Adjustable To Size Of Article Patents (Class 224/501)
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Patent number: 11148492Abstract: A locking adjustable trailer hitch system includes a vehicle trailer hitch receiver having a receiver opening, an adjustable hitch bar that is slidably and removably received by the trailer hitch receiver, and a cable lock that is attached through the trailer hitch receiver and the hitch bar, and locked in place to secure and lock the hitch bar to the trailer hitch receiver. The hitch system further includes an anti-wobble device to secure and stabilize the hitch bar within the hitch receiver. The hitch bar can extend along the length of the hitch bar such that the distal end of the hitch bar can be positioned at an adjustable distance from the receiver. In certain embodiments, the hitch bar may include an extended slotted depression alongside one of its walls. In those embodiments, the hitch bar can extend along the length of the slotted depression such that the distal end of the hitch bar can be positioned an adjustable distance from the receiver.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2019Date of Patent: October 19, 2021Assignee: 1UPUSA.COM, LLCInventor: Ryan Withrow
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Patent number: 10576936Abstract: A wiper arm holder for supporting first and second wiper arm elements located in extended position relative to a motor vehicle windshield. The holder includes a shaft section having a first end loop for attaching the shaft section to the first wiper arm element. The holder also includes a receiver section having a second end loop for attaching the receiver section to the second wiper arm element. The receiver section receives the shaft section and the shaft section is moveable relative to the receiver section. In use, the shaft section is moved to a desired position that changes a distance between the first and second wiper arm elements to place the first and second wiper arms in tension. Further, the holder includes a locking mechanism for locking the shaft section in the desired position. In an embodiment, the holder includes a rotatable support arm that abuts against the windshield to support the holder.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2015Date of Patent: March 3, 2020Inventors: James M. Markarian, Pasquale Musacchio
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Patent number: 10183604Abstract: A cup holder assembly is provided. That cup holder assembly includes a body having a first cup well and a first resilient insert. The first resilient insert is seated within the first cup well for receiving and holding a cup. The first resilient insert may be easily removed from the cup well when cleaning a drink spill.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2016Date of Patent: January 22, 2019Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventor: Venkatesh Krishnan
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Patent number: 9963082Abstract: Provides a hitch carrier that is highly versatile for a bicycle that is loadable and that ensures stable loading of a bicycle. A hitch carrier for loading a bicycle including a frame that includes a top tube, a down tube, and a sheet tube, includes a first arm engaged with a first cradle including a supporting portion that supports the top tube, a second arm engaged with a second cradle including a supporting portion that supports the down tube, and a post supporting in a cantilever manner both the first arm and the second arm separated in a vertical direction. Fastening belts are disposed on the first cradle and the second cradle to fasten the top tube and the down tube, respectively.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2015Date of Patent: May 8, 2018Assignee: CAR MATE MFG. CO., LTD.Inventors: Kiyotaka Inagaki, Wataru Ishida, Hideaki Okano
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Patent number: 9738230Abstract: An embodiment includes a travel system comprising: a first arm and a second arm, the first arm including an aperture; a hub pivotally coupled to the first and second arms; a male hitch insert, coupled to the hub, configured to insert within a female hitch; a handle bar support coupled to the male hitch insert and configured to receive a handle bar of a stroller; a void, located between the first and second arms, configured to receive a wheel of the stroller; and a post configured to (a) extend from the first arm to the second arm, (b) mate with the second arm, (c) extend between support members of the wheel and secure the stroller to the system. Other embodiments are described herein.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2015Date of Patent: August 22, 2017Assignee: FOURTH ROW, LLCInventor: Michael Bohmer
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Patent number: 9533625Abstract: A mechanism for attaching a bike rack to a vehicle including a support member located behind an exterior wall of the vehicle. An attachment assembly, including a receiver operative to move between the first, stowed position any second, use position is connected to the support member. The exterior wall includes a removable portion wherein upon removal provides access to the attachment assembly. Once the removable portion is removed, the attachment assembly, including the receiver is moved from the first, stowed position to the second, use position wherein the bike rack then connects to the receiver. Additionally, the removable portion may include a detachable license plate bracket, which upon being detached from the vehicle, can be mounted to the rear of a bike rack. Sensors are mounted on the license plate bracket to allow for a functional back-up or park assist when the bike rack is attached to rear of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2014Date of Patent: January 3, 2017Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Venkatesh Krishnan, Scott Cutler, Eswar Timmavajjala, Benjamin Lee, Vikas Bhatt, Ravikumar Ranganthan, Brandon Buckhalt, Pete Christ Korovesis
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Patent number: 9446717Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 11, 2014Date of Patent: September 20, 2016Inventor: Larry Alan Gray
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Publication number: 20150083770Abstract: The invention relates to a foldable load carrier (1) with at least one adjusting range (8), on which load to be transported, especially at least one bicycle, can be placed, and a coupling mechanism (2), which can be detachably attached at a receptacle-like coupling (3) with a substantially square opening (3a), in which the extracting of at least one latch (25) and the locking of the at least one latch (25) with a locking device (21) is done by a swinging movement around a pivoting axis (ST) of a single lever (10) serving as control element, and that the lever (10) serving as control element at the same time also forms the adjusting range (8).Type: ApplicationFiled: May 1, 2013Publication date: March 26, 2015Inventor: Stefan Ziola
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Patent number: 8955880Abstract: An adjustable headboard for a carrier vehicle includes a hoop with a first frame member having a proximal end and a distal end, a second frame member having a proximal end and a distal end, and a connecting member extending between the distal end of the first frame member and the distal end of the second frame member. The hoop is moveable between a first position and a second position. The adjustable headboard further includes a stationary base with a first receiving channel and a second receiving channel and a retainer coupled to the hoop to secure the hoop in the first position and the second position.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2013Date of Patent: February 17, 2015Assignee: Oshkosh CorporationInventors: James F. Malcolm, Sanjeev T. Kuriakose, Brandon F. Tucker
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Patent number: 8899456Abstract: A lightweight bicycle carrier that is easily adjustable to accommodate a wide variety of sizes and shapes of bicycles and other equipment. The bicycle carrier of the present invention is easily assembled and installed onto the hitch receiver of a vehicle. The bicycle carrier can also be partially disassembled to allow access into the rear of the vehicle without interfering with the vehicle tailgate. The bicycle carrier includes adjustable angular support arms to support bicycles during transport.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2007Date of Patent: December 2, 2014Inventor: Marty Williams
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Patent number: 8800831Abstract: A multipurpose rack comprising a first securing portion configured to secure a first portion of a transportation device, and a second securing portion configured to secure a second portion of the transportation device, wherein the first securing portion is operably secured to a lower support unit, the lower support unit configured to engage a vehicle element is provided. Furthermore, a method of racking a watercraft and a transportation device comprising the step of: providing a rack including a watercraft racking portion and a transportation device racking portion, and engaging a vehicle element with a lower support unit of the rack is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2012Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Inventor: Larry A. Gray
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Publication number: 20140158729Abstract: A bicycle-carrier device includes a brace for connection to the frame of a vehicle, and bearing supporting elements to support one or more bicycles oriented transversely relative to the vehicle. The brace consists of a transverse bar, and the bicycles are supported by at least first and second supporting elements affixed to the bar, in positions that can be adjusted along the bar, so as to receive and support from below the two wheels of a bicycle. Mounted on the bar in an articulated manner is an arm that can be shifted between a raised operating position and a lowered non-operating position. Secured to the bar in an adjustable manner is at least one third supporting element that receives and supports from below an element of a bicycle frame. Each of the supporting elements is provided with means for locking in place the part that is received.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 7, 2014Publication date: June 12, 2014Inventor: Fabio Pedrini
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Patent number: 8733605Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 31, 2011Date of Patent: May 27, 2014Inventor: Fabio Pedrini
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Patent number: 8657552Abstract: A support rack has spaced vertical rails and horizontal upper, lower and intermediate rails. The horizontal rails are coupled to the vertical rails. A pivotable locking bar is between the horizontal rails. Side plates with rearward ends are attached to the vertical rails adjacent to the lower rail. The side plates have forward ends forwardly of the vertical rails. A rectangular ramp/platform has a forward edge extending forwardly of the vertical rails and a rearward edge extending rearwardly of the vertical rails and having parallel side edges. Hinges pivotally couple the ramp/platform adjacent to its forward edge to the side plates adjacent to their forward edges for movement between raised and lowered orientations. A cross support bar has ends attached to the ramp/platform adjacent to the side edges parallel with and rearwardly of the horizontal lower rail. The cross support bar is spaced above the ramp/platform.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2010Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Inventor: Keith Raney
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Patent number: 8640888Abstract: A bike carrying device includes a support post (5), a mounting unit (4) mounted on the support post, a positioning bar (6) mounted on the mounting unit, a pawl member (7) mounted in the mounting unit, a release member (415) mounted in the mounting unit, a lock mechanism (414) mounted on the mounting unit and connected with the release member, and an elastic member (8) biased between the mounting unit and the pawl member. Thus, the bike carrying device has a simplified construction to decrease the cost of fabrication.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2011Date of Patent: February 4, 2014Inventor: Yao-Huang Liu
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Patent number: 8590758Abstract: An apparatus for racking a watercraft on a vehicle, in particular, a Recreational Vehicle comprising: a first end configured to engage a receiver hitch, wherein the first end accommodates a portion of a watercraft; a second end spaced apart from the first end, the second end removably enclosing another portion of the watercraft; and a connecting member connecting the first end with the second end. Also, a method for racking a watercraft on a vehicle comprising: providing a watercraft rack, the watercraft rack including a first end having a lower support frame, a connecting member connecting the first end to a spaced apart second end, the second end having an upper support frame; removably engaging the first end of the watercraft rack with a standard receiving hitch; accommodating a portion of a watercraft with the first end; and removably enclosing another portion of the watercraft within the second end.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2009Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Inventor: Larry A. Gray
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Publication number: 20130214020Abstract: A bicycle-carrier device includes a brace for connection to the frame of a vehicle, and bearing supporting elements to support one or more bicycles oriented transversely relative to the vehicle. The brace consists of a transverse bar, and the bicycles are supported by at least first and second supporting elements affixed to the bar, in positions that can be adjusted along the bar, so as to receive and support from below the two wheels of a bicycle. Mounted on the bar in an articulated manner is an arm that can be shifted between a raised operating position and a lowered non-operating position. Secured to the bar in an adjustable manner is at least one third supporting element that receives and supports from below an element of a bicycle frame. Each of the supporting elements is provided with means for locking in place the part that is received.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 20, 2013Publication date: August 22, 2013Inventor: Fabio Pedrini
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Publication number: 20130062385Abstract: A bicycle-carrier device includes a brace for connection to the frame of a vehicle, and bearing supporting elements to support one or more bicycles oriented transversely relative to the vehicle. The brace consists of a transverse bar, and the bicycles are supported by at least first and second supporting elements affixed to the bar, in positions that can be adjusted along the bar, so as to receive and support from below the two wheels of a bicycle. Mounted on the bar in an articulated manner is an arm that can be shifted between a raised operating position and a lowered non-operating position. Secured to the bar in an adjustable manner is at least one third supporting element that receives and supports from below an element of a bicycle frame. Each of the supporting elements is provided with means for locking in place the part that is received.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 15, 2012Publication date: March 14, 2013Inventor: Fabio Pedrini
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Patent number: 8365969Abstract: A mobile carrier includes a generally planar cargo platform. The mobile carrier includes first and second opposed side rails, each side rail having a portion extending outwardly from the cargo platform, the opposed side rails being adjustably coupled to the cargo platform such that multiple distances between the outwardly extending portion of each side rail may be respectively maintained. The mobile carrier includes first and second opposed end rails, each end rail having a portion extending outwardly from the cargo platform, the opposed end rails being adjustably coupled to the cargo platform such that multiple distances between the outwardly extending portion of each end rail may be respectively maintained. The mobile carrier includes a rod. A receiving structure is configured to maintain the rod at multiple respective positions relative to the receiving structure, the rod and the receiving structure being separable from one another.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2009Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Inventor: Larry A. Johnson
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Patent number: 8272547Abstract: The motorcycle carrier apparatus provides several important features, first, not only three cross supports but also two angle supports beneath the platform upon which the motorcycle is removably placed, accommodating even the heaviest of motorcycles, a removable ramp for ease in loading and unloading. A further important feature is the clamp bar that provides the dual frame mounts that bolt to a motorcycle upper frame member. The positive attachment of these frame mounts ensures that a motorcycle is rigidly mounted and supported, with no chance of unintentional motorcycle movement or potential loss. The clamp bar is importantly height adjustable so that most motorcycles are accommodated.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2010Date of Patent: September 25, 2012Inventor: Mark A. Mital
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Patent number: 8235267Abstract: A bicycle rack for carrying bicycles behind a vehicle includes a tongue configured for connection to a vehicle hitch. A base portion includes wheel trays for supporting the wheels of a bicycle in cooperation with a slidable hook for contacting the top tube of a bicycle.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2008Date of Patent: August 7, 2012Assignee: Yakima Products, Inc.Inventors: Chris Sautter, Richard Jeli, Andrew Austin, Mike Kemery, Zac Elder
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Publication number: 20120000951Abstract: A bike frame for a sedan includes a horizontal main frame to be combined with a movable frame by adjusting devices that function to adjust the combined conditions between the main frame and the movable frame. The movable frame is provided with an auxiliary frame serving as a sitting means of combination of the movable frame and the rear side of a sedan. The adjusting devices are respectively disposed with a movable member to be fitted on the main frame, and formed with a receiving notch for receiving the movable frame and provided with a driving member combined with and positioned under the movable member. Further, the adjusting devices respectively have an elastic member for positioning the movable member, and a fit cover for covering all foresaid members and combined together with the main frame and the movable frame.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2010Publication date: January 5, 2012Applicant: HERN JUEI CO., LTD.Inventor: CHING-SHU HUANG
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Publication number: 20110011909Abstract: A bicycle carrier includes a mounting base, a main frame mounted on and movable relative to the mounting base, two limit pins each mounted between the main frame and the mounting and a positioning pin mounted on the main frame and detachably locked onto the mounting base. The main frame includes a main tube movably mounted on the mounting base, a plurality of support tubes mounted on the main tube and a plurality of adjusting tubes adjustably mounted on the support tubes. Thus, when the mounting base and the main frame are unlocked from the positioning pin, the main frame is pulled outwardly relative to the mounting base and is disposed at an inclined state, so that the bicycles placed on the main frame are spaced from the trunk of a car to facilitate a user opening the trunk.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 15, 2009Publication date: January 20, 2011Inventor: Yao-Huang Liu
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Publication number: 20100264186Abstract: A positioning member for bicycle racks includes a body made of resilient material and a passage defined through the body so that the bicycle rack extends through the passage. At least two support surfaces are located at outside of the body and have different widths. The at least two support surfaces are perpendicular to an axis of the passage. The support surfaces are selectively to support bicycles of different sizes.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 17, 2009Publication date: October 21, 2010Inventor: JACK C.T. SHEN
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Patent number: 7815083Abstract: A carrier for bicycles or other objects which is adapted to be mounted in a hitch receiver of a vehicle. The carrier being adapted to pivot downwardly away from the rear of the vehicle to allow for improved access to the rear doors of the vehicle. The carrier including a cantilever mounted handle having a spring actuated locking member for holding the carrier in a horizontal or, vertically stored position, or, when released, allowing the carrier to tilt downwardly. The carrier including bicycle support members is adapted to grip the wheels of a bicycle mounted thereon. The bicycle support members are mounted on transverse members and are laterally adjustable to match the wheel span of a bicycle to be carried. The bicycle support members are adapted to be folded and the transverse members moved inwardly to make the carrier more compact for storage. In an alternative embodiment, a tiltable carrier rack is provided for carrying items other than bicycles.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2007Date of Patent: October 19, 2010Assignee: Softride, Inc.Inventors: Eivind Clausen, James D Allsop
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Publication number: 20090236382Abstract: A compact carrier apparatus includes one or more bicycle carriers. Each carrier includes wheel support sections configured to engage front and rear bicycle wheels, and a stabilizing arm with a gripping member configured to grip one of the wheels. A wheel support section includes a wheel engagement member disposed on an outer edge of the carrier support structure and oriented so that an engaged wheel projects beyond the outer edge. A bracing arm may selectively extend in a cantilevered fashion relative to the support structure to provide an additional load-bearing support point for such a wheel. The stabilizing arm may be mounted to the support structure at a location rearward of a wheel engagement member, and pivotable to a carrying position to grip the wheel. The path of the stabilizing arm, in the carrying position, traverses the center of the wheel and avoids passing over the fork or the brakes.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 7, 2008Publication date: September 24, 2009Inventors: Chris Sautter, Richard Jeli, Andrew Austin, Mike Kemery, Zac Elder
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Publication number: 20090120984Abstract: A bicycle rack for carrying bicycles behind a vehicle includes a tongue configured for connection to a vehicle hitch. A base portion includes wheel trays for supporting the wheels of a bicycle in cooperation with a slidable hook for contacting the top tube of a bicycle.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 7, 2008Publication date: May 14, 2009Inventors: Chris Sautter, Richard Jeli, Andrew Austin, Mike Kemery, Zac Elder
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Patent number: 7240816Abstract: A rack for supporting at least one bicycle in position includes a base. Two beams are pivotally connected with the base. At least one supporting device is attached to each of the beams in order to support one wheel of the bicycle. A post is pivotally connected with the base. A hooking device is attached to the post in order to hook the bicycle.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2004Date of Patent: July 10, 2007Inventor: David Tsai
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Patent number: 7044347Abstract: A bicycle carrier includes a wheel support arrangement and a stabilizer engageable with a bicycle wheel, for maintaining the bicycle upright. The stabilizer includes an inner section and an extendible and retractable outer section. The inner section is pivotable throughout a range of positions, including an operating position. A releasable engagement arrangement selectively maintains the outer section in a predetermined position relative to the inner section. The inner section includes an interlock, which prevents engagement of the releasable engagement arrangement other than when the stabilizer is in the operative position, to ensure that the stabilizer is engaged with the bicycle in a desired position relative to the bicycle. The interlock provides a sensory indication when the stabilizer is in the operative position, and includes a manual actuator disengaging the releasable engagement arrangement to move the stabilizer away from the operative position.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2003Date of Patent: May 16, 2006Inventor: Fabio Pedrini
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Patent number: 7036700Abstract: A multi-purpose holder for supporting an object in a vehicle includes a body structured and configured to receive an object. A support member is provided for supporting the object, and is vertically movably mounted relative to the body.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2002Date of Patent: May 2, 2006Assignee: Lear CorporationInventors: Christopher G. Engel, Jeff A. Kempf
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Patent number: 6948645Abstract: An adjustable frame, mountable on a vehicle, for releasably securing hand trucks of different sizes and configurations includes: a support platform for receiving a base of a hand truck; a first and a second side member affixed to the platform; a first bracket and a second bracket attached to the first and second side members, respectively, the brackets extending in parallel therewith; an elongate swing bar pivotally connected to the first bracket and pivotal between a first position that retains the hand truck on the platform, and a second position, which allows access and removal of the hand truck from the platform; and a latch mounted on the swing bar. The second bracket may include a strike that engages the latch for releasably securing the swing bar in the first position. Cushioned crossbars attachable to the side members dampen vibration of the hand truck during transportation.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2004Date of Patent: September 27, 2005Assignee: Mickey Truck Bodies Inc.Inventors: John M. Pierce, Bill Snowa, Billie M. Bloodworth
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Patent number: 6874667Abstract: A cargo management system of this invention includes a deep well storage area beneath a cargo floor, which well may be horizontally and/or vertically divided and which preferably includes a plurality of doors to access the well. In the illustrated embodiment, the management system also includes a panel which may be placed into three positions: a first storage position in which the panel is flush against the back of the rear seat; a second shelf position in which the panel is horizontal and spaced from the cargo floor by a first distance; and a third privacy shield position in which the panel is also horizontal but is spaced from the cargo floor a second distance, the second distance exceeding the first distance.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2000Date of Patent: April 5, 2005Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology CompanyInventors: Jonathan A. Dykstra, Darren C. McIntire, Leif A. Norland, Donald L. Sauer, David B. Fry, Adam W. Callif, Chris Hogg, Mike Burns, John Brett
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Publication number: 20040206794Abstract: An adjustable frame, mountable on a vehicle, for releasably securing hand trucks of different sizes and configurations includes: a support platform for receiving a base of a hand truck; a first and a second side member affixed to the platform; a first bracket and a second bracket attached to the first and second side members, respectively, the brackets extending in parallel therewith; an elongate swing bar pivotally connected to the first bracket and pivotal between a first position that retains the hand truck on the platform, and a second position, which allows access and removal of the hand truck from the platform; and a latch mounted on the swing bar. The second bracket may include a strike that engages the latch for releasably securing the swing bar in the first position. Cushioned crossbars attachable to the side members dampen vibration of the hand truck during transportation.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 13, 2004Publication date: October 21, 2004Applicant: Mickey Truck Bodies Inc.Inventors: John M. Pierce, Bill Snowa, Billie M. Bloodworth
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Patent number: 6786373Abstract: An adjustable frame, mountable on a vehicle, for releasably securing hand trucks of different sizes and configurations includes: a support platform for receiving a base of a hand truck; a first and a second side member affixed to the platform; a first bracket and a second bracket attached to the first and second side members, respectively, the brackets extending in parallel therewith; an elongate swing bar pivotally connected to the first bracket and pivotal between a first position that retains the hand truck on the platform, and a second position, which allows access and removal of the hand truck from the platform; and a latch mounted on the swing bar. The second bracket may include a strike that engages the latch for releasably securing the swing bar in the first position. Cushioned crossbars attachable to the side members dampen vibration of the hand truck during transportation.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2001Date of Patent: September 7, 2004Assignee: Mickey Truck Bodies, Inc.Inventors: John M. Pierce, Bill Snowa
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Publication number: 20040084491Abstract: A cargo carrier (10) for bicycles (Y1, Y2) is removably installable in the bed (B) of a truck (T) and has a base plate (12) which mounts on top of the truck bed. One side of the base plate bears against one wall (W1) of the truck bed and an adjustable stop (14) is adjustable to bear against the opposite wall (W2) so to allow the carrier to be installed in trucks having different bed widths. Saddles (40) have risers (42) extending vertically upwardly from the base plate. An attachment screw (62) extending between the risers is used for securing bicycles to the carrier. The base plate may include an offset section so two bicycles can be carried in a side-by-side, staggered formation. The saddles are removable and can be replaced with posts or mounts for carrying other items in the bed. The carrier is in kit form for quick assembly, when needed.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2003Publication date: May 6, 2004Inventor: Verlin V. Gibson
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Patent number: 6695184Abstract: A bicycle carrier primarily designed for transporting an off-road bicycle by a motor vehicle is designed to fit onto the trailer hitch of the motor vehicle. A channel member is supported to a support member and a cross member that fits into the trailer hitch and an upstanding post with a plurality of holes for receiving a locking pin. A locking arm is slidably mounted on the vertical post and when the bicycle is guided onto the channel member the locking arm is positioned downwardly with sufficient force to arm the shocking system of the bicycle and preload the bicycle to the carrier.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2002Date of Patent: February 24, 2004Inventor: Hugh R. Higginbotham, III
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Patent number: 6662983Abstract: A multi-configuration, multi-purpose rack system which has at least 20 separate and useful configurations for carrying a very wide variety of objects on a vehicle. The rack system is economical to manufacture, easy to use, and may be disassembled into its component parts, stored in it's own folding platform and conveniently carried in the cargo area of a vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2002Date of Patent: December 16, 2003Inventors: David A. M. Lane, John R. Lean
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Publication number: 20030168487Abstract: A multi-configuration, multi-purpose rack system which has at least 20 separate and useful configurations for carrying a very wide variety of objects on a vehicle. The rack system is economical to manufacture, easy to use, and may be disassembled into its component parts, stored in it's own folding platform and conveniently carried in the cargo area of a vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 11, 2002Publication date: September 11, 2003Inventors: David A.M. Lane, John R. Lean
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Publication number: 20030080169Abstract: A bicycle carrier adapted to be secured to an article carrier portion of an existing vehicle article carrier so as to carry the bicycle supported thereon in a vertical orientation over a liftgate of a vehicle, and normal to an outer surface of the liftgate. The bicycle carrier includes a wheel supporting member for engaging one wheel of a bicycle when the bicycle is placed in a vertical orientation. A frame supporting assembly engages a portion of the frame to hold the bicycle to the bicycle carrier. The bicycle carrier permits a single individual to load and unload a bicycle from the bicycle carrier without being required to lift the bicycle up onto the roof of a vehicle. Since the bicycle is supported at an angle generally normal to the liftgate, visibility through the rear window of the liftgate is also improved when a bicycle is being supported on the bicycle carrier.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 29, 2001Publication date: May 1, 2003Inventors: Donald L. Munoz, Brett J. Borella, Gerard J. Kmita
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Patent number: 6547115Abstract: A car-mounted bicycle or wheelchair carrier that enables a bicycle to be easily and quickly loaded and unloaded, that can be completely stored in the trunk in a compact fashion when it is not being used and be removed from the trunk in a one-step operation, that can be easily mounted to any existing cars, that can reliably immobilize a bicycle or wheelchair when the car is being driven, that can be applied to various types of bicycles as well as to wheelchairs, and that can be manufactured at low cost.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2000Date of Patent: April 15, 2003Inventors: Tadahiko Kato, Tadashi Iura, Kazuki Mori
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Patent number: 6540124Abstract: A portable, easily installed and uninstalled, support scaffold to carry oversize cargo in vehicle storage compartments. The device can be temporarily secured within the storage compartment, or if desired, the adjustable support frame can be permanently installed. The size of the support frame is adjustable in all three dimensions and includes an adjustable arm that is located on the rear end of the frame device. The arm extends outwardly from the frame to outside the compartment. There is an extension from the arm that can be adjusted to rest on the bumper or trailer hitch to provide extra support for the cargo that sits on the arm. If the cargo is so long that the center of mass is outside the compartment, the arm can be extended further outside the vehicle to prevent an additional moment from being placed on the contact between the cargo and the arm.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2001Date of Patent: April 1, 2003Inventor: Charlie Thomas, Jr.
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Patent number: 6503019Abstract: A replaceable top tube includes an outer tube and an inner tube retractably received therein. Two sleeves are respectively connected to the outer tube and the inner tube, and two locking plates are respectively connected to the two sleeves. Two hooks are respectively connected to the inner tube and the outer tube so that when the sleeves are pulled, the locking plates are moved away from the hooks so as to hook the seat post and the handlebar stem of a bicycle. Each of the two sleeves are positioned by a resilient member.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2001Date of Patent: January 7, 2003Inventor: Chiu Kuei Wang
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Publication number: 20020195473Abstract: An attachment for a specific type of bicycle rack which allows for the bicycle rack to be attached to the tow bar of a variety of trailersType: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2001Publication date: December 26, 2002Inventor: Guy Fournier
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Patent number: 6457618Abstract: An all terrain vehicle (ATV) mounting bracket assembly that is adapted to mount to the rear deck of an ATV and to hold a scabbard or gun case outwardly of either side or the rear of the vehicle and in position to allow a tong gun to be easily inserted into or withdrawn from such scabbard or gun case includes a universal mounting plate to be secured to an ATV deck, a support plate extending upwardly from the universal mounting plate and outwardly from the vehicle and a holding plate carried by the support plate and capable of being tipped to insure proper angular mounting of a scabbard or gun case fixed to the holding plate.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2001Date of Patent: October 1, 2002Inventors: Dennis H. Hancock, Jeffrey D. Hancock
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Patent number: 6450379Abstract: A load carrying vehicle accessory includes rear, medial, and front carrier units each, having a laterally extending chassis-mounted socket member that telescopically receives a sleeve having a pair of posts thereon, the posts having adjustable spacing from a side extemity of the vehicle. The socket members can be clamped under the vehicle chassis and/or incorporated in vehicle bumpers. An optional configuration has front and/or rear mounted a base to which the socket member is pivotally mounted as an arm, the posts being foldable in-line with the arm, the arm also folding inwardly from the side of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2001Date of Patent: September 17, 2002Inventor: W. Anthony R. Cook
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Patent number: 6386407Abstract: A bicycle carrier has a frame mountable to a vehicle and defining a pair of spaced apart support arms for supporting one or more bicycles. The support arms are provided with positioning guides, which may take the form of spaced circumferential ridges and troughs extending along the support arms. The ridges and troughs may be formed by a ribbed sleeve mounted on the support arms. At least one cradle is mounted on each support arm for receiving and releasable holding a selected tube or tubes of a bicycle frame. Each cradle has an opening through which the support arm extends and a tab projects partially into the opening. The tabs are configured to be received and to ride within selected ones of the troughs of the support arms for rotatably positioning the cradles at desired positions along their support arms. A channel extends along the support arms interrupting the ridges.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2000Date of Patent: May 14, 2002Assignee: Yakima Products, Inc.Inventors: Donald J. Erickson, Jay L. Walker
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Patent number: 6382484Abstract: A gun-mounting bracket for ATV's adaptive to a variety of cargo racks generally employed by ATV's and further providing adaptability to a wide range of gun scabbards or boots designed for a variety of different type guns. The bracket includes a base plate member having a plurality of holes and slots which may be used in combination with U-bolts and clamps for attachment, an interchangeable pivotal plate member which provides a method for rotating the boot to angular positions relative to the base plate, and an interchangeable bracket member attached perpendicular thereto adapted to receive the barrel portion of the gun boot. The bracket member, having an elongated opening for receiving the barrel portion of the gun boot, is provided with a polymeric edge molding and allows the barrel portion of the gun boot to extend therethrough to a point which generally positions the boot relative to the bracket and its bar latch member.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2001Date of Patent: May 7, 2002Inventor: Kevin D. Savant
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Publication number: 20020005422Abstract: A bicycle rack holds the bicycle by its seat post using a closeable claw. The bicycle is also held by its wheels.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 19, 1999Publication date: January 17, 2002Inventor: NEIL NUSBAUM
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Publication number: 20010035446Abstract: A vehicle hitch-mounted carrier for transporting a plurality of bicycles proximate the rear of the vehicle. The carrier includes a plurality of bike racks adapted to retain a bicycle in a vertical position for independent access to the bicycles. The bike racks are mounted to the hitch structure of the vehicle and include a single or a pair of wheel frames adjustable attached to a vertical column. The bicycle wheels are nested within the frames to secure the bicycle in a vertical position.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 28, 2001Publication date: November 1, 2001Inventors: Todd R. Walstrom, Joseph J. Peschmann
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Patent number: 6237824Abstract: A rack system for a vehicle for holding various items with a multi-purpose rack. The rack system for a vehicle includes a mounting securably attached to a vehicle. A support arm is removably coupled to the mounting and extends upwardly from the mounting. The support arm has a free end having a well extending therein. A bar, which is elongate, has a first end and a second end. The bar is generally hollow and the ends are open. A protruding member extends from the bar. The protruding member is removably extendable into the well. Each of a pair of extension arms is extendable into one of the ends of the bar. Each of the extension arms has a plurality of holes therein. At least two brackets are each removably attachable to one of the extension arms such that the brackets extend upwardly from the extension arms. Each of the brackets is adapted for receiving a pin extending through one of the holes on the extension arms.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2000Date of Patent: May 29, 2001Inventor: Steve M. Bagley