Article Carrier Secured To Vehicle By Flaccid Securing Means Patents (Class 224/572)
  • Patent number: 6186321
    Abstract: The compact disk carrying case includes, in one embodiment, an outer enclosure which is defined by two clam-shell members. Each clam-shell member has an interfacing edge which mates with the corresponding interfacing edge on the other clam-shell member. A mechanism is provided, such as a zipper, for closing the interfacing edges thereby forming a closeable outer enclosure within which is captured a plurality of compact disks. The clam-shell members are hinged together along a portion of each respective interfacing edge. The carrying case includes a plurality of compact disk carrying plates which are grouped together into n pairs of plates by n hinges. Each hinge has a progressively increasing span distance between the respective connected plates. Accordingly, these hinges establish at least a minimum and a maximum span distance between the respective connected plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Inventor: Ezra D. Eskandry
  • Patent number: 6158640
    Abstract: A low cost shopping cart attachment having an indicia display area along with a shopping list, coupon, circular holder. The shopping cart attachment is intended to removably attach onto a shopping cart handle facing a shopper that is pushing on the handle of the shopping cart so that the indicia display area and the papers releasably retained in the shopping list, coupon, circular holder are easily viewed by the shopper. The indicia area is designed to hold advertising which is preferably changed periodically to enhance the sale of a product or promotional items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Assignee: Hands-On-Media L.L.C.
    Inventors: Geoffrey H. Karp, Jason Karp
  • 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: 6112966
    Abstract: A container for holding snacks which is attachable to and detachable from a stroller is provided. The snack container includes a fabric lined basket. The basket includes side walls and front and back walls, with the front and back walls being lower than the side walls to facilitate snack access and retrieval. A set of fastener strips, preferably hook and loop fastener strips lined with ribbon, is attached to the basket such that the snack container is detachably mountable onto a member, such as the cross bar of a stroller. The snack container also includes a nonslidable cork base such that when the snack container is attached onto the member, the base inhibits sliding between the snack container and the member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventor: Mary E. Fellows
  • Patent number: 6109492
    Abstract: A tray assembly for supporting a bundle of keys dangling from a vehicle ignition switch includes a substantially planar tray member having a pair of side walls vertically extending from its upper surface. The top edge of each side wall includes an arcuate indention configured to interengage a lower portion of the vehicle steering column. A separable strap is mounted to each side wall immediately beneath the indention for securing the tray member to the steering column. When mounted, a portion of the tray member is immediately beneath the ignition switch allowing the keys to rest thereon to minimize damage to the ignition switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Inventor: Karen M. Eastwood
  • Patent number: 6105839
    Abstract: The present invention provides a personal oxygen system carrier comprising a first frame member having a pair of horizontal support members connected across a pair of vertical support members, a second frame member having a pair of horizontal support members connected across a pair of vertical support members, an upper set of struts having first and second ends rotatably connected at each end to the first and second frame members, respectively, a lower set of struts having first and second ends rotatably connected at each end to the first and second frame members, respectively, and straps for attaching the carrier to the vehicle seatback. The carrier may also be outfitted with a base member adjacent to the lower set of struts and additional support strut members to reinforce the carrier. Retention straps are also provided for securing the oxygen system within the carrier when in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Inventor: Carolyn Bell
  • Patent number: 6105842
    Abstract: A storage bag for a pickup truck provides a convenient way for people to use the bed of their pickup truck to store possessions. The storage bag is in the shape of the truck bed. The bag is preferably lightweight and waterproof. The bag is constructed from one piece of nylon to help eliminate seams, which aids in weatherproofing. A zipper extends around the top surface of the bag to aid in the opening, closing, and packing of the bag. There is also a zippered flap on the end so that cargo can be stored or retrieved by opening the hinged gate of the truck bed. The bag optionally has waterproof pockets for smaller items. Grommets are provided on an upper surface of the bag for securing the bag to the truck with rope, bungee cords, or the like. The storage bag stands alone and retains its shape without the aid of the truck. When the storage bag is empty, it is easily collapsed and folded for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Inventor: James F. Cesare
  • Patent number: 6098860
    Abstract: A cup holding device includes a main beverage container holding member, conformed to hold large heavy drinking cups, two support straps are connected to one side of the main cup holding member, one strap is connected at the top of the main cup holding member and the other strap is connected at the bottom of the main cup holding member, directly below the first strap. A hook member attached to the free end of each strap hold the main cup holding member in an upright position against a motor vehicles dash. These support straps are adjustable in length to allow for the several different makes and models of motor vehicles on the road today.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Inventor: David X-ace Phillips
  • Patent number: 6097448
    Abstract: A carrier for mounting audiovisual equipment in a passenger vehicle between two passenger seats. The carrier comprises a harness substantially encircling the audiovisual equipment, straps projecting from the harness, for engaging the seats, and a flexible, transparent cushion disposed over the screen of the audiovisual equipment. Preferably, four straps are provided, two on the right side of the harness and two on the left side thereof. One strap on each side is located at a high position on the harness, and one on a low position, so that the carrier is substantially prevented from inclining responsive to vehicle motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Inventor: Walter T. Perkins
  • Patent number: 6032841
    Abstract: A holder includes a holder body formed of flexible, resilient sheet material having tabs at its opposite edges. The holder body is formed of a non-skid, high-friction material such as rubber. In use, the holder body is wrapped about the article to be carried, such as a fluid-containing bottle, and carrier, such as a bicycle frame, forming an enclosure therefor. The tabs are secured to one another by Velcro.RTM.-type fasteners. By stretching the holder body about the article and the carrier, the article and carrier are releasably firmly secured to one another without slippage relative to one another or to the holder body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Inventor: Robert C. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6029841
    Abstract: A new waste container attachment for mounting to the handle of a lawnmower. The inventive device includes a frame having a top portion and a bottom portion. The top portion of the frame defines a top opening. The bottom portion of the frame has a pair of spaced apart elongate side rails and a cross rail extending between the side rails. Each of the side rails is coupled to the top portion. A container member has a base and a perimeter side wall extending around the base. The perimeter side wall defines an upper opening into the container member. The container member is insertable through the top opening of the top portion of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventors: William A. G. Fotherby, John K. Summerhill
  • Patent number: 6026833
    Abstract: Pockets for use on a crutch consisting of a front panel and a back panel secured to one another along three sides, leaving an open end. Alternatively, the pocket has at least one side panel positioned between the front and back panels. The back panel preferably has a length greater than the length of the front panel and the width of the side panel to form a closure flap. The pocket securing portion is affixed to one end of the back panel proximate the open end and secured to the crutch at the horizontal top rail by eye hooks. A retaining strap proximate the closed end secures the pocket to the side rails. In another embodiment for use on the lower portion of the crutch, the back panel has a length at least twice the length of the front panel and is folded upon itself to form a U-shape. A channel is secured to the crook of the U-shape to form a channel to receive a retaining bolt secured to the side rails. A secondary layer is affixed to a second leg of said U-shape to form a second pocket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Inventor: Cynthia Conte
  • 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: 6003926
    Abstract: A stowing aid for the interior of motor vehicles. The stowing aid includes a retaining plate which is connected with elastic elements, usually in the form of cables, near the periphery of the retaining plate. The elastic elements are also connected to a fastening element attachable in the interior of the motor vehicle so that the elastic elements pull the retaining plate toward the fastening element. The fastening element is provided with a recess for receiving the retaining plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: Peter Butz GmbH & Co. Verwaltungs-KG
    Inventor: Lucas Labeur
  • Patent number: 5971243
    Abstract: A storage pocket for an inflatable towable vehicle that includes an inflatable member and a protective outer shell. The storage pocket includes a flexible panel attached to the outer shell by sewing or other suitable methods. The flexible panel comprises a continuous solid lower portion and an open weave net upper portion that allows ventilation of the storage compartment to prevent mildew of items stored. Indicia on the lower portion may include warnings and water safety information. Attachment of the storage pocket to the outer shell conserves valuable interior space in the towable vehicle and does not interfere with passenger comfort.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: Sportsstuff, Inc.
    Inventor: Leroy L. Peterson
  • Patent number: 5947354
    Abstract: An inflatable roof carrier comprises a flexible member (10) having a pair of inflatable tubular portions (11) arranged on opposite sides of a central strip (12). Straps (16, 17) are connected to flaps (14, 15) at opposite ends of the flexible member (10). The load carrier is placed on the vehicle roof, and the straps (16, 17) are drawn around the opposite sides of the roof and into the vehicle. The free ends of straps (16, 17) are provided with mating connectors (19, 20) enabling the straps to be joined under the roof within the vehicle. The flaps (14, 15) are captured between the car doors and the vehicle roof when the doors are closed. The inflatable load carrier can be furled into compact form and stowed in the glovebox when not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: Bradley Stewart Fraser
    Inventor: Patrick Yelverton Williams
  • Patent number: 5887773
    Abstract: A motor vehicle window visor attachment that when affixed to visors will provide operators of vehicle with a handy place to store and log personal information pertinent to operator and geographic area where vehicle is most generally operated. A plastic pouch for storage of important papers, a writing instrument, advertising, a map, and an area on attachment that erasable notes may be written.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1999
    Inventor: Matthew D. Booth
  • Patent number: 5881877
    Abstract: A container for safety equipment includes a plurality of divided compartments and a hinged top cover. One compartment is arranged for snugly holding a pair of safety goggles. Another compartment is arranged for snugly holding a stack of breathing masks. A third compartment is arranged for holding a supply of ear plugs. The back of the container includes a set of screw holes, a hook-and-loop fastener, and a set of strap anchors. The container can be screwed to a fixed location by using the screw holes, or it can be releasably mounted to any desired location with the hook-and-loop fastener. The container can also be fixedly mounted on a tool, such as the handle of a lawn mower, with straps passed around the strap anchors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Inventor: Darrell D. Adams
  • Patent number: 5868294
    Abstract: A vehicle utility receptacle adapted to be mounted in a vehicle adjacent the side of a vehicle seat. The receptacle has an upward opening container with side walls and a bottom portion that joins the side walls. The receptacle also has upper and lower container-to-seat mounting assemblies attached to the container and suitable for attachment to a vehicle seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1999
    Inventor: Mary Lou Webster
  • Patent number: 5865502
    Abstract: A steering wheel lock bar can be stored in a holder mounted on a rear face of a vehicle passenger seat back. The holder preferably includes an elongated cloth pocket acutely angled to a vertical midplane taken through the seat back, so that an elongated steering wheel lock bar can be manipulated into or out of the pocket without striking the vehicle roof. The driver of the vehicle can reach the storage pocket without leaving the driver seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Inventors: Lawrence J. Ayers, Robert A. Collins, Jr., Geremy M. Ayers
  • Patent number: 5833101
    Abstract: A mount for use in an automobile to support a camera for recording images during operation of the automobile. The camera mount comprises an elongate member extending between and rigidly connected to the headrest supports in the seat of the car. A camera mounts to a pivotable support connected to the member with bolts extending through an elongate slot, whereby the camera is selectively positioned along the member. The elongate member connects to the headrest supports with j-bolts that are received through a pair of second slots in the elongate member. The j-bolts extend around the headrest supports and a nut threaded on the j-bolt secures the member to the headrest supports. An alternate embodiment is disclosed for vehicles which do not have separate headrest supports. A method of mounting a camera in an automobile is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Inventor: D. Scott Watkins
  • Patent number: 5829656
    Abstract: A vehicular mounting apparatus (10) for mounting articles (16, 18, 20, 25, 22) to an elongate frame member (14) of a bicycle (12) has an elongate, resilient, tubular padding member (30) with a split (32) to laterally wrap around the frame member (14) and a flexible, protective base member (34) coextensively wrapped around and secured by a pair of opposed mating connectors (44, 46), the padding member (30) and a plurality of flexible fastening straps (24) adjustably carried by loops (38) to releasably mount these articles of different sizes and shapes to the base member (34), and a handle (40) for use as a manual carrying apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Inventors: Daniel J. Reitz, Mary C. Reitz, Harry J. Reitz
  • Patent number: 5826717
    Abstract: The compact disk carrying case includes, in one embodiment, an outer enclosure which is defined by two clam-shell members. Each clam-shell member has an interfacing edge which mates with the corresponding interfacing edge on the other clam-shell member. A mechanism is provided, such as a zipper, for closing the interfacing edges thereby forming a closeable outer enclosure within which is captured a plurality of compact disks. The clam-shell members are hinged together along a portion of each respective interfacing edge. The carrying case includes a plurality of compact disk carrying plates which are grouped together into n end pairs of plates by n hinges. Each hinge has a progressively increasing span distance between the respective connected plates. Accordingly, these hinges establish minimum, a plurality of intermediate and a maximum span distance between the respective connected plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1998
    Inventor: Ezra D. Eskandry
  • Patent number: 5803324
    Abstract: A lightweight stowable carrier for a tire of an automotive vehicle such as a truck or trailer comprises a plurality of straps, preferably formed of woven webbing. In a first embodiment, one set of straps has ratchet buckles for securing the tire to the carrier in encircling relationship. Another set of load-bearing straps is provided with cam buckles for length adjustment and hooks for securement to the underbody of a vehicle. All of the straps cross one another and are stitched at a common centerpoint. In a second embodiment, three separate straps are attached to the tire at points spaced around its circumference. Hooks attached to first ends of the straps are passed around the tire and through coupling links attached to opposite ends to form choker loops around the tire. Two of the straps are of fixed length and the third strap is adjustable in length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Inventors: Scott A. Silberman, John E. Male, John W. Helms
  • Patent number: 5803325
    Abstract: A multifunctional article holder adapted to rest between the two front seats of a car. The holder includes a main body and an independent mobile phone bag. The main body includes a facial tissue box container and a garbage collection bag associated with the container. The mobile phone is disposed with an article bag associated therewith. The mobile phone bag is detachably attached to the facial tissue box container by fastening belts. A cover flap is connected to one side of an upper opening of both the facial tissue box container and the garbage collection bag, so that the cover flap covers the openings. Two latch clips and extensible belts are disposed on outer sides of the container. A water collection cup is disposed on each extensible belt, whereby a handle of an umbrella can be held in the latch clip with a tip of the umbrella placed in the water collection cup to collect rain water. The latch clips also serve to hold other items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Inventor: Hsu-Yi Wang
  • Patent number: 5768733
    Abstract: A ramp assembly for spanning between a first lower surface and a second relatively elevated upper surface defined by a structure has an elongated runner that is supported in an inclined orientation, wherein the runner extends between the upper and lowers surfaces at an angle relative to the lower surface, by a support member attached to the runner and having a first portion thereof configured for engaging the upper surface. The assembly further includes an adjustable retainer for releasably securing the plank in its oblique orientation, wherein the retainer is connectable between the runner and the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Assignee: Easy-Up Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Ken L. Kneebone
  • Patent number: 5762246
    Abstract: The compact disc storage device of the present invention provides maximum storage capacity of compact discs while being interconnected to a visor, e.g. a sun-visor in an automobile. The invention allows the storage device to be temporarily pivoted on the sun-visor, for example, to expose a vanity mirror located on the sun-visor, without requiring the disconnection of the storage device from the sun-visor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Assignee: Case Logic, Inc.
    Inventor: Terrence Martin Drew
  • Patent number: 5752640
    Abstract: A collapsible carrier for transporting a bicycle on the rear or front bumper of a vehicle, which consists primarily of three soft, flexible straps with buckles holding the bicycle under tension at an angle away from the vehicle while the tires rest in the internal angle formed by the junction of the exterior wall of the trunk or hood and the top surface of the bumper. Two upper straps of the carrier are at a first end looped through themselves to the handle bar stem and to the seat post of the bicycle. The two upper straps are then crossed near their mid-point to form an X and at a second end looped to the upper corners of the trunk or hood lid. A third strap of the carrier is at a first end looped through itself to the seat post of the bicycle and at a second end vertically attached to the underside of the bumper of the vehicle by way of a hook. The straps are adjusted and tightened by way of locking adjustable buckles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Inventor: Ronald E. Proulx
  • Patent number: 5746364
    Abstract: A gas can carrier that attaches to the back of snow machines and off road vehicles. The carrier has an inner foam core that is covered with heavy duty pack cloth. A number of pockets are supplied for convenience. The top center portion of the carrier is hollowed out forming a recessed area to receive a spare gas can. An expandable pocket is also formed in the recess so that if no gas can is being carried, items can be kept within this central pocket. To hold the carrier on a snow machine or other vehicle, a set of straps is provided that loop around the vehicle's bumpers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Inventor: Jon D. Stengrim
  • Patent number: 5743650
    Abstract: A collection bag and its associated tubing are supported below the seat of a wheelchair or the like with the collection bag disposed substantially horizontally and below its associated inlet tubing. A separate pocket holds the inlet tubing coiled above the bag so that fluids may drain by gravity through the tubing into the collection bag. The suspension apparatus comprises a main pocket attached to the seat frame of a chair or the like using a plurality of strap and a secondary pocket supporting the tubing coil above the main pocket. The collection bag and tubing are thus substantially concealed from view and the inlet tubing maintained in a coiled position above the collection bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1998
    Inventors: Sandra G. Shannon, Janie L. Hulme
  • Patent number: 5738259
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for carrying one or more bicycles on a motor vehicle and a strap for securing the carrier to the motor vehicle. The strap includes a stretchable and contractible resilient web that is connected intermediate the ends of the strap. A loop is formed in the strap when the strap is not tightened. The web is stretched by tightening and serves to maintain tension in the strap. When tightened, adjacent surfaces of that portion of the strap forming the loop and the web are in close juxtaposition. Separation between adjacent surfaces of the resilient web and the portion of the strap that forms the loop, provides a visual indication of the degree of strap tension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventor: Alexander R. Allen
  • Patent number: 5738262
    Abstract: A flexible and foldable storage unit is attached to a rear portion of a vehicle, with a strap assembly to provide for a strong attachment. This strap assembly can be easily secured to or removed from a vehicle, especially a mini-van.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventor: Jeffrey L. Andrini
  • Patent number: 5730346
    Abstract: A strap assembly is provided for securing an object adjacent to a vehicle. The strap assembly includes an elongated strap of predetermined length. An anchor is attached to the strap at a location along its length. The anchor is shaped to be captured by panels of a vehicle so that opposed ends of the strap extend outwardly from the vehicle. A fastener is connected to one of the opposed ends of the strap and is adapted for connecting the ends to secure one or more objects. A bracket is preferably provided so that the strap assembly can be used to secure objects adjacent to a structure. In a preferred embodiment, the strap assembly and bracket are provided in the form of a kit so that the strap assembly can be used to secure objects adjacent to a vehicle or adjacent to a structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1998
    Assignee: It's A Cinch, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert R. Adams, Robert D. Hellyer
  • Patent number: 5702039
    Abstract: A utility belt attachable to the two sides of a stroller in front of the occupant includes a plurality of tethers adapted to retain various objects relating to entertaining infants and small children. A traverse strap is suspended from two circular stroller frame members using Velcro hook-and-loop attachment to permit adjustment to various sized strollers. A plurality of object-holding tethers are fastened at a first end to the traverse strap. Each tether has a free end which is adapted to secure an item thereto such that toys, pacifiers, bottles, and the like. These items are thus secured to the stroller. A tether permanently attached to the traverse strap is provided with a ring which is sized to fit onto the neck of a feeding bottle and secure to the bottle when the lid is tightened onto the neck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Assignee: Junior Products Inc.
    Inventor: James Olaiz
  • Patent number: 5676290
    Abstract: An umbrella rack for motor vehicles, including a casing defining a chamber and having a plurality of top holes in communication with the chamber, a plurality of telescopic sockets respectively mounted in the top holes of the casing for holding an umbrella respectively, a sliding water tray mounted in the chamber of the casing for collecting water from the umbrellas being mounted in the top holes of the casing, and a mounting device adapted for securing the casing to the backrest of a vehicle chair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Inventor: Chang-Lin Liu
  • Patent number: 5676284
    Abstract: A portable garment hanger device for suspension from a vehicle window. The device has a generally elongated, flexible strap. A retainer element is attached on one end of the flexible strap and a hanger receiving member is attached to the opposite end. The hanger receiving member has a body with first and second flat sides. A rigid hook extends from the base of the hanger receiving member outwardly to one side. The sides of the hanger receiving member are flat and somewhat larger than necessary so that an advertising message can be printed on either side. The flexible strap is drapable across the upper edge of a retractable automobile window with the retainer outside the window and the hanger receiving member in the passenger compartment. The raised window holds the flexible strap against the window frame to secure the device in place. In another preferred embodiment, the retainer element and the body of the hanger receiving means have complementary latching elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Inventor: Gene B. Schenberg
  • Patent number: 5645204
    Abstract: An easily portable, easily attachable, light-weight, encased entertainment unit, adapted for mounting onto moving vehicles. The encasement box of the entertainment unit is equipped to fit onto corresponding modes of attachment which are secured on vehicle, and which are designed to receive the encasement box, and therefore cooperate with the mounting of the entertainment unit.The entertainment unit consists of one of the following, or a combination of some: television, radio, cassette player, c.d. player, v.c.r., and any other electronic equipment deemed suitable for the nature of this invention. The encasement box of the entertainment unit is designed with--a carved out portion, semi-circular, meant to fit over tubular clips fastened to place of attachment via screws and nuts--square protrusions, which fit into square rings which hang from straps which are secured to other square rings which are fastened onto place of attachment via the curved extensions, screws, and nuts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1997
    Inventor: Cheryl Renee Struzer
  • Patent number: 5642749
    Abstract: A pouch/clutch for releasable attachment to a crutch between the arm pad and handle. The clutch is releasably attachable to the crutch for use independent of the crutch. A lower flap extends from the bottom of the clutch to hold magazines or the like upon engagement of first and second fasteners found on the lower flap. A pocket on the exterior of the clutch allows for storage of smaller items therein. The placement of the clutch between the arm pad and handle further positions the clutch between the arm and torso of the user so as to diminish third person access thereto and thus enhance security. The releasable attachment of the clutch to the crutch enables the user to easily access the clutch independent of the crutch. Such access precludes the need to manipulate the crutch for access to the associated clutch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 1, 1997
    Inventor: Joyce F. Perryman
  • Patent number: 5620127
    Abstract: A portable garment carrier with a handle portion and a garment holder portion which are connected by a central hook attachment that attaches to the garment hook on the interior of a vehicle. The handle portion folds down over the central hook attachment when it is suspended from a car hook. The garment carrier is fabricated from flexible material. The garment carrier can also be made from rigid material with a hinge mechanism to allow the handle portion to fold during use or for more convenient storage. An optional gap in the handle allows the handle to be suspended from a closet clothing rack. Alternate embodiments allow written information such as advertising messages to be displayed on the central hook attachment, folding handle grips which provide more comfortable handling, and specialized handles which can also be used to suspend the garments in a closets. The device may be fabricated as a disposable or reusable unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 15, 1997
    Inventor: Robert MacKenzie
  • Patent number: 5607093
    Abstract: A carrier device for supporting and securing different objects to a luggage rack of a vehicle or directly to the roof of a vehicle which does not have a luggage rack. The device includes a carrier fabric on which one side is covered along its length with loops and one half with barbs. The fabric is formed with cushioned straps on one half opposite either the hooks or barbs. The fabric may be placed onto a luggage rack bar across the width of a vehicle, and skis, fishing poles or the like can be secured by the straps to the support carrier. Alternatively, the carrier device may be secured directly to a vehicle roof which does not have a luggage rack. To this end, the carrier device is wrapped around a filler member and end straps with hooks thereon are provided and designed to connect to a vehicle gutter or other part of the vehicle body such as the lip of the roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 4, 1997
    Inventor: William F. Geier
  • Patent number: 5605112
    Abstract: A durable gear bag designed for use in white water rafts and other small water craft. Heavy weight polypropylene webbing is sewn along the bottom of the bag. D-rings are attached to extensions of the webbing. The bag is then attached to the D-rings of a raft using common boat straps. The bag/strap configuration permits many different strapping arrangements for use in a variety of water craft. The top of the bag is fitted with strips of common hook and loop fasteners (such as VELCRO). These strips are sealed and rolled down snugly. Three snap release connectors are then used to secure the top of the bag. When not in use, the bag can be folded or stuffed for easy packing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1997
    Inventor: Michelle Schuman
  • Patent number: 5598956
    Abstract: A portable garment hanger device for suspension from a vehicle window. The device has a generally elongated, flexible strap. A retainer element is attached on one end of the flexible strap and a hanger receiving member is attached to the opposite end. The hanger receiving member has a body with first and second flat sides. A rigid hook extends from the base of the hanger receiving member outwardly to one side. The sides of the hanger receiving member are flat and somewhat larger than necessary so that an advertising message can be printed on either side. The flexible strap is drapable across the upper edge of a retractable automobile window with the retainer outside the window and the hanger receiving member in the passenger compartment. The raised window holds the flexible strap against the window frame to secure the device in place. In another preferred embodiment, the retainer element and the body of the hanger receiver have complementary latching elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1997
    Inventor: Gene B. Schenberg
  • Patent number: 5556015
    Abstract: Disclosed is a generally elongated container of stiff, durable material, preferably hard molded plastic, adapted to store within the interior thereof relatively large and bulky personal items such as skis, snowboards, bicycles, golf clubs and the like. Located on one surface of the container are a multiplicity of spaced mounting assemblies each of which is manually activatable between a first inactive condition where it is recessed into the wall of the container, and an active condition where the mounting assembly is extended along an axis orthogonal to the sidewall of the container. Each mounting assembly, in turn, comprises an extensible support rod terminating in a foot pad of relatively soft durable material for engaging the surface of a vehicle roof with the rod being connected to the foot pad via a universal pivotal joint or connection so that each foot pad may swivel separately relative to its corresponding rod and conform to the convex curvature of the vehicle roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1996
    Inventor: Robert C. Vincent
  • Patent number: 5544745
    Abstract: A case for transmitting audible and written messages, the case comprising end panels, a bottom panel, contrapositioned walls defining a rear wall adjacently positioned to the rail of a bed and a front wall affixed together to form an open container in which written messages may be cataloged. The rear wall includes a flap which extends over the rail of a bed, holding the case thereto. Affixed to an exterior portion of the front wall are a plurality of cassette pockets for holding audio cassettes and a detachable recorder pocket, holding an audio cassette recorder, for receiving and sending messages. Attachable to the arm of a wheel chair, the detachable recorder pocket includes straps having hook and loop type fastener. Messages are recorded and then reserved in the cassette pockets which are designated by name tags.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1996
    Assignee: Judith R. Famorca
    Inventor: Judith R. Famorca
  • Patent number: 5513789
    Abstract: Reflective fabrics are used extensively throughout strong, expandable, selectively and resiliently restrained, fabric accessories for removable securement to crutches and walkers, to provide expandable carrying volumes for personal use items and shopping items, while at the same time presenting the reflective fabric portions to be readily observed, especially by operators of vehicles. In this Divisional Application, the claims are directed to providing a pocket accessory for walkers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 7, 1996
    Inventors: Robert D. Woods, Sandra E. Radcliffe
  • Patent number: 5511710
    Abstract: Reflective fabrics are used extensively throughout strong, expandable, selectively and resiliently restrained, fabric accessories for removable securement to crutches and walkers, to provide expandable carrying volumes for personal use items and shopping items, while at the same time presenting the reflective fabric portions to be readily observed, especially by operators of vehicles. In this Divisional Application, the claims are directed to providing a pocket accessory for crutches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1996
    Inventors: Robert D. Woods, Sandra E. Radcliffe
  • Patent number: 5465884
    Abstract: A carrying pack for a crutch and a method for using the pack are provided. The carrying pack has plural side walls and a bottom wall that are integrally coupled together about a cavity. Flaps extend from a back side wall for location about crutch arms. The flaps have apertures extending therethrough that accept the shaft of a crutch hand grip bolt therethrough. The hand grip bolt secures the flaps to the crutch arms, securing the pack to the crutch. Straps also extend from the back side wall. The straps may be cinched about the crutch to stabilize the pack on the crutch. Inner and outer pockets are provided in the carrying pack for further storage space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 14, 1995
    Inventors: Eric E. Bohl, Brent Hale, Tim Parker