Cooperating Coupling Member On Article Carrier And Vehicle Patents (Class 224/511)
  • Patent number: 12084001
    Abstract: A platform may include a vehicle door case comprising a base and a case body having cavities. Each cavity is configured to receive a removed vehicle door. Retractable wheels are affixed to the case, each wheel being configured to retractably extend from the base, and disposed at a corner of the case. A securing bracket includes: a back bracket attached to a back of the case and configured to extend through a window opening of at least one vehicle door; and a front bracket attached to a front of the case and configured to extend through a window opening of at least one vehicle door. A mount permits rotation of the case, and includes a case support member rotatably secured to the base, a hitch connecting member extending from the case securing portion, and a door case securing portion configured to fixedly secure the mount to the case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2024
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2024
    Inventor: Donald Smith
  • Patent number: 12049197
    Abstract: A pickup full of gear doesn't have to be a jumbled mess. A modular, lightweight load-carrying system is custom engineered to fit directly onto a tailgate using the existing OEM mounting points of the vehicle. The rack systems allow drivers of the vehicle to keep gear organized, easily accessible, and secure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2022
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2024
    Assignee: Putco, Inc.
    Inventors: Seth Hoogendoorn, Conner Schramm, Nicholas Niemeyer, Matthew Thompson, Parker Freeman, Evan Steig
  • Patent number: 12005865
    Abstract: A collapsible accessory mount provides a secure way to attach accessories, such as a flag, banner, light, loudspeaker, camera, basket or other such device, to an automobile using an external spare tire as a mounting point. The external spare provides solid mounting surface for attaching a collapsible accessory mount without interfering with access to the trunk or rear hatch of the vehicle, and may be installed and removed without making permanent modifications to the vehicle frame or chassis. A collapsible accessory mount includes a central bracket and a plurality of arms, each arm configured to extend beyond the radius of the automobile tire, where each of said arms may be releasably attached to the tire using tire connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2022
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2024
    Inventor: Glen Heacock
  • Patent number: 11584307
    Abstract: A hitch-mount bicycle carrier including a stinger, a support member coupled to the stinger by a variably configurable hub, a foot having a distal end disposed distally from the support member, and a manual actuator disposed at a distal end of the support member. The stinger is configured to be inserted into a hitch receiver of a vehicle. The support member is configured to be disposed in a plurality of orientations relative to the stinger. The support member supports one or more bicycles. The manual actuator includes a trigger coupled to the variably configurable hub to dispose the support member in the plurality of orientations. A portion of the foot is disposed below the trigger when the support member is in a bicycle carrying position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: Thule Sweden AB
    Inventors: Keith L. Prescott, Jeffrey R. Edgerly
  • Patent number: 11582385
    Abstract: The invention relates to a transportable recording apparatus for recording data for a localized panoramic image of a street for detachable mounting in and/or on a vehicle. The transportable recording apparatus has a computing unit, a buffer accumulator, a switch-mode power supply, a camera for recording a continuous film and a fastening device for the camera. Moreover, a device for satellite-based position and time determination as well as an electric power supply device for the electric power supply of the components are provided. The camera, the fastening device and the device for satellite-based position and time determination are designed separately and spatially apart from the computing unit. The transportable recording apparatus can be dismantled into individual parts. Furthermore, the invention relates to a vehicle with the transportable recording apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2023
    Assignee: Parkling GmbH
    Inventors: Christoph Fretter, Detlev Huelsebusch
  • Patent number: 11396256
    Abstract: An easily attachable and removable self-contained slide in storage, safety and warning light chassis assembly for use by the traffic control industry and others is described. The chassis assembly includes a bed portion that is built to slide into a pickup truck bed. Associated removable jacks can be used to raise and support the chassis while a truck is backed up under it, or where the jacks include castors, the assembly is rolled into the truck. Additionally, a safety platform portion is included on the rear portion of the chassis assembly, so that when installed it is disposed behind the bed of the truck for use in the placement and pickup of traffic control devises. The chassis assembly can be mounted securely to the factory hitch of truck as well as additional locations in the bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2022
    Inventor: Jeffrey L York
  • Patent number: 10906471
    Abstract: The present invention provides a mobile mounting system for releasably supporting an elongated vessel on a vehicle support member, the mobile mounting system comprising a handgrip extending from a curved end to an angled end, a mount in receipt of the handgrip and a hinge operably extending between the handgrip and the mount, the hinge configured for pivotal operation of the handgrip about a pivot axis extending through the curved end and a release mechanism operably connect to the angled end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2021
    Inventor: Matthew Magliacano
  • Patent number: 10894514
    Abstract: The present invention is a cargo carrier 100 for attachment to a mounted tire having a continuous curved bridge where the bridge has a first end 110 followed by a first concave section 182, a convex middle section 180 and a second concave section 185 followed by a second end 130; there is an arm member 140 extending upwardly from each of the first 110 and second ends 130 with at least one payload carrying member 200 connectable to the arm members 140 to secure a payload to the cargo carrier 100; there is at least one tire mount 300 at a curved bridge bottom 188 that rests on an upper surface of the tire and at least one securement apparatus 310 to secure the cargo carrier 100 to the tire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2021
    Inventor: Marty Williams
  • Patent number: 10703402
    Abstract: A steering support structure includes: an instrument panel reinforcement extending in a vehicle width direction; and a steering support bracket attached to the instrument panel reinforcement and supports a steering column. The steering support bracket includes an upper bracket joined to an upper side of the instrument panel reinforcement in a vehicle up-down direction, and a lower bracket joined to a lower side of the instrument panel reinforcement in the vehicle up-down direction and fastened and fixed to the upper bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2020
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Kazuaki Kurita, Akihiro Deshimaru, Hiroshi Ioku
  • Patent number: 8998285
    Abstract: A tailgate debris catching assembly for a vehicle is presented herein. Particularly, the assembly includes at least one, but in some cases, a plurality of at least two, vehicle attachment assemblies securely attached to the vehicle, for example, on the sides of the vehicle at or near the rear. A debris receptacle or bin including an open top portion and an inner receiving area is connected to or otherwise attached to the vehicle attachment assemblies and positioned in a manner to receive and at least temporarily retain debris fallen from the vehicle and through the open top portion of the debris receptacle. Accordingly, the debris receptacle may include at least one, but in some cases, a plurality of at least two, receptacle attachment members, which are capable of being securely and removably attached to the correspondingly structured and disposed vehicle attachment assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Inventor: James A. Bethel, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8955725
    Abstract: An auxiliary tank for a liquid is removably mounted on a rod extending from a support attached to selected threaded studs supporting a spare tire on a vehicle. A plurality of snaplock elements retain the tank locked with the support. A second tank for a liquid may be mounted on the rod adjacent the first tank. A further plurality of snaplock elements interlock the two tanks with one another. To prevent unauthorized removal of the tank(s), a conventional padlock is engaged with a passageway at the end of the rod. A variant support includes a flange for attachment to a bumper, running board, or the like, of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Inventor: Mark A. Turner
  • 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: 8262105
    Abstract: A method of releasably connecting a child hand truck to a parent hand truck is provided. The method includes lifting a handle assembly to a raised position. The handle assembly is locked in the raised position using a lock and release mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond Mead, Lonnie G. Craig
  • Patent number: 8235266
    Abstract: Rack system for a vehicle including a vehicle body forming an edge and also including a body accessory forming a protrusion on the vehicle body. The rack system may comprise a trunk rack configured to be positioned adjacent a rear end of the vehicle. The rack system also may comprise a strap assembly connected or connectable to the trunk rack. The strap assembly may be configured to extend over the protrusion and engage the edge of the vehicle body, to form a connection between the trunk rack and the vehicle. The strap assembly may include a strap and a spanning member. The spanning member may be configured to span the protrusion and support the strap in a spaced relation to the protrusion, such that the strap assembly can be tensioned without applying pressure to the protrusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Yakima Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Chris Sautter, Mike Kemery, Zac Elder
  • Patent number: 8191743
    Abstract: A removable recreational vehicle carry apparatus provides for removable adjustable mount to an existing host vehicle such as a car or truck. The apparatus comprises a framework that substantially surrounds the host vehicle and provides for carry of recreational vehicles, mowers, and other equipment. Stabilizing jacks are provided for added rigidity during loading and unloading. Multiple ramps with hooks and wheels provide for loading as desired. Trunks and beds of trucks remain substantially free for loading of other equipment and items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Inventors: Douglas M. Bowden, Lynn Bowden
  • Patent number: 8011543
    Abstract: A load carrier including a fixing system on a rear part of a vehicle including: a longitudinal arm with one end to interact with a sleeve joined to a structural element of the vehicle; a lever with one end mounted to rotate relative to the arm about a transversal pin supported by the end of the arm; a device placed between the lever and the arm and exerting a force in a direction; and a lock for the fixing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Renault S.A.S.
    Inventors: Arnaud Premartin, Patrick Saillard, Olivier Veuillot
  • Patent number: 7788858
    Abstract: An all terrain vehicle having a vehicle frame with a boom frame attached to the vehicle frame, a saddle nest attached to the boom frame, a pivot saddle respectively secured to the boom frame, a telescoping boom secured in the pivot saddle, the pivot saddle comprising a post disposed adjacent and parallel to the telescoping boom, a locking sleeve slidably mounted on the post, and a latch formed on the vehicle frame with the locking sleeve and latch adapted to interlock to maintain the telescoping boom in an upright position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Inventor: Douglas D. Ammons
  • Publication number: 20090321488
    Abstract: A rack strap extension system for a vehicle comprising a rack that is positioned adjacent a rear end of the vehicle, a strap coupled to the rack, a substantially rigid spanning member that is coupled to the strap and has at least two ends that fit around a protrusion positioned near a top rear surface of the vehicle, wherein the strap avoids tensional contact with the protrusion, and a connector mechanism proximate the strap and the substantially rigid spanning member engaged to a receiver of the vehicle, wherein the protrusion is interposed between the connector and the rack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2009
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Applicant: Yakima Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Chris Sautter, Mike Kemery, Zac Elder
  • Publication number: 20090189381
    Abstract: An accessory mounting system for vehicles or the like including one or more mounting rails, one or more mounting clamps, one optional sliding rail per clamp, and one optional hinged latching mechanism per clamp. The mounting rail is trapezoidal in profile, and may include one or more pieces, and is permanently mounted to the vehicle frame, body, or other component and oriented with the wider of the two parallel faces facing outward from the vehicle's mounting surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2009
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Applicant: Archimedes Intellectual, LLC
    Inventor: Ralph P. Kirtland
  • Patent number: 7344120
    Abstract: The receiver winch mount is a support for electric or hydraulic winches used on vehicles. The mount secures over the hitch assembly and positions the winch above the vehicle's bumper, so that the winch is not exposed to damage due to the vehicle maneuvering into stationary objects. The mount has a flat mounting plate, onto which the winch may be secured. The mount has two posts extending up from the mounting plate, to which a fairlead may be secured. A stub shaft is permanently secured to the bottom of the mounting plate, with structural reinforcing frame members extending from the stub shaft and also permanently secured to the bottom of the mounting plate. The stub shaft is secured to the hitch receiver using a mounting pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Inventor: Shawn M. McFarland
  • Patent number: 7264145
    Abstract: A bicycle rack is provided for connection to a vehicle, and especially a bus for the transport of a bicycle. The bicycle rack has a frame pivotally connected to a bracket which is connectable to a front of a bus. A pair of elongate cradles traverse the frame of the rack. Each elongate cradle is capable of receiving a bicycle. Each elongate cradle includes a rear wheel cradle and a front wheel cradle. The front wheel cradle has a spring operated wheel lock. The wheel lock includes a rotatable armature which overlays and holds the front tire of the bicycle in a locked position. The armature is actuated by the weight of the front wheel or by the manual activation of an adjacent handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Assignee: Altair Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey M. Lloyd, Wesley J. Blanchard, H. Dieter Featherman, Michael Baker
  • Patent number: 7044344
    Abstract: A container for a golf car has a connector for connecting a golfing accessory to the container. The connector comprises a pair of notches formed in the container for receiving a pair of clips formed in the golf accessory. The golfing accessory is solely supported from the container by the connector and permits non-interfering use of the container and the golfing accessory when the golfing accessory is attached to the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Assignee: Covered Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: David R. Winkler
  • Patent number: 6968986
    Abstract: A bicycle rack is provided for connection to a vehicle, and especially a bus for the transport of a bicycle. The bicycle rack has a frame pivotally connected to a bracket which is connectable to a front of a bus. A pair of elongate cradles traverse the frame of the rack. Each elongate cradle is capable of receiving a bicycle. Each elongate cradle includes a rear wheel cradle and a front wheel cradle. The front wheel cradle has a spring operated wheel lock. The wheel lock includes a rotatable armature which overlays and holds the front tire of the bicycle in a locked position. The armature is actuated by the weight of the front wheel or by the manual activation of an adjacent handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Assignee: Altair Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey M. Lloyd, Wesley J. Blanchard, H. Dieter Featherman, Michael Baker
  • Patent number: 6889881
    Abstract: The vehicle mounted storage unit includes a support bracket that is clamped to a vehicle's spare tire and wheel rack on the outside of a vehicle by the fasteners that clamp the wheel to the rack. A storage unit frame is attached to the support bracket by a mechanical fastener. A pair of spaced apart left upper door panel post receiving tubes are mounted on the unit frame. A pair of spaced apart right upper door panel post receiving tubes are also mounted on the storage unit frame. The posts are positioned to minimize the space required for the door panel panels. Side curtain hangers are also secured to the storage unit frame. An inner pan is attached to the unit frame. An outer pan is pivotally connected to the unit frame. The two pans cooperate to encase the unit frame and vehicle components supported by the unit frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: Sausage Express A
    Inventor: Larry G. Wilkens
  • Patent number: 6863198
    Abstract: An apparatus for the transport of a propane tank for filling includes a clamp assembly that is adapted for attachment to a portion of a sidewall of a pickup truck. A removable assembly is detachably-attachable with respect to the clamp assembly. The removable assembly includes a pivoting plate that is adapted to receive a bottom of a propane tank thereon, and a band assembly that is adapted to secure an upper portion of the propane tank. The pivoting plate is adapted to pivot upward for storage and the band assembly is adapted to pivot downward for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Inventor: Richard Wyland Darby
  • Patent number: 6851735
    Abstract: A motor vehicle storage apparatus includes a base and at least one storage panel for storing a variety of articles thereon. The base has at least one slot capable of engaging a portion of the storage panel and retaining the storage panel in a vertical position. The storage panel may be removable mounted within the motor vehicle storage apparatus or stored outside the storage apparatus. The storage panel has at least one attachment location for attaching articles thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas S. Hicks, Gary J. D'Annunzio, Timothy Smith
  • Patent number: 6845895
    Abstract: A rear-mounted, removable vehicle storage device for storing and/or transporting items with a vehicle. The vehicle storage device includes a material shell defining a storage space therein. The material shell may be self-supporting or supported by an interior frame structure. The vehicle storage device may be mounted on a vehicle ladder, equalizer hitch, tire mount, or bumper. In addition, a recreational equipment carrier may be incorporated with the vehicle storage device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Inventors: Casey C. Jones, Nola M. Samuels
  • Publication number: 20040226974
    Abstract: An integrated carrier rack system for motor vehicles. Generally, the system includes a receiving unit, having rear and forward ends, integrated into a rear wall, such as a rear section of a trunk lid, a tailgate of a pickup truck, or a rear door of a van, a side wall, such as a side of a truck bed, a side door, or a side of a trunk lid, or a front wall, such as a front of a bus, a front of a truck, or a front of a motor home. The receiving unit may be positioned such that the rear end is directed toward the outside of the vehicle and forms an engaging structure in the rear, side, or front wall. The system further includes an immobilizing system attached to the receiving unit, a carrier bar engaged to the receiving unit, and various attachment units. The integrated carrier rack system is user friendly and may be applied to any motor vehicle to carry an assortment of items.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2004
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Inventor: Mark A. Anton
  • Publication number: 20040211803
    Abstract: The entire right, title and interest in and to this application and all subject matter disclosed and/or claimed therein, including any and all divisions, continuations, reissues, etc., thereof are, effective as of the date of execution of this application, assigned, transferred, sold and set over by the applicant(s) named herein to Deere & Company, a Delaware corporation having offices at Moline, Ill. 61265, U.S.A., together with all rights to file, and to claim priorities in connection with, corresponding patent applications in any and all foreign countries in the name of Deere & Company or otherwise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventors: Matthew Elmer Powell, Brian James Hitt, Jeffrey Robert Braun
  • Patent number: 6637764
    Abstract: A transportation unit is provided for the secure and efficient collection, storage, and hauling of waste. The unit consists of a fully enclosed containment area that is secured to a frame and supported by wheels. The containment area is equipped with a dual access sliding door system to facilitate the convenient loading and unloading of waste.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Inventor: Jason C. Novakowski
  • Publication number: 20030015562
    Abstract: A rear-mounted, removable vehicle storage device for storing and/or transporting items with a vehicle. The vehicle storage device includes a material shell defining a storage space therein. The material shell may be self-supporting or supported by an interior frame structure. The vehicle storage device may be mounted on a vehicle ladder, equalizer hitch, tire mount, or bumper. In addition, a recreational equipment carrier may be incorporated with the vehicle storage device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Publication date: January 23, 2003
    Inventors: Cassy C. Jones, Nola M. Samuels
  • Patent number: 6502885
    Abstract: Cargo storage apparatus are provided that attach to a tailgate door of an open-air style vehicle and include a housing having a hollow interior portion that serves as a compartment for receiving articles therein. An opening is formed in the housing that allow user access to the compartment. An access door is hingedly coupled to the housing and is movable between a closed position covering the opening and an open position allowing access to the compartment via the opening. A carrying handle may be provided to facilitate portability. Lights may be provided that illuminate inside and outside of the cargo storage apparatus compartment. Cup holders, cargo nets, and supporting hooks, promotional indicia, and thermal insulation may also be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: Collins & Aikman Products Co.
    Inventors: Jim Gammon, Greg Miller
  • Patent number: 6409065
    Abstract: A coupling for attaching a support tube of a sports equipment carrier frame to a hitch mount, securely held to a mounting stinger received in a receiving type hitch of a transporting vehicle. The hitch mount includes a slot for sliding engagement with a lock pin held to the support tube by a bracket. A latch, pivotally mounted in the hitch mount, moves between open and closed positions. Its open position allows the lock pin to move into the slot to establish a suitable position for joining the support tube to the hitch mount. When the latch moves to its closed position, it captures the lock pin to secure the connection between the hitch mount and the support tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignee: Industri AB Thule
    Inventor: Jeffrey R. Edgerly
  • Patent number: 6378748
    Abstract: A carrier system for an associated vehicle is shown having mounting structure for mounting the carrier system to the vehicle; the carrier system is shown with a coupler which is effective for in turn connecting to various cargo carrying apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Inventor: Larry E. Cox
  • Publication number: 20010048011
    Abstract: A carrier and hitch assembly comprises a rigid, elongated housing having a door covered opening on a front face. The housing is large enough to contain a standard size golf bag and a complete set of clubs. The housing is provided with wheels and a handle so that the housing may be utilized in cart-like fashion. The rear face of the housing is provided with structure for attaching the housing to a hitch assembly for transporting the housing at the rear of an automotive vehicle or golf cart.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Publication date: December 6, 2001
    Inventor: Jane Burns
  • Patent number: 6089428
    Abstract: The invention is a bicycle rack that attaches to the tongue of a tent camper. The bicycle rack is attached to the tent camper with two plates that are placed on the top and bottom of the tongue. Then a bolt is placed through openings in both plates and tightened to the plates against the tongue of the tent camper. The bicycles are supported by posts attached to the top plate over the top of the tongue. The two vertical posts are braced at the top. Extending from the two vertical posts are horizontal rods that the bicycle is placed over to ride upon the rack. Bicycles can be placed on both sides of the rack. When it is necessary to raise the tent camper, the bicycle rack can be moved into a horizontal position so that it will not affect the raising of the tent camper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Inventor: John F. Wagner
  • Patent number: 6039227
    Abstract: A golf bag carrier suitable for carrying golf bags external to a motor vehicle equipped with a standard square tube trailer hitch receptacle permanently mounted to the frame and under the rear bumper of said vehicle is described. The golf bag carrier consists of a substantially rectangular pan assembly upon which the golf bag is vertically placed; a trailer hitch shank which is telescopically received by the standard square tube trailer hitch receptacle mounted to the motor vehicle, said shank being affixed to the bottom of said rectangular pan assembly; a second standard square tube trailer hitch receptacle affixed to the bottom of the rectangular pan assembly and coaxial with its trailer hitch shank, a vertical member detachably attached to the rectangular pan; and a horizontal member detachably attached to the top end of the vertical member and having a plurality of horizontal support arms for stabilizing the golf bag being transported.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Inventor: Samuel Ray Stark
  • Patent number: 5836493
    Abstract: A mount for supporting a cargo carrier to a vehicle having a standard receiver hitch, comprises a receiver bar adapted for connecting with the receiver hitch, and first and second plate members generally vertically disposed and affixed to the receiver bar. The plate members have, at least over a portion thereof, substantially planar surfaces for adjacent abutment thereof. A rigid member such as a crosspiece, yoke, or bracket, is affixed to the outermost plate member, and a carrier supported by the rigid member is cantilevered from the mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Assignee: Michael P. Grunsted
    Inventors: Michael P. Grunsted, Peter M. Schingen, Paul R. Walker
  • Patent number: 5826768
    Abstract: A vehicle mounted cart is provided including a vehicle, a frame, a handle support pivotally mounted to the frame, and a pair of wheel assemblies coupled to the frame, whereby the frame is removably coupled to the vehicle wherein the handle support acts as a support when the frame is coupled to the vehicle and a handle when the frame is removed from the vehicle and utilized as a cart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1998
    Inventor: Douglas D. Gamulo
  • Patent number: 5769449
    Abstract: A trailer having a main body which includes a flat bed assembly with front, sides, and tailgate flat panels which are hingedly and releasably connected to a central flat floor panel. The main body is releasably connected to an upper portion of an attachment mechanism. The attachment mechanism has a lower portion adapted to be received within a rear portion of a vehicle and releasably secured thereto. The main body is supported by an air shock wheel assembly which includes a cylindrical casing having an upper housing affixed to a flat plate and depending downwardly therefrom and a lower housing slidably received within the upper housing. An air shock piston is mounted within the cylindrical casing and connected to the upper and lower housings for telescoping movement therewith. A swivel mechanism is formed at a lower end of the lower housing. A wheel supporting frame is pivotally attached to the swivel mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Inventor: Oliver F. Keesee
  • Patent number: 5752636
    Abstract: A truck bed extender mounts to a vehicle to support loads which are longer than the load bed of the vehicle. The truck bed extender includes a main beam adapted to engage a conventional box receiver on the vehicle. A load support is mounted to the main beam and includes a load support bar which extends transversely to the main beam when the truck bed extender is in use. A storage mount is provided to allow mounting of the load support to the main beam in a storage position when the load support is not being used. The truck bed extender can be mounted to the box receiver in a storage position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Inventor: Christopher D. Manley
  • Patent number: 5702040
    Abstract: The carriers described herein employ an adjustable locking member to secure the carrier to the rear of a vehicle. A locking channel incorporates a cam lever used to adjust and lock the carrier and renders the mechanism inaccessible when locked. Apparatus for supporting and stabilizing a bicycle protrudes rearwardly from the base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Inventor: Nils E. Hedeen
  • Patent number: 5695103
    Abstract: A vehicle mountable carrier includes a body having an article holder and a mounting tube for both securing the body to a vehicle and receiving a hitch bar. Preferably, the article holder includes a storage compartment and cooperating lid. The storage compartment may also include a cradle for receiving a frame of at least one bicycle. Specifically, a support channel may be provided bridging opposing walls of the storage compartment and cooperating frame receiving notches may be provided in the lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 9, 1997
    Assignee: Reese Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark E. Duvernay, Richard McCoy
  • Patent number: 5647719
    Abstract: The present invention is a towing device for two-wheeled vehicles. An elongate channel member is positioned on, and is attached to, a wheel-lift extending from the rear of towing vehicle. The elongate channel member has first and second elongate portions, hingedly and releasibly attached to each other. The elongate channel member, for supporting a two-wheeled vehicle such as a motorcycle, has components for attaching to the lift assembly. The controllable lift assembly of the towing vehicle may be lowered so that the towing device serves as a ramp upon which the motorcycle can be easily rolled. The lift assembly is lifted to place the towing device, with motorcycle thereon, in towing position. A plurality of straps and/or bands are utilized to hold the motorcycle in place on the channel members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 15, 1997
    Inventor: Donald R. Bowlen
  • Patent number: 5620125
    Abstract: An apparatus supports an accessory on a bumper of a golf car. The apparatus includes an accessory support portion and a bumper engaging portion connected to the accessory support portion. An adjustable clamping portion is connectable to the bumper engaging portion to clamp the bumper between the bumper engaging portion and the adjustable clamping portion. A connector connects the adjustable clamping portion to the bumper engaging portion. Both the adjustable clamping portion and the connector are adjustable to accommodate bumpers having different physical size characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 15, 1997
    Assignee: Even Par Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael W. Duncan, Patricia A. Duncan
  • Patent number: 5620123
    Abstract: The present invention provides a cargo container that is removably fastenable to the rear door of a van-type vehicle. The cargo container has an upper primary hook that engages the upper edge of the vehicle's rear door and lower secondary hooks that are tightenable and that engage the lower edge of said vehicle door. The cargo container has a container portion with a front wall and an openable access door leading into the open storage area. The front wall of the container confronts the rear of the van door and has an aperture for accessing the handle of the vehicle's rear door. Thus, the rear door of the vehicle can be swung open by opening the access door of the cargo container and opening the vehicle door with the handle accessible through the opened cargo container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 15, 1997
    Inventor: Joe Brisbois
  • Patent number: 5593076
    Abstract: A carrier rack for a car is described for attachment to a car mount. The car mount is connected to the license plate area of the car using the same mounting holes as the license plate. The carrier rack is formed of a simple structure having a main rack member attachable to the car mount and extending generally upright to an upper member which is movably mounted to the main rack member and is reversible for the mounting of bikes or skis. A bike mount is used that provides both vertical and side support of a bike and is convenient to use. Ski mounts are placed on the main rack and upper members to support skis in an adjustable manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1997
    Inventor: Barry Biondo
  • Patent number: 5579974
    Abstract: A cycle and/or ski rack for mounting on vehicles comprises a set of branches in V-shape (2, 3) interconnected at the acute end of the V-shape by a mutually spacing connecting link means (7). Mutually pivotable gripping and holding means (8A, 8B) are arranged at the connecting link means between the branches of the V-shape for gripping a holding device, such as a ball (1) associated with a trailer towing hitch behind a vehicle. The V-shape branches are held in a mutual position by a toggle joint-like cross link connection (4, 5, 6) comprising in particular two parallel link arms on at least one side of the toggle joint. A releasing arm (6A) is designed with an extension (6B) extending from the releasing arm in the direction of the releasing movement and is adapted with a further extension (6G) which extends further in below a member (45) positioned below the releasing arm in the area of the toggle joint mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Assignee: Erik Schmidt Autotilbehor ApS
    Inventor: Erik K. Schmidt
  • Patent number: 5570825
    Abstract: A rack particularly suited for carrying one or more bicycles held firmly in place with a three point connection without the necessity for removing a wheel and with the rack extensible to allow moving the loaded rack with minimal effort to gain access to the rear of the vehicle being used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1996
    Inventor: John A. Cona
  • Patent number: 5558261
    Abstract: The carrier described herein employs opposing hook members projecting from a base to clamp the spare tire (mounted on the rear of a vehicle) therebetween. The extension of one of these hooks is adjustable, to accommodate different sized tires, and a locking mechanism is employed to facilitate secure attachment. Apparatus for supporting and stabilizing the bicycle protrudes rearwardly from the hook and base members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1996
    Inventor: Nils E. Hedeen