Collapsible To Nonuse Position Patents (Class 224/549)
  • Patent number: 11155196
    Abstract: A child restraint includes a juvenile seat having a seat bottom and a seat back extending upwardly from the seat bottom. The juvenile seat further includes a cupholder coupled to the seat bottom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2021
    Assignee: Dorel Juvenile Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Sean R. Denbo, Mei-Hui Lin, Kyle M. Franke
  • Patent number: 10793082
    Abstract: A shifter module is provided for a vehicle. The shifter module includes: a substrate adapted for mounting to the vehicle; a shifter knob provided on top of the substrate for enabling a driver to select a gear of the transmission; and a pop-up storage compartment for storing a portable electronic device. The pop-up storage compartment includes: a storage drawer movable between a stowed position and an accessible position within an aperture in the substrate, the storage drawer including a forward support adapted to receive a rear surface of the portable electronic device, the forward support supports the portable electronic device so that a front surface of the portable device is visible to the driver when the storage drawer is in the accessible position; and a rail system extending below the aperture of the substrate for receiving and guiding the storage drawer between the stowed position and the accessible position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2020
    Assignee: GHSP, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard W. Harris, John T. Bagley
  • Patent number: 9428092
    Abstract: A shelfless sliding and removable cup holder assembly for a vehicle includes a console structure disposed within the vehicle. The console structure includes first and second lateral side walls defining a storage bin therebetween. The first lateral side wall defines a recessed track. The cup holder assembly further includes cup holder member slidably and removably mounted within the console structure. The cup holder member has a guide removably received in the recess track and slidably movable along the recessed track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2016
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Cordell L. Bosma, David M. Salmonowicz, Neal W. Luginbill, Michael J. Narazaki, Robert A. Skapof, David W. Carter
  • Patent number: 9278648
    Abstract: A device for attaching a tablet computer to the rear-side of a vehicle seat part has a carrier element (4, 10, 40?, 40?, 140) which is displaceably connected to a fastening device (2, 2a, 3a, 3b, 3c, 20, 20a, 30b, 30?, 130b, 30c, 130c) and to which a support (5, 50, 50?, 50?) is displaceably connected for receiving the tablet computer (6, 60). The support (5, 50, 50?, 50?, 59, 150) can be moved between a first user position in which the screen (6a, 60a, 60a?, 60a?) of the tablet computer (6, 60) is arranged on the side opposite the vehicle seat part (1a, 1b, 1c, 1c?, 1c?, 10a, 10a?, 10b, 10c) and aligned essentially vertically and a second user position in which the screen (6a, 60a, 60a?, 60a?) is oriented upward and essentially horizontally or oblique to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2016
    Assignee: Kinetix AG
    Inventors: Peter Ackeret, Juergen Siegfried Skott
  • Patent number: 9243744
    Abstract: A container support for holding a container has a lower base and upper holding member. The base receives the container which bears on the base in a bearing direction. The holding member has an opening for receiving the container. The holding member is connected to the base by a connecting mechanism configured such that the holding member is movable relative to the base in translation along the bearing direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: Faurecia Interieur Industrie
    Inventors: Christophe Brunard, Joep Bijlholt
  • Publication number: 20150115010
    Abstract: The invention relates to a foldable bicycle carrier (1) which serves for the transport of one or several bicycles, with an extension set (11), in which the bicycle carrier (1) presents bicycle-carrier-fixed positioning areas (8) for running wheels of the bicycles, and each time two positioning areas (8a 8b, 8b or 8c, 8d) are assigned to a bicycle, wherein the positioning areas (8) of the bicycle carrier (1) for folding are pivotable around at least one pivoting axis (ST), and the extension set (11) is detachably applied at the bicycle carrier (1) and presents a first positioning area (18a) and a second positioning area (18b) separated from the first positioning area (18a), which are assigned to the running wheels of a further bicycle, and the two parts of the extension set (11) comprising the positioning areas (18a; 18b) are applied at the collapsible area of the bicycle carrier (1) detachably and pivotably forwards and backwards in direction of the bicycle-carrier-fixed positioning areas (8), in which the bi
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2013
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventor: Stefan Ziola
  • Patent number: 8991670
    Abstract: An in-vehicle mobile-terminal holding device holds a mobile terminal on a steering post turnably supporting a steering wheel. The steering post is provided with a holder support member to the tip of which a holder configured to detachably hold the mobile terminal is attached. The holder support member can be housed in the steering post. The holder support member is formed in an arc shape as a whole. The steering post includes a pivot shaft supporting the root of the holder support member having an arc shape such that the holder support member is pivotable between a use position and a housed position. The steering post houses the holder support member in such a way that the arc shape of the holder support member follows the outer periphery of the steering post having a circular column shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yosuke Matsuoka, Masamoto Ito, Dai Takakuwa
  • Patent number: 8978946
    Abstract: A roof bar (10) for a motor vehicle (1) has an elongate load carrying member (213) and a single elongate stay (214) which are hingedly connected to a roof (5) of the motor vehicle (1) by a pair of base plates (211). The elongate load carrying member (213) is selectively held in a deployed position by a latch mechanism (222, 255) which latches a castellated edge of the elongate load carrying member (213) to a castellated edge of the single elongate stay (214) along a significant portion of the interface between the two components (213, 214) so as to provide a strong support for any loads carried by the roof bar (10). The components (211, 213, 214) forming the roof bar (10) are all relatively thin and the elongate load carrying member (213) and the single elongate stay (214) are arranged to fold flat on the roof (5) of the motor vehicle (1) so as to minimize any change in vehicle height when the roof bar (10) is stowed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies
    Inventors: Torsten Gerhardt, John K. Harding, Steve David Fleming, Danny Edward Stanesby, Alicia Agius, Will Farrelly
  • Publication number: 20140291373
    Abstract: A foldable bicycle carry rack includes a frame, a support member, a connection member and two plates. The support member is connected to the first end of the frame. The connection member has an installation hole to receive the first end of the frame and the two plates are connected to two sides of the connection member. Each plate has a first end protruding from the connection member and the support member is connected to the two respective first ends of the two plates. The plates and the support member are synchronically pivoted about a pivot unit which extends through the plates, the connection member and the frame. The plates and the support member are pivoted about the pivot unit until the plates and the support member are parallel to the frame to fold the bicycle carry rack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2014
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Applicant: KING RACK INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Chiu-Kuei WANG
  • Patent number: 8807408
    Abstract: A storage area, particularly for vehicles, comprising a frame having opposite legs and a plurality of bars extending from one of the opposite legs of the frame to the other leg. The bars are each implemented as a detented system, so that they can be displaced independently of each other between a starting position and an ending position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Lisa Dräxlmaier GmbH
    Inventor: Raimund Kreis
  • Patent number: 8801073
    Abstract: A motor vehicle luggage retention system for a motor vehicle is disclosed. A foldable seat back separates the occupant compartment from the trunk and has an upright position and a folded position that allows pass-through accessibility from the trunk into the occupant compartment. A pivotable bar assembly in the trunk has a lowered position and a raised position. Pivoting the pivotable bar assembly to the lowered position moves the foldable seat back to the upright position and creates a structural safety barrier against objects in the trunk impacting a rear surface of the seat back. Pivoting the pivotable bar assembly to the raised position moves the seat back to the folded position to provide uninterrupted access to the occupant compartment from the trunk. A latch assembly latches the pivotable bar assembly in at least the lowered position. A movable parcel shelf and collapsible storage bin are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Carl L. Gray, Jr., Adam Sachs, Johnathan Andrew Line
  • Patent number: 8789868
    Abstract: A motor vehicle luggage retention system for a motor vehicle is disclosed. A foldable seat back separates the occupant compartment from the trunk and has an upright position and a folded position that allows pass-through accessibility from the trunk into the occupant compartment. A pivotable bar assembly in the trunk has a lowered position and a raised position. Pivoting the pivotable bar assembly to the lowered position moves the foldable seat back to the upright position and creates a structural safety barrier against objects in the trunk impacting a rear surface of the seat back. Pivoting the pivotable bar assembly to the raised position moves the seat back to the folded position to provide uninterrupted access to the occupant compartment from the trunk. A latch assembly latches the pivotable bar assembly in at least the lowered position. A movable parcel shelf and collapsible storage bin are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Adam Sachs, Carl L. Gray, Jr., Johnathan Andrew Line
  • Patent number: 8544708
    Abstract: A tool box can be unfolded for use in holding tools or other items, and then folded up, to avoid taking up space in a pick-up truck cargo box when the tool box is not in use. The toolbox may have a folding panel assembly including a first panel, a second panel pivotally attached to the first panel, and a third panel pivotally attached to the second panel. The folding panel assembly is foldable into an open position and into a closed position. In the open position, one or more of the panels may be supported on left and right side end frames attached to the inner sidewalls of the pick-up truck cargo box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Inventor: Julian Maimin
  • Patent number: 8523032
    Abstract: A device for fastening a roof rack system contains, as a supporting element, a base plate with two supporting arms which can be respectively pivoted about an axis into an operative position and inoperative position. In the operative position, the supporting arms are vertically oriented in parallel and spaced apart from each other and, in the inoperative position, the supporting arms are folded up into a roof slot facing each other in a horizontal plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. H.C. F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Harald Neidlein
  • Patent number: 8485951
    Abstract: A vehicle-mounted multi-position pulley-based resistance tube exercise apparatus having resistance tube length effectively doubled for increased range of consistent resistance, and having a height adjustable pulley assembly providing a user with the ability to set multiple exercise initiation points so as to provide exercise options for a full body workout at a single exercise station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Inventor: Frederick R. Adams
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20130062383
    Abstract: A vehicle-mountable bicycle carrier includes a linkage device for mounting the carrier to a vehicle, a base portion or platform to support both wheels of a bicycle, and an arm assembly connected to the base portion. The arm assembly may include a mast member and a jaw member. The jaw member may have a mounting portion received on the mast member and a hook portion attached to the mounting portion and configured to engage a bicycle frame and/or a top portion of a bicycle wheel. The jaw member may have a released configuration where the jaw member, as a unit, is pivotable about and slidable up and down the mast member while the mounting portion remains on the mast member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: YAKIMA PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventor: Richard Jeli
  • Patent number: 8235269
    Abstract: A cargo space floor is provided for a motor vehicle and a ski rack is positioned on the cargo space floor that may be pivoted from a lower nonuse position around a first pivot axis into an upper usage position, in which a ski may be fastened to the ski rack. The ski rack has at least one first support strut and one second support strut that are spaced apart from one another and have openings aligned with one another for receiving a ski. A motor vehicle is also provided having such an advantageous cargo space floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Ernesto Rupar, Monica Felicio Fragoso, Andrew Dyson, Christopher Daab
  • Publication number: 20120126083
    Abstract: The article holding device (9) of the present invention includes a base (1), a holding member (2) capable of sliding along a grip width of gripping an article (K), and a locking device (4) for holding in a position after sliding and adjusting the holding member (2), wherein the locking device (4) include a gear (40), an engaging portion 33 capable of coupling with the gear (40), an urging member (S2) for applying an urging force for causing the engaging portion (33) to couple with the gear (40), a rack (23) provided on the holding member, a pinion (44) engaging the rack (23) and being placed roughly coaxially with the gear (40), and a one-way clutch (46) interposed between the gear (40) and the pinion (44) and configured to become disconnected from the gear (40) and to be slipped only when the pinion (44) is rotated in one direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2010
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Applicant: Nifco Inc.
    Inventor: Takehiko Nemoto
  • Patent number: 8113397
    Abstract: A load stop (1) for supporting a load being transported on a load carrier arranged on a vehicle. The load carrier includes at least one load carrying tube (2) with at least one groove (6) for fastening the load stop on the load carrying tube. The load stop includes an essentially rigid bracket (9) intended to be supportingly arranged adjacent the load. A fastening portion (11) is also provided for mounting the load stop to the load carrying tube. The bracket (9) is pivoted in at the fastening portion (11), wherein the load stop (1) is foldable between at least a raised working position and a folded transporting position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Thule Sweden AB
    Inventor: Karl-Johan Magnusson
  • Patent number: 8100306
    Abstract: A roof bar (10) for a motor vehicle (1) includes an elongate load carrying member (13) selectively held in a deployed position by a latch mechanism (20). A crossbar portion (15) of the elongate load carrying member (13) is wider than it is thick and is orientated such that the width of the crossbar portion (15) is vertically arranged when the roof bar (10) is in the deployed position so as to increase the resistance to vertical bending of the crossbar portion (15).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies
    Inventors: Torsten Gerhardt, John K. Harding, Steve David Fleming, Danny Edward Stanesby, Alicia Agius, Will Farrelly, Ian Sutherland Wright
  • Patent number: 8047412
    Abstract: A load carrier for coupling to a vehicle. The load carrier includes a loading frame and a supporting arch that extends substantially upwardly from and transversely to the loading frame. The supporting arch is divisible into first and second arch parts, each of which arch parts is pivotally coupled to the loading frame such that, when divided, each of the first and second arch parts is configured to be pivoted down to a storage position lying substantially level with the loading frame. The arch parts are configured to be interlocked to each other into an in-use position, in which the first and said second arch parts substantially alone form the supporting arch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignees: Renault S.A.S., Thule Sweden AB
    Inventors: Arnaud Premartin, Olivier Veuillot, Hans Odin, Joakim Persson
  • Patent number: 7861903
    Abstract: A display apparatus for use with a truck having a receiver hitch includes a mounting bracket having oppositely disposed first and second ends, the first end being configured to be received in the receiver hitch. The apparatus includes a main support member coupled to the second end of the bracket, the main support member being height adjustable. The main support member defines an elongate channel. At least one fastener is coupled to the main support member for movement along the elongate channel, the fastener being selectively securable at a desired position along the channel. The fastener includes an eyelet to which a flag or banner may be secured. The apparatus may also include at least one auxiliary support member pivotally coupled to the main support member for displaying another flag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Inventor: Brandon Plaschka
  • Publication number: 20100301083
    Abstract: A collapsible bracket for an emergency vehicle that includes a base for mounting to an emergency vehicle and a framework connected to the base. The framework is movable between a contracted position and an expanded position such that the framework engages an emergency cot within an emergency vehicle when in the expanded position and does not engage an emergency cot within an emergency vehicle when in the contracted position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Applicant: FERNO-WASHINGTON, INC.
    Inventor: Bob Chinn
  • Publication number: 20090255968
    Abstract: The invention is generally directed towards systems, arrangements and methods that permit fixable and releasable mounting of equipment on mounting surfaces. More specifically these systems, arrangements and methods relate to fixable or releasable mounting of a fold-out and extending storage container for use with transporting vehicles, particularly recreational vehicles, to attach to different mounting locations about the interior or exterior of the recreational vehicle. Utilizing various fasteners known in the art, the fold-out and extending storage container is fixably mounted to mounting surfaces. Utilizing a plurality of receivers configured to be at least semi-permanently coupled to mounting surfaces about the interior and exterior of the recreational vehicle, the fold-out and extending storage container is releasably mounted to mounting surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2009
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Inventors: Douglas J. Golenz, Joe Settelmayer
  • Patent number: 7588026
    Abstract: The invention is directed towards an apparatus and method for a securing device for securing a fuel tank to an outdoor gas grill. The invention helps ensure that the securing device will be used to secure the fuel tank in position within the grill to prevent unnecessary shifting or movement of the fuel tank. The securing device can include an extension arm adapted for being carried by the grill, at least one retaining member that defines a collar area for receiving the collar of a grill and a regulator receiving arm carried by the retaining members that defines a regulator area for allowing the device to place the fuel tank in a secured position without being hindered by the fuel line, collar, or regulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Assignee: The Grill Company, LLC
    Inventor: John Ducate, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20080296332
    Abstract: A holder and vehicle storage system are provided for securely retaining objects, such as in the glove compartments of automobiles, trucks, boats, etc. The holder may be mounted to the inside of a glove compartment door such that it is out of sight when the glove compartment door is closed. The vehicle storage system uses a conventional latch mechanism to mount the holder to the door without the need for additional fasteners. An object may be retained within the holder through the use of two undercut tabs for snap-fit reception of the object. The holder and vehicle storage system may be used to hold electronic instruments having sensitive components that would otherwise be damaged during movement of a vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventor: Albert Stephen King
  • Patent number: 7344056
    Abstract: The present invention provides a collapsible container holder assembly for a vehicle having a floor tray. The container holder assembly comprises a carrier portion adapted to be selectably fastened to the floor tray of the vehicle and includes at least one recessed opening formed therein for receiving a beverage container. At least one container receptor portion is adapted to be telescopically engaged and retained within the at least one opening formed in the carrier portion wherein the at least one container receptor portion is adjustable between an extended and collapsed position relative to the carrier portion as desired by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: William Shelmon, Paul St. Angelo, Hidenori Uno
  • Patent number: 7188882
    Abstract: An interior trim component for a vehicle includes a body and an article holder. The article holder has a support structure for supporting an article. The article holder is pivotally connected to the body and movable between a storage position and a deployed position. In the deployed position the support structure of the article holder is higher relative to a position of the support structure when the article holder is in the storage position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventor: Alan George Dry
  • Patent number: 7182177
    Abstract: A storage device for the bed of a pickup truck has a body with a storage area therein and a scissors lift connected to the body for moving the body between a first position on the bed of the truck and a second position above a side wall of the truck. The scissors lift includes a top plate, a bottom plate, first and second scissors pivotally connected to the top plates and a motor cooperative with the scissors so as to move the top plate relative to the bottom plate. A spring is in tension and extends between the scissors between when the body is in the first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Inventor: Larry W. Simnacher
  • Patent number: 6966471
    Abstract: A luggage rack for a motorcycle having a shape conforming to the existing backrest on a sissy bar. The luggage rack is mounted to the existing mounting plate at brackets which may be selectively adjusted to provide the desired friction fit. The rack can be pivoted between an upright, stored position and a horizontal use position. In the stored position a stop associated with the brackets engage a portion of the rack to maintain it in a horizontal position. In one embodiment, a magnet on the rack exerts a force to retain the rack in an upright position against the sissy bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Inventors: Robert L. Wilson, Betty Wilson
  • Patent number: 6942270
    Abstract: A cargo management system for a motor vehicle with at least one seat well comprising a pouch of being deployed in said seat well. This pouch provides a lightweight, easy to use, unique storage management system for seat wells, a part of the vehicle which normally would not be an ideal storage area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventor: James Mulvihill
  • Patent number: 6942269
    Abstract: A removable shelf assembly for vehicles (e.g., sport utility vehicles) to increase storage capacity in a generally flat rearwardly extending bed defined by a floor and pair of upwardly extending side walls, the shelf assembly comprising a frame composed of a plurality of U-shaped members, each member having a base and two spaced apart arms extending perpendicular to the base, a plurality of telescoping members associated with the arms, means for removably locking each arm of each the U-shaped member, whereby to adjustably fix the spaced apart bases; and, a first and second generally planar panel members positioned on the frame for receiving items to be transported thereon, the panel members associated with the frame to allow movement between the panel members. The frame preferably has a raised lip extending substantially around the frame so as to reduce movement of items placed on the frame. A downwardly depending leg which is able to pivot out of the way when needed provides additional load support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Katie-Korp of the Emerald Coast, Inc.
    Inventor: David R. Mains
  • Patent number: 6935601
    Abstract: A hook device includes a case member for supporting a hook main portion to be rotatable between a store position and a use position; a stopping portion attached to the case member for regulating the hook main portion at the use position with a predetermined opening angle; and an engaging portion provided to the hook main portion through an elastic member for engaging the stopping portion. The elastic member elastically deforms in a direction that the stopping portion engages the engaging portion when a load is applied to the hook main portion in a direction that the hook main portion opens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Assignee: Nifco Inc.
    Inventor: Tsutomu Tanaka
  • Patent number: 6918734
    Abstract: A loading floor for a vehicle having first guide elements for engaging second guide elements of the vehicle, for lifting and extending a loading floor. The first guide elements are provisioned at the sides of the loading floor. A loading apparatus for a vehicle having a loading area with two sidewalls that border the loading area. Guide elements are provided for lifting and extending a loading floor, where the guide elements are provisioned on or in the sidewalls above the vehicle floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Assignee: Faurecia Innenraum Systeme GmbH
    Inventors: Albrecht Nick, Wulf Thoma, Werner Schwarz
  • Patent number: 6899256
    Abstract: A system for stabilizing articles is provided. The system is particularly well-suited for stabilizing plastic grocery bags during transport in a vehicle. The system comprises a stabilizing element that, when in use, extends from a first point to a second point and passes through the handles of a bag to be stabilized. Preferably, the first and second points are fixed, either detachably or semi-permanently, on the sidewalls in the interior of a vehicle. Further, the stabilizing element preferably is flexible. In addition, the stabilizing element preferably can be disconnected from the second point and also preferably, the stabilizing element can recoil into a location at the first point so that only a portion of the stabilizing element is visible. Other preferred embodiments of the present invention, including those with intermediary fixtures or intermediary support features, as well as those with multiple stabilizing elements, also are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Inventor: William R. Richter
  • Patent number: 6863198
    Abstract: An apparatus for the transport of a propane tank for filling includes a clamp assembly that is adapted for attachment to a portion of a sidewall of a pickup truck. A removable assembly is detachably-attachable with respect to the clamp assembly. The removable assembly includes a pivoting plate that is adapted to receive a bottom of a propane tank thereon, and a band assembly that is adapted to secure an upper portion of the propane tank. The pivoting plate is adapted to pivot upward for storage and the band assembly is adapted to pivot downward for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Inventor: Richard Wyland Darby
  • Patent number: 6837408
    Abstract: The invention relates to a drinks holder (10) intended for installation in a dashboard of a motor vehicle. The drinks holder (10) has a pull-out part (14), which is so guided as to be displaceable in the manner of a drawer and which is provided with insertion openings (32) for inserting drinks containers such as, for example, drinks cans, beakers or cups. The invention proposes providing, at the rear of the pull-out part (14), a pivotal part (22) capable of pivoting downwards, which, when the pull-out part (14) is pushed into a housing (12), pivots downwards so that the length of the pull-out part (14) in the direction of displacement is reduced. The invention makes possible a drinks holder (10) housing (12) of short dimensions, which in the direction of displacement can be shorter than the diameter of the insertion openings (32).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: fischerwerke Artur Fischer GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Juergen Dieringer
  • Patent number: 6830168
    Abstract: An article carrier for a baby carriage, suspended at a lower side of a carriage frame, includes a carrier body, a pair of support rods and a cover sheet. The cover sheet is movably mounted to the article carrier via the support rods so as to be able to retract or deploy to uncover or cover and shield the article carrier. When the cover sheet is deployed, the articles in the article carrier are prevented from dropping on the ground. When the cover sheet is retracted, it is easy for the user to access the articles in the article carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Link Treasure Limited
    Inventor: Jen-En Hou
  • Publication number: 20040124222
    Abstract: A system for stabilizing articles is provided. The system is particularly well-suited for stabilizing plastic grocery bags during transport in a vehicle. The system comprises a stabilizing element that, when in use, extends from a first point to a second point and passes through the handles of a bag to be stabilized. Preferably, the first and second points are fixed, either detachably or semi-permanently, on the sidewalls in the interior of a vehicle. Further, the stabilizing element preferably is flexible. In addition, the stabilizing element preferably can be disconnected from the second point and also preferably, the stabilizing element can recoil into a location at the first point so that only a portion of the stabilizing element is visible. Other preferred embodiments of the present invention, including those with intermediary fixtures or intermediary support features, as well as those with multiple stabilizing elements, also are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2002
    Publication date: July 1, 2004
    Inventor: William R. Richter
  • Publication number: 20040108344
    Abstract: A van is provided within its carrying compartment with an installation for use in the safe storage against theft of tradesmen's tools, such, for example, as electric drills. The installation comprises a substantially L-shaped frame, and several panels hingedly connected to the frame for movement between a collapsed, non obtrusive state in which chamber front and side panels are prostrate on, or adjacent to the compartment floor, and an erect state in which these are able to cooperated with a lid panel also hinged to the frame to create the chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventor: Stanley Green
  • Publication number: 20040056058
    Abstract: A cargo storage system has two panels pivotally mounted above a base frame for rotation between a closed position where the panels are generally co-planar and have inner longitudinal edges adjacent each other, the panels then cooperatively defining a generally flat surface, and an open position where the panels are generally parallel to each other and spaced apart from each other. The panels are pivotally mounted at opposite ends thereof adjacent outer longitudinal edges thereof. The cargo storage system further has spaced-apart foldable elements between the panels to define storage areas between the foldable elements and the panels. A releasing mechanism is included for releasing the panels from their stored position. A spring or the like preferably then moves the panels to the open position automatically. The panels are connected to each other via an actuator mechanism for movement of the panels in unison.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2003
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Inventor: Patrick T. Ryan
  • Patent number: 6705579
    Abstract: A folding cup holder with a base plate including one or more through holes; a holder arm for holding a cup, the holder arm being pivotally supported to the base plate; and a tray including one or more latch arms respectively inserted to the through holes, and axially supported to the base plate. The latch arms and the through holes are engaged with each other to hold the tray in a position for holding a cup and engagement thereof is cancelled in case that excessive force is applied to the tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Assignee: Piolax Inc.
    Inventor: Satoshi Yamada
  • Patent number: 6702169
    Abstract: A container that can be locked and fastened to a vehicle with lockable fastening devices in a detachable manner, made of material impenetrable toward gaining unauthorized access to the contents, is designed in such a way that it can be carried as a bag in the detached state and stored on the vehicle side in the empty state in a space-saving and aesthetically appealing manner. For this purpose, the container is made of a collapsible material and designed like a bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AG
    Inventor: Konrad Eipper
  • Patent number: 6676184
    Abstract: Apparatus for storing items within vehicle compartments that can be manipulated into an operative position and a closed position with a single hand are provided. Apparatus includes a base disposed on or within a vehicle compartment floor and having a surface that is exposed to the vehicle compartment when the apparatus is in an operative (i.e., open) position. A rear panel is pivotally attached to the base and is movable between a closed position overlying the base surface and an open position substantially normal to the base surface. End panels are movably attached to respective end portions of the rear panel. The end panels are movable between a stored position in face-to-face relation with the rear panel and an operative position disposed substantially normal to the base surface and to the rear panel. The end panels move from their respective stored positions to operative positions in response to movement of the rear panel from its closed position to its open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignee: Collins & Aikman Products Co.
    Inventors: Thomas F. J. Gehring, Dejan Havidic, Ireneusz Jankowski, Brian Flaman
  • Patent number: 6676185
    Abstract: An apparatus for storing items within vehicle compartments includes a base disposed on or within a vehicle compartment floor and having a surface that is exposed to the vehicle compartment when the apparatus is in an operative position. A rear panel is pivotally attached to the base and is movable between a closed position overlying the base surface and an open position substantially normal to the base surface. A pair or partition panels are pivotally attached to the base surface in adjacent spaced apart relationship and are movable between a closed position in face-to-face relation with the base and an open position substantially transverse to the base surface and the rear panel. A handle is connected to the pair of partitions panels that is configured to be grasped by a user to move the partition panels in tandem from the closed position to the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignee: Collins & Aikman Products Co.
    Inventors: Thomas F. J. Gehring, Dejan Havidic, Ireneusz Jankowski, Brian Flaman
  • Patent number: 6609744
    Abstract: Apparatus for storing items within vehicle compartments that can be manipulated into an operative position and a closed position with a single hand are provided. Apparatus includes a base disposed on or within a vehicle compartment floor and having a surface that is exposed to the vehicle compartment when the apparatus is in an operative (i.e., open) position. A rear panel is pivotally attached to the base and is movable between a closed position overlying the base surface and an open position substantially normal to the base surface. End panels are movably attached to respective end portions of the rear panel. The end panels move from their respective stored positions to operative positions in response to movement of the rear panel. One or more partition panels that are movably attached to either the rear panel or to the base surface, may be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: Collins & Aikman Products Co.
    Inventors: Thomas F. J. Gehring, Dejan Havidic, Ireneusz Jankowski, Brian Flaman
  • Publication number: 20030127482
    Abstract: A storage system is disclosed for a vehicle and includes one or more support members adapted to couple to the vehicle, a cargo storage platform coupled to the support members, and an adjustment device operably engaging the support members and the cargo storage platform to configure the cargo storage platform in one or more positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2002
    Publication date: July 10, 2003
    Inventor: Dale A. Gort
  • Patent number: 6530549
    Abstract: A holder for a beverage container for upright installation in a motor vehicle has a carrier, guide means by which the carrier is movably guided from a retracted, basic position, into a raised, use position and vice-versa, a holding piece which is mounted on the carrier and has an insertion opening for inserted a beverage container, the holding piece being pivotally mounted on the carrier and being arranged to be pivoted from a basic position, wherein the holding piece is located approximately in a plane of movement of the carrier, into use position wherein the holding piece occupies an at least approximately horizontal position and vice-versa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Assignee: fischerwerke Artur Fischer GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Falk Schaal
  • Patent number: 6505764
    Abstract: A cargo carrier assembly for releasably securing cargo to a pickup truck is provided. The pickup truck has a bed and a pair of side rails extending above the bed with each rail having an inside surface and an outside surface. The cargo carrier assembly comprises a center bar member having a first end and a second end, a first bar member slidably receiving the first end of the center bar member, and a second bar member slidably receiving the second end of the center bar member. An attaching mechanism for releasably securing the first bar member to a first side rail of the pickup truck and for releasably securing the second bar member to a second side rail of the pickup truck. A cargo receiving mechanism is releasably securable to the first bar member for receiving predetermined cargo.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Inventors: Wesley H. Vining, James Shorb