Telescoping Patents (Class 224/521)
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Patent number: 12097732Abstract: A stowable stacked receiver has a fixed drawbar portion that allows affixation to a towing vehicle. Attached to the fixed drawbar portion is a movable stacked receiver that can pivot between a use and a stowed position. In the use position, the stacked receivers can receive a removable drawbar in a plurality of positions, and the stacked receivers are adjacent a flat surface on the fixed drawbar portion. In the stowed position, the stacked receivers are located underneath the fixed drawbar portion. A locking pin can be used to secure the movable stacked receiver in either the use or stowed position.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2021Date of Patent: September 24, 2024Assignee: Gen-Y Creations, LLCInventor: Carl J. Borkholder
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Patent number: 12005863Abstract: A cargo-loading device for a vehicle is an apparatus that facilitates the transportation of a heavy load. The apparatus minimizes the physical force needed to load and unload the heavy load with a vehicle. The apparatus includes a loading platform, a lifting frame, and a lifting mechanism. The loading platform supports and upholds the heavy load from the ground. The lifting frame connects the loading platform with the vehicle. The lifting mechanism positions and operates the loading platform. Furthermore, the lifting frame includes a support base, and extension arm, a frame boom, a frame jib, and a release pinlock mechanism. The heavy load may be released or unloaded by releasing the hinged connection between the support base and the frame boom with the release pinlock mechanism, the frame boom and the extension arm with a safety pin, or both. The frame jib angles the loading platform with the lifting mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2022Date of Patent: June 11, 2024Inventor: Keith Maurice Landwehr
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Patent number: 11993229Abstract: A bicycle carrier contains: a fixing device, a rotation device, a control device, and a holder. The fixing device includes a connection rod and a positioning seat. The positioning seat has a longitudinal receiving orifice and a lateral receiving orifice. The rotation device includes a casing, a grip, and a grasp space. The control device includes an actuation post, a pull lever, a spring, and an insertion portion. The pull lever has a joining portion and an extension. When the extension is pulled by an external force, the insertion portion removes from the longitudinal receiving orifice and the lateral receiving orifice so that the rotation device is forced to rotate between a horizontal fixing position and a horizontal fixing position reciprocately. When the external force to the extension disappears, the rotation device is located on the vertical fixing position, and the insertion portion is received in the vertical receiving orifice.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2022Date of Patent: May 28, 2024Inventor: Che-Lin Liu
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Patent number: 11772570Abstract: Disclosed is a stable bicycle carrier at rear end of a vehicle including a rear rod, wherein one end of the rear rod from the vehicle is provided with a mounting piece, the mounting piece is provided with a beam, and both ends of the beam in its length direction are provided with wheel seats for accommodating wheels; the mounting piece includes a positioning rod and mounting rods at both ends of the positioning rod, the positioning rod is located at the middle of the beam, a side wall of the positioning rod away from the beam is connected with the rear rod; two of the mounting rods are located at a side wall of the positioning rod away from the rear rod, and a fixing component is provided between each of the mounting rods and the beam.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2023Date of Patent: October 3, 2023Assignee: Ningbo Eatripway Auto Products Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yechi Weng
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Patent number: 11648885Abstract: A bike rack includes a base and a bike rack. The base is connected to a vehicle and the bike rack is foldably connected to the base. The bike rack includes two sets of supports for supporting and securing the bike front wheel and the bike rear wheel. A locking unit is connected to each support and includes a hooking member. By pressing a pressing end of the hooking member, the bike rack is easily folded or expanded relative to the base.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2021Date of Patent: May 16, 2023Assignee: KING RACK INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.Inventors: Chiu Kuei Wang, Hugues Espesset, Frederic Girod
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Patent number: 11554707Abstract: An objective of the present invention is to provide users with a kayak transporting apparatus to assist the users in the transportation of a kayak with minimum effort and strain to the users' body. The present invention provides a kayak carrier for a vehicle that can be adjusted to fit various sizes and shapes of kayak. The present invention is a low-profile apparatus compared to other kayak transporting apparatuses. The kayak transporting apparatus is also intended to be easily stored away as the kayak transporting apparatus is light-weight and the components of the apparatus are detachable from each other. Further, the present invention is a hitch attachment for the rear of a vehicle which facilitates the backing of a vehicle compared to a trailer ball attachment of other kayak transporting apparatuses. Thus, the present invention is a light weight, compact, versatile apparatus for transporting kayaks efficiently.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2020Date of Patent: January 17, 2023Inventor: John William Hayes
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Patent number: 10384499Abstract: A hitch mounted carrying assembly for transporting a door of a vehicle is presented. The assembly includes an adjustable mount configured to releasably communicate with a hitch of the vehicle. The mount is adjustable between an extended position and a retracted position. The assembly includes a modular frame assembly configured to translate along the adjustable mount and to selectively couple to a first location along the mount. The frame is configured to hold a door of the vehicle on a set of hinges and secured about a latch bar. The distance between the frame assembly and the vehicle is configured to change when the mount is adjusted between the extended position and the retracted position.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2017Date of Patent: August 20, 2019Assignee: MODIT, LLCInventors: Robert Schocke, Dwayne Gates, Ron Segelquist, Corbett Jennings
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Patent number: 10384621Abstract: Disclosed is a swing-away article transport system to be detachably connected to the rear of a motor vehicle. The article transport system has a stationary base that is coupled to the usual hitch adjacent the rear bumper of the vehicle and a rotatable swing arm having a swing arm mounted hitch to which an article (e.g., a platform bike rack) is to be attached. The swing arm is rotatable relative to the stationary base between a closed position lying above and in parallel alignment with the stationary base and an open position extending outwardly from the stationary base to form an angle of approximately 90°. In its open position, the rotatable swing arm extends away from the vehicle whereby the article is located at one side of the vehicle so as to permit access to a storage compartment at the rear of the vehicle without interference from the article being transported.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2017Date of Patent: August 20, 2019Inventor: William D Mehlen
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Patent number: 10239462Abstract: A cargo carrier has a frame, a wheel assembly coupled to the frame, and a quick release assembly. The quick release assembly allows the user to quickly raise and lower the wheel assembly with respect to the frame, or to turn an adjusting screw to more finely raise and lower the wheel assembly. In addition, a vehicle hitch mount has an outer tube and an inner tube slidably received in the outer tube. The inner tube has a retracted position in which the inner tube is retracted with respect to the outer tube, and an extended position in which the inner tube is extended with respect to the outer tube. A locking pin can be operated by the user at one side of the cargo carrier to removably lock the hitch mount to the vehicle hitch located at an opposite side of the cargo carrier.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2016Date of Patent: March 26, 2019Assignee: Multicraft Ventures, LLCInventors: Anthony D. Sorey, Christopher C. Schooler, Tommy E. Nichols, Jr., Charles D. Flumm, James L. O'Cain, Paul H. Jones, Jr.
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Patent number: 10065566Abstract: A carrier attachment method which allows a user to easily and quickly attach and detach a carrier wagon to and from a vehicle. The method includes a tubular mounting hitch, a vertical rail, a motorized linear actuator, an L-shaped mounting beam, an interconnecting plate, and the carrier wagon. The motorized linear actuator raises and lowers the carrier wagon. The vertical rail is terminally and perpendicularly connected to the tubular mounting hitch. The tubular mounting hitch is attached to a vehicle hitch. The motorized linear actuator is positioned parallel and offset to the vertical rail. A foot of the motorized linear actuator is attached to the tubular mounting hitch. The L-shaped mounting beam attaches to the carrier wagon and is positioned adjacent to the vertical rail. The interconnecting plate is mounted in between the L-shaped mounting beam and the motorized linear actuator, and further is slidably mounted along the vertical rail.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2017Date of Patent: September 4, 2018Inventor: Adam Harbaugh
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Patent number: 10059247Abstract: A motorcycle fork for a lifting device includes an attachment member and a lift carriage. The attachment member includes a first hook plate, a second hook plate, a lower cross member and an upper cross member. The lower cross member is attached between the first and second hook plates. The upper cross member is attached between the first and second hook plates. The lift carriage includes a first side support, a floor plate and a second side support. The side support preferably includes a lift base portion and a tapered extension. A notch and slot are cut in the first and second lift base portions to receive the upper and lower cross beams. A first edge of the floor plate is attached to a bottom of the first side support and a second edge of the floor plate is attached to a bottom of the second side support.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2017Date of Patent: August 28, 2018Assignee: S.A.S. OF LUXEMBURG, LLCInventors: Taylor R. Bley, Colten D. Jensen, Adam W. Lindley
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Patent number: 9994415Abstract: A hitch attachment system can include a hitch attachment configured to be secured to a vehicle hitch and one or more implements configured to be attached to a vehicle hitch. For example, the implement may be a wire rack, a vise stand, or some other implement. A securing mechanism can be configured to apply pressure transverse to a direction of sliding motion of the hitch attachment relative to the implement to inhibit movement of the implement relative to the hitch. The hitch attachment may include a stabilizing system that is configured to move a pressure member to apply pressure to an inwardly-facing surface of the hollow tubing to inhibit movement of the hitch attachment relative to the hitch.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2015Date of Patent: June 12, 2018Assignee: Brink Industries LLCInventor: Ryan Brinkerhoff
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Patent number: 9956922Abstract: A bike carrier that retains the wheels of a bike in a tray between pivoting retention arms with ratchets that hold the arms against the tires. The retention arms are quickly adjustable for different sized tires without tools. An embodiment provides a bike wheel main tray assembly pivotally mounted on a trailer hitch drawbar at an operational horizontal position and a compact vertical position selectable via a trigger at the back of the tray assembly. The main wheel tray assembly has a tray for each wheel of a bike. The two trays pivot between a compact position for shipping and storage and an operational position that is automatically locked. An add-on tray assembly provides wheel trays for a second bike. It connects to the main tray assembly without tools, and provides a trigger at the back connected to the pivot selector of the main tray assembly.Type: GrantFiled: January 2, 2017Date of Patent: May 1, 2018Inventor: Cal M. Phillips
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Patent number: 9612971Abstract: Aspects include computing devices, systems, and methods for implementing a cache memory access requests for data smaller than a cache line and eliminating overfetching from a main memory by writing supplemental data to the unfilled portions of the cache line. A cache memory controller may receive a cache memory access request with a supplemental write command for data smaller than a cache line. The cache memory controller may write supplemental to the portions of the cache line not filled by the data in response to a write cache memory access request or a cache miss during a read cache memory access request. In the event of a cache miss, the cache memory controller may retrieve the data from the main memory, excluding any overfetch data, and write the data and the supplemental data to the cache line. Eliminating overfetching reduces bandwidth and power required to retrieved data from main memory.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2014Date of Patent: April 4, 2017Assignee: QUALCOMM IncorporatedInventors: Andrew Edmund Turner, George Patsilaras, Bohuslav Rychlik
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Patent number: 9499104Abstract: A hitch accessory system is provided. The system includes a crossbar having a perpendicular bar and parallel bar. The system further includes a crossbar insert capable of supporting at least one accessory. The perpendicular bar is capable of receiving and supporting the crossbar insert. The parallel bar is adapted to engage a hitch.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2012Date of Patent: November 22, 2016Inventor: Brian Hux
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Patent number: 9393913Abstract: A load carrier for a vehicle, such as a bike carrier, including two load receiving sections each including at least one arm, e.g. a pivot arm. A center piece is positioned between the two load receiving sections. The center piece includes a first and a second connection portion and a bridging portion between the first and the second connection portion. The bridging portion and/or the load receiving sections includes a framework structure for improving the torsional rigidity while maintaining a low weight structure.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2013Date of Patent: July 19, 2016Assignee: Thule Sweden ABInventor: Jasmin Bukaric
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Patent number: 9265676Abstract: This invention relates to a multi-purpose article carrier for a personal mobility vehicle, such as a motorized mobility scooter or other powered mobility vehicle, of the type used to transport a disabled person. The present invention provides a light weight, easily installed and removable means whereby the user can easily and temporarily expand the carrying capacity of the personal mobility vehicle. The present invention does not appreciably add to the wind resistance, does not damage the vehicle, and is easy to drive and maneuver, since no portion of the device touches the ground while the vehicle is moving, and is easy to store when not in use.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2013Date of Patent: February 23, 2016Inventor: Rebecca Wright Williams
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Patent number: 9120430Abstract: The present invention is a support and carry system for use with slow moving vehicles having an existing slow moving vehicle support bracket; an extension bar constructed and arranged to be placed in said existing support bracket; an upper support bracket assembly, said upper support bracket dependent on said extension bar, said upper bracket assembly constructed and arranged to receive signage indicating a slow moving vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2012Date of Patent: September 1, 2015Inventors: William Christopher Cross, Steven Darracot, Jr.
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Patent number: 9114759Abstract: A carrying device for attachment to a vehicle includes a carrying section configured to receive the full diameter and at least more than half of the length of a golf bag, an opening at its upper extremity configured to allow the golf bag to enter the carrying section, and a plurality of sidewall openings configured to visually expose the golf bag through the sidewall openings more than to visually enclose the golf bag through the carrying section. The first vehicle coupler is configured to be coupled to a vehicle and includes a first receiver having a first substantially rectangular cuboidal cavity and a second receiver having a second substantially rectangular cuboidal cavity. A first connector couples the carrying section to the first vehicle coupler through the first substantially rectangular cuboidal cavity. A second connector couples the carrying section to the second vehicle coupler through the second substantially rectangular cuboidal cavity.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2013Date of Patent: August 25, 2015Assignee: RIDER'S CADDY, INC.Inventors: Ross Hudson, Valdean A. Johnson
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Patent number: 9073396Abstract: An anti-rattle device is shown and described. The anti-rattle device may include a pin member configured for insertion into aligned apertures of a draw bar and receiver hitch, and a block member configured to be inserted into an interior cavity of the draw bar and to receive the pin member. The anti-rattle device may also include an engaging member engaged with the pin member outside of the draw bar and receiver hitch, where the engagement of the engaging member, the pin member and the block are operable to clamp the draw bar against the receiver hitch.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2013Date of Patent: July 7, 2015Assignee: Cequent Performance Products, Inc.Inventors: Austin J. Laurer, Jacob S. Belinky, Gail R. Matheus, David W. Hesch
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Patent number: 8985418Abstract: A lightweight convertible cargo carrier cart system and accessories adaptable for transporting articles using a vehicle's receiver hitch, or wheeled hand cart, or trailer (pulled via a bicycle or other device). Users can select appropriate components to manage loads based on the available method for transporting the load. Accessories include a handle accessory, a leg/foot accessory, and inserts (for attaching wheels, hardware, and accessories). When the convertible cargo carrier and cart system is used as a cart the user is afforded a variety of positions for installing inserts and wheels based on the weight, mass, and distribution of the load.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2013Date of Patent: March 24, 2015Inventor: Alan Stanley Poudrier
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Patent number: 8919627Abstract: A load carrier or extender arm suitable for use on pick-up trucks or other vehicles includes telescoping curved bars that allow adjustment of the height of a load support cross arm or other support surface relative to a vehicle hitch receiver in which the device is mounted. The curvature of the two members increases the elevation of the device to avoid bottoming out. The rear curved member is part of a T-shaped load support with a cross arm extending laterally of the curved member. The extender arm is especially suited for transporting boats, canoes and kayaks in a pick-up truck.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2013Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Inventors: Eddie Clifton Brinkley, Chadwick Clifton Brinkley
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Publication number: 20140166713Abstract: An improved modular cargo carrying system for safely and securely transporting external cargo with a vehicle. A unique mounting arrangement removably attaches one or more cargo carrier elements to a bumper or external frame member of a vehicle, distributing the cargo weight over a broad area of the bumper or frame member. Multiple cargo carrier elements can be removably attached to each other to form a larger, contiguous cargo carrier structure. Supplemental sides can be removably attached around the perimeter of one or more cargo carrier elements to better restrain cargo. Supplemental support structures can be added to the vehicle in contact with and constraining the bumper or frame member to augment the load carrying capacity and reduce the possibility of fatigue induced bumper or frame member failure.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 22, 2014Publication date: June 19, 2014Inventor: Ralph Preston Kirtland
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Publication number: 20140027484Abstract: A collapsible bicycle rack to be transported at the rear of a motor vehicle for carrying bicycles that are suspended vertically and upside down relative to one another. The bicycle rack includes a vertical main support bar. An upper front wheel support basket is pivotally coupled to the main support bar to receive and retain the front wheels of the bicycles. A lower rear wheel support arm is pivotally coupled to the main support bar below the upper front wheel support basket to receive the rear wheels of the bicycles. The upper front wheel support basket and the lower rear wheel support arm are simultaneously rotated from an expanded deployed configuration extending outwardly from the vertical main support bar to a compact folded configuration lying generally side-by-side the vertical main support bar.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 24, 2012Publication date: January 30, 2014Inventor: Strahan Lingjerde Loken
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Patent number: 8636184Abstract: A compact folding bicycle carrier has a frame, a folding lower foot member and a pair of folding articulated upper carrying members. The lower foot member is pivotally mounted to a lower end of the frame and constrained for limited movement relative thereto. Each articulated carrying member has a supporting arm and a carrying arm. One end of each supporting arm is pivotally mounted to an upper end of the frame at opposite sides thereof. Each carrying arm is associated with one supporting arm. Each carrying arm has a cradle for holding a bicycle adjacent one end and an upper foot at the other end. Each carrying arm, between the cradle and the upper foot, is pivotally mounted to its respective supporting arm. The supporting arms are constrained for limited movement relative to the frame and each carrying arm is constrained for limited movement relative to its respective supporting arm.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2010Date of Patent: January 28, 2014Inventors: Richard A. Allen, Alexander R. Allen
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Patent number: 8602279Abstract: A bicycle rack is configured for mounting to a hitch behind a vehicle. The bike rack may include a mast and a mechanism for locking the mast in an upright position, or alternatively, permitting downward rotation of the mast away from the vehicle for access purposes. The rack includes arms and mounting devices for supporting various tubular components for the bicycle frame.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2012Date of Patent: December 10, 2013Assignee: Yakima Innovation Development CorporationInventors: Chris Sautter, Mike Kemery, Zac Elder, Andrew Austin, Richard Jeli, Aaron Foley, Steve Rodden
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Patent number: 8490847Abstract: An article carrier configured to be detachably mounted to a trailer hitch of a vehicle is disclosed. The article carrier may include a frame having first and second end portions with the first end portion being pivotably mounted to the base allowing the frame to be selectively pivoted about a first axis between a substantially vertical position in which the frame extends upwardly from the base, and a substantially horizontal position in which the frame extends sidewardly from the base, the first axis being parallel to a longitudinal axis of the vehicle; and a carrier assembly connected to the second end portion of the frame and configured to support one or more articles.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2012Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Assignee: Yakima Innovation Development CorporationInventors: Chris Sautter, Mike Kemery, Zac Elder, Andrew Austin, Richard Jeli, Aaron Foley, Steve Rodden
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Patent number: 8434655Abstract: Disclosed is a bicycle carrier having a support mast, an elongate support member extending from the support mast, and a cradle disposed along the elongate support member. The cradle is for receiving a fork crown of a bicycle. The cradle includes first and second tines which form at least part of a substantially U-shaped structure, and a third tine extending angularly away from the U-shaped structure so as to allow the fork crown to be received between the U-shaped structure and the third tine. A head tube of the bicycle is disposed between the first and second tines. The third tine is disposed between fork tubes of the bicycle.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2011Date of Patent: May 7, 2013Inventor: Malcolm Thomas Hammond
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Patent number: 8418902Abstract: 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 ifType: GrantFiled: November 29, 2010Date of Patent: April 16, 2013Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventors: Dong Eun Cha, Seung Mok Lee, Sung Won Kim, Hun Soo Kim, Hoo Taek Cho
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Patent number: 8419064Abstract: An apparatus for adding weight to a work vehicle includes a receptacle and at least one arm projecting from the receptacle. The receptacle and the at least one arm are configured to receive weights. The apparatus for adding weight to a work vehicle also includes at least one connecting point configured to attach the apparatus to a three-point hitch of the work vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2010Date of Patent: April 16, 2013Assignee: Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations, LLCInventor: Edward N Erhardt
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Patent number: 8403192Abstract: A vehicle-mounted real estate sign carrier assembly includes a U-shaped rack having front, back and side walls, and an L-shaped support rail. The support rail may be adapted to directly connect to a vehicle trailer hitch and locked with a pin when in use. A flexible strap directly mated to a top end of the support rail wraps about each of the stakes such that the real estate signs remain vertically stacked while the display screens are seated within the rack in a stable manner. The carrier assembly may transport multiple real estate signs to various locations, safely and easily by providing a quick-assembly, sturdy, compact and stable construction. Constructed with a low center of gravity the assembly allows a user to travel over bumpy and winding roads without the risk of dislodging his real estate signs from his vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2009Date of Patent: March 26, 2013Inventors: Kenneth S. Roller, Joyce Y. Roller
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Publication number: 20120292357Abstract: A rack for retaining a plurality of modular accessory cubes at the rear of a motor vehicle includes a hitch mounted swing-away carrier supporting an upright post carrying a number of planar platforms which the cubes may be attached to. The cubes may have drawers for supporting equipment such as grills and the like useful for outdoor activities and other modules may comprise electronic entertainment equipment such as audio players, radio and TV receivers, and the like. The platforms and the bases of the modules are formed with complementary engaging sections for positioning the modules on the platform, and threaded fasteners projecting upwardly through the platforms may quickly allow the modules to be secured and released from the platforms.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 17, 2012Publication date: November 22, 2012Inventors: Ty Tennyson, Michael Henley
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Patent number: 8292041Abstract: A friction brake which is suitable for applying friction to one or more load-bearing ropes in the implementation of arbor rigging or other procedures in some embodiments includes a tree engaging frame, a frame attachment mechanism carried by the tree engaging frame, a shaft receptacle carried by the tree engaging frame, an assembly mount shaft releasably inserted in the shaft receptacle and a rope engaging frame carried by the assembly mount shaft.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2009Date of Patent: October 23, 2012Inventor: Gerald L. Shull
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Publication number: 20120234884Abstract: A bicycle hitch extension unit has a shaft extension portion that removably holds a hitch insert on one end and a receiver hitch on the other end. A bicycle receiver shaft portion is welded to an upper portion of the shaft extension portion and generally centered therein. The bicycle receiver shaft portion removably holds a bicycle rack. The bicycle rack holds bicycles and allows easy access even when a trailer is attached to the receiver hitch. A safety plate is provided as a backup means for securing a safety chain to the end of the extension shaft portion. The shaft extension removably fits with a vehicle hitch.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 8, 2012Publication date: September 20, 2012Inventor: Larry WITMER
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Patent number: 8251265Abstract: A spare tire carrier that preserves the vehicle approach angle. The carrier comprises a hitch anchor configured to be mounted on a vehicle towing hitch; a fork having tines affixed to the back end of the hitch anchor by means of a hinge; a sleeve slidingly mounted on the fork's handle; a lower shoulder bar essentially perpendicularly mounted onto the sleeve; an upper shoulder bar slidingly mounted on the lower shoulder bar and a rim holder affixed to the upper shoulder bar. The device is constructed of telescoping bars that can be slidingly adjusted and kept in place by pins. This design allows the shape of the device to be modified and to accommodate a diversity of tire sizes. This invention can also be used as a jack by positioning the rim holder on the ground as a fulcrum and using the device as a lever to lift a car.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2011Date of Patent: August 28, 2012Inventor: Michael A. Grudek
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Patent number: 8235268Abstract: A bicycle rack is configured for mounting to a hitch behind a vehicle. The bike rack may include a mast and a mechanism for locking the mast in an upright position, or alternatively, permitting downward rotation of the mast away from the vehicle for access purposes. The rack includes arms and mounting devices for supporting various tubular components for the bicycle frame.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2008Date of Patent: August 7, 2012Assignee: Yakima Products, Inc.Inventors: Chris Sautter, Mike Kemery, Zac Elder, Andrew Austin, Richard Jeli, Aaron Foley, Steve Rodden
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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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Patent number: 8231036Abstract: A portable recreation and entertainment system for use with a motorized vehicle is provided. The system includes a housing having a generally horizontal base portion and a top portion oriented vertically distal therefrom. A plurality of walls extends between the base and top, connecting the two portions and thereby defining an opening facing away from the vehicle. A first door extends laterally across a lower portion of the opening, and connects to a wall portion to selectively rotate from a closed position to an open position. A second door extends laterally across an upper portion of the opening, and connects to another wall portion to selectively rotate from a closed position to an open position. A support platform is connected to the housing and supportably attached to a rearward end of the vehicle by a support arm that preferably includes a mating member configured to mate with a trailer hitch.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2008Date of Patent: July 31, 2012Inventors: Scott Gerald Campbell, Bradley Adom Weber
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Patent number: 8210408Abstract: An article carrier configured to be detachably mounted to a trailer hitch of a vehicle is disclosed. The article carrier may include a frame having first and second end portions with the first end portion being pivotably mounted to the base allowing the frame to be selectively pivoted about a first axis between a substantially vertical position in which the frame extends upwardly from the base, and a substantially horizontal position in which the frame extends sidewardly from the base, the first axis being parallel to a longitudinal axis of the vehicle; and a carrier assembly connected to the second end portion of the frame and configured to support one or more articles.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2008Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Assignee: Yakima Products, Inc.Inventors: Chris Sautter, Mike Kemery, Zac Elder, Andrew Austin, Richard Jeli, Aaron Foley, Steve Rodden
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Patent number: 8162193Abstract: The present invention relates to cargo carrier. The cargo carrier attaches to a vehicle and includes a platform, an upper frame, a plurality of vertical supports, a support sleeve and a support beam. The platform itself is constructed from a plurality of longitudinal support members and a plurality of cross members that interfit with each other via a channel design and/or a shoulder and notch system. The platform is then mounted to a vehicle by attaching the support sleeve and support beam to an existing vehicle hitch. Once attached, the platform may be loaded with heavy items for transport.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2008Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Assignee: Harbor Freight Tools USA, Inc.Inventor: Wang Gang
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Patent number: 8162192Abstract: An attachment device for attaching a waste receptacle to a vehicle hitch. The device comprises of an elongated base that attaches to the hitch of the vehicle such that the base is perpendicular to the ground; an elongated sliding bar that is slidably disposed in the base near the bottom end such that it is parallel to the ground; and an elongated vertical component that is slidably disposed inside the base at the top end. The vertical component can slide up and down within the base. There is a T-shaped wing extending from the top end of the vertical component, and this wing is oriented generally parallel to the ground In addition, there is a gripping component pivotally attached to the wing, which grips the waste receptacle and an arc-shaped stabilizing arm that is pivotally attached to the sliding bar. This latter component helps stabilize the waste receptacle.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2009Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Inventor: Moises A. Sanchez
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Patent number: 8141760Abstract: Hitch-mounted carriers, including portable bicycle racks, are set forth herein. One carrier includes a height member, an insert arm coupled to height member for movement between storage and use configurations, and at least one support arm coupled to height member for movement between storage and use configurations. Means for coupling insert arm to a tow hitch, for locking insert arm at storage and use configurations, and for locking support arm(s) at storage and use configurations are included. Insert arm is configured for insertion in tow hitch and has a wedge aperture. An attaching element is coupled to support arm(s) for removably attaching a device to support arm(s). A wedge is adjacent wedge aperture, and means are included for moving wedge between a first position generally flush with or inside insert arm and a second position extending outside insert arm to dampen wobble between insert arm and tow hitch.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2008Date of Patent: March 27, 2012Assignee: Kuat Innovations, Inc.Inventors: Luke Kuschmeader, Brian Atkinson
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Patent number: 8070029Abstract: Truck Bed Companion will keep groceries from spilling all over the truck bed, allow contractors to transport tools and sheets of plywood or drywalls with ease, eliminate the need to ties down lawn mowers or gas cans and create separate areas for tool boxes, saws or other necessities.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2008Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Inventor: Michelle Settle
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Patent number: 8011543Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 1, 2005Date of Patent: September 6, 2011Assignee: Renault S.A.S.Inventors: Arnaud Premartin, Patrick Saillard, Olivier Veuillot
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Patent number: 7959047Abstract: A vehicle mounted bicycle carrier for transporting non-standard bicycle frame types, such as full suspension mountain bikes. The carrier typically is mounted to the hitch structure of a vehicle and is comprised of a vertical support mast, with a top mounted horizontal bar, containing cradles for hanging bicycles from their fork crowns in a vertical position, providing independent access. The cradle design turns the fork and handlebars to a degree that prevents interference with an adjacent bicycle's handlebars, thereby allowing the closest possible spacing. Lower down on the vertical support mast is a horizontal bar for securing the bicycle rear wheels, preventing the bicycles from swinging freely on the cradles.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2006Date of Patent: June 14, 2011Inventor: Malcolm T. Hammond
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Patent number: 7900802Abstract: A vehicle mounted bicycle carrier for transporting non-standard bicycle frame types, such as full suspension mountain bikes. The carrier typically is mounted to the hitch structure of a vehicle and is comprised of a vertical support mast, with a top mounted horizontal bar, containing cradles for hanging bicycles from their fork crowns in a vertical position, providing independent access. The cradle design turns the fork and handlebars to a degree that prevents interference with an adjacent bicycle's handlebars, thereby allowing the closest possible spacing. Lower down on the vertical support mast is a horizontal bar for securing the bicycle rear wheels, preventing the bicycles from swinging freely on the cradles.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2004Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Inventor: Malcolm Thomas Hammond
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Publication number: 20110024473Abstract: An adjustable cargo support apparatus for use with vehicles having a hitch receiver socket includes an elongated arm engageable at one end thereof inside such hitch receiver socket, a dual sleeve member, a tee-shaped cargo support beam having a riser slidingly engageable inside one of the open-ended sleeves of the dual sleeve member, and at least one releasable position locking means for restraining movement of the sleeve relative to the elongated arm. The dual sleeve beam member further includes an elongated connecting beam, a first open-ended sleeve having a portion of a side wall fixedly attached to one end of the connecting beam at a predetermined angle, and a second open-ended sleeve fixedly attached at an opposing end of the connecting beam, wherein an axis of the second sleeve is substantially perpendicular to that of the first sleeve.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 21, 2010Publication date: February 3, 2011Inventor: Alonzo Weiss
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Patent number: 7832608Abstract: A cargo carrier mountable to a hitch receiver of a vehicle includes a lightweight, open-air wire basket supported by a tough metal bracket. The bracket is reversible so that the carrier can be attached to different size hitch receivers. To simplify assembly, the mounting hardware for attaching the basket to the bracket is the same regardless of which size receiver is being used. The holes for the mounting hardware are positioned such that the fasteners can avoid carrying most of the cargo's weight. If the basket is evenly loaded with cargo, it is possible for the fasteners to carry substantially no weight whatsoever. When not in use, the basket is collapsible to lie generally flat against the bracket so that the cargo carrier can be readily stowed.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2006Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Inventor: Frederick R. Bauer, Jr.
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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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Patent number: 7810439Abstract: A portable table system engageable with a trailer hitch receiver mounted on a vehicle. The device features a pair of tables which are rotationally engaged to a support structure to allow movement from a deployed horizontal position, to vertical positions in a stacked arrangement adjacent to the rear of a vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2009Date of Patent: October 12, 2010Inventor: Frank Brian Bless