Article Held In Channel Patents (Class 224/537)
  • Patent number: 9073492
    Abstract: An adjustable bicycle carrier contains a base; a first mounting rack including an inner rod and an outer rod, and the inner rod having a retaining seat; a rotatable adjusting device including a rotating member a pawl wheel, a rotatable adjustment knob partially, a steel cable and a first resilient element. The steel cable has a first end disposed on an inner peripheral side of the inner rod and a second end mounted on the rotating member. The adjustable bicycle carrier also contains a locking device including a swing arm, and the swing arm having a fixing mount secured on a predetermined portion thereof, wherein the positioning block and the fixing mount simultaneously swing with the swing arm, the fixing mount has a teeth portion for engaging with the pawl wheel, such that when the swing arm swings, the pawl wheel engages with or disengages from the toothed portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2015
    Inventor: Jason Shih Chieh Shen
  • Patent number: 8534522
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for providing and anti-sway arrangement for stabilizing a bicycle supported upon a cradle borne upon an elongate arm of a vehicular mountable load carrier. The arrangement includes a cradle borne upon an elongate arm of a vehicular mountable load carrier. The elongate arm is insert-received in a through-hole located in the cradle and the cradle is configured to abuttingly receive a portion of a bicycle frame thereupon. An anti-sway device is included that has a substantially Y-shape with two upper arms straddling the cradle, and the two upper arms are joined together at a lower common leg thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Thule Sweden AB
    Inventors: Kevin Bogoslofski, Vincent A. Bove, John R. Laverack, John J. Pelosi
  • Patent number: 8490847
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Yakima Innovation Development Corporation
    Inventors: Chris Sautter, Mike Kemery, Zac Elder, Andrew Austin, Richard Jeli, Aaron Foley, Steve Rodden
  • Patent number: 8434655
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Inventor: Malcolm Thomas Hammond
  • 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
  • Patent number: 8272547
    Abstract: The motorcycle carrier apparatus provides several important features, first, not only three cross supports but also two angle supports beneath the platform upon which the motorcycle is removably placed, accommodating even the heaviest of motorcycles, a removable ramp for ease in loading and unloading. A further important feature is the clamp bar that provides the dual frame mounts that bolt to a motorcycle upper frame member. The positive attachment of these frame mounts ensures that a motorcycle is rigidly mounted and supported, with no chance of unintentional motorcycle movement or potential loss. The clamp bar is importantly height adjustable so that most motorcycles are accommodated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Inventor: Mark A. Mital
  • Patent number: 8220681
    Abstract: An anti-sway bicycle mount is provided. The bicycle mount includes a trough section, a collar section disposed adjacent to the trough section, a neck section disposed adjacent to the collar section, opposite the trough section, and a channel section disposed adjacent to the neck section, opposite the collar section. The trough section is adapted to receive a crossbar of a bicycle, the collar section is adapted to receive a support arm of a bicycle carrier, and the channel section is adapted to receive a tube member of the bicycle. The neck section facilitates forward and back motion of the channel section while restricting side to side movement of the channel section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Swiss Cargo Industries S.A. Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Farber
  • Patent number: 8210408
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Yakima Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Chris Sautter, Mike Kemery, Zac Elder, Andrew Austin, Richard Jeli, Aaron Foley, Steve Rodden
  • Publication number: 20120091180
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2010
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Inventors: Richard A. Allen, Alexander R. Allen
  • Patent number: 8132997
    Abstract: An apparatus mountable on a vehicle and having a mounting section and a lift section. The lift section is moveably coupled to the mounting section. A drive chain having a plurality of articulating links and defining opposite first and second ends is operably coupled with a drive gear. At least one of the drive gear and the first and second ends of the drive chain is coupled to the mounting section and at least another one of these items is coupled to the lift section. The rotation of the drive gear movingly drives the chain and thereby moves the lift section relative to the mounting section. In some embodiments, the ends of the drive chain are coupled to one of the mounting section and the lift section and the drive gear is mounted on the other one of the mounting section and the lift section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Assignee: Razor Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Bennett J. Reuille, Thomas C. Wetmore
  • Patent number: 8113398
    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: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Yakima Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Chris Sautter, Richard Jeli, Andrew Austin, Mike Kemery, Zac Elder
  • Publication number: 20100308093
    Abstract: An auger hauler is adapted to be removably attached to a vehicle and transport an auger with the vehicle. The auger hauler comprises a vehicle frame that is adapted to be removably attached to the vehicle. The auger hauler comprises further an auger frame attached to the vehicle frame and adapted to transport the auger.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2009
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Inventor: James Johnson
  • Patent number: 7815084
    Abstract: A ready-to-ride bicycle carrier assembly. The ready-to-ride bicycle assembly includes a frame having a front portion and a rear portion. The front portion of the frame includes a wheel well configured to support a first wheel of the bicycle. A wheel holder is located at the rear portion of the frame and is configured to support a second wheel of the bicycle. An arm is pivotably connected to the frame, and a gripping member is selectively moveable along a length of the arm. The gripping member is configured to be selectively positioned to secure the bicycle on the carrier. In some embodiments, the wheel well includes terraced sidewalls adapted to secure tires having different widths. In some embodiments, an upper rim portion of the wheel well assembly is longitudinally asymmetrical. In some embodiments, the carrier includes a wheel brace configured to wrap around a portion of the first wheel that is above the wheel well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Yakima Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott R. Allen, Joseph J. Settelmayer, Mark Early
  • Patent number: 7757917
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for providing and anti-sway arrangement for stabilizing a bicycle supported upon a cradle borne upon an elongate arm of a vehicular mountable load carrier. The arrangement includes a cradle borne upon an elongate arm of a vehicular mountable load carrier. The elongate arm is insert-received in a through-hole located in the cradle and the cradle is configured to abuttingly receive a portion of a bicycle frame thereupon. An anti-sway device is included that has a substantially Y-shape with two upper arms straddling the cradle, and the two upper arms are joined together at a lower common leg thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: Thule Sweden AB
    Inventors: Kevin Bogoslofski, Vincent A. Bove, John R. Laverack, John J. Pelosi
  • Patent number: 7694861
    Abstract: A towing device. An illustrative embodiment of the towing device includes a hitch bar, a wheel cradle having a generally curved wheel cradle bottom carried by the hitch bar and a pair of spaced-apart wheel cradle sides extending from the wheel cradle bottom and at least one securing strap carried by the wheel cradle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Inventor: Frank T. Neely
  • Patent number: 7469808
    Abstract: Stabilizer members for bicycle carriers often utilize a spool or hourglass shape that cannot accommodate different cross-sectional sizes of seat tube. This can often result in difficulties in adequately securing the bicycle to the bicycle carrier, and, therefore may result in damage to the bicycle, bicycle carrier, or even the vehicle. Accordingly, the bicycle carrier disclosed herein comprises a support member, a bracket attached to the support member, and a stabilizer member rotatably attached to the bracket, the stabilizer member including first and second faces, the first and second faces each including a channel having a radius of curvature wherein the radius of curvature of the first face is different than the radius of curvature of the second face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Cequent Towing Products
    Inventors: Anthony Morales, Jacob Belinky
  • 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: 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: 7222763
    Abstract: A ride ready vehicle-mounted bicycle carrier includes a pair of spaced apart wheel supports and a stabilizing member which is engageable with the bicycle, preferably with one of the bicycle wheels, at a location above the wheel supports. One of the wheel supports is in the form of a pair of spaced apart wheel engagement members which are pivotably mounted to a structural member associated with the carrier, and which are configured to grip the wheel so as to provide initial support for the bicycle on the carrier. The stabilizing member is in the form of a clamp arm mechanism having a base mounted to the structural member and an extendible and retractable arm having a wheel-engaging portion at its outer end, which can be moved into and out of engagement with the wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Inventor: Fabio Pedrini
  • Patent number: 7217078
    Abstract: A vehicle mounted carrier for lifting and securing in an elevated position waste receptacles and other articles for transport. A housing including a pair of side plates, a rear plate and a bottom plate having apertures for mounting to a conventional trailer tow hitch assembly or to a vehicle bumper. A lever arm terminating at one end in a channel for receiving the article of transport and pivotally connected to the housing at the opposite end. A latch assembly is provided for securing the article of transport in an elevated position and for selectively releasing allowing the user to controllably lower and disengage the article of transport. The latch assembly includes a latch rod operably secured to a pair of springs secured to the lever arm and a pair of springs secured to the latch rod and to a lever handle. Lever arm stop element secured to the housing to limit the rotation of the lever arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Inventor: Russell James Short
  • Patent number: 7213731
    Abstract: A cradle or hold-down for a vehicle-mounted equipment carrier, such as a bicycle carrier, includes a resilient support member interconnected with a rigid shell, in combination with a flexible retainer strap that is secured to a retainer base associated with the rigid shell. The support member defines a passage within which a support arm of the carrier is received, and the shell includes aligned openings through which the support arm extends. The support member includes engagement structure, such as a trough, which is configured to receive and engage the equipment supported by the carrier, e.g. the frame of a bicycle. The retainer base is formed integrally with the shell, and extends laterally from the shell so as to be offset from the engagement area of the support member. The retainer strap is fixed to the retainer base, such as by an interlocking T-slot arrangement interposed between the retainer base and the retainer strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Assignee: Saris Cycling Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Clint D. Kolda
  • Patent number: 7147259
    Abstract: A console for a vehicle is disclosed. The console includes a body defining an opening and also includes a lid that is configured to cover the opening and a panel that is movably mounted relative to the body. The panel is movable between a retracted position within the opening and an extended position away from the opening. The panel also has at least one receptacle formed therein. The receptacle is configured to receive an object therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Bogdan Radu, Alan G. Dry
  • Patent number: 7104430
    Abstract: A rack for securing wheeled vehicles, particularly bicycles, includes wheel-receiving wells for receiving the front wheel of the vehicle and contacting the wheel at least at two points. A wheel-engaging arm, pivotally mounted to the rack, is pivoted upwardly and is extensible outwardly against a biasing element. The arm is adapted to engage the wheel of the bicycle at least at a third point for securely holding the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: Sportworks Northwest, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael K. Reeves
  • Patent number: 7066366
    Abstract: A long gun carrying system for all terrain vehicles that incorporates a support structure that will mount on a rear deck or rack on an ATV and that will support a channel member to receive a soft gun case. The soft gun case is attached to the channel member and the soft gun case may be removed with a gun inside, from the channel member. Alternatively, the long gun is easily removed from the soft gun case, while leaving the gun case in position on the ATV.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Stearns Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis Hancock, Jeffrey D. Hancock
  • Patent number: 7044347
    Abstract: A bicycle carrier includes a wheel support arrangement and a stabilizer engageable with a bicycle wheel, for maintaining the bicycle upright. The stabilizer includes an inner section and an extendible and retractable outer section. The inner section is pivotable throughout a range of positions, including an operating position. A releasable engagement arrangement selectively maintains the outer section in a predetermined position relative to the inner section. The inner section includes an interlock, which prevents engagement of the releasable engagement arrangement other than when the stabilizer is in the operative position, to ensure that the stabilizer is engaged with the bicycle in a desired position relative to the bicycle. The interlock provides a sensory indication when the stabilizer is in the operative position, and includes a manual actuator disengaging the releasable engagement arrangement to move the stabilizer away from the operative position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Inventor: Fabio Pedrini
  • Patent number: 6988645
    Abstract: The object of the invention is to provide an anti-sway stabilizer (20) that is pivotally connected to a support arm (26) of a vehicle bike transportation rack, making available a convenient attachment of a bicycle top tube to the support arm for prevention of a bicycle held on the rack from swaying to and fro when subjected to over the road vehicle movement. The anti-sway stabilizer consists of a rubber bike separator cradle (22) that includes a bore (24) therethrougth that slides over the vehicle bike rack support arm and has a thru-hole (28) parallel with the bore. A pivoting stabilizer member (32) in the form of a yoke (36) is rotatably attached to the bike separator cradle with a screw (40) and nut (42). An attachment strap (48) secures a bicycle top tube to the bike separator cradle and a second attaching strap (48) secures a bicycle seat tube or down tube to the stabilizer member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Inventors: Neil H. Nusbaum, F. Andre Levy
  • 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: 6840418
    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: September 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: Watermark PaddleSports, Inc.
    Inventors: Duncan Robins, Joseph J. Settelmayer, Scott R. Allen
  • Publication number: 20040238582
    Abstract: A ride ready vehicle-mounted bicycle carrier includes a pair of spaced apart wheel supports and a stabilizing member which is engageable with the bicycle, preferably with one of the bicycle wheels, at a location above the wheel supports. One of the wheel supports is in the form of a pair of spaced apart wheel engagement members which are pivotably mounted to a structural member associated with the carrier, and which are configured to grip the wheel so as to provide initial support for the bicycle on the carrier. The stabilizing member is in the form of a clamp arm mechanism having a base mounted to the structural member and an extendible and retractable arm having a wheel-engaging portion at its outer end, which can be moved into and out of engagement with the wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2004
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventor: Fabio Pedrini
  • Patent number: 6783041
    Abstract: An apparatus to assist an operator in loading a bicycle onto a substantially vertical bicycle rack attached to an automotive vehicle, includes a base that attaches to the upper portion of the bicycle rack, and a substantially U-shaped hook, having one end that pivots at its base end and having another end that engages the inner rim portion of bicycle wheel when the bicycle is lifted into the proximity of the upper portion of the bicycle rack. The present apparatus and method of loading of a bicycle assists an operator in loading a bicycle by fully supporting the weight of the bicycle while the operator positions and secures the bicycle to the bicycle rack for transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Ford, Noah Barlow Mass, Noel Ranka, Travis Steven Garland
  • Patent number: 6769583
    Abstract: In vehicles (16) with a trailer receiver (14), a carrier apparatus (10) includes a hitch connect (12) suspended from the trailer receiver (14). A support (20) is attached to the hitch connect (12). A ramp (22) is attached to the support (20). According to one aspect of the invention, ramp (22) includes upper ramp (24) and lower ramp (26). In another aspect of the invention, a trailer receiver brace (58) is connected to the trailer receiver (14). According to another aspect of the invention, a part (30) of support (20) forms a portion of ramp (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2004
    Inventors: Dean A. Gordon, Danny M. Fowler
  • Patent number: 6761297
    Abstract: A ride ready vehicle-mounted bicycle carrier includes a pair of spaced apart wheel supports and a stabilizing member which is engageable with the bicycle, preferably with one of the bicycle wheels, at a location above the wheel supports. One of the wheel supports is in the form of a pair of spaced apart wheel engagement members which are pivotably mounted to a structural member associated with the carrier, and which are configured to grip the wheel so as to provide initial support for the bicycle on the carrier. The stabilizing member is in the form of a clamp arm mechanism having a base mounted to the structural member and an extendible and retractable arm having a wheel-engaging portion at its outer end, which can be moved into and out of engagement with the wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Inventor: Fabio Pedrini
  • Patent number: 6732893
    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 engages and interlocks with orientation grooves associated with the holding member. 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 without the presence of an article in the tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Assignee: Danik Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: James C. Morris, Lopin Wang, Donald E. Schlenker
  • Publication number: 20040084491
    Abstract: A cargo carrier (10) for bicycles (Y1, Y2) is removably installable in the bed (B) of a truck (T) and has a base plate (12) which mounts on top of the truck bed. One side of the base plate bears against one wall (W1) of the truck bed and an adjustable stop (14) is adjustable to bear against the opposite wall (W2) so to allow the carrier to be installed in trucks having different bed widths. Saddles (40) have risers (42) extending vertically upwardly from the base plate. An attachment screw (62) extending between the risers is used for securing bicycles to the carrier. The base plate may include an offset section so two bicycles can be carried in a side-by-side, staggered formation. The saddles are removable and can be replaced with posts or mounts for carrying other items in the bed. The carrier is in kit form for quick assembly, when needed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Verlin V. Gibson
  • Patent number: 6695184
    Abstract: A bicycle carrier primarily designed for transporting an off-road bicycle by a motor vehicle is designed to fit onto the trailer hitch of the motor vehicle. A channel member is supported to a support member and a cross member that fits into the trailer hitch and an upstanding post with a plurality of holes for receiving a locking pin. A locking arm is slidably mounted on the vertical post and when the bicycle is guided onto the channel member the locking arm is positioned downwardly with sufficient force to arm the shocking system of the bicycle and preload the bicycle to the carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Inventor: Hugh R. Higginbotham, III
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20030201290
    Abstract: A rack assembly (100) for attachment to the back of a vehicle is disclosed. The rack assembly includes an upper retaining member (160) and a lower retaining member (180), the upper and lower retaining members being offset vertically and transversely, such that elongate gear, for example, skis or other sports equipment, will be oriented generally at an angle between about 20 degrees and about 70 degrees, near the rear of the vehicle. Protective sheaths (163, 183) may be provided to protect the retained gear. In one embodiment the upper and lower retaining members are removably attachable to a support assembly (120) that engages the hitch (92) at the back of a vehicle. In an embodiment of the invention, a plurality of upper and lower retaining members (220, 240) attach to a frame (204) disposed near the rear of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Applicant: Allsop, Inc.
    Inventor: Eivind Clausen
  • Patent number: 6626340
    Abstract: A load carrier for a bicycle including a load carrier frame adapted to be mounted to a transport vehicle. A bicycle support is carried upon the load carrier frame and is configured for engaging a bicycle at a position proximate a rotatable connection of a bicycle pedal crank assembly to a frame of the bicycle. A securement mechanism is coupled to the load carrier frame and adapted for releasably-engaging the bicycle pedal crank assembly of the bicycle for securing the bicycle upon the load carrier frame. In one version of the load carrier, the securement mechanism is a substantially J-shaped hook securable about the bicycle pedal crank assembly. The J-shaped hook being of conventional design, it includes a hooked end portion and a straight end portion. A biasing member may be optionally associated with the J-shaped hook for urging the hooked end portion toward the load carrier when a bicycle is being transported upon the load carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Inventor: Ronald J. Burgess
  • Publication number: 20030168484
    Abstract: An offset holding device configured to be attached to a support structure and to carry elongate objects, including an attachment base configured to be attached to the support structure. A holding member can be attached to the attachment base and can include a generally “U”-shaped member having two upright arms and can be open at the top so as to define a containment area configured to receive the elongate object. A plurality of resilient gripping teeth can extend from at least one of the upright arms into the containment area, the gripping teeth being configured to at least partially deflect upon insertion of the elongate object into the holding member to releasably secure the elongate object within the containment area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2003
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Applicant: All Rite Products, Inc.
    Inventors: George D. Gates, Travis D. Gates
  • Patent number: 6616023
    Abstract: A stabilizing support for engaging an article such as a bicycle with a vehicle-mounted carrier which includes a rearwardly extending support member. The support generally includes a first support section having a recess within which a portion of the bicycle frame is received. The support further includes a stabilizer section which is pivotably mounted relative to the first support section. The stabilizer section includes a pair of legs which are spaced apart from each other to define an open area therebetween. The stabilizer section can be moved in either direction to various positions so as to receive and engage portions of the bicycle frame or other parts of the bicycle within the open area. The stabilizer section engages the bicycle at a location vertically offset from the location at which the bicycle frame is engaged with the first support section, to stabilize the bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Graber Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark A. Dahl, Todd W. Lassanske
  • Patent number: 6575344
    Abstract: A bicycle rack for supporting a bicycle has an attachment mount member configured for coupling to a transport vehicle. A support assembly is connected to the attachment mount member and is configured to hold a wheel of the bicycle. A vertical support beam is connected at a first end to the support assembly. When the bicycle rack is used to transport a bicycle, the vertical support beam is stationary relative to the support assembly. A seat anchoring assembly is attached at a second end of the vertical support beam and is configured to hold a portion of a set of the bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Assignee: Hollywood Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Neil Nusbaum
  • Publication number: 20030089751
    Abstract: A bicycle carrier adapted to be secured to an article carrier portion of an existing vehicle article carrier so as to carry the bicycle supported thereon in a vertical orientation over a liftgate of a vehicle, and normal to an outer surface of the liftgate. The bicycle carrier includes a wheel supporting member for engaging one wheel of a bicycle when the bicycle is placed in a vertical orientation. A frame supporting assembly engages a portion of the frame to hold the bicycle to the bicycle carrier. The bicycle carrier permits a single individual to load and unload a bicycle from the bicycle carrier without being required to lift the bicycle up onto the roof of a vehicle. Since the bicycle is supported at an angle generally normal to the liftgate, visibility through the rear window of the liftgate is also improved when a bicycle is being supported on the bicycle carrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2002
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventors: Donald L. Munoz, David J. Spolyar, Gerard J. Kmita, Brian E. Henderson, Dan Svenningsson, Claude K. Trambley, Brett J. Borella, Conde M. Gonzalez
  • Publication number: 20030089752
    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: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2002
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventors: Duncan Robins, Joseph J. Settelmayer, Scott R. Allen
  • Patent number: 6523731
    Abstract: A bicycle-carrier device comprises a supporting member to be mounted in cantilever fashion on the back of a motor vehicle, for supporting a bicycle in an upright position and in a vertical plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the motor vehicle. The supporting member comprises two cradles for supporting the wheels of the bicycle, and an auxiliary arm for clamping the bicycle in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Inventor: Fabio Pedrini
  • Patent number: 6513691
    Abstract: A device for removably securing an article having a elongate section to a portable frame used for transporting the article on a vehicle. The device comprises 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: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: Thule Sweden AB
    Inventor: Jeffrey R. Edgerly
  • 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: 6467664
    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: September 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Inventors: Duncan Robins, Joseph J. Settelmayer, Scott R. Allen
  • Publication number: 20020117526
    Abstract: A combination bicycle car rack and work stand is provided. The device has one or more bicycle carrier channels to secure one or more bicycles, and a clamp assembly which can be oriented in a desired position in order to perform maintenance or repair on another mounted bicycle. The invention may be mounted to a vehicle, or may be mounted to a stationary base. If the clamp assembly is not in use, additional bicycles may be transported by removing the clamp assembly, and attaching a bike transport assembly which includes additional bike carrier channels. Enhanced structural support is provided on the support assembly of the device to ensure a strong and rigid connection with the hitch assembly of a vehicle. The clamp assembly is adapted to receive various sized components of a bicycle, and can be rotatably oriented with ease.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2001
    Publication date: August 29, 2002
    Inventors: Evan R. Anderson, Ganya M. Anderson