Tie-down Patents (Class 224/534)
  • Patent number: 11272796
    Abstract: A belt holder includes a top section; slats; first straps attached to the slats, a strap of the first straps being configured to at least partially hold a belt to a respective slat of the slats; second straps attached to the slats, a strap of the second straps separating a slat of the slats from an adjacent slat of the slats by a first distance, the first distance being sufficient to allow folding of the slats; and wherein an end of at a first strap of the second straps and an end of a second strap of the second straps are attached to the top section and separate the top section from a topmost slat of the slats by a second distance, the second distance being sufficient to allow folding of the slats with the top section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2022
    Assignee: Milliard Enterprises Limited Liability Company
    Inventor: Tzippora Niasoff
  • Patent number: 8827230
    Abstract: In an object holding device, it is possible to prevent loosening of a cord-like body for holding an object without requiring any user's special operation. The object holding device includes a fixing belt (3) wound on a plastic tank (2), a male buckle (9) provided at a fixing belt, a reel (4) having the fixing belt wound around and urged to rotate in a winding direction of the fixing belt and a reel housing (11) connecting with a male buckle. When the male buckle is connected to the reel housing, a rotation of the reel is restricted at least in a counter-winding direction of the fixing belt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Nifco Inc.
    Inventor: Takehiko Nemoto
  • Publication number: 20140239027
    Abstract: A carrier for use in carrying items externally on a vehicle is disclosed having: a rack upon which the items may be mounted which, in use, is supported by the vehicle in such a manner that the rack extends away from the vehicle and that the weight of the rack and any items carried thereon bears against the vehicle; a plurality of straps, each connected at a proximal end to the rack and having, at a distal end, a catch to enable engagement of the strap with the vehicle; wherein tension in a pair of the straps is simultaneously adjustable by means of a movable handle located on the rack, wherein motion of the handle causes retraction of each strap of the pair.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Applicant: C.P. Witter Limited
    Inventor: Martin Dickinson
  • Patent number: 8777070
    Abstract: A spare tire carrier is provided. The spare tire carrier includes a mounting assembly and a support assembly that cooperate to carry a spare tire. The mounting assembly is configured for releaseably connecting the spare tire carrier to a vehicle. The support assembly is configured for supporting the spare tire regardless of whether the spare tire has a rim or is rimless. The spare tire carrier may also include a hinged bracket that allows the spare tire carrier to be placed in a down position to allow the driver to access engine components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: JF Products, LP
    Inventors: Joseph S. Moore, Frank Bruno
  • Patent number: 8733605
    Abstract: A bicycle-carrying device for motor-vehicles comprises a frame which is mounted on the rear part of a motor-vehicle and is provided with receptacles for supporting one or more bicycles in vertical planes parallel to the longitudinal direction of the motor-vehicle, without hiding from view substantial portions of the rear plate and/or the rear lights of the motor-vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Inventor: Fabio Pedrini
  • Patent number: 8403192
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Inventors: Kenneth S. Roller, Joyce Y. Roller
  • Patent number: 8336747
    Abstract: A bicycle rack includes at least one arm and a cradle installed on the arm for receiving a bicycle thereon. The cradle has a body including a through-hole extending through the longitudinal length of the body. The through-hole is sized to be received by the arm of a bicycle rack. A saddle extending along a length of the longitudinal body is positioned above the through-hole and has a top surface for receiving a tube of a bicycle. The saddle is oriented cross-ways to the longitudinal axis of the through-hole. The top surface of the saddle can increase in dimension on one side of a vertical axis of the through-hole and decreases in dimension on the other side of the vertical axis as the saddle extends toward each end of the longitudinal body. A latch is positioned on opposite sides of the vertical axis at either end of the saddle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Thule Sweden AB
    Inventors: Kevin Bogoslofski, John R. Laverack
  • Publication number: 20120205414
    Abstract: A bicycle rack includes at least one arm and a cradle installed on the arm for receiving a bicycle thereon. The cradle has a body including a through-hole extending through the longitudinal length of the body. The through-hole is sized to be received by the arm of a bicycle rack. A saddle extending along a length of the longitudinal body is positioned above the through-hole and has a top surface for receiving a tube of a bicycle. The saddle is oriented cross-ways to the longitudinal axis of the through-hole. The top surface of the saddle can increase in dimension on one side of a vertical axis of the through-hole and decreases in dimension on the other side of the vertical axis as the saddle extends toward each end of the longitudinal body. A latch is positioned on opposite sides of the vertical axis at either end of the saddle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2011
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Inventors: Kevin Bogoslofski, John R. Laverack
  • Publication number: 20120125965
    Abstract: A bicycle rack configured for mounting to a hitch behind a vehicle. The rack has a carrier frame which includes mounting devices for supporting and securing up to four bicycles. The rack has a central upright frame named mast, with a lower end structure named hitch, for detachably securing the bicycle rack to a conventional hitch receiver, which is attached to the motor vehicle with a bolt, adjustable for effecting relative displacement of the two members transversely to the hitch making a tight friction-fit of the coupling to keep the bicycle rack from vibrating in the hitch receiver. The anti-sway bar rotates on a transverse axis from an horizontal locked position adjacent to the mast, co-acting with the mounting devices of the carrier to secure and stabilize each bicycle at a third point on the rack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2010
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Inventor: Roberto Martin Castro
  • Publication number: 20120037678
    Abstract: A bicycle carrying frame includes a main unit rack, front fork fixing seats, bicycle body support brackets, adjustment belts and hook-ring belts. The main unit rack is fixed on a tail door of car with the hook-ring belts; whereas, the front fork fixing seats and the bicycle body support brackets are fixed on the main unit rack. A bicycle front fork, with a front wheel being dismantled, is fixed on the front fork fixing seat and then a bicycle body is fixed on the bicycle body support bracket with the adjustment belt. As the front fork fixing seats are located alternately at different heights from front to rear, bicycle front forks with front wheels being dismantled are fixed and bicycle handles will not collide with each other. Therefore, a space for emplacing the bicycles is reduced that a car can be emplaced with plural bicycles for transportation with the car.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2011
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Inventor: Hung-Huan Hsu
  • Patent number: 8092142
    Abstract: Improvements in a vertical recreational vehicle ramp and lift that allows a recreational vehicle to be stored and transported in a vertical orientation. A cable from the lift mechanism connects to a recreational vehicle. The cable in then retracted to lift the recreational vehicle into a vertical orientation. This method of storage reduces the amount of space that is required to store a recreational vehicle. The storage method can be used in a garage, on the back or within a mobile transportation vehicle. The lifting device can be a powered or manual crank device that lifts the recreational vehicle. The ramp can be used to transport other vehicles into the truck and also provides protection of the wheels of the recreational vehicle against here the vehicle is stored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Inventor: Richard D Collins, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7946458
    Abstract: A cargo rack assembly is provided for a vehicle. The cargo rack assembly defines an inner region and includes a restraint assembly disposed at least partially within the inner region. The restraint assembly includes a belt and a carrier. The belt extends between a first end portion and a second end portion. The second end portion of the belt is attached to the carrier. The carrier is configured to facilitate selective dispensation of the first end portion of the belt between a stored position in which the first end portion is adjacent to the cargo rack assembly, and an extended position in which the first end portion is spaced from the cargo rack assembly. A vehicle including a cargo rack assembly is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Rowdy L. Joseph
  • Publication number: 20100065595
    Abstract: A device for tying and transporting wood and elongate objects in improved positional relation to available aft or rearward portions of a forklift vehicle having a fuel tank, other structures or free surfacing available in such portions is disclosed. The device in one aspect of the invention is provided with at least one rack support member, and preferably two such rack support members, each for attachment to a vertical portion of a support column of the overhead guard of the vehicle. At least one of such rack support members is provided with a spool mounting bracket and axle subassembly for installment of a movable and rotating dispenser containing flexible and severable, tying or securing material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2009
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Inventor: Todd A. Brogden
  • Publication number: 20090266854
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for selectively securing a golf bag to a golf cart to prevent the golf bag from pivoting or rotating while being transported by the cart. A coupling member which may be a strap, a rigid body, or a clamp that may selectively tightened, may be coupled to a golf bag structure. The coupling member may be used to selectively couple a golf bag and a cart together to prevent the golf bag from rotating on the back of the cart, thus improving the golfer's access to the bag's exterior pockets and other accessories. A toggle may also be used to further selectively secure a golf bag to a cart.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Greg Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20090236382
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2008
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Inventors: Chris Sautter, Richard Jeli, Andrew Austin, Mike Kemery, Zac Elder
  • Patent number: 7530618
    Abstract: A vehicle cargo storage system attaches to a truck bed, providing a plurality of beams that can support individual fasteners (e.g. eyebolts) to which cables can attach for securing a load. Alternatively, a load carrying module having a cargo deck and an under deck storage area is affixable to the beams. Optional devices (e.g. toolbox, grill, table, storage containers/boxes) can be supported upon the cargo deck or under deck storage area of the load carrying module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Inventors: Manuel Collins, Dorrick Prentice
  • Patent number: 7401715
    Abstract: A rotatable strap arrangement for a load carrier of a transporting vehicle. The load carrier includes an elongate tray with a rotation mechanism coupled thereto, the rotation mechanism permitting rotation relative to the elongate tray. The rotatable strap arrangement has a strap coupled to the rotation mechanism, the strap operable for securing an object to the elongate tray. The rotatable strap arrangement further includes a strap receiving mechanism coupled to the rotation mechanism, the strap receiving mechanism operable for receiving the strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: Thule Sweden AB
    Inventor: Jeffrey R. Edgerly
  • Patent number: 6802553
    Abstract: The floral carrier for truck bed is a hollow truck bed cover having a front section and a rear section capable of rotating upward and towards the front section to provide access to the storage area formed by the cover. The rear section of the cover would angle rearward and slightly upward from the front section of the cover. A hand grasp extending from the rear section would facilitate its upwards rotation. The cover would feature multiple low profile bars along the tops of both sections and to which floral arrangements could be attached. The cover would be attached to the truck bed with a set of clips formed to interact with existing hardware in the bed of a pickup truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Inventor: Virgil L. Sanders
  • Patent number: 6793189
    Abstract: A small, no-tools-required device, for example constructed of weather and UV resistant glass-filled nylon, that is inserted into the gaps between the deck boards of any conventionally constructed outdoor deck, then turned 90° like a key and released. Once tension is applied to the device through an attachment, for example using an elastic strap, a locking tab engages against the underside of the deck boards and the stabilizer tab at the opposite end of the device from the attachment prevents the device from twisting. The device can then be used to secure any items on the surface of the deck and prevent unexpected shifting or moving due to wind, weather, or any other unforeseen force. It is installed or removed in seconds and causes no damage to the deck itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Inventor: Kenneth J. McKay
  • Patent number: 6772929
    Abstract: A cargo carrier is readily configured to transport bicycles, skis and poles, snowboards, canoe paddles and other cargo through the use of a vertical frame into which various rods may be placed, at locations most suited for the specific cargo. One or more of the rods includes a strap and buckle which allows the strap to be adjusted for length. Intermediary along the strap various rings and spacers may be located to slidably engage both cargo and carrier. In use, the strap is used to encircle cargo and is held adjacent a support through a sliding retainer which is slipped onto the carrier. Prior to assembly of the carrier, the few components of the carrier are relatively two dimensional, so the carrier may be packaged, stocked and sold in compact, flat packaging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Inventor: John P. Stein
  • Publication number: 20030230611
    Abstract: A device for removably securing an article having an elongate section to a portable frame used for transporting the article on a vehicle. The device includes an elongate structure with a floor and sidewalls extending above the floor to form an open channel with the sidewalls including at least one slot parallel to the longitudinal axis of the floor. Part of the device is a conformable strap, having a first side opposite a second side, an insertable end and an enlarged end separated from the insertable end by a length of flexible material, the conformable strap having a plurality of binding elements on the first side and a plurality of contact elements disposed on the second side of the strap at the insertable end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2003
    Publication date: December 18, 2003
    Applicant: Thule Sweden AB
    Inventor: Jeffrey R. Edgerly
  • Patent number: 6648195
    Abstract: A carrier comprised of a holding member and an article support member. The holding member includes a tubing with a plurality of grooves lengthwise down the tubing. The article support member is coupled to the holding member. The article support member includes a tray and a collar. The collar is coupled to the tray and interlocks with the holding member in a plurality of angular orientations. The collar enables the tray to be rotatably adjusted with a slope in accordance with a selected angular orientation of the plurality of angular orientations. An integral locking mechanism allows an article to be locked to the carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Danik Industries Ltd.
    Inventors: James C. Morris, Lopin Wang, Donald E. Schlenker
  • Patent number: 6595398
    Abstract: A vehicle-mounted wheelchair rack assembly with lifting capabilities for transporting a folded wheelchair at the rear of a vehicle. The rack assembly integrates a jack assembly into a stationary L-shaped frame coupled to the rear of the vehicle. Additionally, the jack assembly is coupled to a telescopic T-joint member wherein actuation of the jack assembly moves a vertical casing of the T-joint member along a vertical strut member of the L-shaped frame. The vertical strut member has a longitudinal opening or channel which has a length that defines a continuous range for lifting or elevating or, alternately, lowering the T-joint member and a folded wheelchair strapped to the T-joint member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: Succession of Edmond E. Himel, Jr.
    Inventor: Edmond E. Himel, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6579055
    Abstract: A frame apparatus engages a pair of hitch members permanently attached to the undercarriage structure of a motor home. Brackets containing guide rollers attach a left and right upright movable rail to the frame. An electrically driven set of gears drive a vertically positioned threaded rod attached to a gear housing connected to a transverse portion of the frame apparatus. A bottom of the threaded rod is attached to a transverse rod connecting the left and right movable rails. The bottom portion of such movable rails are attached to rearwardly directed support arms which support a transverse track adapted to transport a motorcycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Inventor: Richard Williams
  • Patent number: 6491195
    Abstract: A bike carrier that includes an extension support having a vehicle support end and a second end as well as a side rail structure supported by the extension support. The side rail structure has a first section extending to a first side of the extension support and a second section extending to a second side of the extension support, and the first and second sections are arranged for supporting a respective wheel of a bike when in use. The carrier device also includes a first wheel hold down device positioned on the first side of the extension support and an intermediate support device supported by the extension support (e.g. either directly or indirectly such as via an intermediate side rail section) so as to contact a frame component of the bike when in use. The intermediate support device has an upper frame contact section that is positioned, when is use, for contact with the lower sloping frame component of the bike which extends to the hub typically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Inventors: John D. McLemore, Don McLemore
  • Patent number: 6457618
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Inventors: Dennis H. Hancock, Jeffrey D. Hancock
  • Patent number: 6457619
    Abstract: A truck bed mounted surfboard storage rack is provided which aids in the storage and transportation of surfboards via pickup trucks and vans. Two fold up arms have three slots in each one, with each slot being padded with a weatherproof foam material. When extended in the up position, the slots allow up to three surfboards to be stored in a horizontal position on their long edge. When in the lowered position, the invention folds flat against the floor of the truck or van, to provide the maximum storage space for other items. When secured to the frame of the pickup truck or van with mechanical hardware such as stainless steel nuts and bolts, the carrier can also be used for snow boards or other similarly shaped objects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Inventors: Michael P. Werner, Carl P. Werner
  • Patent number: 6382486
    Abstract: A foldable hitch mounted carrier device for a vehicle for adding cargo carrying capacity for a vehicle. The foldable hitch mounted carrier device for a vehicle includes a frame assembly including a frame having elongate front, side, and back members; and also includes a hitch mounting member being securely attached to the frame and being adapted to be fastenably received by a hitch receiver on a vehicle; and further includes a netting arrangement being securely attached to the frame; and also includes adjustable tie-down members being attached to the frame for securing cargo thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Inventors: William J. Kretchman, Randy W. Burkholder
  • Patent number: 6382487
    Abstract: A vehicle receiver mounted cargo carrier is readily configured to transport bicycles, skis and poles, canoes, canoe paddles and other cargo through the use of a vertical frame into which various rods may be placed, at locations most suited for the specific cargo. Other structural components form anchor points for the cargo that also help to retain the cargo and act as theft deterrents. The carrier is designed to be free standing out of the vehicle receiver, and so may be used as a storage organizer for the cargo before, during and after transport. Prior to assembly, the components of the carrier are relatively two dimensional, so the carrier may be packaged, stocked and sold in compact, flat packaging. Alternative support struts offer additional methods of supporting the cargo.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Inventor: John P. Stein
  • Patent number: 6364390
    Abstract: The invention provides a ceiling-mountable display monitor system with an improved monitor retention system. The display monitor system includes a display monitor that is mounted on the ceiling portion of a vehicle by a mounting assembly. The monitor system includes a display surface and a retention system adapted to selectively engage a catch on the display monitor to retain the monitor in a stowed configuration proximate the ceiling portion of the vehicle. Upon actuation by the user, the retention system releases the monitor for pivotal or other movement away from the ceiling portion of the vehicle to a viewing configuration. In the viewing configuration, the viewing surface is oriented to viewing by passengers of the vehicle. The retention system includes a retainer pivotally mounted about a pivot axis and an actuator with a user-manipulable element adapted to selectively pivot the retainer relative to its pivot axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Assignee: Rosen Products, LLC
    Inventor: Darrell R. Finneman
  • Publication number: 20020011505
    Abstract: A cargo retention system for a vehicle having a seat is described. The seat has a seat bottom with an upper surface and a seat back with a front surface. The intersection of the upper surface and the front surface defines a bight. The cargo retention system includes a first anchorage adapted to be coupled to the vehicle. A portion of the first anchorage is adapted to be positioned in the bight. A retainer releasably interconnects a vehicle accessory and the first anchorage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2001
    Publication date: January 31, 2002
    Inventors: Joanne H. Cole, Lance E. Larsen, Neil J. Bush, Mark A. Caye, Gregary A. Haupt, Benjamin R. Judy, David J. Spykerman, Roger A. Whitley, Detlef Zimmermann, James P. Le Fevre
  • Patent number: 6336580
    Abstract: A vehicle load carrier configured to carry recreational equipment on the exterior of a vehicle, including a recreational equipment rack configured for exterior engagement with a vehicle and a coupling mechanism configured to secure an article to the recreational equipment rack. The coupling mechanism includes a tube having two opposed walls, a removable fastener member configured to be positioned between the opposed walls and a torque-receiving member for receiving an externally applied torque. The coupling mechanism is adapted so that the article is selectively clamped to and released from one of the opposed walls of the tube upon rotation of the torque-receiving member relative to the removable fastener member. The other of the opposed walls is configured to hold the removable fastener member fixed against rotation relative to the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2002
    Assignee: Yakima Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott R. Allen, Joseph J. Settelmayer
  • Publication number: 20010035446
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2001
    Publication date: November 1, 2001
    Inventors: Todd R. Walstrom, Joseph J. Peschmann
  • Patent number: 6296163
    Abstract: A substantially flat-shaped board type carrier (8) is placed on a carrier frame mounted on the front and/or rear of a straddle type four wheeled all-terrain vehicle. The carrier surface (8A) on which baggage is placed is provided with numerous lateral anti-slip projections (8e) that are parallel to one another and expand outward. Of the parts comprising the carrier frame, at least the front main frame and rear main frame are made of pipe and support the carrier by being fitted into the fitting grooves formed by the ribs on the bottom surface of the carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2001
    Assignee: Kawasaki Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Jiro Kitao, Takeshi Usui, Hideyoshi Kosuge, Kazuhiro Maeda, Fumio Mizuta, Toru Minami
  • Patent number: 6286738
    Abstract: A bicycle rack for carrying a bicycle adjacent the rear of a vehicle. The bicycle rack includes an adjustable frame assembly having a first frame member attached to a housing and a second frame member attached to a connecting member. The connecting member is rotationally coupled to the housing to allow relative pivotal movement between the first and second frame members. A locking member is disposed within the housing and selectively movable between a first position, in which the locking member engages the connecting member to impede relative rotational movement between the connecting member and the housing, and a second position, in which the locking member is disengaged from the connecting member to allow relative rotational movement between the connecting member and the housing. At least one support arm is coupled to the housing and configured for sliding and pivotal movement between a stowed position and an extended position in which the arm engages the housing to support a bicycle adjacent the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: Yakima Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Duncan Robins, Joseph J. Settelmayer, Scott R. Allen
  • Patent number: 6244483
    Abstract: A carrier device that is particularly well suited for use as a vehicle mounted bike carrier. The carrier has a vehicle mounted extension support which supports a side rail structure having a first section extending to a first side of the extension support and a second section extending to a second side of the extension support. The first and second sections are arranged for supporting a respective wheel of an object such as a bike when in use. The carrier device has a modular structure that makes it easily interconnectable with other like carrier structures to form a carrier assembly with the modular carrier structures preferably being arranged in a vertically stacked or staggered arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Inventors: John D. McLemore, Don C. McLemore
  • Patent number: 6193124
    Abstract: A carrier engagable with a hitch receiver, including a hitch receiver; an elongate frame; a tank receiving seat connected to the frame; a coupler shaft extending horizontally from the frame; and a receiver insert assembly comprising a receiver insert arranged for insertion into a hitch receiver and a support arm that extends substantially horizontally from the receiver insert for rotatably receiving the coupler shaft such that the frame is rotatable from a first upright position for receiving the tank to a second substantially horizontal position for supporting and transporting the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Inventors: Glenn J. Brazil, Donald L. Wilson
  • Patent number: 6092706
    Abstract: A bicycle carrier which can be used with a camper that is pulled by a towing vehicle. The carrier has a first part which is secured to the top of the camper and which accepts the front wheels of the bikes, and a second part which is secured to the rear bumper of the carrier to secure the rear wheels of the bikes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Inventor: Joel B. Bogan
  • Patent number: 6045022
    Abstract: A carrier for transporting bicycles on the front of a motor vehicle allowing unrestricted access to vehicle trunk, rear cargo area, and top luggage rack. Carrier frame has a horizontal crossmember (10) and two vertical uprights (12). Two removable bicycle support arm assemblies (14) with safety tips extend forward from the crossmember (10). A protector sleeve (22) as part of arm assembly (14) protects bicycle finish at point of contact. An adaptable system comprised of elastic cord assemblies (42) and eyebolts (14, 16, & 18) secures bicycles to the carrier. Carrier mounts to vehicle at top surface of grill and front surface of bumper--four points, mirror image. Custom-designed mounting kits accommodate carrier to a multitude of vehicle makes and models while maintaining a low forward profile for Carrier and bicycle. Eyebolts (14, 16, and 18) serve as structural members, a system component for securing bicycles, attaching hardware, and a safety feature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Inventor: Brian A. Giles
  • Patent number: 6019266
    Abstract: An improved bicycle carrying device for affixation to a vehicle, either to the bumper of the vehicle or to a permanent trailer hitch. The device comprises transverse support members to which the bicycle wheels are secured, and an upright member with elongate slots therein, within which adjustable, movable retaining members are affixed. The movable retaining members are moved into position such that they abut and are secured to an upper structural member of the bicycle. Therefore, the bicycle is restrained against lateral movement both at an upper and a lower position, securing the bicycle even during transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2000
    Inventor: Brian Johnson
  • Patent number: 6010049
    Abstract: A vehicle receiver mounted cargo carrier is readily configured to transport bicycles, skis and poles, canoes, canoe paddles and other cargo through the use of a vertical frame into which various rods may be placed, at locations most suited for the specific cargo. Other structural components form anchor points for the cargo that also help to retain the cargo and act as theft deterrents. The carrier is designed to be free standing out of the vehicle receiver, and so may be used as a storage organizer for the cargo before, during and after transport. Prior to assembly, the components of the carrier are relatively two dimensional, so the carrier may be packaged, stocked and sold in compact, flat packaging. Alternative support struts offer additional methods of supporting the cargo.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Inventor: John P. Stein
  • Patent number: 6006973
    Abstract: A bike rack cargo carrier for mounting to a vehicle hitch allowing bicycles to be transported outside the vehicle. The bike carrier includes a drawbar adapted to be received within the vehicle hitch and a cargo platform adjustably attached to the drawbar to facilitate fore and aft adjustment of the platform relative to the rear of the vehicle. The drawbar is provided with a vertical offset to position the platform further from the ground. A support stanchion is removably secured to the carrier platform to transport a plurality of bicycles in a vertical position. The stanchion is adjustably mounted to the platform to accommodate different numbers of bikes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Assignee: Draw-Tite, Inc.
    Inventors: Jacob S. Belinky, David L. Rogers
  • Patent number: 5803330
    Abstract: An external rack for attachment to a vehicle has a base releasably mountable on a vehicle; a generally vertical member having upper and lower ends, the generally vertical member lockably, releasably mountable on the base at the lower end; a generally horizontal member releasably mountable to the generally vertical member at the upper end of the generally vertical member; a slidable frame adapted for snug fitment around the generally horizontal member, the slidable frame adapted to support an elongate object there-against and slidably positionable along the generally horizontal member; and a selectively tensionable strap releasably mountable to the generally horizontal member extending along the generally horizontal member and positionable over the slidable frame; whereby the selectively tensionable strap may be selectively tensioned to releasably frictionally hold an elongate object against the slidable frame and to simultaneously releasably frictionally secure the slidable frame against the generally horizon
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Inventors: Martin O. Stack, Maximilian E. Burgess
  • Patent number: 5794959
    Abstract: A trailer hitch assembly for use in hauling a motorcyle behind a motorcyle which includes a wheel cradle for positioning the front wheel of the motorcyle in front of the hitch. Such arrangement allows for the use of a lighter weight trailer and provides for greater stability as the front wheel is held in-plane with the vehicle during travel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Inventor: Carl John Scheef, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5788133
    Abstract: A rack apparatus for storing at least one wakeboard (27,29) in a skiboat having a vertically extending tow pylon (12), comprising: a collar assembly (20) being adapted to support the rack and wakeboards from the vertically extending pylon (12), a plurality of spaced apart lower support arms (23) connected to collar assembly (20) and adapted to support at least one horizontally oriented wakeboard (27) thereon, a plurality of spaced apart upper support arms (25) connected to collar assembly (20) and adapted to support at least one horizontally oriented wakeboard (29) thereon, and a plurality of resiliently extensible and flexible attaching members (30) or attaching straps (31) connected to lower support arms (23), the flexible attaching members (30) being constructed of a length sufficient to wrap around at least one wakeboard (27,29).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Assignee: M&M Equipment Company LLC
    Inventor: John Mareno
  • Patent number: 5775555
    Abstract: An L-shaped support has a rearwardly extending tubular arm formed of a thin-walled tube. The end of vertical leg of the support is cold formed into a U-shaped, double-walled channel which fits between the sides of a brace which is rigidly mounted to the trailer hitch of a vehicle. A plastic bracket has a split ring clamp which fits over the rearwardly extending arm of the support. The entire bracket may pivot about the axis defined by the arm. An alternative embodiment attachment device for restraining a bicycle tube on a horizontally extending carrier arm is formed as a single molded part of thermoplastic rubber. The attachment device has a strap with an array of two rows of holes which engage with a square array of four mushroom-head type fasteners to attach the end of the strap to the attachment devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Assignee: Graber Products, Inc.
    Inventors: John M. Bloemer, John M. Kaloustian, Todd W. Lassanske
  • Patent number: 5746364
    Abstract: A gas can carrier that attaches to the back of snow machines and off road vehicles. The carrier has an inner foam core that is covered with heavy duty pack cloth. A number of pockets are supplied for convenience. The top center portion of the carrier is hollowed out forming a recessed area to receive a spare gas can. An expandable pocket is also formed in the recess so that if no gas can is being carried, items can be kept within this central pocket. To hold the carrier on a snow machine or other vehicle, a set of straps is provided that loop around the vehicle's bumpers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Inventor: Jon D. Stengrim
  • Patent number: 5647521
    Abstract: A carrier attached to enable articles such as bicycles to be transported. The carrier comprising an article support member rotatably coupled to a substantially horizontal base member. The base member is designed to be securely inserted within a standard hitch receiver commonly found on many vehicles. The article support member includes a support column oriented in a generally vertical direction and a holding member generally perpendicular to said support column for securing the articles. The carrier further comprises a resistive member coupled to the article support member and the base member to drastically lessens the rotational speed of the article support member during unloading of the article and accessing of a rear hatch door of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 15, 1997
    Assignee: Red Rock Industries
    Inventor: Ronald J. Burgess
  • Patent number: 5628440
    Abstract: A collapsible, lightweight bicycle carrier for a vehicle that can be installed and removed easily by one person. When removed from the vehicle, the hollow and capped tube, that serves as the anchor for the front looped straps, is utilized to store the strapping components of the carrier. The capped tube is dimensioned to fit in a standard water bottle carrier supplied with the bicycle. The bicycle is attached to the vehicle using two looped straps dimensioned to fit over the storage tube. The tube is anchored through a vehicle opening. The bicycle is furnished with protective pads that fasten to the bicycle frame and handlebars. The bicycle is inverted and attached to the trailing ends of the looped straps that extend through the gap of the vehicle opening. The posterior of the bicycle is then fastened to the vehicle using two straps with adjusting buckles. A rear support structure may also be secured to the seat post of the bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 13, 1997
    Inventor: Silvio Gallazzini
  • Patent number: 5595333
    Abstract: A rack for transporting on an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) a long gun such as a rifle, shotgun, or a hunting bow has a clamping arrangement which engages the limbs of the hunting bow in a direction substantially normal to the limbs at the point of engagement and clamping. The rack further has support arms for holding and supporting a hunting seat such as a tree stand or deer stand for transportation. Additionally, the rack is provided with two detachable cradles which may be disposed on a portion of the clamping mechanism and clamped by the remainder of the clamping mechanism. The cradles have hook-shaped support surfaces disposed for supporting and holding a long gun in a substantially horizontal orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1997
    Inventor: Leslie E. Boston