Pivotable Patents (Class 224/553)
  • Patent number: 8261954
    Abstract: A mount for motorcycles and other vehicles is provided that resists relative rotational movement at the connection between the mount and the vehicle, and at the connection between the mount and a plate that supports a portable device such as a GPS, toll transponder, radar collector and the like, while permitting disengagement at such connections in response to the application of a force to the mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: High Gear Specialties, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Lee
  • Patent number: 8245894
    Abstract: A collapsible cup holder is provided. The collapsible cup holder is adapted to be coupled to a shopping cart and is rotatable between a retracted and deployed configuration. The cup holder includes a back with a top portion and a bottom portion. A top ring is rotatably coupled to the top portion and a base is rotatably coupled to the bottom portion. A strut extends between the top ring and the base and is rotatably coupled to both such that rotation of either the top ring or the base causes corresponding rotation of the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Inventor: Alyson M. Buehler
  • 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: 20120132685
    Abstract: A mount for motorcycles and other vehicles is provided that resists relative rotational movement at the connection between the mount and the vehicle, and at the connection between the mount and a plate that supports a portable device such as a GPS, toll transponder, radar collector and the like, while permitting disengagement at such connections in response to the application of a sufficient force to the mount.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2012
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Applicant: HIGH GEAR SPECIALTIES INC.
    Inventor: Michael F. Lee
  • Patent number: 8167180
    Abstract: A method and arrangement for providing a load carrying apparatus for securing an elongate article, such as a canoe of kayak, to a vehicle generally includes a plurality of load bars, a guide pivotally secured to each of the load bars, an aperture disposed along a length of each guide, and at least one retaining strap threadably received by each aperture. The at least one retaining strap is disposed about the elongate article and is secured to the load bars such that the elongate article may be secured between the retaining strap and the guide. In a preferred aspect, the retaining strap is disposed through the aperture, about the elongate article, about the load bars, and is secured to itself under a tensioning force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: Thule Sweden AB
    Inventors: Kevin Bogoslofski, Fred Murray, Gregor Weaver, Fredric Clark
  • 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: 8016169
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device to be used for the mechanized distribution of natural antagonists for the treatment of crops grown in greenhouse or in open field, under organic and/or integrated regimen, improving uniformity of distribution and concomitantly reducing the time spent in the distribution, with respect to other known systems in the current state of the art.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Universita Degli Studi Di Catania
    Inventors: Giacomo Blandini, Sabina Failla, Giuseppe Manetto
  • Publication number: 20110031292
    Abstract: A mounting bracket device and method for mounting a blade of a wind turbine to a transportation device are disclosed. The mounting bracket device includes a clamping device for holding the blade, an adjustment system, and a connecting system adapted for being removably connected to the transportation device. The connecting system removably connects the clamping device and the adjustment system to the transportation device. The adjustment system is adapted to align the clamping device with respect to the transportation device around the first rotary axis and around a second rotary axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Inventors: Mikkel Verner Krogh, Jonas Madsen
  • Patent number: 7857176
    Abstract: A video system includes a display, and a media source operatively coupled to the display, wherein the display and the media source are mounted to a vehicle seat, and at least the display is capable of being fixed to different positions using a mounting mechanism. The mounting mechanism may include at least one of a bracket, a post and a wedge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Audiovox Corporation
    Inventor: George C. Schedivy
  • 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
  • Patent number: 7669821
    Abstract: A retractable accessory hook assembly for a vehicle. A housing has a cavity with an opening. A hook is pivotably coupled to the housing and is movable between a stowed position substantially within the cavity and a deployed position at least partially extending from the opening of the cavity. A cover is also pivotably coupled to the housing and is configured to selectably close off at least a portion of the opening of the cavity. The cover is movable from a closed position proximate the housing to an open position away from the housing while the hook is being moved to a stowed or deployed position. The cover is also movable from the open position to the closed position to retain the hook in either the stowed or deployed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Amy L. Martin
  • Patent number: 7621575
    Abstract: A funeral urn transport device for storing and facilitating the transport of a funeral urn in a vehicle, typically, a hearse. The transport device includes a compartment that pivots within an opening in the floor of the rear compartment of the hearse for storage below the floor of the hearse when not in use and pivots to rise above the floor of the hearse to securely contain, hold and display a funeral urn, in an dignified manner, for transport to a service or repose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: Eagle Specialty Vehicles, LLC
    Inventor: Michael R. Kellerman
  • Patent number: 7621431
    Abstract: A folding stroller tray that finds particular use with folding strollers commonly used with small children. The present invention provides a folding stroller tray with a plurality of members which have complementary nested portions that are connected by fasteners that pass the nesting portions to define axis about which the members rotate and join the members to define a desired plane of contact among the assembled members. The present invention includes a method for providing a folding stroller tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: Chicco USA, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce L. Williams
  • Publication number: 20090266858
    Abstract: A glove box and utility hook assembly for a motor vehicle. The assembly includes a tether having one end secured to a hook member and another end secured to a portion defining a glove box, such that the hook member is moveable between a stowed position located within the glove box and a use position located outside of the glove box. The hook member includes a lip portion for retaining and suspending items within a vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventors: Daniel R. Vander Sluis, Royce D. Channey, Gregory A. Nestico
  • 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.
  • 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: 7401716
    Abstract: An adjustable shelf system includes a shelf capable of being moved from a first position slidably mounted within a first pair of track members to a second position slidably mounted within a second pair of track members without being completely removed from said first and second pair of track members. A method is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: Intier Automotive Inc.
    Inventors: Richard N. Svenson, Tom Delano
  • Patent number: 7246732
    Abstract: A model display stand system includes a platform portion that is designed to be coupled to the dashboard of the vehicle. The platform portion is designed for receiving the model such that the platform portion is designed for supporting the model above the dashboard of the vehicle. A frame assembly is pivotally coupled to the platform portion. The frame assembly is designed for selectively engaging the rear wheels of the model such that the frame assembly is designed for permitting the model to pivot with respect to the platform portion when the vehicle is turning. A steering assembly is pivotally coupled to the frame assembly. The steering assembly is designed to be coupled to the front wheels of the model. The steering assembly is designed for pivoting the front wheels of the model to correspond to the front wheels of the vehicle when the vehicle is turning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Inventor: Simon Ha
  • 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: 7121514
    Abstract: A mount is fixed to the floor of a vehicle, and supports a computer/display unit by means of an indexing cylinder assembly. The computer/display unit can be rotated horizontally in steps about the indexing cylinder assembly so that it can be easily positioned for use by the driver or the passenger in the vehicle. The computer/display unit can be adjusted vertically to suit the needs of the user while not interfering with the user's ability to see the road. The indexing cylinder may be mounted on either side of an upright member so as to provide selection of left or right positioning of the computer equipment. A bearing rod runs up the side of a computer equipment holding frame, and can be used to adjust the pressure point on the dashboard, thereby providing stabilization of the computer equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Assignee: Datalux Corporation
    Inventor: Robert H. Twyford
  • Patent number: 7100808
    Abstract: A holding base system comprising a platform with an exteriorly splined post projecting therefrom and mounting means for securing the platform to a surface; an article holder having a splined inner wall on a bottom thereof to fit on and cooperate with the splined post and a top thereof shaped and constructed to secure an article to be supported, with the orientation of the supported article being determined by the relative positioning of the splined socket to the splined post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Stearns Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis Hancock, Jefferey D. Hancock
  • Patent number: 7090103
    Abstract: A vehicle article carrier having a pair of cross bars that can be positioned in a stowed, position, resting on or adjacent to a corresponding pair of siderails, or moved into an operative position with the cross bars extending perpendicularly between the siderails. The cross bars are completely removable from each of the side rails. When the cross bars are in the stowed position, the apparatus presents a significantly more aerodynamic structure that helps to reduce wind noise when the vehicle on which the apparatus is mounted is being driven. The cross bars can be quickly moved into the operative position via latching mechanisms disposed at end that can be released from a securing structure at a forward portion and a rearward portion of each siderail and re-attached to a securing portion of the other siderail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: JAC Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey M Aftanas, Gerard J Kmita, Donald R Potter
  • Patent number: 7066364
    Abstract: A vehicle article carrier having a pair of cross bars that can be positioned in a stowed, position, resting on or adjacent to a corresponding pair of side rails, or moved into an operative position with the cross bars extending perpendicularly between the side rails. When the cross bars are in the stowed position, the apparatus presents a significantly more aerodynamic structure that helps to reduce wind noise when the vehicle on which the apparatus is mounted is being driven. The cross bars can be quickly moved into the operative position via a latching mechanism disposed at end that can be released from a securing portion of one side rail and re-attached to a securing portion of the other side rail. Various embodiments are presented with different latching and pivoting mechanisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: JAC Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerard J. Kmita, Jeffrey M. Aftanas, Donald R. Potter
  • Patent number: 6994236
    Abstract: A monitor supporting device includes a board for attaching to the vehicle seat, a plate pivotally secured to the board with a pivot axle, and a monitor attached to the plate. The plate may be adjusted relative to the board at any selected angular positions such that the monitor may be adjusted to any suitable or selected angular position relative to the vehicle seat or the users, for allowing the users to easily and comfortably viewing the monitor. A bag may be used for receiving a processor device, and has a box for receiving the monitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Inventor: Te Hsin Hsu
  • 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: 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: 6959845
    Abstract: A vehicle article carrier having a pair of cross bars that can be positioned in a stowed, position, resting on or adjacent to a corresponding pair of siderails, or moved into an operative position with the cross bars extending perpendicularly between the siderails. When the cross bars are in the stowed position, the apparatus presents a significantly more aerodynamic structure that helps to reduce wind noise when the vehicle on which the apparatus is mounted is being driven. The cross bars can be quickly moved into the operative position via a latching mechanism disposed at end that can be released from a securing portion of one siderail and re-attached to a securing portion of the other siderail. Various embodiments are presented with different latching and pivoting mechanisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2005
    Assignee: JAC Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey M. Aftanas, Gerard J. Kmita, Donald R. Potter
  • Patent number: 6955280
    Abstract: A cellular phone securing device is mounted on a carrying holder to be fixed to a belt or clothes or on an onboard holder installed in an interior of a vehicle. The cellular phone securing device includes a projecting shaft disposed erect on the surface of a main body portion thereof to be fixed to and held by the carrying holder or the onboard holder, and a securing pawl and a securing metal member respectively projecting from at least two positions of one and the other end portions of the back surface side of the main body portion. While securing the cellular phone by these securing pawl and metal member, the cellular phone securing device is mounted on the cellular phone in such a manner that the main body sits astride a cellular phone between at least two positions of a casing of the cellular phone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Eiji Saitoh, Keigo Matsuura
  • 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: 6935605
    Abstract: A keyboard-holding device detachably holds a keyboard to a stationary support. The keyboard is of the type having keys and a shell surrounding the keys. The shell has a front surface, a back surface, and a bottom surface. The keyboard-holding device has a first elongate member, a pivot, and a locking mechanism. The first elongate member has a first end, a second end, and a pivot located between the first and second ends. The locking mechanism is attached with respect to the second end for unlockably locking the first elongate member to a holder, said holder fixedly attachable to the support. A fulcrum is rotatably attached with respect to the pivot and fixedly attached with respect to the shell. A spring mechanism provides a restoring force tending to maintain the locking mechanism in locked engagement with the holder, but is manipulable to unlock the shell from the holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Assignee: TG3 Electronics Incorporated
    Inventors: John T. Giles, Wayne A. Pietluck, Anthony J. Ceschin, Brian K. Carpenter
  • Patent number: 6929304
    Abstract: A cell phone storage pocket for a vehicle console comprising a hinged armrest, a flip under tray, and a hinged mechanism. This invention provides secure storage for a driver or passenger's cell phone while maintaining it in an easy to read location. Also, this cell phone storage pocket allows a user to keep the cell in an accessible location which can lead to safer driving habits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Alan Dry, Bogdan Radu
  • Patent number: 6902089
    Abstract: A tool bracket for elongated tools. The tool bracket includes a mounting base having a mechanism for attaching to an external structure, a forked tool holder rotatably coupled to the mounting base and having pair of interconnected tines projecting from a neck portion, and a resilient biasing member coupled between the mounting base and the forked tool holder for urging relative rotation between the forked tool holder and the mounting base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Carnevali
  • Patent number: 6892913
    Abstract: The invention concerns a roof-mounted bicycle hodler for vehicles. The bicycle holder comprises profiled carrier (1) on which a bicycle (9) is intended to be positioned in an upright position, first and second fastening devices (2 and 3, respectively) on said profiled carrier (1) for securing said profiled carrier (1) on first and second load carrier rails (4 and 5, respectively), said rails being attached to said vehicle roof (6), and a holding arm (15) pivotally mounted on said profiled carrier (1) for pivotal movement essentially between a release position and a securing position in which said holding arm (15) is attachable to the frame of the bicycle (9).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: Mont Blanc Industri AB
    Inventor: Göran Andersson
  • 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: 6854627
    Abstract: A vehicular utility rack apparatus having at least two frame members mounted on a vehicle to form a frame assembly. The at least two support arms are used for supporting a transported item. The two support arms also having a retainer assembly coupled to form a carriage assembly. The carriage assembly coupled to a rotational shaft for pivoting the carriage assembly. The rotational shaft coupled to an anti-friction assembly capable of reducing the amount of torque required to pivot the support arms from a position above the vehicle to a position adjacent the vehicle side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: eRack LLC
    Inventors: Bradford Foo, Jose Villarreal
  • 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
  • Patent number: 6811066
    Abstract: A vehicle article carrier includes a pair of laterally spaced apart siderails. A pair of crossbars are removeably coupled to the siderails. Each crossbar is operable in a first or stowed mode axially aligned with a siderail and in a second or carrying mode laterally spanning the space between the side rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: JAC Products Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey M. Aftanas, Gerard J. Kmita, Donald R. Potter
  • Patent number: 6783039
    Abstract: An assembly for storing a compact spare tire in a motor vehicle in which a second tire of regular size (larger than the compact spare) is secured at a predetermined space adjacent or within the vehicle on a second plane distal from the plane of the storage location of the compact spare, after the compact spare tire is removed and the regular tire is replaced, for example, in the event of a flat. The assembly includes first and second brackets cooperatively oriented to secure the tires in first and second separated planes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Robert G. Zum Mallen, Derik Thomas Voigt, Kerry Stephen McClure
  • Patent number: 6755332
    Abstract: A hinged utility rack disposed on and external to a vehicle having a temporary top or roof. The utility rack has a bed that supports objects especially for transportation. First and second support bars are attached to the vehicle and support the bed. The second support bar is releasably connected to the bed, supporting the bed when connected. A hinge pivotally connects the first support bar to the bed, enabling the bed to pivot about the first support bar. The bed pivots between (a) a closed position in which the bed covers the vehicle top and the second support bar is connected to the bed, and (b) an open position in which the second support bar is disconnected from the bed and the bed is disposed away from the second support bar thereby rendering the top accessible for removal or retraction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: Factory Sports, Inc.
    Inventors: John H. Crane, P. Joshua Crane
  • 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: 20040079778
    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: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2003
    Publication date: April 29, 2004
    Inventor: Larry G. Wilkens
  • Publication number: 20040079774
    Abstract: The tire carrier assembly of the present invention is mounted to the frame of a vehicle by removing the existing D-rings and placing the mounting brackets for the tire carrier over the apertures where the existing D-rings were mounted. The existing D-rings are then placed over the tire carrier mounting brackets and the entire assembly is mounted or coupled to the vehicle, using the original mounting apertures for the D-rings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2002
    Publication date: April 29, 2004
    Inventors: Marcus Roehmer, Michael Kenney
  • 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: 6705498
    Abstract: An adjustable bracket for carrying a gun case on a vehicle consists of a plate to be attached to the vehicle, a gun case carrier, and an adjustable linkage connecting the plate to the gun case carrier. The adjustable linkage allows the gun case carrier to be rotated to a variety of angles relative to the plate. A lock holds the gun case carrier at the desired angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Inventor: Patrick K. Gantert
  • Patent number: 6679407
    Abstract: A moveable stowage for a ladder or other equipment on top of a vehicle comprises a stowage frame and an outer frame secured pivotally at its forward end. The moveable stowage may be releasably secured in the stowed position or held in an access position. The stowage frame is adapted to slide on at least one pivot assembly from a substantially horizontal stowed position to an access position, and the forward end of the stowage frame is pivotally connected to the outer frame in order to slide along the outer frame thus enabling the stowage frame to reach an access position approaching the vertical. Other embodiments are described, which assist in counter balancing the stowage frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: AS Fire & Rescue Equipment Ltd
    Inventor: Ian Weeks
  • Patent number: 6669066
    Abstract: A holding device for a spare wheel of a motor vehicle which is disposed on the outside of a swivellable rear hatch. The holding device includes a wheel carrier which is held by support arms and bearings on the vehicle body so as to swivel. The support arms are spaced apart and project from the wheel carrier and end sides thereof are connected to the bearings which are held on the vehicle body. These bearings form a vertical swivel axis which is arranged independently of a swivel axis of the rear hatch. The wheel carrier is capable of being swung about this vertical swivel axis up to the rear hatch and into a fixing position. In a release position, the holding device is capable of being swung away freely in relation to the rear hatch about the vertical swivel axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche AG
    Inventors: Wilfried Eberle, RĂ¼diger Jahn, Oliver Benirschke
  • Patent number: 6663067
    Abstract: A coat hook assembly (10) includes a hook member (80) for connection with a structure (12). The hook member (80) is supported for pivotal movement from an opening (40) and from a stored position to an operative position. The hook member (80) has a hook portion (82) adapted to support a garment. The hook member (80) has a closure portion (84) fixed for pivotal movement with the hook portion (82), and blocking the opening (40) when the hook member is in the stored position. A latch mechanism (120) releasably hold the hook member (80) in the stored position. The latch mechanism (120) is responsive to a pushing force on the hook member (80) when in the stored position to release the hook member for pivotal movement from the stored position to the operative position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: TRW Inc.
    Inventor: Gary G. Gordon
  • Patent number: 6659318
    Abstract: A spare tire carrier for securement to an end segment of a vehicle bumper and having a swingable arm for travel about horizontal and vertical axes to relocate a spare tire away from the rear of a vehicle and subsequently downward into ground contact. A bracket on a bumper attached mounting plate pivotally carries an arm actuator including oppositely threaded shafts and a sleeve thereon. A ratchet drive imparts rotational movement to the sleeve in a selected direction to either lift or lower the arm and spare tire thereon in a controlled manner and additionally prevents random vertical movement of the arm during vehicle travel. Locks engageable with the bracket and the arm prevent horizontal and upright travel of the arm when the vehicle is underway. The carrier may include a bracket, attachable to a hitch or vehicle frame, with a base plate at its outer end to support the carrier mounting plate. A modified preferred carrier includes an electrical linear actuator to control the carrier arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Inventor: Anthony J. Newbill
  • Patent number: 6641014
    Abstract: A cantilevered member mounted at a first end to the base and extending cantilevered from the base to an opposite second end, opposite to the first end, and a cross-member mounted to the second end of the cantilevered member, the cross-member having opposite first and second ends. The cantilevered member may be releasably pivotally mounted to the base so as to be selectively angularly positionable relative to the base. A rigid first arm is pivotally and slidably mounted to the first end of the cross member. A rigid second arm is pivotally and slidably mounted to the second end of the cross-member. The first and second arms are parallel to the cross-member and mounted for sliding and pivoting in a plane parallel to a plane containing the cross-member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Inventor: Arliss McNalley
  • Publication number: 20030141423
    Abstract: A coat hook assembly (10) includes a hook member (80) for connection with a structure (12). The hook member (80) is supported for pivotal movement from an opening (40) and from a stored position to an operative position. The hook member (80) has a hook portion (82) adapted to support a garment. The hook member (80) has a closure portion (84) fixed for pivotal movement with the hook portion (82), and blocking the opening (40) when the hook member is in the stored position. A latch mechanism (120) releasably hold the hook member (80) in the stored position. The latch mechanism (120) is responsive to a pushing force on the hook member (80) when in the stored position to release the hook member for pivotal movement from the stored position to the operative position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2002
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Applicant: TRW Inc.
    Inventor: Gary G. Gordon