Movable Carrier Or Carrier Portion Patents (Class 224/548)
  • Patent number: 11518318
    Abstract: A shovel includes a lower travelling body, an upper swiveling body that is mounted on the lower travelling body so as to freely swivel relative to the lower travelling body, an operator cab that is mounted on the upper swiveling body, and a monitor attaching base that is installed inside the operator cab so as to extend in right and left directions and includes a plurality of attaching units, to which a display device is attachable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2022
    Assignee: SUMITOMO(S.H.I.) CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Sou Sakuta
  • Patent number: 10744046
    Abstract: A lifting device for lifting a wheelchair into and out of a rear loading space of a motor vehicle includes lifting assemblies, fastened within a loading space of the vehicle, each having a pivot bearing; a telescopic lifting arm, connected to the pivot bearings to pivot about an axis in the vehicle transverse direction; a transverse stay which runs in the vehicle transverse direction, connected to free end portions of the lifting arms; and a coupling unit disposed on the transverse stay and configured to couple at least indirectly to the wheelchair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2020
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: David Longin, Gunther Cuypers, Roel Hannes, Eduard De Jong
  • Patent number: 10065569
    Abstract: A reversible pad is provided for use on a vehicle center console. The pad includes a first side provided with a utility surface, a second side provided with a luxury surface, and wherein the pad is configured to engage with a center console with either the first side or the second side uppermost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2018
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Jonathan Terence Joseph O'Neill
  • Patent number: 9120432
    Abstract: An apparatus for securing an electronic device within a vehicle includes a retention base, a loading base, and a hinge assembly hinged between the retention base and the loading base. The loading base includes a retaining member. The retaining member includes a ring-shaped main body. The hinge assembly includes a pivoting shaft, a joining member assembled to the retention base, a hinge member, and a locking member. The joining member and the hinge member are sleeved around the pivoting shaft and assembled together by the locking member. The hinge member includes a hinging portion, a connecting portion connected to the hinging portion, and a rotation portion extending from the connecting portion away from the hinging portion. The hinging portion is rotatably received and latched in the main body. The rotation portion is rotatably sleeved around the pivoting shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2015
    Assignees: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Xiao-Fei Fan
  • Patent number: 9078498
    Abstract: A holder for a device may have a receiver that captures an end of the device, and an engagement mechanism that may latch or secure the device into the holder. The holder may permit the device to be held in two or more different positions, and may secure the device in the holder when the holder may be oriented in several different orientations. The holder may operate in conjunction with a removable protective cover that may include features that interact with the engagement mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2015
    Assignee: OTTER PRODUCTS, LLC
    Inventors: Curtis R. Richardson, Stephen Willes
  • Patent number: 9038875
    Abstract: The present invention provides an improved height adjustable tower with integrated cargo rack apparatus for wakeboard boats. The inventive apparatus enables the adjustability of the height of the cargo rack/bimini which is accomplished by lowering or raising the lower tower legs with an actuator after releasing a locking mechanism. The apparatus also includes a displacement mechanism which allows the cargo rack to be simultaneously translated and rotated. The benefit to the user is the ability to control the amount of shade/sun for the people in the general cockpit area. It also allows a user to achieve a higher walk-through height for ease of maneuvering in the boat and provides easy access to items stored on top of the cargo rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Inventor: Raymond L. Jesewitz
  • Patent number: 8905281
    Abstract: The present invention provides an improved cargo rack apparatus for wakeboard boats positioned above the boat tower.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventor: Raymond L. Jesewitz
  • Patent number: 8870044
    Abstract: A holder for snacks and drinks, in one embodiment adapted to be secured by clamping to a child safety car seat in a vehicle, to a stroller, or to a shopping cart handle, as examples. The holder includes a main body having a front side and a rear side and supporting at least one receptacle for holding food or a drink. A clamp assembly is connected to the main body. The clamp assembly includes a pair of jaws movable relative to each other located generally on the rear side of the main body, and an adjustment knob located generally on the front side of the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Brica, Inc.
    Inventors: Lawrence O. Freese, Douglas F. Melville, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8864000
    Abstract: A portable visual display panel mounting device is provided, the device comprising: a backing plate, having a visual display mounting side and an arm mounting side; a pair of articulating arms, each articulating arm including a ratcheting surface and a curved free end having an outermost tip; wherein the pair of articulating arms are pivotably connected at a common axis so that the ratcheting surfaces abut, and wherein at least one of the articulating arms is movably attached to the arm mounting side of the backing plate; and a common pin operable with a biasing member, wherein the common pin and the biasing member are located to facilitate pivotable connection of the articulating arms at the common axis so that the articulating arms are movable between a first position, wherein the curved ends of each articulating arm are proximately located next to each other, and a second position, wherein the curved ends of each articulating arm are disparately located away from each other; wherein, when the pair of artic
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Inventor: Paul W. Meyer
  • Publication number: 20140246468
    Abstract: An adjustable mounting assembly capable of mounting an operator display interface to the ROPS of a work vehicle that has front and rear implements, such as the front loader and rear excavator of a backhoe. The adjustable mounting assembly can have a telescoping compound slide assembly with at least one movable rail and slider. The moveable rail and slider can translate to move a display mount linearly between the front or rear of the vehicle. A display bracket can rotate about a generally vertical axis. Detents or other positioning elements can be provided on the rails and slider as well as at preset angular orientations of the display mount. The adjustable mounting assembly thus allows the vehicle operator to readily adjust the display interface to be viewable when in the front and rear facing seating orientations of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2013
    Publication date: September 4, 2014
    Inventors: James L. Montgomery, Jason C. Lahey, Randy A. Cufr
  • Patent number: 8807409
    Abstract: A car holder adopted to be assembled with a mobile apparatus is provided. The mobile apparatus has a loudspeaker located at a back portion thereof, and the loudspeaker has a sound-output surface. The car holder includes a fixing module and a supporting base. The fixing module is adopted to be assembled within a car, and the supporting base is connected to the fixing module. The supporting base has a leaning surface and a full opening indented therein. When the mobile apparatus is assembled to the supporting base, the back portion leans against the leaning surface, and a portion of the full opening is covered by the mobile apparatus. The sound-output surface of the loudspeaker communicates with the full opening, and sound wave outputted by the sound-output surface, after being reflected by the full opening, is transmitted from the full opening in a direction far away from the leaning surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: HTC Corporation
    Inventors: Hann-Shi Tong, Chih-Wei Huang
  • Patent number: 8757458
    Abstract: A storage box comprises a housing with open ends and a tray that slides out either open end and up to at least fifty percent or up to at least sixty percent of the length of the tray may slide out either open end. Latch members operable from either open end of the housing selectively hold the tray in a centered position and can be released to allow the tray to slide out a selected end of the housing. Multiple latch member mating members may be associated with the housing for selective engagement by the latch members to latch the tray in multiple extended positions between the centered position and fully retracted positions out either the first or second open ends. Latch engagement members mounted on the doors engage latches connecting the tray to the housing when the doors are shut to prevent the latches from becoming unlatched when the doors are shut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Lippert Components, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael W. Nebel
  • Patent number: 8636182
    Abstract: A device for movably mounting a storage container in relation to the storage bed of a pickup truck. The device includes a container support frame with a mounting member configured to be fixedly secured in relation to the pickup truck storage bed, and a lift arm having a first end coupled to the container support frame for pivotal movement about a first pivot axis and a second end configured to be coupled to the storage container for pivotal movement about a second pivot axis. The second end of the lift arm is movable along an arcuate path about the first pivot axis between a stowed position in which the storage container is disposed between the side rails and an extended position in which the storage container is disposed above a side rail. The storage container is pivotable about the second pivot axis to maintain an upright orientation in the stowed and extended positions, providing a variety of convenient access and storage options.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Inventor: Joel Gordon
  • Patent number: 8627990
    Abstract: There is provided an electrical accessory mounting device capable of adjusting an electrical accessory to the position viewable from a rider. The mounting device of the navigation apparatus 20 mounted on the steering stem pipe 3 of the saddle-type vehicle 1 comprises the fixture 4 mounted on the saddle-type vehicle 1, the bracket 5 holding the navigation apparatus 20, and the angular setting means 37 making at least part of the bracket 5 movable to the fixture 4 in the longitudinal direction of the saddle-type vehicle 1 and setting an angle of the bracket 5 to a predetermined angle by the position corresponding to the movement of the bracket 5. The angular setting means 37 includes a pair of long holes 34, 35 provided on the fixture 4 and a pair of screws 36F, 36B moving along a pair of long holes 34, 35 provided on the bracket 5.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Shoichi Nakajima, Shizuo Kawano, Yoshifumi Oe
  • Patent number: 8608037
    Abstract: An article support device for attachment to an automobile steering wheel is provided for the purpose of supporting an open book, magazine, tablet computer or the like. The device comprises a supportive body, a shelf member, a shelf lip and a securing means. The shelf member is rectangular, having a height similar to the diameter of a steering wheel. A plurality of slots on the body provide for modular securement of a shelf member. A shelf lip is secured to the outer edge of said shelf member and extends upward to restrain movement of items placed thereupon. The device is secured by a pair of hooks that fit over the top of a steering wheel, or alternatively the hooks may be utilized as a support stand to support the device in an upright position on a flat surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Inventors: William Stroh, Jan Stroh
  • Patent number: 8567651
    Abstract: A cargo rack apparatus for removable attachment removably attachment to the vertical supports of a boat tower. The boat tower including at least one port vertical support and at least one starboard vertical support, each vertical support including an upper end and a lower end, the apparatus including a cargo rack member providing storage. The boat tower also including a plurality of connectors releasably suspending cargo rack member within the vertical supports of the boat tower, wherein the cargo rack member is removably and pivotally attached to each port and starboard vertical supports at a location between the upper and lower ends thereof, and wherein the cargo rack member can tilt down within the said vertical supports of the boat tower for access to stored equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Inventor: Raymond L. Jesewitz
  • Patent number: 8567812
    Abstract: A configuration is provided for fastening a liquid container in an engine compartment of a motor vehicle, including, but not limited to a liquid container and a fastening holder, using which the liquid container is fastened on the vehicle body of the motor vehicle, the liquid container being situated so it is displaceable on the fastening holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Gevriye Uenver
  • Patent number: 8561863
    Abstract: Devices, methods and systems described herein provide for removably attaching an electronic device holder to a set of headrest bars of a seat in a vehicle in a manner which allows the user, while seated in the backseat of the vehicle, to utilize the electronic device without holding the electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Superior Communications, Inc.
    Inventors: Charlie LaColla, Shraddha Patel, Mervyn Cheung, Soo Youn Kim
  • Patent number: 8469247
    Abstract: An apparatus for holding a gas tank includes a bottom element which is mounted to a supporting surface and a cover element pivotally mounted to the cradle. The cover element has at least one device for holding a gas tank. The apparatus further includes a system for rotating the cover element relative to the bottom element so as to raise the gas tank from a storage position to a substantially vertical operational position so that an individual can don the gas tank. In a preferred embodiment, the rotating system includes an L-shaped track attached to the bottom element, a raised portion with an aperture attached to the cover element, and a guide rod which has a first end in the aperture and a second end which engages with and slides in the L-shaped track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Inventor: William L Nicoletti
  • Patent number: 8403191
    Abstract: A mounting rack for mounting a ladder to a pickup truck. The pickup truck has a pickup truck bed defining a passenger side wall, a driver side wall, a front end side, and a tailgate side. The mounting rack includes a first mounting structure configured to support a first end of the ladder and a second mounting structure moveable between a storage position and an operating position. The second mounting structure is configured to support a second end of the ladder when in the operating position and abut the first mounting structure when in the storage position. The mounting rack also includes a first docking assembly configured to affix the second mounting structure to the passenger side wall and the driver side wall on the tailgate side of the pick-up truck bed when the second mounting structure is in the operating position, and a second docking assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Inventor: James C. Russo
  • Patent number: 8353495
    Abstract: In a non-use state where no beverage container is housed in a housing space, holding claws are urged by a ring spring to an advanced reference position where the holding claws are mostly advanced into the housing space and a bottom plate is urged by a coil spring to a highest reference position where the bottom plate is mostly moved upwardly. When a beverage container is housed in the housing space, the holding claws are pushed toward the radial outer direction of the housing space by the side surface of the beverage container, whereby the holding claws move backwardly against the urging force of the ring spring. Simultaneously, since the weight of the beverage container is applied to the bottom plate, the bottom plate moves downwardly against the urging force of the coil spring, whereby a lock member moves downwardly together with the downward movement of the bottom plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Mitsuo Ogura
  • Publication number: 20120301265
    Abstract: A mounting apparatus 10 is provided for assisting in sliding a kayak up onto a roof rack. The mounting apparatus comprises a vehicle mounting portion 11, and a cradling portion 12. Vehicle mounting portion 11 comprises a central support portion 13, and a pair of oppositely extending suction assemblies 14. Each suction assembly 14 comprises a lower flexible cup like foot portion 15 which attaches to the vehicle, and an upper backing member 16 which is made of metal. An operating member 17 is attached to each backing member 16 and comprises an over centre cam like lever 18 which can be moved between a first position where portion 15 is held to the vehicle by suction, and a second (release) position where the foot portion can be removed from the attachment to the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2012
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Inventor: Charles Hugh McAnoy
  • Patent number: 8276863
    Abstract: A device support stand has a base fixed to a device on which the support stand is installed, a first support shaft upstanding from the base, a second support shaft extended on a line perpendicular to the first support shaft and joined to the first support shaft via a first movable section, a third support shaft placed at a portion a predetermined distance away from the first support shaft, a fourth support shaft extended on a line perpendicular to the third support shaft and joined to the third support shaft via a second movable section, a pair of first and second connection frames joined to the fourth support shaft via third and fourth movable sections, respectively, and a device fixation member for device installation, installed on one end of the third support shaft. The first and second connection frames are joined together by adjustment/joint means for adjusting the spacing between the first and second connection frames so as to limit rotation of the first to fourth movable sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Kasatani Corp.
    Inventors: Yutaka Niwai, Masayuki Ohmori
  • Patent number: 8272548
    Abstract: A device to support a headset along a wall of a vehicle, that includes a hook that has a base to receive a headband of the headset, with this base being intended to be fastened transversally to the wall by its back and being integral at the opposite front with an external element for holding the headband on the base. The hook has on opening between the back and the external element with a width I at least equal to the width of the headband, permitting the passage of the headband toward the base or during removal from the base. The aforementioned device has an anti-release element blocking the opening over a width at least large enough to prevent the passage of the headband through the opening. This anti-release element can be displaced by manual action directly on the anti-release element or through the headset into a release position to allow the passage of the headband.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: Airbus Operations
    Inventors: Maxime Le Texier, Laurent Saint-Marc, Raphael Renier
  • Patent number: 8177110
    Abstract: A utility box structure for pick-up trucks and the like, wherein a guide rail of the structure is adapted for mounting on the top rim of the sides and front of the cargo body of the vehicle within the cargo bay thereof, wherein the box is affixed to rail follower means mounted within the guide rail structure whereby the box can be moved by hand along the guide rail structure to easily position the box at the front or at either side of the cargo bay or at any location therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Inventor: Robert S. Hines, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8025194
    Abstract: A cargo rack apparatus for removable attachment to a boat, such as to the vertical supports of a wakeboard boat tower. One embodiment includes one or more peripheral rails defining front, back, and side walls, and an interior volume, and one or more crossmembers between walls to provide a support surface for stored items. The apparatus can be attached to the vertical supports of the boat tower by releasable connectors or mounts at a plurality of points, and can subsequently be easily and completely removed from the tower. Upon release of only some of the connectors, the rack pivots relative to the tower to enable the storage area of the rack to be brought closer to the user, making it easier to load and unload cargo. The entire rack can also pivot and fold down with the boat tower for storage, towing, and areas of limited clearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Inventor: Raymond L. Jesewitz
  • Publication number: 20110147425
    Abstract: A vehicle equipment mount for mounting one or more pieces of equipment within a vehicle, the vehicle equipment mount includes a base component that includes a floor plate, a middle plate, and an instrument mount plate, wherein the middle plate is movable with respect to the floor plate, and wherein the instrument mount plate connects with the middle plate. At least one first cradle connects to the instrument mount plate, the at least one first cradle being operable to hold a piece of equipment therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: CONSOLIDATED EDISON COMPANY OF NEW YORK, INC.
    Inventor: John M. Di Miceli
  • Patent number: 7931177
    Abstract: A storage container for use in a boot of a motor vehicle, which container is fastenable on the lower side of a rear parcel shelf and, for loading, is movable into at least one loading and/or unloading position, and which includes a frame, a supporting surface and at least one essentially inelastic side wall connecting the supporting surface to the frame, wherein the side wall can be deformed, and therefore the height of the storage container can be varied. A module for fitting a storage container in a vehicle is also included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Bos GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Hartmut Bohlke, Olaf Bueschgens, Andreas Goebbels, Wolfgang Sitzler, Werner P. Schlecht, Juergen Salewski
  • Patent number: 7641086
    Abstract: A motorcycle rack for supporting a motorcycle in a generally upright position on the bed of a truck or trailer has a main support member transversing the bed to connect to and be supported by a first and second support assembly. The motorcycle rack has one or more wheel chock assemblies on the main support member for receiving a motorcycle wheel and supporting the motorcycle while the user places restraints, when necessary, around the motorcycle. The support assemblies and/or wheel chock assemblies can include loops for securing the motorcycle. One or more moveable tie-down holds can also be placed on main support member. The support assemblies can be removably mounted on the sidewall of the vehicle using a side member and clamp or mounted to the bed using a leg and receiver combination. Cradling or clamping wheel chock assemblies can be utilized to cradle or clamp the motorcycle's wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Inventor: Christopher Phillip Green
  • Publication number: 20090266856
    Abstract: A lawn mower caddy includes a tray having an array of compartments for housing a variety of desired items and/or accessories therein. The items and/or accessories are those that one may be need when mowing a lawn. The items may include sun block, insecticide spray, a cell phone, a variety of small tools, etc. The tray also incorporates a removable trash container, a paper towel holder and a receptacle for retaining a beverage container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventors: Norberto Ponce, Jose B. Garcia
  • Publication number: 20090101685
    Abstract: The present invention provides for the safe and easy transport of refuse cans such as standard residential refuse cans. The present invention includes a removably mountable refuse can transport device that is mounted to a vehicle by a hitch engagement such as an insert to a conventional trailer hitch, a vertical support mounted with a base that supports a refuse can and a locking plate that moves vertically to retain a refuse can on the base to allow convenient transport of the refuse can.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2007
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Inventor: Patrick M. Robb
  • Publication number: 20080308591
    Abstract: The present invention is a container for a light-duty automobile such as a light-duty pickup truck or sport-utility vehicle having at least one opening, operably associated with the quarter panel of an automobile, an inner wall operably associated with the container, and a cover having a closed position and an open position operably associated with the opening. The cover includes a door inner, and a door outer. The invention also includes a first rail positioned between the container and the quarter panel. The container is integrally formed with the first rail, and is located between the first rail and the inner wall. The first rail supports the container, and the cover can be moved from the open position to the closed position, allowing access to the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2008
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Applicant: Magna International Inc.
    Inventors: Jack Vernon Henderson, Peter Vincent MacLean
  • Patent number: 7225958
    Abstract: A storage container system for mounting a storage box on the exterior of a vehicle has trapezoidal members attached to the vehicle that mate with and hold U-shaped members mounted on the container to be carried. The system has a handle mounted on the box which holds the U-shaped member in contact with the trapezoidal member when the box is in a locked position for vehicle movement and a tab that will partially separate the U-shaped member from the trapezoidal member when the handle is rotated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: David N. Hansen
  • Patent number: 7131681
    Abstract: A trunk space storage platform for motor vehicles comprises and right support with at least one slot, a left support with at least on slot, a base, and at least one support stud. This trunk space storage platform allows users who cannot easily bend over to pick up or place objects into deep trunk spaces, such as the elderly or those with physical impairments, to raise or lower the base to a level more easily accessible for them depending on the articles stored in the trunk space of the motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventor: Won-Tai Kim
  • Publication number: 20040031832
    Abstract: A rack that expeditiously and conveniently slidably engages and mounts the tailgate of a vehicle, or similarly suitable structure, for the simplified loading, support and securing of an article thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2003
    Publication date: February 19, 2004
    Inventor: Gregory Crook
  • Publication number: 20030205600
    Abstract: The apparatus for attachment to a non-inflatable part of a tandem, two-wheel cycle for rigidly mounting the cycle for transit purposes includes a bracket-like member adapted to be secured to the frame or other non-inflatable part of the cycle. A multi-part assembly is connected to the bracket for supporting the same for movement in longitudinal, transverse and vertical directions. The multi-part assembly includes a component adapted to be secures to the bed of a trailer or other transit vehicle. The multi-part assembly includes adjustable securing means for fixing the position of the bracket-like member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2003
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventor: Stephen Couto
  • Patent number: 6612615
    Abstract: A cart attachment system, for attaching a cart to a vehicle, the vehicle having a trailer hitch, including a carrier and a V-bracket. The V-bracket is attached to the cart, and has an underside hollow. The carrier includes a main tube which extends vertically and which is attached to the trailer hitch with an L-adapter that is rigidly affixed to the main tube. A slidable member is mounted for vertical movement within the main tube. A triangular support member is mounted to the main tube and fits within the hollow of the V-bracket, such that the triangular support member is raised by raising the slidable member to lift the V-bracket which in turn lifts the cart off the ground for transport. When the destination is reached, the cart is easily lowered to the ground by lowering the slidable member and thereby lowering the triangular support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Inventor: Eldad Dimand
  • Publication number: 20030127481
    Abstract: An adjustable object carrier and bracket system includes a bracket and an object carrier. One portion of the bracket is securely attached to a vehicle such as an ATV and another portion is adjustably connected to the object carrier. The object carrier, which may be a weapon case receptacle or a weapon case, is selectively positionable at a variety of angles relative to the bracket based on the user's preference.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2002
    Publication date: July 10, 2003
    Inventor: Patrick K. Gantert
  • Patent number: 6550654
    Abstract: A cargo net assembly which may be installed and removed from between a pair of seats within an automotive vehicle. The net assembly includes a substantially rectangular interwoven mesh net. A retainer is mounted to each corner of the net for supporting the net within the vehicle. A mounting frame is secured to an interior of the vehicle and includes an aperture with an insertion section and a restraint section for receiving the retainer. The net assembly is characterized by a pair of locking tabs disposed on the mounting frame for retaining the retainer in the restraint section. The retainer also includes a clamping portion for anchoring the retainer to the corners of the net and fastening portion extending from the clamping portion for mounting the retainer to the vehicle. The clamping portion includes two interconnected sections with the corner of the net sandwiched between the sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Assignee: Magna Interior Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Garth Crago
  • Publication number: 20030047576
    Abstract: A method for mounting an animal container on the rear utility rack of an all terrain vehicle. The container has securement positions adapted to attach the container to the rear utility rack of an all terrain vehicle. There is a hinged door with a securement latch in the front wall of the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2001
    Publication date: March 13, 2003
    Inventors: Gary D. Babbitt, Randy Witt, Larry J. Dowen
  • Patent number: 6386413
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method for mounting a computer system in a vehicle provides for rigid mounting of a computer/display unit in the vehicle so as to reduce or eliminate the adverse effects of vibration caused by operation of the vehicle. The latter advantage is achieved by provision of a gas spring and crank arm arrangement connected to an L-bar, the latter being mounted via its lower, horizontal member to a base plate of the vehicle. The apparatus and method also provide superior flexibility in orientation of the keyboard for use by any occupant of the front of the vehicle. The latter advantage is achieved by mounting the keyboard to the L-bar via a rigid arm having two points of rotation, one point of rotation at its point of connection to the L-bar, and another point of rotation at its point of connection to the keyboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: Datalux Corporation
    Inventor: Robert H. Twyford
  • Patent number: 6382480
    Abstract: A bicycle carrier apparatus for carrying a bicycle in an upright orientation within a cargo area of a vehicle such as a minivan, sport utility vehicle or pickup truck. The apparatus includes a generally U-shaped or V-shaped, elongated lower rail which is fixedly secured to a floor of a cargo area of the vehicle. An upper U-shaped or V-shaped rail is slidably disposed on the lower rail. The lower rail includes a first pair of rollers and the upper rail includes an additional pair of rollers which cooperate to enable smooth sliding movement of the upper rail along the lower rail. A mechanism disposed on the upper rail is adapted to engage the front fork of a bicycle when the front wheel is removed and the remainder of the bicycle is placed on the apparatus. The rear wheel of the bicycle fits within the upper rail so that the bicycle can be held securely in an upright position once its front fork is secured to the upper rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: JAC Products, Inc.
    Inventors: David D. Egly, Donald R. Potter
  • Publication number: 20010032868
    Abstract: A communications device leash comprising means adapted for attachment to an interior surface of a vehicle for securing an end of a flexible means having a secureable end and a second end remote from the securable end, the second end being adapted for receiving and retaining a communications device, the flexible means when secured being operable between a first extended position and a second retracted and stored position and means for moving the flexible means from the first extended position to the second retracted and stored position when tension on the flexible means is released. Preferably the leash comprises a spring loaded reel to move the flexible means from the first extended position to the second retracted and stored position. In a preferred embodiment the first extended postion is selectable from a series of positions wherein the flexible member is withdrawn from the secured and stored position in small increments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2001
    Publication date: October 25, 2001
    Inventor: David E. Callahan
  • Patent number: 6158793
    Abstract: A collapsible and concealable stand or pulpet for holding a device such as a cellular phone handset or an electronic map within arm's reach of an automotive vehicle driver, comprises a cradle or platform supported by an articulated or flexible arm that is secured by a rotating and swiveling joint to the floor of the vehicle or to a seat anchoring bracket. The stand can be folded down and rotated in a horizontal plane to place the device out of sight under the driver's or passenger's seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Inventor: Jose Castro
  • Patent number: 6135332
    Abstract: A collapsible storage basket for coupling to a seat back of a motor vehicle. The collapsible storage basket includes opposite side panels and a pair of end panels extending between the side panels. Lower edges of each of the side and end panels are pivotally coupled to a rear surface of a back portion of a seat. The side and end panels are positionable between a deployed position and a retracted position. The panels are oriented generally perpendicular the rear surface of the back portion of the seat when the panels are in the deployed position. The panels are oriented generally parallel the rear surface of the back portion of the seat when the panels are in the retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Inventor: Linda A. Eleam
  • Patent number: 6129253
    Abstract: An trunk caddy particularly configured to cradle a golf bag in an easily accessible position above the floor of the vehicle trunk compartment, the cradle being supported at either side by adjustable straps which attach to the rim of the trunk compartment opening using generally S-shaped brackets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Inventor: John T. Brown
  • Patent number: 6024262
    Abstract: A releasably mounted equipment rack mounted to a roll bar and windshield me of a vehicle, allowing a viewing device to be mounted for viewing by a front seat occupant of a soft top vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Edwin L. Duncan
  • Patent number: 6000594
    Abstract: A load carrier mountable upon a transporting vehicle having an extension member for positioning an article carried upon the load carrier away from the transporting vehicle. The extension member has a vehicle engaging end that is coupleable to the transporting vehicle and a supporting end substantially opposite the vehicle engaging end upon which an upwardly extending support assembly is connected. The support assembly has an upright post fixed to the extension member and an upright support member coupled to the extension member for relative pivotal movement between the upright post and the upright support member. A collar is slidingly engagable upon the upright support member for releasably securing the upright support member to the upright post thereby establishing a traveling orientation of the load carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: Industri AB Thule
    Inventor: Thomas A. Chimenti
  • Patent number: 5849390
    Abstract: A fender cover having removable, repositionable pockets. The fender comprises a main panel of flexible material of characteristics suitable for protecting painted finishes and similar delicate surfaces. The main panel has snap fasteners disposed in plural rows on both sides of the main panel. A pocket bearing member having a plurality of separate but adjacent pockets has corresponding snap fasteners enabling the pocket bearing member to be fastened on the main panel selectively at a variety of locations. More than one pocket bearing member may be provided and fastened to the main panel. The fender cover has eyelets for tying to an environmental surface. Optionally, the fender cover also has suction cups for adhering to a smooth surface by suction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1998
    Inventor: Patrick Dillon
  • Patent number: 5806736
    Abstract: A cargo carrier for a vehicle is presented that is a removable multi-mount device. The device includes a first cargo carrier apparatus having an end that is removably connected to one side of the rear exterior of the vehicle and a second cargo carrier apparatus that also has an end that is removably connected to the opposite side of the rear exterior of the vehicle. The first and second cargo apparatus can be connected to one another so that they continuously extend across the rear exterior of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Inventor: Mark S. Kincart