Carrier Attached To The Front Or Rear End Of Vehicle Patents (Class 224/488)
  • Patent number: 11383919
    Abstract: A transport case for a folding bicycle has a base with a first wall element connected along an edge. A connection device can be used to fix the first wall element to an element of the transport case to produce an interior of a first volume. Another connection device can be used to fix the first wall element to an element of the transport case to produce an interior of a second volume. The first volume is bigger than the second volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2022
    Assignee: B&W INTERNATIONAL GMBH
    Inventors: Andreas Kuch, Juri Herzog, Philipp Buss, Lea Ratering, Sebastian Hagemann, Jannis Himpel
  • Patent number: 10024635
    Abstract: A landmine-neutralization system has a vehicle including a water supply tank and an electrical power supply and an electro-discharge apparatus. The electro-discharge apparatus includes one or more electro-discharge nozzles each having a discharge chamber that has an inlet for receiving water from the water supply tank and an outlet, a first electrode extending into the discharge chamber and being electrically connected to one or more high-voltage capacitors that are connected to, and chargeable by, the electrical power supply, a second electrode proximate to the first electrode to define a gap between the first and second electrodes and a switch to cause the one or more capacitors to discharge across the gap between the electrodes to create a plasma bubble which expands to form a shockwave that escapes through one or more exit orifices of the one or more nozzles ahead of the plasma bubble to thereby neutralize a landmine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2018
    Assignee: VLN ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES INC.
    Inventors: Mohan Vijay, Emilio Panarella, Meisheng Xu, Wenzhuo Yan, Bruce Daniels, Andrew Tieu
  • Patent number: 9902333
    Abstract: A multipurpose rack comprising a first racking assembly including a first securing portion configured to secure a first portion of a first transportation device, and a second securing portion operably connected to the first securing portion configured to releasably secure a second portion of the first transportation device, a second racking assembly including a first end portion having a clamping assembly, wherein the first end portion includes a lower support frame, a second end portion operably connected to the first end portion and spaced apart from the first end portion, the second end portion removably enclosing another portion of the second transportation is provided. An associated method is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2018
    Inventor: Larry Alan Gray
  • Patent number: 9340165
    Abstract: The invention relates to a foldable bicycle carrier (1) which serves for the transport of one or several bicycles, with an extension set (11), in which the bicycle carrier (1) presents bicycle-carrier-fixed positioning areas (8) for running wheels of the bicycles, and each time two positioning areas (8a 8b, 8b or 8c, 8d) are assigned to a bicycle, wherein the positioning areas (8) of the bicycle carrier (1) for folding are pivotable around at least one pivoting axis (ST), and the extension set (11) is detachably applied at the bicycle carrier (1) and presents a first positioning area (18a) and a second positioning area (18b) separated from the first positioning area (18a), which are assigned to the running wheels of a further bicycle, and the two parts of the extension set (11) comprising the positioning areas (18a; 18b) are applied at the collapsible area of the bicycle carrier (1) detachably and pivotably forwards and backwards in direction of the bicycle-carrier-fixed positioning areas (8), in which the bi
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Stefan Ziola
  • Publication number: 20150083769
    Abstract: A versatile and portable cargo carrier having angularly adjustable members adaptable to various uses and cargo, including recreational, construction, landscaping and other equipment, tools and supplies of diverse sizes and shapes, comprising a base plate and mounting member attachable to a corresponding surface on a vehicle from which two adjustably angled arm members extend outwardly at an angle from the mounting member, a pivoting mechanism for adjusting the angle between the two arm members and one or more cargo fasteners employing fastening mechanisms suitable for corresponding equipment or cargo, and may include a mounting bar. This easily assembled and installed cargo carrier further provides a frame for attachment about a hitch, spare tire, hatchback, and includes mounting members including a base plate, hat bracket, rotational swivel or pivoting tilt base which can be combined with the two angular members enabling facile loading and fastening of cargo.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2014
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventor: Marty Williams
  • Publication number: 20140291370
    Abstract: A sporting goods carrier combines the standardized racks and flexibility of a car top carrier with the ease of access and gas conservation of a hitch mounted carrier by providing standard roof rails extending parallel to the mount (and thus parallel to the vehicle) so that sporting equipment such as bicycles, skis and so on may be carried cross-wise to the vehicle at the rear. Using standardized load bars allows the hitch mounted device to accept the many types of roof rack sports equipment carriers already on the market. Load bars may be tilted, U-shaped, moved in and outward and the mount may be rotated below bumper level to allow easy loading and unloading of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2014
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Inventor: Stephen Norman Donnigan
  • Publication number: 20140259825
    Abstract: A pipe accessory mounting apparatus for removable engagement with a substantially horizontally-oriented pipe provides, in at least one embodiment, a display wall and a heat wall substantially linearly aligned with and spaced apart from the display wall. The heat wall is configured for being selectively positioned a distance behind an end of the pipe, in a position between the pipe end and the display wall. An at least one elongate support arm is engaged proximally with each of the heat wall and display wall and configured for being removably secured distally against an outer wall of the pipe. A front surface of the display wall is configured for providing a visual display. During use, where the apparatus is engaged with an exhaust pipe, for example, the heat wall is capable of absorbing and deflecting any hot air emitted from the pipe end, allowing the display to remain substantially unaffected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Cristob Galvan
  • Patent number: 8733605
    Abstract: A bicycle-carrying device for motor-vehicles comprises a frame which is mounted on the rear part of a motor-vehicle and is provided with receptacles for supporting one or more bicycles in vertical planes parallel to the longitudinal direction of the motor-vehicle, without hiding from view substantial portions of the rear plate and/or the rear lights of the motor-vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Inventor: Fabio Pedrini
  • Patent number: 8646668
    Abstract: A storage container for a vehicle is provided and includes a bottom wall and an outer wall extending upwardly from the bottom wall. The bottom wall and the outer wall together define a storage compartment. The storage container is configured to be removably secured to a rack of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Honda Motor Company, Ltd.
    Inventor: Philip A. Oakes
  • Patent number: 8596507
    Abstract: A storage apparatus for a vehicle may include a rear bumper having a back beam mounted under an inner space thereof, and a storage case provided in a space above the rear bumper, having a portion exposed to the outside formed so as to coincide with an outer surface of the rear bumper, and drawn-out/drawn-in by being slid to the outside in a state in which a load is supported above the back beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Seung Mok Lee, Nae Ung Jang, Hee Chan Yang, Dong Eun Cha, Nam Cheol Kim, Kwang Jae Choi, Jo Han Kim, Yong Won Jeong, Seung Hwan Lee, Cheol O Kim, Ki Tae Kim, Myung Eun Kim, Hun Soo Kim, Hoo Taek Cho, Jeong Ho Lee
  • Publication number: 20130270316
    Abstract: Apparatuses and related methods for holding bags for transporting trash or holding displays on the exterior of a vehicle. The apparatuses include an adjustable-size rack comprising one or more detachable members which are attachable to the receiver segment of a base member. A base member has an engagement segment for mounting the apparatus on a vehicle. In a first apparatus, the engagement segment mounts on the shoulders of the shoulder bolts used for installing the license plate on a vehicle. In a second apparatus, the engagement segment mounts on the shoulders of an adapter which is installed over the license plate of a vehicle. In a third apparatus, two straps link the engagement segment on the exterior to a restraining bar configured inside the trunk of a vehicle. In a fourth apparatus, the engagement segment mounts on an external spare wheel of a vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2012
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Inventor: SIDDHARTHA ANGARA
  • Patent number: 8418902
    Abstract: A telescopic bicycle carrier installed on a vehicle so as to be able to load a bicycle outside the vehicle, may include a guide rail located inside a bumper of the vehicle and fixed to an end of a body of the vehicle, a guide frame slidably installed on the guide rail along a lengthwise direction of the vehicle, a pair of expansion brackets installed on lateral sides of the guide frame and slidable toward or away from each other with respect to the guide frame in a widthwise direction of the vehicle through the guide frame, bicycle wheel fixtures pivotally installed on the pair of expansion brackets to fix wheels of the loaded bicycle, and bicycle body fixtures pivotally installed on the pair of expansion brackets to fix a body of the loaded bicycle, wherein the pair of expansion brackets may be received inside the bumper along with the guide frame in a retracted state where the expansion brackets slide toward each other into the guide frame, and may be extracted from the bumper along with the guide frame if
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Dong Eun Cha, Seung Mok Lee, Sung Won Kim, Hun Soo Kim, Hoo Taek Cho
  • Patent number: 8393111
    Abstract: A holder device attaching to a vehicle with a releasable attachment strip flexibly attached to a main body and having receptacles for holding a fishing rod. The attachment strip is releasably attached to a vehicle with a magnet or suction cup array. The attachment strip has a pair of connector arms attached to a top portion of the main body. Horizontal bars attached to the main body and the receptacles holding the fishing rod provide resilience and flexibility. A hinge on each of the pair of connector arms facilitates limited movement of the holder device absorbing loads applied during movement of the vehicle. An adjustable strut attached to a lower portion of the main body has a pad at one end providing another contact point on the vehicle. A handle attached to the body or horizontal bars facilitates carrying after detaching from the vehicle. A retaining strap may be attached to the vehicle and the holder device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Inventor: Jeffrey A. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8302829
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a bicycle carrier for a vehicle, which is housed in the rear bumper of the vehicle to be concealed and when necessary is drawn out from the rear bumper to carry a bicycle. The bicycle carrier includes a front frame positioned in a rear bumper of the vehicle and secured to a rear end of a vehicle body. A central frame perpendicularly passes through the front frame. A rear frame is secured to a rear end of the central frame. A folding unit couples each of opposite ends of the front frame with each of opposite ends of the rear frame and is folded to vary a distance between the front frame and the rear frame. A bicycle wheel support is provided on the folding unit. A bicycle body support is provided on the central frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Seung Mok Lee, Hee Chan Yang, Dong Eun Cha, Nam Cheol Kim, Kwang Jae Choi, Ju Yong Park, Jo Han Kim, Yong Won Jeong, Kwang Sup Jeong, Jeong Ho Lee
  • Publication number: 20120267407
    Abstract: A push tube adapter for an off-road vehicle which enables the rearward end of a push tube assembly to be mounted on various vehicle mounts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2011
    Publication date: October 25, 2012
    Inventor: Curt J. Hill
  • Publication number: 20120234883
    Abstract: A versatile rack for carrying one or more bicycles on the rear of a vehicle includes two or more frame structures connected and coordinated through a pair of hubs. One of the frame structures has a pair of parallel arms equipped with saddle mounts and stabilizers for supporting and securing one or more bicycles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2011
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Applicant: Yakima Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Chris Sautter, James Owen, Richard Jeli
  • Patent number: 8261473
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a sign carrier apparatus specifically designed to be inserted into a vehicle hitch assembly to transport signs. Alternatively, the present invention provides for a free standinged receiver hitch, or free standing receiver hitch for storing the sign carrier apparatus when not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Inventors: Joshua A. Bey, Sarah R. Bey
  • Patent number: 8251268
    Abstract: A front carrier includes an outer frame pipe surrounding the periphery, and a cross pipe and a back-and-forth member which are provided inside the outer frame pipe. A front side portion of the outer frame pipe is lowered at a one-step to form a stepped bottom portion. The back-and-forth member is disposed to extend obliquely downwardly from the cross pipe toward the stepped bottom portion. In addition, the widthwise inside portion of the rear side portion is bent to be forward to form an end side portion, which is joined to the cross pipe to be flush with the back-and-forth member. Thus, a cargo support surface formed by the cross pipe, the back-and-forth member and the end side portion is surrounded by an outer frame portion higher at a one-step than the cargo support. Part of the outer frame portion is allowed to serve as a cargo stopper for the cargo.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Seiji Hanafusa, Yuji Maki, Masahiro Inoue
  • Publication number: 20120152994
    Abstract: An object such as a fluid container, tool box, tackle box, etc. has a magnet associated therewith so that the object may be placed on the floor of a truck box or on the floor of a vehicle or the floor of a trailer so that the object will be held in place during travel of the vehicle or trailer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2010
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Inventor: John O'Dell
  • Publication number: 20120048903
    Abstract: A cargo management assembly for a vehicle having a support structure having a utility wall and side supports. A cabinet assembly is operably connected with the support structure. A barrier partition is disposed above the utility wall. A floor member is disposed below the cabinet assembly and the barrier partition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventors: James Hugh Fowler, Gary R. Fulkerson, Randy Michael Freiburger
  • Publication number: 20120031940
    Abstract: An above-bed structure having two or more feet is attached into a bed of a truck using inserts which can be removed or retracted to provide a flat, unobstructed truck bed. Each insert includes an above-bed cleat portion and a below-bed peg portion which is received in a below-bed socket. Each insert is received first vertically without substantial rotation into its socket and then by rotation to a terminal point wherein the insert is vertically held by the socket. The above bed structure is then placed onto the inserts such that the feet mate with the inserts to prevent the inserts from rotating away from their terminal point, thus preventing the inserts from being removed from their sockets. The attachment can be completed by inserting mounting pins into aligned holes on the cleat portions and the feet. In one embodiment, the feet are supported on a bed place section of the insert which is offset from the rotational axis of the insert.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2011
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Applicant: CURT MANUFACTURING, INC.
    Inventors: Cody James Leech, Kristopher William Schwennsen, Scott Morrison
  • Patent number: 8092142
    Abstract: Improvements in a vertical recreational vehicle ramp and lift that allows a recreational vehicle to be stored and transported in a vertical orientation. A cable from the lift mechanism connects to a recreational vehicle. The cable in then retracted to lift the recreational vehicle into a vertical orientation. This method of storage reduces the amount of space that is required to store a recreational vehicle. The storage method can be used in a garage, on the back or within a mobile transportation vehicle. The lifting device can be a powered or manual crank device that lifts the recreational vehicle. The ramp can be used to transport other vehicles into the truck and also provides protection of the wheels of the recreational vehicle against here the vehicle is stored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Inventor: Richard D Collins, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20110240699
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an attachment device to disperse spider webbing in the path of an all terrain vehicle (ATV) comprising: a bracket assembly, where said bracket assembly includes a top bracket and a bottom bracket; a plurality of bolts, where said plurality of bolts provide a means for attaching the bracket assembly to the ATV; a stick, where the stick includes a mounting screw at one end thereof; and an insert on the top bracket, where the insert receives the mounting screw to mount the stick to the top bracket. The stick may include a rubber tip at the opposite end of the stick. In one exemplary embodiment, the stick includes a series of lights along the length thereof and a power connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2010
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Inventor: RUSH STACY
  • Patent number: 8028874
    Abstract: An L-shaped member has a forwardly extending horizontal leg and an upwardly extending vertical leg. The horizontal leg has a forward end removably couplable with respect to a hitch of a vehicle. The vertical leg has an upper end. A roller assembly includes a U-shaped support. The U-shaped support has a horizontal central portion coupled to the upper end of the vertical leg. The U-shaped support has upwardly extending vertical end legs and a shaft rotatably supported by the end legs. The roller assembly includes primary rollers rotatably supported on the shaft. A spacer is provided between the primary rollers. A bottom of an object is positionable upon the primary rollers and pushed into position upon a roof of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Inventor: Christopher S. Stiles
  • Publication number: 20110192873
    Abstract: Storage and carrying racks for a military hitching apparatus. The carrying racks allow for the quick hitching and unhitching of various trailers, cannon, and other military equipment that are towed on wheels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Inventor: Stephen Pavlik
  • Publication number: 20110139844
    Abstract: A rack for mounting on a spare tire assembly of a vehicle includes a mounting plate engagable to a spare tire mounting bracket of the vehicle, and a mast connected to the mounting plate in a substantially vertical position. The rack also includes a shoulder member connected proximate a top end of the mast and mountable proximate the top end of the mast using a connector at more than one position along a horizontal axis relative to the mast. A hub assembly is connected to the shoulder member, and a pair of arms are connected to the hub assembly that are configured to carry one or more bikes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2010
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: Yakima Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Chris Sautter, James Buckroyd, Zac Elder
  • Publication number: 20110108592
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a bicycle carrier for a vehicle, which is housed in the rear bumper of the vehicle to be concealed and when necessary is drawn out from the rear bumper to carry a bicycle. The bicycle carrier includes a front frame positioned in a rear bumper of the vehicle and secured to a rear end of a vehicle body. A central frame perpendicularly passes through the front frame. A rear frame is secured to a rear end of the central frame. A folding unit couples each of opposite ends of the front frame with each of opposite ends of the rear frame and is folded to vary a distance between the front frame and the rear frame. A bicycle wheel support is provided on the folding unit. A bicycle body support is provided on the central frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2010
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Applicant: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Seung Mok LEE, Hee Chan Yang, Dong Eun Cha, Nam Cheol Kim, Kwang Jae Choi, Ju Yong Park, Jo Han Kim, Yong Won Jeong, Kwang Sup Jeong, Jeong Ho Lee
  • Publication number: 20110073628
    Abstract: A recessed portion recessed downwardly is provided on an upper face of a fuel tank supported in a crossing manner on a main frame extending rearwardly from a head pipe, and a tank pocket is accommodated in the recessed portion. The tank pocket includes a body case open upwardly, and a lid for opening and closing the opening of the body case. A popup lever provided at a front portion of the lid is popped up by a popup mechanism when the popup lever is pushed downwardly by a predetermined amount. Front portions of the lid and the body case are engaged with each other by an engaging projection and a latch, and the engagement is maintained even if the popup lever is popped up. In order to open the lid, two-stage operations are required without fail. Inadvertent opening of the lid can be blocked.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventors: Yoshihiro INOUE, Kenichi Misaki, Ippei Kawamura
  • Patent number: 7900801
    Abstract: A multi-function vehicle-carrying frame includes a chassis, a positioning frame, a connecting rod, two first clasping poles, two second clasping poles, two third clasping poles and a support. The chassis is U-shaped. The positioning frame is reverse U-shaped and inserted into the chassis. An adjustable clipping post is disposed on a top tube of the positioning frame, and both lateral pipes are locked with a movable buffer cushion. The connecting rod is fixed between the lateral pipes of the positioning frame. The first clasping poles are pivotally connected to the lateral pipes of the positioning frame, the second clasping poles are connected to the lateral pipes of the first clasping pole or the positioning frame, and the third clasping poles are connected to the ends of the connecting rod. The support is connected to the lateral pipes of the positioning frame. Thereby, the multi-function vehicle-carrying frame is stable and practical.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Inventor: Chin-Sung Huang
  • Publication number: 20110031291
    Abstract: A storage container for a vehicle is provided and includes a bottom wall and an outer wall extending upwardly from the bottom wall. The bottom wall and the outer wall together define a storage compartment. The storage container is configured to be removably secured to a rack of a vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2009
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Inventor: Philip A. Oakes
  • Publication number: 20100270347
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are embodiments of a detection system having the ability to avoid damage when coming into contact with a fixed object. The system includes a head containing a sensor for detecting an object of interest in the ground. The sensor head is disposed at the distal end of a boom. The boom is connected to a vehicle. The sensor head precedes the vehicle, and detects an object of interest before the vehicle passes over the object. The sensor head may pivot with respect to the boom, and the height of the sensor head from the ground may be adjusted. A tensioning device may be employed to maintain the sensor head in a first orientation. The tensioning device may exert a restoring force when the sensor head is not in the first orientation to cause the sensor head to return to the first orientation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2009
    Publication date: October 28, 2010
    Applicant: WILLOWVIEW CONSULTING, LLC
    Inventors: Robert A. Kinzle, David W. Simmons, Layne E. Simmons
  • Publication number: 20100078455
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2009
    Publication date: April 1, 2010
    Applicant: THULE SWEDE AB
    Inventor: Frederick G. MURRAY
  • Patent number: 7654424
    Abstract: A method of carrying equipment on one side of an ATV having a front top rack, a rear top rack and a foot rest on the one side comprising the following steps: a) attaching a utility box carrying bracket to an outer side portion of the front top rack, the foot rest, and the rear top rack; and, b) mounting a utility box on each of the box carrying brackets. Then equipment may be conveniently carried in and removed from the mounted box. In a preferred aspect of this invention the utility box is generally rectangular in plan view and further comprises a utility box lid hinged to one long top side portion of the box and latched to the other opposite long side portion of the box so that equipment carried in the box is protected from the elements. A lateral side of the mounted box is dimensioned to generally follow the longitudinal shape of the fenders and running board so that the box generally fills the void above the running board and a central portion of the fenders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Inventors: David W. Kramp, Kelly G. Kramp
  • Patent number: 7513545
    Abstract: A moveable guard assembly is configured for installation upon an ATV having a horizontal carrier rack. The movable guard assembly comprises a blocking member and a first securement mechanism. The blocking member is configured for attachment to a front end of the all terrain vehicle in a position adjacent to the horizontal carrier rack. The blocking member is adjustable through movement between a first position in which the blocking member is operable to perform a guard function for protecting at least a portion of the front end of the all terrain vehicle, and a second position in which the blocking member is operable to provide additional support for cargo placed upon the horizontal carrier rack. The first securement mechanism is configured to selectively retain the blocking member in at least one of the first position and the second position. An ATV including the moveable guard assembly is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: Honda Motor Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Rowdy L. Joseph, Eric Stevens
  • Publication number: 20090071993
    Abstract: A cargo rack assembly is provided for a vehicle. The cargo rack assembly defines an inner region and includes a restraint assembly disposed at least partially within the inner region. The restraint assembly includes a belt and a carrier. The belt extends between a first end portion and a second end portion. The second end portion of the belt is attached to the carrier. The carrier is configured to facilitate selective dispensation of the first end portion of the belt between a stored position in which the first end portion is adjacent to the cargo rack assembly, and an extended position in which the first end portion is spaced from the cargo rack assembly. A vehicle including a cargo rack assembly is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2007
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Inventor: Rowdy L. Joseph
  • Patent number: 7475799
    Abstract: A device to increase the stowage capacity of vehicles that comprises a fabric, box-like or cylindrical shaped receptacle and primary support straps and tie down straps to mount the receptacle on the rear or side of a vehicle and to minimize sway of the receptacle when the vehicle is in motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: Lakeland Gear, Inc.
    Inventor: David R. Schaefer
  • Publication number: 20080314946
    Abstract: Tail Gator Grills/Carrier is the first tail gate grilling unit that is a combination tail gate grill and a luggage carrier, that can be used as a table when grilling and where the grills can be removed so the base can be used as a luggage carrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2008
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Inventor: James Carson Owenby
  • Patent number: 7325848
    Abstract: A moveable guard assembly is configured for installation upon an ATV having a horizontal carrier rack. The movable guard assembly comprises a blocking member and a first securement mechanism. The blocking member is configured for attachment to a front end of the all terrain vehicle in a position adjacent to the horizontal carrier rack. The blocking member is adjustable through movement between a first position in which the blocking member is operable to perform a guard function for protecting at least a portion of the front end of the all terrain vehicle, and a second position in which the blocking member is operable to provide additional support for cargo placed upon the horizontal carrier rack. The first securement mechanism is configured to selectively retain the blocking member in at least one of the first position and the second position. An ATV including the moveable guard assembly is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Assignee: Honda Motor Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Rowdy L. Joseph, Eric Stevens
  • Patent number: 7284586
    Abstract: A vehicle-mounted wheel repair platform includes a vehicle connection assembly, a wheel repair platform assembly, and a wheel securing assembly. The vehicle connection assembly includes a horizontal section having a vehicle attachment port for coupling to a vehicle, and a vertical section connected to the horizontal section. The platform assembly includes a vertically-oriented section configured to engage the vertical section of the vehicle connection assembly, and a wheel platform connected to the vertically-oriented section. The wheel securing assembly is coupled to the wheel platform and operable to secure a wheel to the top surface of the wheel platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Inventor: David Howland
  • Patent number: 7204538
    Abstract: The invention provides a moveable storage compartment designed for camper trailers that provides for top access even when the camper is in use and is folded out and over the top of the compartment. The storage compartment's unique design and placement on a sliding track allow the user to move the compartment to either side of the trailer in a direction substantially perpendicular to a line running along the length of the trailer. Furthermore, the compartment has one or more lids that allow either side to be accessed depending upon on which side of the trailer access is desired. At least one lid of the compartment may easily convert for use as a table if desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Assignee: Coachmen Recreational Vehicle Company, LLC
    Inventors: Arthur G. Warlick, III, Michael R. Terlep, Jr., Robert R. Bradley, Gary L. Duncan
  • Patent number: 6866315
    Abstract: A receiver assembly (10) allows one to carry an elongated article or articles having a length exceeding a load bed/rack of a vehicle to which the receiver assembly (10) is attached. The receiver assembly includes a central frame member (14), a pair of mounting brackets (30) to secure the central frame member (14) and load bed/rack extender assembly (50). The bed/rack extender assembly (50) includes a pair of L-shaped space support members (60,62). Either end of the spaced support members may be connected into the accessory receivers (52) so that the extender assembly (50) may be selectively secured in one of two positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Assignee: Cequent Towing Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Katherine A. Adams, Jason R. Moldthan, Richard W. McCoy
  • Patent number: 6722380
    Abstract: A hitch-mounted umbrella support is provided for use with a vehicle having a hitch receiver at the rearward end thereof. A hitch bar is selectively receivably mounted in the receiver and has a clevis secured to its rearward end. A support bar is selectively adjustably pivotally secured to the clevis and extends therefrom. The inner end of the support bar has a plurality of longitudinally spaced-apart openings formed therein which are adapted to be selectively registered with a plurality of longitudinally spaced-apart openings formed in the clevis. A U-shaped locking pin is extended between the clevis and the support bar to lock the support bar in various positions with respect to the hitch bar. A hollow tube is secured to the outer end of the support bar and receives the pole of the umbrella therein. The umbrella may be pivotally moved from side to side with respect to the vehicle and may be moved towards the vehicle or away from the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Inventor: John C. Hafer
  • Patent number: 6708856
    Abstract: An automotive tool tray and support assembly that can be removably engaged with and affixed to the hood-latch mechanisms of automobiles having rear-raising engine hoods. The support assembly comprises two hollow support members, with an extendable insert movably disposed within the support member. Both support members are substantially rigidly and removably affixed to their respective hood latch mechanisms by inserting the inserts in the hood latch mechanisms. The hood latch mechanisms engage with and retain the inserts, and the support members rest on the hood latch mechanism housings. An automotive tool tray is positioned over the exposed engine compartment by affixing the tray to the top ends of the support members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Inventor: Paul Kiyoshi Yamamoto
  • Publication number: 20040050891
    Abstract: An automotive tool tray and support assembly that can be removably engaged with and affixed to the hood-latch mechanisms of automobiles having rear-raising engine hoods. The support assembly comprises two hollow support members, with an extendable insert movably disposed within the support member. Both support members are substantially rigidly and removably affixed to their respective hood latch mechanisms by inserting the inserts in the hood latch mechanisms. The hood latch mechanisms engage with and retain the inserts, and the support members rest on the hood latch mechanism housings. An automotive tool tray is positioned over the exposed engine compartment by affixing the tray to the top ends of the support members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Inventor: Paul Kiyoshi Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 6698114
    Abstract: A lift arm assembly for a small or “mini” loader is pivotally mounted onto a self propelled frame for movement between a raised and a lowered position. In the raised position, a support strut is provided that fits over an extended rod of the lift arm operating cylinder and will prevent the lift arm assembly from lowering. The support strut is stored in a front tubular cross member of the lift arm assembly. Additionally, the front cross member supports an upright strut that acts as a back stop for material in a bucket, by projecting upwardly beyond the bucket top so that if an object in the bucket tends to roll rearwardly, if the bucket is not leveled, it will be intercepted by the upwardly projecting portion of the back stop and deflected laterally.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Clark Equipment Company
    Inventors: Mark F. Bares, James H. Page
  • Publication number: 20040020955
    Abstract: The Universal Bar Holder is a square tube that slides over 2″×2″ square tube and has a means of holding a round or rectangular bar used to support kayak saddles when transporting kayaks above the roof of a vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2002
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventor: Kenneth S. Darby
  • Patent number: 6644707
    Abstract: A decklid and luggage compartment system for an automotive vehicle includes a luggage compartment located at one end of a vehicle and a decklid for closing the luggage compartment. A linked hinge moves the decklid translationally from a closed position to a raised position and axially displaced open position. The decklid maintains a common attitude in both the closed and opened positions. A combination load floor and bumper assembly having a load floor for the luggage compartment is mounted upon a sliding carrier for movement between an extended position and a retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Ian McLaughlin, Marek Reichman, Chris Wheeler, David Woodhouse
  • Patent number: 6641192
    Abstract: A storage cabinet for use on a golf cart has a body having an upper compartment and a lower compartment. The body is removably attached to and supported by the golf cart. The upper compartment has an upper closure member. The lower compartment has a lower closure member releasably attached to the lower compartment. Each closure member can be hinged to its respective compartment. The body may have a platform between the lower compartment and the golf cart to raise the lower compartment. The lower compartment has shelves. The shelves may be removable or fixed. Removable shelves can be placed at various heights within the lower compartment. The upper compartment is a thermally insulated container, or holds a thermally insulated container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Inventor: Charles R. Eschenfelder
  • Patent number: 6638001
    Abstract: A game lifting apparatus for lifting and loading a game animal upon a rack of a prime mover such as an ATV. The game lifting apparatus includes a rack support assembly including a rack support member being adapted to securely mount to a prime mover, and also including bracket members being fastenable to the rack support member; and also includes a rack assembly being attached to the bracket members for supporting and lifting a game thereupon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Inventor: Perry A. McKinley
  • Patent number: 6564599
    Abstract: A tailgate limiter for restricting a pickup truck tailgate from being opened. A vertical post is removably mounted in a base which is mounted to the truck. The post impedes the tailgate from opening, thereby preventing theft of objects in the truck bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Inventors: Mark T. Eagleson, Curt M. Luburgh