structure, a compartment, and a vehicle. The vehicle further comprises a headliner. The compartment is formed in the headliner. The storage structure rotates into and out of the compartment. The storage structure forms a console used to store, dispense, and distribute personal protective products.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2021Date of Patent: October 10, 2023Inventor: Kate Russell
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Patent number: 11535166Abstract: A custom roof top cargo carrier kit is disclosed that enables an end user to assemble and mount a cargo carrier demonstrating a desired custom length suitable for a variety of roof top mounting. The carrier utilizes multiple side rail segments in a wide range of predetermined lengths enabling assembly of cargo carriers having a wide range of fore/aft length while, at the same time, enabling the kit to be packaged in a relatively compact form. The custom roof top cargo carrier utilizes tubular shaped side rail segments joined via centrally placed assembly studs aligned with the longitudinal axis of each segment so as to form complete side rails. This means of affixation provides a solid butt joint yielding increased resistance to forces that ordinarily cause failure of prior art side rails.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2021Date of Patent: December 27, 2022Inventor: Jason Huang
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Patent number: 11485431Abstract: A spare tire support device for providing extra support to an existing spare tire mounted to a vehicle tailgate. The support device is mounted to the vehicle body/frame or existing tow hitch receiver and is positioned under the spare tire to aid in supporting the load thereof.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2021Date of Patent: November 1, 2022Assignee: ONE-T LLCInventor: Brian Mathews
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Patent number: 11433799Abstract: A vehicle rooftop platform mounting system includes a platform adjuster device that is configured to mount to a vehicle. The platform adjuster device includes a ball joint that rotatably connects a corner of a support platform to the platform adjuster device to adjust an angle of the corner of the support platform relative to a roof of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2020Date of Patent: September 6, 2022Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.Inventors: Ryan C. Harris, Scott L. Frederick
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Patent number: 11351926Abstract: A vehicle crossbar assembly includes a crossbar. The crossbar has a first part and a second part that are movably attached to each other. The first part is configured to be supported to a first roof rack component of a vehicle. The second part is configured to be supported to a second roof rack component of the vehicle. The first and second parts are movable with respect to each other between an installable state and a storage state. The first and second parts extend from one another when in the installable state. The first and second parts are folded with respect to each other in the storage state.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2020Date of Patent: June 7, 2022Assignee: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.Inventor: Raghu Chervu
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Patent number: 11312312Abstract: The present invention discloses a roof rack fixing structure, used to fix a roof rack on a car top. The roof rack fixing structure includes a frame case with an opening; a first fastener; a second fastener; and a knob rod. With the implementation of the present invention, the roof rack fixing structure is firmly combined with the roof rack; more than one combining positions provided by the second fastener to be adaptive to various cars; and the position of the first fastener complies with the width of the roof rack rods on the car with no risk of loosening from it; moreover, with further implementation of an anti-theft lock, the roof rack fixing structure can be locked and secured and the risk of driving due to movement or loosening of the roof rack fixing structure is eliminated.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2018Date of Patent: April 26, 2022Assignee: FORMOSA SAINT JOSE CORPORATIONInventor: Ming-Shun Yang
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Patent number: 11299104Abstract: A universal crossmember assembly is provided for a motor vehicle having a roof and first and second rails attached to the roof. The assembly includes a crossbar having first and second ends along an axis. The assembly further includes a first clamp mechanism engaged with the first end for securing the crossbar to the first rail. The assembly further includes a second clamp mechanism engaged with the second end for securing the crossbar to the second rail. Each clamp mechanism includes at least first and second jaws having an associated one of first and second rail gripping surfaces for gripping one of the rails when an actuator is moved to an actuated position. Each clamp mechanism further includes a biasing mechanism capable of urging the first jaw away from the second jaw when the actuator is moved to a non-actuated position.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2020Date of Patent: April 12, 2022Assignee: DUS Operating Inc.Inventors: Imtiaz Syed, Kenneth E. Keck, II, Nadine Pilsner
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Patent number: 10807540Abstract: A vehicle includes a vehicle body having a roof and a roof bow. The roof bow is removably coupled to the roof of the vehicle body and includes a cross member and end brackets pivotably attached to opposing ends of the cross member. The end brackets are pivotable between a deployed position in which the end brackets extend outwardly from the cross member and a stowed position in which the end brackets are positioned substantially between opposing ends of the cross member. A length of the roof bow is greater when the end brackets are in the deployed position then when the end brackets are in the stowed position.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2019Date of Patent: October 20, 2020Assignee: FCA US LLCInventors: Dorinel Neag, Carl Mather
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Patent number: 10723278Abstract: A bicycle rack for mounting on the trunk or rear hatch of a vehicle is described with improved mechanisms for adjusting the components of the rack to fit the rack to different vehicles. The rack is provided with hinge assemblies having releasable latches for quickly releasing the hinges to allow the rack components to be moved with respect to one another, and the latching components back into a fixed configuration during use for carrying a bicycle. The bicycle rack is also provided with inventive support members for holding a bicycle on the rack during use.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2018Date of Patent: July 28, 2020Assignee: KUAT INNOVATIONS LLCInventors: Jordan K. Bowles, Joshua H. Schwartz, Aaron A. Houston, Michael Buis, Luke Kuschmeader
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Patent number: 10711491Abstract: Portable lock mounting assemblies including straps or connectors for securing each assembly to a bicycle or the like. Each mounting assembly having a structure defining a retaining assembly to securely retain a lock and easily release the lock from the mounting assembly.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2017Date of Patent: July 14, 2020Assignee: Schlage Lock Company LLCInventors: Robert D. Zuraski, Daniel H. Kindstrand, Donald H. Warren, John D. Fiegener, David B. Miller
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Patent number: 10618473Abstract: A load carrier for a vehicle adapted to be mounted on the vehicle for transporting a load. The load carrier includes at least one pivot arm pivotably connected about a pivot axis to a base frame at a pivot connection portion. The at least one pivot arm is pivotable between an operative position and a storage position. The load carrier is adapted to at least partly carry the load when the at least one pivot arm is positioned in the operative position. The load carrier can include a locking mechanism for securing the at least one pivot arm in the operative position and in the storage position.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2017Date of Patent: April 14, 2020Assignee: Thule Sweden ABInventors: Hannes Olaison, Urban Stark
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Patent number: 10525894Abstract: The beach caddy rack insert is an accessory that increases the hauling capacity of a wagon or beach caddy. The beach caddy rack insert may be placed into the wagon and may be retained in place by side walls of the wagon. The beach caddy rack insert may comprise front and rear end sections separated by four detachable longitudinal braces. Cargo may be carried in the wagon by placing the cargo into the wagon between the front end section and the rear end section. Cargo that will not fit into the wagon may be carried by placing the cargo above the wagon on top of the front end section, the rear end section, and/or two of the longitudinal braces. Cargo carried above the wagon may optionally be lashed in place using one or four uprights provided for that purpose.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2018Date of Patent: January 7, 2020Inventor: Kenneth Williamson
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Patent number: 10279749Abstract: A roof rack for a vehicle is provided. The roof rack includes at least one roof rail. The roof rail includes a main body having a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, a pivoting mechanism having a pivoting shaft at the first end and a locking mechanism disposed at the second end. The pivoting shaft is configured such that the main body is pivotable about an axis defined by the pivoting shaft, and the locking mechanism is configured to lock and release the second end of the main body.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2018Date of Patent: May 7, 2019Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Joe Wang, Helen Zou, Peng Yu
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Patent number: 10252759Abstract: A bicycle stand includes a base, a connection unit and a support unit. The base has first and second arms non-parallel to each other. The connection unit is arranged between the first and second aims. The support unit is detachably mounted on the connection unit and is transformable between a folding position and a using position. The support unit is detached from the connection unit when the support unit is in the folding position. The support unit is attached on the connection unit and is adapted to engage with a spindle in a crank-arm of a bicycle to support the bicycle in an upright position on a surface when the support unit is in the using position.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2018Date of Patent: April 9, 2019Inventor: Louis Chuang
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Patent number: 10035471Abstract: The present invention provides a carrier device for carrying a load, said carrier device is configured for clamping to a trunk of a vehicle and for loading a load thereto for carrying thereof The carrier device comprising: at least one inner part configured for clamping the vehicle trunk, creating an anchor point for supporting an external part; and at least one external part for holding said load, said external part connects to said at least one inner part via at least one anchor connector supported by said anchor point, where said external part includes at least one main support sub-assembly having at least one support element pressed against to the lower bumper of the vehicle and an arc support sub-assembly having an upper arc to be pressed against the upper rear part of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2014Date of Patent: July 31, 2018Inventors: Assaph Ziv, Yariv Ziv
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Patent number: 9931993Abstract: An accessory adapter capable of attaching to a cargo accessory management system is shown and described. The accessory adapter may include a body member and a clamping member attached to the body member, where a portion of the cargo accessory management system is capable of being wedgingly secured between the clamping member and body member. The accessory adapter may also include an accessory adapter body selectively attached to the body member, where the accessory adapter body is capable of securing an accessory to the cargo accessory management system.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2012Date of Patent: April 3, 2018Assignee: HORIZON GLOBAL AMERICAS INC.Inventors: Brian Wayne Ward, Gail Rae Matheus, Sean Michael Phillips
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Patent number: 9815416Abstract: A bicycle carrier device for a vehicle may include a carrier portion provided on a lower side of a bumper back beam to slidably move in forward and backward directions to be drawn out from or accommodated in the bumper back beam, and provided with a panel portion and a sliding rail extending from both side ends of the panel portion in the forward and backward directions, an illumination plate disposed on the panel portion of the carrier portion to be rotatable in upward and downward directions and provided with a lamp mechanism that emits light toward the panel portion when being upwardly rotated, an extended support portion disposed on the carrier portion to extend and spread in both side directions of the carrier portion to carry a bicycle thereon, and an illumination mechanism disposed on the extended support portion and configured to move along with the extended support portion.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2015Date of Patent: November 14, 2017Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventors: Dong Eun Cha, Hyun Gyung Kim, Jin Young Yoon, Seung Mok Lee, Soo Hyun Hyun
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Patent number: 9776575Abstract: A bicycle carrier includes a main shaft having a spacer, two upper stands mounted on the main shaft and abutting the spacer, two carrying racks mounted on the main shaft and respectively abutting the upper stands, two lower stands mounted on the main shaft and respectively abutting the carrying racks, and two end caps mounted on the main shaft and respectively abutting the lower stands. The spacer has two ends each provided with a first ratchet ring. Each of the upper stands has a first mounting ring which has two ends each provided with a second ratchet ring. Each of the carrying racks has a second mounting ring which has two ends each provided with a third ratchet ring. Each of the lower stands has a third mounting ring which has two ends each provided with a fourth ratchet ring.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2016Date of Patent: October 3, 2017Inventor: Yao-Huang Liu
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Patent number: 9701255Abstract: An assembly for mounting to a vehicle having a mounting member connected to a receiver of a vehicle. A frame member is pivotally connected to the mounting member and legs are pivotally mounted to the frame member.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2013Date of Patent: July 11, 2017Inventor: Kent L. Brown
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Patent number: 9522635Abstract: A bicycle carrier. The bicycle carrier may be configured to prevent contact or damage onto vehicle body accessories such as a spoiler or wing. The bicycle carrier may pivotally engage or mount onto the rear end of a vehicle and preferably has a second upper frame, which may be an additional frame extension and may provide the necessary clearance needed over the vehicle body accessory. The second upper frame may attach to the first upper frame or portion of the bicycle carrier and may be adjusted or rotationally positioned. The bicycle carrier may be configured for all vehicle types such as sedans, hatchbacks, and sport utility vehicles.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2015Date of Patent: December 20, 2016Inventor: Neil Nusbaum
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Patent number: 9156413Abstract: A fixing mount of a bicycle carrier contains a support rod of a bicycle carrier, a body, at least one cable tie, a connector, and a retainer. The body includes a large-diameter end, a through hole, and a small-diameter end. The large-diameter end has a first arcuate supporting face, a second arcuate supporting face and a third arcuate supporting face. The small-diameter end has a locking groove, and the body also includes plural locking elements. The connector includes a recess, a convex bottom surface, two coupling tabs, and each coupling tab has a concaved top surface and an aperture. The connector further includes plural first extending pieces, and each first extending piece has a first pore. Between any two adjacent extending blocks is defined a notch. The retainer includes at least one second extending piece and a plurality of pegs, and each extending piece has a second pore.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2014Date of Patent: October 13, 2015Inventor: Yao-Huang Liu
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Patent number: 9150160Abstract: A vehicle article may have cross bars that may be nestably secured together on a trunk lid of a vehicle when not in use, and yet quickly and easily attached to elements mounted in roof ditches on the roof of the vehicle when needed for use. In another embodiment the vehicle article carrier includes a pair of pivotally secured support rails that are supported from frame or body structure of the vehicle below and adjacent the rear bumper of the vehicle. The support rails may be pivoted into stowed positions when not needed to hide them from view, and then quickly and easily pivoted out when needed for use. Attachments such as a cargo box or a bicycle carrier may be easily secured to the support rails.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2012Date of Patent: October 6, 2015Assignee: JAC Products, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey M. Aftanas, Noel v. Ranka
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Patent number: 9108574Abstract: A rear-mounted bicycle carrying rack for a vehicle is provided, including a base, two supporting racks, two supporting arms, two upper prop racks and a lower prop rack. The two supporting racks and the lower prop rack are pivoted to the base respectively, and the two supporting racks are swingable relative to each other to be V-shaped. The two supporting arms and the two upper prop racks are pivoted to an end of the two supporting racks respectively relative to the base and are behind the two supporting racks. When the two supporting arms swings upward and forward, the upper prop rack is pushed to swing backward, the two supporting arms abut against the two supporting racks to make the two supporting arms and the two upper prop racks extend forward and backward respectively, and the lower prop rack swings backward.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2014Date of Patent: August 18, 2015Inventor: Shih-Chieh Shen
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Patent number: 9053842Abstract: A device is provided having a body. The body being made from a flexible material that has an electrical insulating property of at least 1000 volts. A first fastener disposed on a first surface adjacent a first side. A second fastener is disposed on a second surface adjacent a second side, the second surface being opposite the first surface and the second side being opposite the first side. A plurality of straps is coupled to the body.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2012Date of Patent: June 9, 2015Assignee: CONSOLIDATED EDISON COMPANY OF NEW YORK, INC.Inventor: Paul A. Richardson
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Patent number: 8978946Abstract: A roof bar (10) for a motor vehicle (1) has an elongate load carrying member (213) and a single elongate stay (214) which are hingedly connected to a roof (5) of the motor vehicle (1) by a pair of base plates (211). The elongate load carrying member (213) is selectively held in a deployed position by a latch mechanism (222, 255) which latches a castellated edge of the elongate load carrying member (213) to a castellated edge of the single elongate stay (214) along a significant portion of the interface between the two components (213, 214) so as to provide a strong support for any loads carried by the roof bar (10). The components (211, 213, 214) forming the roof bar (10) are all relatively thin and the elongate load carrying member (213) and the single elongate stay (214) are arranged to fold flat on the roof (5) of the motor vehicle (1) so as to minimize any change in vehicle height when the roof bar (10) is stowed.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2009Date of Patent: March 17, 2015Assignee: Ford Global TechnologiesInventors: Torsten Gerhardt, John K. Harding, Steve David Fleming, Danny Edward Stanesby, Alicia Agius, Will Farrelly
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Patent number: 8801073Abstract: A motor vehicle luggage retention system for a motor vehicle is disclosed. A foldable seat back separates the occupant compartment from the trunk and has an upright position and a folded position that allows pass-through accessibility from the trunk into the occupant compartment. A pivotable bar assembly in the trunk has a lowered position and a raised position. Pivoting the pivotable bar assembly to the lowered position moves the foldable seat back to the upright position and creates a structural safety barrier against objects in the trunk impacting a rear surface of the seat back. Pivoting the pivotable bar assembly to the raised position moves the seat back to the folded position to provide uninterrupted access to the occupant compartment from the trunk. A latch assembly latches the pivotable bar assembly in at least the lowered position. A movable parcel shelf and collapsible storage bin are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2013Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Carl L. Gray, Jr., Adam Sachs, Johnathan Andrew Line
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Patent number: 8789868Abstract: A motor vehicle luggage retention system for a motor vehicle is disclosed. A foldable seat back separates the occupant compartment from the trunk and has an upright position and a folded position that allows pass-through accessibility from the trunk into the occupant compartment. A pivotable bar assembly in the trunk has a lowered position and a raised position. Pivoting the pivotable bar assembly to the lowered position moves the foldable seat back to the upright position and creates a structural safety barrier against objects in the trunk impacting a rear surface of the seat back. Pivoting the pivotable bar assembly to the raised position moves the seat back to the folded position to provide uninterrupted access to the occupant compartment from the trunk. A latch assembly latches the pivotable bar assembly in at least the lowered position. A movable parcel shelf and collapsible storage bin are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2013Date of Patent: July 29, 2014Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Adam Sachs, Carl L. Gray, Jr., Johnathan Andrew Line
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Patent number: 8757462Abstract: A vehicle-mounted equipment carrier includes a single-piece frame member. The vehicle-engaging and equipment-engaging members extend outward from a central portion. Optionally, the equipment carrier may be mounted in at least a first and second operational orientation. The interior of each equipment support is hollow such that one equipment support may be stacked within another. Straps pass through and are secured to the frame member. The straps are further connected to a vehicle to secure the frame member to the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2012Date of Patent: June 24, 2014Inventor: Fabio Pedrini
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Publication number: 20140144958Abstract: A load-carrying device may be configured for use with a crossbar mounted to a vehicle roof. The load-carrying device may include a body having a load-bearing surface and an arm pivotably mounted to the body. The arm of the device may be pivotable between a collapsed position and an in-use position. A proximal end of the arm may be operatively connected to the body, and may move toward one end of the body when the arm is pivoted from the collapsed position to the in-use position.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2013Publication date: May 29, 2014Applicant: Yakima Innovation Development CorporationInventor: Yakima Innovation Development Corporation
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Patent number: 8684244Abstract: A vehicle-mounted equipment carrier includes a single-piece frame member. The vehicle-engaging and equipment-engaging members extend outward from a central portion. Optionally, the equipment carrier may be mounted in at least a first and second operational orientation. The interior of each equipment support is hollow such that one equipment support may be stacked within another. Straps pass through and are secured to the frame member. The straps are further connected to a vehicle to secure the frame member to the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2009Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Inventor: Fabio Pedrini
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Patent number: 8636184Abstract: A compact folding bicycle carrier has a frame, a folding lower foot member and a pair of folding articulated upper carrying members. The lower foot member is pivotally mounted to a lower end of the frame and constrained for limited movement relative thereto. Each articulated carrying member has a supporting arm and a carrying arm. One end of each supporting arm is pivotally mounted to an upper end of the frame at opposite sides thereof. Each carrying arm is associated with one supporting arm. Each carrying arm has a cradle for holding a bicycle adjacent one end and an upper foot at the other end. Each carrying arm, between the cradle and the upper foot, is pivotally mounted to its respective supporting arm. The supporting arms are constrained for limited movement relative to the frame and each carrying arm is constrained for limited movement relative to its respective supporting arm.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2010Date of Patent: January 28, 2014Inventors: Richard A. Allen, Alexander R. Allen
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Patent number: 8573456Abstract: A vehicle mounted bicycle carrier having an elongated shaft with a splined profile along at least a portion of its length, a plurality of rotatable members removably mounted to the shaft and a plurality of collar assemblies removably mounted to the shaft. The plurality of members feature a first member having at least one arm with an aperture defined by an edge having a grooved profile in cross-section that is suitable for mating with the portion of the shaft having the splined profile. The plurality of members also having additional members that are suitable for rotating about the splined portion of the shaft. The plurality of members having a plurality of interlocking teeth that facilitate in securing the members together at the desired angular relationship.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2011Date of Patent: November 5, 2013Assignee: Swiss Cargo Industries S.A. Inc.Inventor: Robert Farber
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Patent number: 8444032Abstract: A vehicle-mounted equipment carrier includes a hub portion to which is secured a number of vehicle-engaging and equipment-engaging support members. The various support members are each connected to sections of the hub that are movable relative to one another and that include engagement structure to hold the hub sections in desired angular positions with respect to one another. The hub sections can be moved upon disengagement of a clamping mechanism that compresses the hub sections into engagement with one another, and also holds each of the various components of the carrier in connection with one another.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2011Date of Patent: May 21, 2013Inventor: Fabio Pedrini
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Publication number: 20130105534Abstract: A vehicle mounted bicycle carrier having an elongated shaft with a splined profile along at least a portion of its length, a plurality of rotatable members removably mounted to the shaft and a plurality of collar assemblies removably mounted to the shaft. The plurality of members feature a first member having at least one arm with an aperture defined by an edge having a grooved profile in cross-section that is suitable for mating with the portion of the shaft having the splined profile. The plurality of members also having additional members that are suitable for rotating about the splined portion of the shaft. The plurality of members having a plurality of interlocking teeth that facilitate in securing the members together at the desired angular relationship.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 1, 2011Publication date: May 2, 2013Applicant: Swiss Cargo Industries S.A. Inc.Inventor: Robert Farber
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Patent number: 8387841Abstract: A load carrier for a rear end of a vehicle includes a load supporting member, a mounting member including a hub connecting arm and a vehicle contacting portion, and a releasable pivot locking member. The hub connecting arm and the vehicle contacting portion are pivotally coupled to one another and the releasable pivot locking member, in a locked state, prevents pivoting movement of the hub connecting arm and the vehicle contacting portion such that the hub connecting arm and the vehicle contacting portion are disposed at an angle with respect to one another. In an unlocked state, the releasable pivot locking member allows pivoting movement of the vehicle contacting portion with respect to the hub connecting arm such that the vehicle contacting portion may be pivoted toward the hub connecting arm, e.g., as may be desired to collapse the load carrier for storage.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2009Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Assignee: Thule Sweden ABInventor: Frederick G. Murray
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Patent number: 8220678Abstract: Method and apparatus for providing a load carrier arrangement for transporting a bicycle when secured thereupon. The load carrier arrangement including a frame assembly adapted to be mounted to the carrying vehicle. The frame assembly has at least one elongate arm configured to receive a bicycle cradle thereupon. The bicycle cradle is mounted upon the arm and is operator configurable between a bicycle transporting configuration and a non-transporting configuration. The cradle has a through-passage within which the elongate arm is received and the cradle is operator reciprocal on the elongate arm in the non-transporting configuration thereby facilitating variable longitudinal positioning of the cradle by the operator upon the arm. The cradle has an increased resistance to longitudinal reciprocation on the elongate arm in the bicycle transporting configuration in comparison to the non-transporting configuration.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2010Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Assignee: Thule Sweden ABInventors: Vincent Bove, Kevin Bogolofski, George Riehm, Gregor Weaver
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Patent number: 8109422Abstract: A load carrier for a rear end of a vehicle includes a load supporting member, a mounting member including a hub connecting arm and a vehicle contacting portion, and a releasable pivot locking member. The hub connecting arm and the vehicle contacting portion are pivotally coupled to one another and the releasable pivot locking member, in a locked state, prevents pivoting movement of the hub connecting arm and the vehicle contacting portion such that the hub connecting arm and the vehicle contacting portion are disposed at an angle with respect to one another. In an unlocked state, the releasable pivot locking member allows pivoting movement of the vehicle contacting portion with respect to the hub connecting arm such that the vehicle contacting portion may be pivoted toward the hub connecting arm, e.g., as may be desired to collapse the load carrier for storage.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2006Date of Patent: February 7, 2012Assignee: Thule Sweden ABInventor: Frederick G. Murray
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Patent number: 8047412Abstract: A load carrier for coupling to a vehicle. The load carrier includes a loading frame and a supporting arch that extends substantially upwardly from and transversely to the loading frame. The supporting arch is divisible into first and second arch parts, each of which arch parts is pivotally coupled to the loading frame such that, when divided, each of the first and second arch parts is configured to be pivoted down to a storage position lying substantially level with the loading frame. The arch parts are configured to be interlocked to each other into an in-use position, in which the first and said second arch parts substantially alone form the supporting arch.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2004Date of Patent: November 1, 2011Assignees: Renault S.A.S., Thule Sweden ABInventors: Arnaud Premartin, Olivier Veuillot, Hans Odin, Joakim Persson
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Patent number: 7975888Abstract: A bicycle carrier configured to be mounted to a rear of a vehicle is disclosed. The bicycle carrier includes a first support frame structure having a base portion disposed between a pair of support arms configured to carry one or more bicycles, the base portion being configured to contact an upper region of the rear of the vehicle, where the base portion is wider than the distance between the support arms; a second support frame structure having a base portion configured to contact a lower region of the rear of the vehicle; and at least one hub assembly operatively connecting the first and second support frame structures and permitting selective pivoting of one support frame structure relative to the other frame structure.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 2005Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Assignee: Yakima Products, Inc.Inventor: Joseph J. Settelmayer
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Publication number: 20110024471Abstract: Cargo bags that are mountable on a roof or roof rack of a vehicle are provided herein. In some embodiments, a cargo bag may include a container portion constructed at least partially of textile, a strap for securing the container portion to the roof or roof rack, and a structure adapted to provide shape to the container portion regardless of whether cargo is stored within the container portion. The structure may include a semi-rigid elongate member and/or foam padding. Some embodiments may include a pad positioned on a bottom of the container portion to protect the roof of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2010Publication date: February 3, 2011Applicant: Yakima Products, Inc.Inventors: Doug Golenz, Chris Sautter, John Hoppes, Bill Stephens
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Publication number: 20110017791Abstract: Method and apparatus for providing a load carrier arrangement for transporting a bicycle when secured thereupon. The load carrier arrangement including a frame assembly adapted to be mounted to the carrying vehicle. The frame assembly has at least one elongate arm configured to receive a bicycle cradle thereupon. The bicycle cradle is mounted upon the arm and is operator configurable between a bicycle transporting configuration and a non-transporting configuration. The cradle has a through-passage within which the elongate arm is received and the cradle is operator reciprocal on the elongate arm in the non-transporting configuration thereby facilitating variable longitudinal positioning of the cradle by the operator upon the arm. The cradle has an increased resistance to longitudinal reciprocation on the elongate arm in the bicycle transporting configuration in comparison to the non-transporting configuration.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2010Publication date: January 27, 2011Inventors: Vincent BOVE, Kevin BOGOLOFSKI, George RIEHM, Gregor WEAVER
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Patent number: 7810685Abstract: Method and apparatus for providing a load carrier arrangement for transporting a bicycle when secured thereupon. The load carrier arrangement including a frame assembly adapted to be mounted to the carrying vehicle. The frame assembly has at least one elongate arm configured to receive a bicycle cradle thereupon. The bicycle cradle is mounted upon the arm and is operator configurable between a bicycle transporting configuration and a non-transporting configuration. The cradle has a through-passage within which the elongate arm is received and the cradle is operator reciprocal on the elongate arm in the non-transporting configuration thereby facilitating variable longitudinal positioning of the cradle by the operator upon the arm. The cradle has an increased resistance to longitudinal reciprocation on the elongate arm in the bicycle transporting configuration in comparison to the non-transporting configuration.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2004Date of Patent: October 12, 2010Assignee: Thule Sweden ABInventors: Vincent Bove, Kevin Bogolofski, George Riehm, Gregor Weaver
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Patent number: 7798381Abstract: A load carrying basket for attachment to a vehicle roof is movable between a deployed position and a stowed position. The stowed position facilitates entry of the vehicle into garages, parking lots and the like, having limited overhead clearance. The load carrier includes a plurality of pivotally mounted support members which are pivotally attached to an upper frame and a lower frame. At least one of the support members is a clamping member to clamp the carrier in the deployed position. Advantageously, the clamping member also clamps the load carrier in the stowed position.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2007Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Assignee: Salflex Polymers Ltd.Inventors: Serge Moreau, Robert Virtu
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Publication number: 20090314815Abstract: An article carrier for attachment to a vehicle includes a first side rail an a second side rail to be located extending generally parallel to one another and spaced laterally from one another with respect to a longitudinal centerline of the vehicle. A first cross-rail and a second cross-rail are independently movable between a stowed position and a deployed position, wherein the stowed position of the first and second cross-rails are axially aligned with a corresponding side rail, and the deployed position of the first and second cross-rail are laterally extending between the first and second side rails. The cross rails can be gas assist, injection molded cross rails. A manually hand/finger rotated fastener attaches each end of the first and second cross-rails to the first and second side rails in the stowed position and the deployed position.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 24, 2008Publication date: December 24, 2009Applicant: THE AMERICAN TEAMInventor: Craig Stapleton
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Patent number: 7434714Abstract: A bike carrying rack for an automobile includes a base frame, a support rack, and a pivot mechanism pivotally mounted between the base frame and the support rack and including two first rotation disks each provided with a first engaging face, and two second rotation disks each provided with a second engaging face detachably engaged with the first engaging face of the respective first rotation disk. Thus, the angle between the base frame and the support rack can be adjusted by the elastic effect of the base frame without needing to provide a spring, thereby simplifying the construction of the bike carrying rack.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2005Date of Patent: October 14, 2008Inventor: Chin-Sung Huang
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Publication number: 20080197162Abstract: An article carrier assembly for a vehicle is provided, including a side rail and a cross rail. The side rail includes a top surface that defines, at least in part, a maximum height of the side rail. The cross rail is operable to be secured to the side rail in a stowed position and a deployed position. The cross rail is located generally below the maximum height of the side rail when the cross rail is in the stowed position, and the cross rail is above the maximum height of the side rail when the cross rail is in the deployed position.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 20, 2008Publication date: August 21, 2008Inventors: John E. Klinkman, John H. Harberts, Gary Fulkerson
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Patent number: 7404504Abstract: Cargo carriers are disclosed, and more particularly adjustable cargo carriers that may be mounted on a rear of a vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2005Date of Patent: July 29, 2008Assignee: Yakima Products, Inc.Inventor: Joseph J. Settelmayer