Pivotable Patents (Class 224/553)
  • 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
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20030094471
    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: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2001
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Inventor: Arliss McNalley
  • Patent number: 6547112
    Abstract: A crutch and cane holder attachment for attaching to the rear vertical surface portion, below the seat and preferably just above a rear deck, of a motorized wheelchair-scooter, of the type used to transport a disabled person. Such motorized wheelchair-scooters are typically provided in grocery stores and other retail establishments for use by disabled persons. The adjustable crutch and cane holder will accommodate storage of crutches or canes regardless of the angle of attachment of the holder to the motorized wheelchair-scooter or the slope of the wheelchair seat-back. This adjustability provides that the crutches will not hit the user in the head or interfere with the seat-back when utilizing a seat that swivels. The low mounting height provides for a minimal distance above the floor that the crutches or cane must be lifted to accommodate storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Inventors: Charles E. Gallagher, Edith L. Gallagher
  • Publication number: 20030042283
    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: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Carnevali
  • Publication number: 20030038150
    Abstract: An apparatus for holding a gun or a bow securely to an all terrain vehicle. . The apparatus has one or more adjustable support arms each having a quick release and lock mechanism. The support arms serve as a way to allow the gun or bow to fit closely to the contour of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2001
    Publication date: February 27, 2003
    Inventor: Ambers F. Williams
  • Patent number: 6502731
    Abstract: Apparatus for supporting loaded shopping bags within a compartment of a vehicle, such as an automobile trunk, so that the bags are maintained in an upright position during vehicle operation are provided. An apparatus includes a frame that is movably secured beneath a panel, such as an automobile package tray, that is in overlying, spaced-apart relationship with a floor of a vehicle compartment. The frame is movable between a stored position and an extended position. The frame is disposed beneath the panel when in the stored position, and the frame extends outwardly from the panel into the vehicle compartment for convenient use thereof by a user when in the extended position. One or more projections extend from the frame, such as from a free edge portion thereof. Each projection is configured to support one or more loaded shopping bags by the handles thereof and to maintain the one or more loaded shopping bags in an upright position during operation of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: Collins & Aikman Products Co.
    Inventors: Thomas F. J. Gehring, Ireneusz Jankowski, Dejan Havidic, Duane Poliquin
  • Patent number: 6467664
    Abstract: A bicycle rack for carrying a bicycle adjacent the rear of a vehicle. The bicycle rack includes an adjustable frame assembly having a first frame member attached to a housing and a second frame member attached to a connecting member. The connecting member is rotationally coupled to the housing to allow relative pivotal movement between the first and second frame members. A locking member is disposed within the housing and selectively movable between a first position, in which the locking member engages the connecting member to impede relative rotational movement between the connecting member and the housing, and a second position, in which the locking member is disengaged from the connecting member to allow relative rotational movement between the connecting member and the housing. At least one support arm is coupled to the housing and configured for sliding and pivotal movement between a stowed position and an extended position in which the arm engages the housing to support a bicycle adjacent the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Inventors: Duncan Robins, Joseph J. Settelmayer, Scott R. Allen
  • Patent number: 6457690
    Abstract: A combined hook and clip includes a mounting housing which can be integrated into a vehicle panel or separately provided and which includes a recess for receiving a pivoted combined hook and clip. The hook and clip includes a mounting collar, which is pivotally mounted within the housing by a pivot pin, a downwardly and inwardly projecting leg extending from the mounting collar to a base. Extending integrally upwardly and outwardly from the base is a second leg which, together with the first leg and base, defines a generally U-shaped hook. Extending downwardly from the second leg and projecting below the base is a third leg with a gripper member facing the housing for defining a clip. A bias member retains the combined hook and clip within the recess of the housing and urges the clip into a gripping position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: David J. Spykerman, Nels R. Smith
  • Publication number: 20020134808
    Abstract: A crutch and cane holder attachment for attaching to the rear vertical surface portion, below the seat and preferably just above a rear deck, of a motorized wheelchair-scooter, of the type used to transport a disabled person. Such motorized wheelchair-scooters are typically provided in grocery stores and other retail establishments for use by disabled persons. The adjustable crutch and cane holder will accommodate storage of crutches or canes regardless of the angle of attachment of the holder to the motorized wheelchair-scooter or the slope of the wheelchair seat-back. This adjustability provides that the crutches will not hit the user in the head or interfere with the seat-back when utilizing a seat that swivels. The low mounting height provides for a minimal distance above the floor that the crutches or cane must be lifted to accommodate storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2001
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Inventors: Charles E. Gallagher, Edith A. Gallagher
  • Publication number: 20020125284
    Abstract: A load carrying vehicle accessory includes rear, medial, and front carrier units each, having a laterally extending chassis-mounted socket member that telescopically receives a sleeve having a pair of posts thereon, the posts having adjustable spacing from a side extremity of the vehicle. The socket members can be clamped under the vehicle chassis and/or incorporated in vehicle bumpers. An optional configuration has front and/or rear mounted a base to which the socket member is pivotally mounted as an arm, the posts being foldable in-line with the arm, the arm also folding inwardly from the side of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2001
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventor: W. Anthony R. Cook
  • Patent number: 6427888
    Abstract: A vehicle roof top luggage holder comprising a roof track, a roof rack for receiving luggage, and a rear frame, the roof track extending generally to the fore and aft of the vehicle on the vehicle roof, with the roof rack being moveably mounted with respect to the roof track to the fore of the vehicle and pivotally attached to the rear frame at the aft of the vehicle, characterised in that the rear frame comprises a hinge arm connected pivotally to the rear of the roof rack and pivotally attached to the rear of the vehicle one of the rear frame and roof rack incluing a cross bar positioned essentially horizontally across the rear of the roof of the vehicle, the arrangement whereby the roof tf the hinge arm of the rear frame, to the rear of the vehicle, enabling loading and unloading of the roof rack at the rear of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan Condon, Stephen John Sykes
  • 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: 6382488
    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: December 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Inventor: Dennis Hancock
  • Patent number: 6371345
    Abstract: An adjustable mounting device is provided for mounting an object at a selected position relative to a surface. The adjustable mounting device can be easily adjusted with one hand and generally includes a ball member, a stem portion attached to the ball member, a locking member, and first and second mounting portions coupled to the stem portion and the locking member, respectively. The locking member includes a ball retention member and a plunger member. The ball retention member includes first and second ball retention arms that are adapted to slidably engage the exterior surface of the ball member to form a pivotable connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Pro-Fit International, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew V. Leyden, Kelly Kinnunen, Patrick J. Knight
  • Publication number: 20020040918
    Abstract: An adjustable frame, mountable on a vehicle, for releasably securing hand trucks of different sizes and configurations includes: a support platform for receiving a base of a hand truck; a first and a second side member affixed to the platform; a first bracket and a second bracket attached to the first and second side members, respectively, the brackets extending in parallel therewith; an elongate swing bar pivotally connected to the first bracket and pivotal between a first position that retains the hand truck on the platform, and a second position, which allows access and removal of the hand truck from the platform; and a latch mounted on the swing bar. The second bracket may include a strike that engages the latch for releasably securing the swing bar in the first position. Cushioned crossbars attachable to the side members dampen vibration of the hand truck during transportation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2001
    Publication date: April 11, 2002
    Inventors: John M. Pierce, Bill Snowa
  • Publication number: 20020003156
    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: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2001
    Publication date: January 10, 2002
    Inventors: James C. Morris, Lopin Wang, Donald E. Schlenker
  • Patent number: 6321962
    Abstract: A carrier comprised of a holding member and an article support member. The holding member includes a tubing with a plurality of grooves lengthwise down the tubing. The article support member is coupled to the holding member. The article support member includes a tray and a collar. The collar is coupled to the tray and interlocks with the holding member in a plurality of angular orientations. The collar enables the tray to be rotatably adjusted with a slope in accordance with a selected angular orientation of the plurality of angular orientations. An integral locking mechanism allows an article to be locked to the carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Assignee: Danik Industries Ltd.
    Inventors: James C. Morris, Lopin Wang, Donald E. Schlenker
  • Patent number: 6315180
    Abstract: A camera mount for supporting a camera in a motor vehicle in which an elongated tubular body supports a pivotally mounted camera with the tubular body attached to headrest supports in a seat of a vehicle with the camera disposed substantially centrally relative to a central axis of the vehicle beyond a view point of an eye of an occupant of the seat nearest the centerline of the vehicle such that the imaging apparatus is unobstructed for receiving images by use of the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Inventor: D. Scott Watkins
  • Publication number: 20010025866
    Abstract: A carrier comprised of a holding member and an article support member. The holding member includes a tubing with a plurality of grooves lengthwise down the tubing. The article support member is coupled to the holding member. The article support member includes a tray and a collar. The collar is coupled to the tray and interlocks with the holding member in a plurality of angular orientations. The collar enables the tray to be rotatably adjusted with a slope in accordance with a selected angular orientation of the plurality of angular orientations. An integral locking mechanism allows an article to be locked to the carrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2001
    Publication date: October 4, 2001
    Inventors: James C. Morris, Lopin Wang, Donald E. Schlenker
  • Patent number: 6293447
    Abstract: A vehicle gun carrier system for supporting a plurality of elongate guns upon the front seat of a vehicle having a center console or armrest. The inventive device includes a base, a support member pivotally attached to the base, and a first strap and a second strap engageable with the base and positionable about a cover of a center console or a center armrest. The support member as a plurality of cutouts for receiving the stock portion of a gun. A cushion is preferably attached to the cutouts for preventing damage to the gun during operation of the vehicle. The base preferably has a front broad portion and a rear narrow portion for providing maximum stability upon narrow consoles and armrests. A gripping gasket is preferably attached to a lower surface of the base for preventing sliding of the base during operation of the vehicle. The first strap and second strap preferably have an adjustment portion for allowing the base to be secured to various sizes of the center console or center armrest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2001
    Inventor: Bret R. Jorgensen
  • Patent number: 6283349
    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: July 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: Danik Industries Ltd.
    Inventors: James C. Morris, Lopin Waug, Donald E. Schlenker
  • Patent number: 6230948
    Abstract: A vehicle cup holder has a housing forming an upwardly open cup-shaped seat centered on an upright seat axis and having a side wall and a floor and a plurality of gripping arms spaced around the seat on the side wall and pivotal about respective upright axes between radially inner positions projecting into the seat and radially outer positions generally disengaged from the seat. A drive under the floor is connected to the arms for displacing them synchronously between the inner and outer positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Assignees: Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, Sarnatech Paulmann & Crone GmbH
    Inventors: Rainer Steiger, Traci Angela Neist, John Raff, Martin Christ
  • Patent number: 6227505
    Abstract: A mounting platform includes a slide having a mounting shoe thereon with the slide being mounted to the platform for movement between at least first and second spaced-apart positions. In a preferred embodiment, the platform includes a guide for the slide which is spring-loaded and which slides within the guide and includes interlocking tabs and slots for positively locking the slide in at least two spaced-apart positions, thereby longitudinally moving the mounting shoe between such positions. In a preferred embodiment also, in order to provide a finished appearance to the mounting system, the slide includes a forward section which extends through an aperture formed in the platform and slides along an upper surface thereof with the body of the slide extending through the aperture into the guide such that the aperture remains enclosed by the main body or forward extension for all positions of the slide, thereby enclosing the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Prince Corporation
    Inventors: Kim L. Van Order, Sheldon J. Watjer
  • Patent number: 6213438
    Abstract: A computer support for use in a vehicle interior includes a base having a pivotally secured riser bracket coupled thereto. The base is attached to a convenient vehicle surface such as the transmission hump or the like. A pair of telescoping risers are supported by the riser bracket and provide vertical movement of an arm carrier mechanism. The arm carrier in turn supports a pair of pivotally coupled arms which in turn support a platform bracket. A computer platform suitable for receiving and supporting a portable computer is received upon the platform bracket and includes a lock mechanism for securing the computer against unauthorized removal. Adjustments are provided for the vertical heights and horizontal position as well as angular tilt and horizontal angular position of the computer platform. Each adjustment of each position and angle includes apparatus for securing and maintaining a selected position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Inventors: LeRoy M. Ostby, Scot McCallon
  • Patent number: 6199734
    Abstract: A bowholder for supporting an archery bow on a fixed or movable structure, and particularly adapted for supporting an archery bow on a cargo carrier rack or the like of a motor vehicle, such as an all terrain vehicle (ATV), includes an elongated tubular frame member supported on spaced-apart support blocks which are mountable on a cargo carrier rack by releasable fastener assemblies. The frame member supports spaced-apart U-shaped bow limb support brackets which are mounted for pivotal movement on the frame member and are connected to pivot levers which, in turn, are connected to opposite ends of an elastically stretchable strap member. Opposite ends of the pivot levers form handles for rotating the U-shaped brackets against the bias of the elastic strap member to receive and release opposed limbs of an archery bow disposed in the U-shaped brackets, respectively. A fitted fabric cover includes an elastic hem and drawstrings for securing the cover tightly over the bowholder with a bow supported thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Inventor: Paul H. Meeks
  • Patent number: 6196434
    Abstract: An apparatus for retaining various food items in a motor vehicle, including a cup holder having a stowable second cup holder therein in which the stowable second cup holder has a removable container therein, the cup holder having a supplemental support device for stabilizing the apparatus when it is extended. The apparatus further having a leveling device for maintaining a level orientation of the cup holder to accommodate various door widths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Inventors: John J. Angran, Lori A. Angran
  • Patent number: 6164506
    Abstract: An adjustable scoreboard mounting arrangement, which includes a positioning block fastened to a hollow main rod member in a golf cart, a scoreboard detachably fastened to the positioning block, and a locking lever pivoted to a bottom stem at the scoreboard and turned between a horizontal position where the scoreboard is firmly maintanined engaged with the positioning block, and a vertical position where the scorebard is disengaged from the positioning block and allowed to be rotated with the locking lever to the desired angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Inventor: David Wu
  • Patent number: 6149116
    Abstract: A holder for a mobile telephone is provided, which includes a main body to which a mobile telephone is magnetically attached, and an angle controllable attachment supporting means for attaching the main body to the surface of an object such as a vehicle dashboard. The magnetic attachment means includes a magnet fixed to the main body, and a piece of iron attachable to the back of the mobile telephone and attachable to the magnet by magnetic force. The angle controllable supporting means comprises a pair of independently moveable hinge-connected supports which are also hinge-connected to the bottom of the main body. The main body can be attached to the dashboard of a vehicle without regard to the curvature of the surface of the dashboard, and the mobile telephone can be securely attached magnetically and easily separated from the holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: D.L. Telecom Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Ryu Byung Won
  • Patent number: 6145718
    Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus for securing rifles, archery bows and other camping accessories to the cargo rack of an all terrain vehicle for transport. The apparatus consists of two support brackets which have a bracket pad of resilient material affixed in an opening in the brackets, a support structure for the support brackets and a means for securing the support structure to the cargo rack tubes of the all terrain vehicle. The support structure is comprised of two vertical support bars which are attached on the bottom to a horizontal bottom cross bar which is secured to the cargo rack. A horizontal top cross bar also connects the two support bars and provides added stability to the support bars. A stiffener plate which connects the bottom cross bar and the top cross bar can also be used to further enhance the stability of the support bars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Inventor: Jesse L. Edwards
  • Patent number: 6142350
    Abstract: A foldable shopping bag support apparatus and method for removably supporting a shopping bag on the wheelchair. A mounting sleeve is telescopically mounted to the armrest of the wheelchair. A backstop is removably secured to the mounting sleeve and is braced against the frame of the wheelchair. A shopping bag support frame is pivotally mounted to the backstop and includes a pair of support arms from which the shopping bag is suspended. A pair of sockets on the shopping bag telescopically receive the support arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Inventor: Myron C. Alexander
  • Patent number: 6126053
    Abstract: A vehicle equipment rack that includes first, second and third rotatably interconnected members. The second and third members rotate between a first position in which all three members are aligned and a second position in which the second and third members are angularly offset from the first member. The second and third members may also angularly offset from one another when the second and third members are in the second position. The vehicle equipment rack may also include a drive train operatively connected between the second and third members. The drive train is configured to rotate one of these moveable members upon rotation of the moveable member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Inventor: Tori Shaver
  • Patent number: 6116485
    Abstract: An improved bracket for connecting a camera mount to rectangular supports for headrests in automobiles is disclosed. A camera support having extendable telescopic legs for bearing against a surface in the automobile provides improved support for larger, heavier cameras supported on the camera mount for recording images during operation of the automobile. A cushion pad attaches to a front or rear face of the camera mount, for example, to guard against bruises to a person operating the camera in a back seat of the automobile. Improved pivotable supports for the camera are also disclosed, whereby the camera is selectively positioned at a horizontal angle for recording images.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Inventor: D. Scott Watkins
  • Patent number: 6095469
    Abstract: A vehicle coat hook assembly is provided with a closeout panel coupled to the coat hook. When the coat hook is moved from a retracted position within a bezel or housing, to an extended use position, the closeout panel moves into and fills the opening in the bezel or housing to provide a finished appearance to the vehicle interior. The closeout panel is rotatably coupled to the coat hook and rotates relative to the hook as the hook is rotated between the retracted position and the extended use position. A guide is also operatively associated with the housing and the closeout panel to guide rotation of the closeout panel as the hook is rotated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: Prince Corporation
    Inventor: Roy A. Von Alman
  • Patent number: 6092704
    Abstract: A bag or other item handling system including support struts that connect either to the interior of a vehicle trunk lid, or to the back of preferably a rear seat, for securement of support arms, which include integral hooks, and to which handled bags may be secured during transit of a vehicle. A modification provides the connection of a molded base or platform, having formed cavities therein, and to which accessory items may locate, be strapped or otherwise fastened in place, for storage when not in use. When system is applied to the back of a rear seat of a vehicle, a fastening bar may secure to the seat, at various elevated locations, interconnect pivotal hinge assemblies thereto, for supporting the support struts and support arms in place, for temporarily holding merchandise laden bags or other items in place, during transit or storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Inventor: Joseph A. Baumeister
  • Patent number: 6085953
    Abstract: A container holder for automotive use includes a mounting member wall having a recessed portion with an outwardly extending shelf. An outer member is pivotally mounted to the mounting member for pivotal movement between closed and open positions. The outer member carries container support means stored adjacent the recessed portion in the closed position and lying generally horizontal to support a container in the open position. The outer member includes a first pair of arcuate guide arms projecting from an upper portion of the outer member through laterally spaced slots formed in the wall adjacent laterally opposite sides of the recessed portion. An inner member includes a transverse guide portion connected at opposite lateral ends with a second pair of arcuate guide arms, extending through the slots and mounted for limited arcuate sliding motion of the inner member relative to the outer member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: Saturn Corporation
    Inventors: Bruce Brian Bober, Glenn M. Henige, Joseph Ferraiuolo, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6068221
    Abstract: A folding rubbish bag holder for use in a car includes a base member having a projecting edge, a lid and an elongated connecting member hingedly connected to the base member and to the lid. The bag holder further includes a support frame having an opening for receiving a trash bag therethrough and is hingedly connected to the base member such that the support frame has a non-use position wherein said support frame is disposed along said base member and a use position wherein said support frame is pivoted substantially perpendicularly from said base member. The support frame includes at least one stop lug projecting from a top surface of the support frame and a lifting member pivotably connected to the lid for lifting the lid from the support frame and has at least one support arm for engaging the at least one stop plug on the support frame when the support frame is in the use-position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Assignee: Snappy Kunststofftechnik Fabrikations-und Vetriebsgesellschaft Innovativer Produkte mbH
    Inventor: Gerd Rosen
  • Patent number: 6056175
    Abstract: In accordance with the teachings of the present invention, an installation device for a vehicle is disclosed which in particular is for the releasable mounting of a handheld mobile phone. The installation device is designed with a housing (2) which is opened toward the front and is to be arranged on a receiving shaft of a vehicle part (1), such as an instrument panel, console, or the like, with a carrying part (16) which can be pivoted into, and out of, the housing (2) via a substantially vertically aligned axis of rotation (5), with a bearing plate (7) which is arranged on the carrying part (16) and is intended for the mobile phone (12) when the carrying part (16) has been pivoted out of the housing (2), and with a substantially horizontally aligned pivot axis (11) between the carrying part (16) and a bearing plate (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Assignee: Becker Group Europe GmbH
    Inventors: Hans-Helmut Mieglitz, Alexander Schidan, Charles Roughton
  • Patent number: 6050202
    Abstract: A storage divider includes a first frame which has one edge pivotally mounted to the floor of the vehicle and a second frame pivotally mounted to the first frame member remote from its connection to the vehicle floor. Together the frames move from a co-planar collapsed stored position to a raised position elevating a storage platform positioned on the second frame above the floor area of the vehicle while leaving the floor area of the vehicle open for additional storage. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the second frame includes one edge with extensions which hook into sockets mounted to the sidewalls of the vehicle for holding the storage divider in an extended use position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: Prince Corporation
    Inventor: Joseph M. Thompson
  • Patent number: 6041717
    Abstract: A mechanic's tray assembly for holding tools and small parts, and removably adherable to both horizontal and non-horizontal surfaces. The tray assembly includes a shallow-walled tray and a pair of C-shaped support tracks fixedly secured to the tray. A pair of removably-adhering assemblies, independent of each other and preferably having magnets, are slidably and pivotally held on the C-shaped support tracks by support arms. The support arms have cylindrically-shaped holes through which the C-shaped support tracks extend. The cylindrically-shaped holes engage and grip the support tracks by means of a cantilever moment produced at the tube-shaped holes, thereby enabling the tray to be held at a desired tray angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Inventor: Dan Z. Kubat
  • Patent number: 6036071
    Abstract: An attachment apparatus for attaching a vehicle accessory to a vehicle structure including a first bracket member, a second bracket member and an interfacing member for interfacing the first bracket with the second bracket. The first bracket member includes a base member having an opening extending therethrough, and a member for attachment to a vehicle structure. The second bracket includes a carriage member having at least one post member extending outwardly therefrom, and a member for attachment to a vehicle accessory. The interfacing member interfaces the post member with the opening of the first bracket, to, in turn, maintain at least a portion of the first bracket and at least a portion of the second bracket member in overlying abutment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Assignee: Cobbs Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Jerome Hartmann, Thomas R. Steinhagen
  • Patent number: 6032910
    Abstract: In a support device for supporting objects, particularly inside a vehicle, by way of a flexible arm extending between a mounting base and a mounting plate, the flexible arm consists of an elastically flexible plastic tube with a permanently bendable aluminum rod disposed within, whereby objects such as a portable CD player or cellular telephone can be supported in various positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Inventor: Herbert Richter
  • Patent number: 6033178
    Abstract: A trash container lifting device adapted for attachment to a motor vehicle for lifting and transporting a filled trash container to a remote site for pickup is disclosed. The lifting device includes a supporting frame which is attached to the motor vehicle, such as a pickup truck, without tools or attaching hardware. The supporting frame is mechanically coupled to an articulating frame for engaging a trash container on the ground surface and lifting it with a manual lever to a raised position for transport by the vehicle. A plurality of extension springs extend between the supporting frame and the articulating frame to provide the user with a mechanical advantage in lifting a loaded container which would otherwise be an unmanageable task for a single individual. The lifting device is adaptable to trash containers of various sizes and configurations with minor modifications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Inventor: Robert L. Cummins
  • Patent number: 6006972
    Abstract: A device for attaching baby bottles to strollers or car seats having constraining bars. The device contains a holding mechanism for attaching the device to a stroller or car seat; an angular stem leading away from the holding mechanism; a hollow cylinder attached to the angular stem, the cylinder containing a connector held in place near the stem, a circular cap at the end away from the stem, and a coil spring connecting the connector and the cap; a bottle holder attached to the cap; and an adjustable strap connected to the bottle holder. The angular stem is adjustable relative to the constraining bar. Also, the coil spring allows the bottle holder to swivel around the cylinder so that when the bottle is in use, it may easily be held with the nipple at a downward angle and when not in use, it automatically positions the nipple at an upward angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Inventor: James G. O'Neill
  • 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: 5979724
    Abstract: A universal mounting apparatus to hold personal devices such as cellular telephones, walkie talkies, etc., by attaching onto a vehicle grill vent in the vehicle dashboard. This apparatus is not configured to any particular year or model of automobile or other vehicle, but is adaptable in several different ways so as to provide different attachment configurations. It is attachable without tools to most automobiles by use of two cable tie-like straps. One end of each strap hooks around a rib in the vent grill and the other end extends through a member which is held against a bracket, the feet of which bear against the dashboard immediately surrounding the vent grill. This allows the apparatus to conform to different sizes and shapes of vent grills while maintaining a firm connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: Command Audio Corporation
    Inventors: William J. Loewenthal, Jr., Robert B. Brownell, Andrew L. Johnston
  • Patent number: 5975594
    Abstract: A vehicle glove box door latch assembly includes a housing with a central opening formed therein and a latch handle positioned substantially within the central opening. The latch handle is operative to actuate unlatching of the latch assembly. A utility hook is positioned substantially within the central opening and pivotally connected to the housing for pivotal movement between a stowed position within the central opening and a use position extended from the central opening. The utility hook is pivotable independently of the latch handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: NYX, Inc.
    Inventors: Chain Sandhu, Hugo Magi
  • Patent number: 5947359
    Abstract: A device for holding a portable telephone including a body element suitable for being attached to a desired position in a vehicle compartment, a holder element pivotally hinged to an end of the body element and having a longitudinal telephone holding surface on which a portable telephone is placed, a pair of holding elements attached to the holder element and urged to mutually spaced positions by a first spring exhibiting a first resilient force, so as to be moved toward a position pinching the portable telephone, and a pair of slidable members attached to the body element and urged toward a mutually approached position by a second spring exhibiting a second resilient force stronger than the first resilient force of the first spring, the pair of holding elements and the pair of slidable elements being engaged by engaging projections formed in the holding elements and having inclined side faces acting as an actuator to actuate either the movement of only the holding elements or both of the holding and slidable
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: Kojima Press Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Norio Yoshie
  • Patent number: 5944240
    Abstract: A cup holder of the invention includes a slider slidably situated in a housing, an arm pivotally attached to a lower side of the slider so that when the slider is pulled from the housing into a using position, a front portion of the arm descends, a supporting member pivotally attached to the front portion of the arm, at least one holding arm rotatably attached to the slider, and a link mechanism. The holding arm has a holding portion laterally rotated to form an inserting portion between the holding portion and the slider when the slider is moved to the using position, and a first pressing portion for rotating the holding portion in a direction away from the slider when the first pressing portion is pressed. The link mechanism is rotatably attached to the arm and has a second pressing portion in a rear portion. The second pressing portion moves forward along a movement of the slider to press the first pressing portion to force the holding portion to rotate in the direction away from the slider.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Assignee: Nifco Inc.
    Inventor: Hisayoshi Honma
  • Patent number: 5941488
    Abstract: A monitor support system with self-positioning guide track that includes a base configured for mounting in the interior of a land vehicle, and a monitor support member positioned for sliding motion through a bore in the base. The monitor support member supports a monitor, and may be moved between a stowed position wherein a supported monitor is positioned adjacent the base for storage and a deployed position wherein a supported monitor is positioned away from the base for use by a vehicle occupant. The monitor support member may include a longitudinal guideway and the base may include a guideway positioning element that engages the guideway to guide sliding longitudinal movement of the monitor support member along a desired trajectory between the stowed and deployed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Assignee: Rosen Product Development, Inc.
    Inventor: John B. Rosen