Exterior Patents (Class 280/762)
  • Publication number: 20080122211
    Abstract: In a handrail of which both ends are stably fixed at a side surface of heavy construction equipment such as an excavator, etc., a foldable handrail of heavy construction equipment is disclosed, which comprises a first section part of which one end is fixed at a front end of the side surface; a second section part of which one end is upright and fixed at an upper surface of the side surface; and a third section part of which both ends are foldable with respect to the other end of each of the first and second section parts. With the above constructions, it is possible to significantly reduce vibrations and loads transferred to the handrail for thereby enhancing durability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2007
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Inventor: Hyun Seok Kang
  • Patent number: 7296776
    Abstract: A method for stabilizing a roof-resting vehicle includes the steps of leaning one or more buttress stands against a rear fender area of the vehicle, passing a chain under a rear end of the vehicle from one of the buttress stands to another, tightening the slack from the chain by pulling chain-grab end fittings towards the fenders at the vehicle undercarriage, using a ratchet strap, restraining the chain from sliding off the rear end of the vehicle by attaching a ratchet strap to the chain near a trunk lid of the vehicle, and passing the chain up to the vehicle undercarriage in front of a wheel assembly of the vehicle, attaching a ratchet strap at a base of the one or more buttress stands and tightening, and placing wedges in front of the opposite end of the vehicle, such that the vehicle is stabilized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: Res-Q-Jack, Inc.
    Inventor: Cris E. Pasto
  • Patent number: 7290799
    Abstract: “DISPOSITION INTRODUCED TO HYDROPNEUMATIC JACK”, according to description of the report and the annexed illustrations, it is about a new disposition for a hydropneumatic device that is used to lift and support hauler and semi-haulers, whereby the device was designed to offer more operational easiness to the driver through the increase of speed, as well as the durability of the set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Inventor: Vitor Hugo Duarte Santos
  • Patent number: 7237803
    Abstract: A drag wheel and mount attachable to the angular skid bracket engaged on the rear of a motor vehicle such as a trailer or motorhome without removing or otherwise altering the angular skid bracket. The device features a roller rotationally engaged on the distal end of a mount. The mount is adapted to attach to the angular skid bracket in a compressible engagement without altering or drilling the skid bracket or detaching it from the vehicle. The roller projects past the lower surface of the angular skid bracket on two sidewalls and contacts the road surface in the event the vehicle tilts sufficiently to cause the skid bracket to strike the road.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Inventor: Tony Van Nguyen
  • Patent number: 7198295
    Abstract: A retaining arrangement, including a support arm is proposed, by means of which an operating unit is connected with a vehicle. The retaining arrangement includes a safety device which operates such that, as long as a predetermined condition is not fulfilled, the connection of the operating unit with the vehicle is maintained. The operating unit is connected with the support arm in such a way that the operating unit can pivot with respect to the support arm about at least one axis provided with at least one vertical component that is arranged in a generally central region of the operating unit, when the safety device frees the connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Stephane Biziorek, Lionel Guiet
  • Patent number: 7182163
    Abstract: The invention contemplates a selectably operable hydraulic means for laterally shifting one end of a non-moving vehicle in order to provide a desired alignment. The present invention is particularly applicable to vehicle-mounted equipment which has an invariant lateral mounting position on the vehicle and which must be laterally aligned with a stationary workpiece axis. An example of such a need occurs with mobile workover rigs used in well maintenance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Inventor: Tommie Carroll Gipson
  • Patent number: 7168721
    Abstract: A vehicle step tube comprising a one-piece elongated extrusion having a plurality of vertical ribs extending from the upper surface. The ribs are relatively short in a step portion of the extrusion to form a step platform. The ribs are relatively tall in the non-step portions flanking the step portion. The ribs define transverse recesses in the step portion to enhance traction and aesthetics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Steffens Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Craig C. Mulder
  • Patent number: 7168906
    Abstract: A police-car vehicle restraint has a pair of lift hooks with lift arms (7) having rigid hooks (5) outwardly from flat spring sections (50) which are attached pivotally to front ends of a chassis of a police car (10) for being pivoted selectively or simultaneously intermediate proximate verticality and horizontality. Swivel pads (22) can be positioned on the rigid hooks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Inventor: Syd Weatherford
  • Patent number: 7000563
    Abstract: An indicator device for alerting the driver of a pickup truck to the orientation of the tailgate includes a housing assembly and an indicator assembly carried by and extending from the housing assembly. The housing assembly is attached to the tailgate of the pickup truck in a position that causes at least a portion of the indicator assembly to extend from the side of the truck so that the driver can see the extending portion in the side view mirror of the truck. Viewing the position of the indicator assembly allows the driver of the truck to ascertain the position of the tailgate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Inventor: Raymond L. Hensel
  • Patent number: 6930878
    Abstract: A computer-equipped mobility device for transporting an occupant of the device over a distance and for providing access to a network comprises a personal mobility device, a computer, and a user input device. The computer is coupled to the personal mobility device and is configured to link to the network as well as to engage in two-way communication with the network. The user input device is coupled to the personal mobility device. The user input device is also linked to the computer and capable of at least partially controlling the operation of the computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: GE Medical Systems Information Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: C. Cameron Brackett, Steven L. Fors, Mark M. Morita
  • Patent number: 6913286
    Abstract: An adjustable carrier for attachment to a vehicle which includes a holding member that has a first arm and a second arm with at least one aperture and at least one hook. The holding member further includes an intermediate base interconnecting the first arm to the second arm and a resilient strap having at least one opening used to restrain an object within or against the holding member. Means for interconnecting the holding member to the vehicle are also encompassed within the scope of the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: Kwik Tek, Inc.
    Inventor: Aaron Foster Kramer
  • Patent number: 6879250
    Abstract: The invention relates to an outside element for a motor vehicle, the element being designed to be fitted to the vehicle, e.g. on its bodywork, and comprising an essentially non-conductive protective screen (3), the element being characterized in that behind said protective screen if further comprises an electrically insulating film having two faces, each of which is covered at least in part in an electrically conductive material. The invention also provides a piece of bodywork provided with such a conductive element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Assignee: Compagnie Plastic Omnium
    Inventors: Arnold Fayt, Olivier Hilmarcher, Sebastien Guyon
  • Publication number: 20040236014
    Abstract: To provide a silicone rubber composition for wiper blades, which, due excellent moldability and ability to closely repeat the shape of the die during extrusion, is suitable for forming wiper blades of complicated shapes; to provide a method of manufacturing the aforementioned composition. A silicone rubber composition for a wiper blade comprising (A), a polydiorganosiloxane, (B) a finely divided, reinforcing silica filler, (C) orthoboric acid or inetaboric acid, (D) a powdered calcium carbonate, (E) an organic peroxide curing agent, and an additive for improving water-repellent properties of a wiper blade made from said composition, comprising one or both of (F) a polyorganosiloxane having a viscosity of 1 to 10000 mPa·s and containing in one molecule at least two silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms and (G) a polydiorganosiloxane having a viscosity of 1 to 10000 mPa·s; a method of manufacturing the aforementioned composition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2003
    Publication date: November 25, 2004
    Inventors: Kenji Ota, Hiroshi Honma
  • Publication number: 20040232773
    Abstract: A visual, rear viewing and rain sensing system for a vehicle comprising a windshield and a button connected to the windshield, with the button having a peripheral body defining an open area in a middle section of the button. The visual, rear viewing and rain sensing system further includes a rain sensor located in the middle section and an interior rearview mirror system connected to the button. The rain sensor is operatively coupled to the windshield independent of the interior rearview mirror system. At least a portion of the rain sensor is no longer operatively coupled to the windshield as the interior rearview mirror system is detached from the button.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2004
    Publication date: November 25, 2004
    Inventors: Brian R. Parker, Brian J. Rees, Wayne J. Rumsey, Timothy S. DeVries, John W. Carter
  • Publication number: 20040197181
    Abstract: Load manipulating mechanism is mounted on a mobile wheel-driven support platform. All driving mechanism, energy source, and needed functional apparatus for mobility and lifting are self contained on the apparatus such that it may be conveniently moved to needed work sites for lifting and materials manipulation. Outriggers extendible from the main support platform and having surface engaging pads provide stability and leveling. Load arms in the mechanism are extendible and retractable between stowed travel and extended operating conditions, and include telescopic sections in a parallelogram arrangement. The load manipulating mechanism functions as load balancer, using a pneumatic control system and counterweight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventor: Curtis C. Clark
  • Patent number: 6764083
    Abstract: A method of converting a vehicle into a utility structure includes the steps of selecting a used vehicle having a vehicle body having seats therein and at least one door and a plurality of wheels. A support stand is selected for attachment to at least one of the wheel studs of the vehicle for supporting the vehicle on a surface and replacing each of the plurality of wheels with a support stand. The process includes attaching the support stands to the vehicle wheel studs and removing one or more seats from the vehicle. The process may also include the step of removing the engine and fuel tank from the vehicle and placing the vehicle wheels in storage in the vehicle body for later use in moving the utility structure by replacing the support stands with the wheels. The support stand has an elongated post having openings therein for fitting over the axle hub and onto the lugs and a flat base for supporting the post on a surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: David J. Bernard
  • Patent number: 6752302
    Abstract: An integrated carrier rack system for motor vehicles. Generally, the system includes a receiving unit, having rear and forward ends, integrated into a rear wall, such as a rear section of a trunk lid, a tailgate of a pickup truck, or a rear door of a van, a side wall, such as a side of a truck bed, a side door, or a side of a trunk lid, or a front wall, such as a front of a bus, a front of a truck, or a front of a motor home. The receiving unit may be positioned such that the rear end is directed toward the outside of the vehicle and forms an engaging structure in the rear, side, or front wall. The system further includes an immobilizing system attached to the receiving unit, a carrier bar engaged to the receiving unit, and various attachment units. The integrated carrier rack system is user friendly and may be applied to any motor vehicle to carry an assortment of items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Inventor: Mark A. Anton
  • Publication number: 20040100082
    Abstract: A computer-equipped mobility device for transporting an occupant of the device over a distance and for providing access to a network comprises a personal mobility device, a computer, and an activation member. The computer is coupled to the personal mobility device and is configured to link to the network as well as to engage in two-way communication with the network. The activation member is coupled to the personal mobility device. The activation member is also linked to the computer and capable of at least partially controlling the operation of the computer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2002
    Publication date: May 27, 2004
    Applicant: GE Medical Systems Information Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: C. Cameron Brackett, Steven L. Fors, Mark M. Morita
  • Publication number: 20040100083
    Abstract: A computer-equipped mobility device for transporting an occupant of the device over a distance and for providing access to a network comprises a personal mobility device, a computer, and a user input device. The computer is coupled to the personal mobility device and is configured to link to the network as well as to engage in two-way communication with the network. The user input device is coupled to the personal mobility device. The user input device is also linked to the computer and capable of at least partially controlling the operation of the computer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2002
    Publication date: May 27, 2004
    Applicant: GE Medical Systems Information Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: C. Cameron Brackett, Steven L. Fors, Mark M. Morita
  • Patent number: 6641160
    Abstract: An adjustable skid to be attached to the frame of a boat trailer just forward of the trailer wheels. Two skids would commonly be used, one for each side of the trailer. The function of the skids is to prevent the wheels of the trailer from rolling over the end of the launching ramp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Inventor: Robert Carl Veal
  • Publication number: 20030201634
    Abstract: An adjustable carrier for attachment to a vehicle which includes a holding member that has a first arm and a second arm with at least one aperture and at least one hook. The holding member further includes an intermediate base interconnecting the first arm to the second arm and a resilient strap having at least one opening used to restrain an object within or against the holding member. Means for interconnecting the holding member to the vehicle are also encompassed within the scope of the invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: Aaron Foster Kramer
  • Publication number: 20030201633
    Abstract: A method of converting a vehicle into a utility structure includes the steps of selecting a used vehicle having a vehicle body having seats therein and at least one door and a plurality of wheels. A support stand is selected for attachment to at least one of the wheel studs of the vehicle for supporting the vehicle on a surface and replacing each of the plurality of wheels with a support stand. The process includes attaching the support stands to the vehicle wheel studs and removing one or more seats from the vehicle. The process may also include the step of removing the engine and fuel tank from the vehicle and placing the vehicle wheels in storage in the vehicle body for later use in moving the utility structure by replacing the support stands with the wheels. The support stand has an elongated post having openings therein for fitting over the axle hub and onto the lugs and a flat base for supporting the post on a surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: David J. Bernard
  • Publication number: 20030189329
    Abstract: A combination hauling truck and lowboy trailer includes a trailer having a separate power unit and one or more powered axles. An additional powered axle can be added to the hauling truck. The lowboy trailer has outrigger assemblies associated with its rear tires. Tires of the outrigger assemblies move between operative positions for load carrying capability, and retracted positions for maintenance of trailer tires.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2002
    Publication date: October 9, 2003
    Inventor: Francis V. Smith
  • Patent number: 6588782
    Abstract: A running board assembly for attachment to a vehicle is provided. The running board assembly includes a running board and a mounting bracket, for mounting the running board. The running board includes an elongated support portion including a support wall portion, which has an inward wall portion and an outward wall portion. An outward shoulder portion is disposed on the outward wall portion. An inward shoulder portion is disposed on the inward wall portion. Multiple cap portions are connected to the outward shoulder portion and the inward shoulder portion of the support portion. The cap portions are spaced from each other along the support portion to define step pad receiving openings. A step pad is connected to the outward shoulder portion and the inward shoulder portion of the support portion. The step pad is disposed in the step pad receiving opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignees: R. W. Coomber 1998, Inc., William L. Bonnell Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Terry Coomber, Brian M. Riede, Larry Newman
  • Publication number: 20030080545
    Abstract: A protective covering to control the spread of contaminants associated with material handling equipment and containers. The protective covering may comprise at least one sheet of a flexible substantially air-tight material that may be adapted to enclose various types of material handling equipment. The protective covering may also include collectors at specific locations so as to attract and collect contaminants raised by material handling equipment while running across a floor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2002
    Publication date: May 1, 2003
    Inventor: Alan Rosenkranz
  • Publication number: 20030080544
    Abstract: A protective covering to control the spread of contaminants associated with material handling equipment. The protective covering may comprise at least one sheet of a flexible substantially air-tight material that may be adapted to enclose various types of material handling equipment. The protective covering may also include collectors at specific locations so as to attract and collect contaminants raised by material handling equipment while running across a floor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2001
    Publication date: May 1, 2003
    Inventor: Alan Rosenkranz
  • Patent number: 6508325
    Abstract: A sensor carrier assembly for supporting one or a plurality of sensors to facilitate mounting the plurality of sensors to the vehicle. The sensors are mounted to a carrier or mounting beam which is then in turn mounted directly to the vehicle. The mounting beam mounts directly to the vehicle and a bumper covers the mounting beam. Alternatively, the sensor mounts externally to a vehicle body part, such as a bumper. Fastening points for attaching the carrier assembly to the vehicle are preferably placed in proximity to the sensors to assist in maintaining proper orientation of the sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Inventors: Paul M. Schwarz, Richard Graham Teal, Robert John Evans
  • Patent number: 6497302
    Abstract: An air bag assembly for use in a vehicle at a location exterior to the passenger compartment. The air bag assembly includes an inflator for discharging inflation gas and a gas receiving expansible air bag cushion disposed in fluid communication with the inflator such that upon release of inflation gas from the inflator, the air bag cushion is deployed across a region immediately below the windshield of the vehicle as well as over the lower portion of the windshield and adjacent frame pillar elements surrounding the windshield. The extent of coverage over the windshield is such that the vehicle operator retains a degree of visibility over the deployed air bag cushion after deployment has taken place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2002
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Shawn Gregory Ryan
  • Patent number: 6477978
    Abstract: A crossing arm assembly that includes either one or two hollow, tapered fishing rod bodies cantilevered at their butt ends to a beam-mounting portion of a combined pivot/bracket. A crosspiece connects the tips of the rods. The combined pivot/bracket pivotally attaches to a support at the front end of a bus to block pedestrian traffic from crossing immediately in front of the bus when the bus is stopped. The rods are tapered in mass and cross-sectional area from their butt ends to their tips. The taper concentrates rod mass closer to the support to reduce the tendency of cantilevered rods to sag under their own weight and/or to swing forward as the bus decelerates. The taper also increases rod flexibility to prevent plastic rod deformation and to reduce loads on the support when external forces are applied to the rods. A flap is pivotally attached to one of the rods to increase beam visibility without adding significant wind resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Assignee: Transpec, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald C. Lamparter
  • Publication number: 20020117825
    Abstract: A scooter includes a horizontal footrest frame and a rear wheel-mounting member fixed to a rear end of the footrest frame. The wheel-mounting frame includes two spaced apart plates which define a wheel-accommodating space therebetween. A rear wheel is disposed between and is journalled to the plates. A curved spring arm is disposed behind the rear wheel, and has a lower section fixed to distal ends of the plates, and an upper section which extends upwardly and frontwardly from the lower section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Publication date: August 29, 2002
    Inventor: Nina Ho
  • Patent number: 6435298
    Abstract: A rear underside structure of a vehicle as a rear undercover main body, an air flow path, an air intake opening, and an air exhaust opening. The rear undercover main body has an inclined planar part that rises toward the rear of the vehicle, and is disposed further to the rear of than the fuel tank, between the front and rear axles, so as to cover a drive element of the vehicle. The air flow path is disposed between the rear undercover main body and the drive element. The inclined planar part delineates at least a rear part of the air flow path. The air intake opening is disposed further to the front than the drive element, and the air exhaust opening is disposed to the rear of the inclined planar part. Air which flows in from the air intake opening passes through the air flow path, and is exhausted from the exhaust opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazutoshi Mizuno, Ryoji Maeda, Akihito Yamazaki, Chiaki Takayama
  • Patent number: 6421593
    Abstract: A military vehicle comprises a vehicle power distribution and control system which includes a plurality of input and output devices and a plurality of microprocessor-based interface modules that collect data from the plurality of input devices and that distribute power to the plurality of output devices. The interface modules are distributed throughout the vehicle and are locally placed with respect to the plurality of input and output devices. In one embodiment, the control system is capable of dynamically reconfiguring itself in the event that a master interface module is damaged. In another embodiment, the control system includes an additional layer of fault management that is utilized when the input states of one or more input devices is undetermined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Assignee: Pierce Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventors: Gary M. Kempen, Bradley C. Squires, Michael E. Lorrig, Duane R. Pillar, David L. M. Gauerke
  • Publication number: 20020084642
    Abstract: My invention is a simple, detachable stabilizing system that is used to stabilize stationary recreational vehicles or trailers that would otherwise be unstable due to their non rigid suspension systems. Although such stabilizing systems are already commercially available, my invention is unique in that it maximizes the leverage applied against the supporting legs, thus increasing its load bearing and stability characteristics over those of other systems. My invention represents a further improvement over permanently affixed systems in that it is simple to affix to the frame of any recreational vehicle or trailer—no tools required—and it is easy to remove and convenient to store when not in use. Thus, my invention is not susceptible to damage from road dirt, grime and/or obstructions to movement (e.g., speed bumps or curbs), as any permanently affixed system is.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2001
    Publication date: July 4, 2002
    Inventor: Marc Dussault
  • Publication number: 20020060451
    Abstract: A fender includes at least one element extending therefrom that is adapted to engage a mounting bracket affixed to the object to which the fender is to be attached, e.g., a trailer. The element is preferably a curved flange that extends outwardly from an inner bottom edge of the fender.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2002
    Publication date: May 23, 2002
    Applicant: U-Haul International, Inc.
    Inventor: James Lambertus
  • Patent number: 6386586
    Abstract: A shaped interior stiffener is molded into a polymeric material pad, forming a cushioning pad that can be affixed to a stabilizer leg foot on mobile equipment such as a crane or excavator. A variety of foot pads is contemplated, each specifically designed to fit without alteration to a variety of different manufacturer's equipment through use of bolts protruding from one surface of the foot pad. The interior stiffener is shaped in such a manner that it conforms to the bolt pattern of a particular equipment model, having socket-like receivers for the heads of the protruding bolts, efficiently distributes stress throughout the structure to minimize stress failures, and provides a plurality of ribs, webs and openings to allow maximum durability and adhesion between the stiffener and the polymeric foot pad material which encapsulates the stiffener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: Tuff Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Don E. Ulery, Jr., Robert Wells, Timothy P. Goss
  • Patent number: 6302440
    Abstract: A wind screen for a golf cart. The wind screen is comprised of a frame which defines an opening and screen material is attached to the frame so as to fill the opening. The screen material is selected so as to allow air to travel therethrough while inhibiting the passage of bugs, dust and debris. The wind screen is adapted to be positioned adjacent a windshield of the golf cart such that the passengers in the golf cart can be cooled by air travelling through the wind screen but not have dirt, debris or insects hitting the passengers in the face. In one embodiment, the wind screen is attached to the golf cart through the use of hook and loop fastener material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Inventor: Ronald Goodstein
  • Patent number: 6286867
    Abstract: A protective arrangement on a motor vehicle shell wheel housing has a crumple zone, in particular a front crumple zone. Two longitudinal members extend in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and along the inside of the associated lateral wheel housing. A wheel is held by wheel guide members within the assigned wheel housing. A front wall limits the wheel housing on its side remote from the crumple zone, relative to the passenger compartment. Protection against excessive penetration of the front wall by the wheel moving towards the front wall in the event of a crash is arranged between the tread circumference of the wheel and the front wall. A tension strut with a fixing section is fixed to the associated longitudinal member as the protection of the front wall against excessive penetration and has a lateral intercepting section which projects outwards laterally and transversely to the longitudinal member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AG
    Inventors: Falk-Hagen Braemig, Guenther Epple, Bernd Harloff, Rolf Zimmermann
  • Patent number: 6270106
    Abstract: An all terrain vehicle with a foot-shifted manual transmission and a full platform-style footrest. The all terrain vehicle has a chassis carrying a straddle-type seat which is sufficiently narrow to be straddled by a rider. A laterally extending footrest is provided on each side of the chassis. The manual transmission includes a foot-operable shift lever located on one side of the chassis adjacent the footrest for shifting the transmission among a plurality of forward gears. The footrest is generally rectangular, having generally horizontal heel and toe portions, and the shift lever is positioned at approximately the same height as the heel portion. The toe portion is positioned lower than the heel portion, permitting a rider to depress the shift lever to a position lower than the heel portion of the footrest to downshift the transmission, and permitting the rider to insert his toe in between the toe portion of the footrest and the shifting lever to move the lever upwards to upshift the transmission.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Assignee: Polaris Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard R. Maki, Alan S. Olson, Mihai Rasidescu, Timothy S. Wysocki
  • Patent number: 6263996
    Abstract: A wheel retainer for the safety of all motor vehicles, and more particularly for trucks of all types, to prevent wheels or wheel assemblies from flying off moving vehicles in the event of axle breakage or other mechanical failure which would cause a wheel or wheel assembly to fly off. The wheel retainer includes brackets for attachment to a truck frame and a retaining bar which is removably attached to the brackets, the bar and brackets being positioned to prevent the wheel or wheel assembly from flying off of the vehicle. In a further modification of the wheel retainer, a loose wheel indicator is provided. The loose wheel indicator is mounted to a turnable or steerable wheel or wheel assembly such as a front wheel of a vehicle. The loose wheel indicator causes an audible noise, audible to the vehicle driver, by contact created between the indicator assembly and the rim of a tire when the wheel or wheel assembly comes loose thereby warning the driver of the loose wheel hazard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Assignee: Pebblestone Multi-Services Inc.
    Inventor: Donald William Welch
  • Publication number: 20010004873
    Abstract: A crossing arm assembly that includes either one or two hollow, tapered fishing rod bodies cantilevered at their butt ends to a beam-mounting portion of a combined pivot/bracket. A crosspiece connects the tips of the rods. The combined pivot/bracket pivotally attaches to a support at the front end of a bus to block pedestrian traffic from crossing immediately in front of the bus when the bus is stopped. The rods are tapered in mass and cross-sectional area from their butt ends to their tips. The taper concentrates rod mass closer to the support to reduce the tendency of cantilevered rods to sag under their own weight and/or to swing forward as the bus decelerates. The taper also increases rod flexibility to prevent plastic rod deformation and to reduce loads on the support when external forces are applied to the rods. A flap is pivotally attached to one of the rods to increase beam visibility without adding significant wind resistance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2001
    Publication date: June 28, 2001
    Inventor: Ronald C. Lamparter
  • Patent number: 6176519
    Abstract: A method for forced stopping of a second vehicle (B) by using a first vehicle (A) includes equipment (C) in the front end of the first vehicle (A) which can be used to engage sheet metal structures, and the front end of the first vehicle (A) is driven into the rear of the second vehicle (B) so that the equipment (C) in the front end of the first vehicle engages the sheet metal structure in the rear of the second vehicle (B), whereby the second vehicle (B) can be stopped by the first vehicle (A). The equipment (C) used can include a turning body part and a tip part with gripping device attached to the body part in a detachable way. The gripping device can contain a tip which penetrates the sheet metal structure. The method and the equipment according to the invention can be used to stop a fleeing vehicle without the need to drive beside it or to pass it or to try to force it off the road.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Inventor: Markku Limingoja
  • Patent number: 6095562
    Abstract: The present invention provides a restraining system for an axle mounted wheel of a vehicle, the vehicle having a frame to which the axle is secured, leaving sufficient clearance to avoid road hazards and not interfere with the wheels motion during normal operation of the vehicle. The system comprises a cage assembly secured to the frame in the vicinity of the vehicle so as to leave a lower part of the wheel exposed, allowing the wheel to contact the road and to retain the wheel in close proximity to its original installation point and entrap the wheel and carry it along with the vehicle should it become detached from the axle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Inventor: Stuart A. Busse
  • Patent number: 6065423
    Abstract: An indicator device (1) for alerting the driver of a pickup truck to the orientation of the tailgate (10) includes an indicator rod (7), connected to a housing (4) that is attached to the truck tailgate (10). In the first embodiment, the indicator rod (7) can be rotationally retracted into the housing (4) and its position secured between retracted and extended positions with a threaded thumb screw (6). In a second embodiment, an the indicator rod (107) slides in relation to a housing (104) attached to the vehicle tailgate (10), and the indicator rod (107) is secured between retracted and extended positions by a spring loaded plunger (106). In a third embodiment, an indicator rod (207) passes through channels (214, 216, and 218) in a block (212) and is frictionally held in place by the natural resilience of the indicator rod material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Inventor: Raymond L. Hensel
  • Patent number: 6026600
    Abstract: The invention comprises a snow trail grooming accessory and method for use with a snowmobile to groom a snow trail surface. The accessory includes at least one cutting member and a forcing member joined to the cutting member and attachable to the snowmobile. The cutting member is forced in a downward direction by the forcing member when the forcing member is attached to the snowmobile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Inventor: Gary J. Lela
  • Patent number: 5957495
    Abstract: A vehicle exhaust orientation assembly directs an extremely hot, forceful haust gas flow from a tank or other vehicle that is towing a trailer or the like. The assembly has a transition shroud affixed to the exterior of the vehicle over its exhaust portal. A drum is rotatably connected to the shroud by rollers on the drum which engage a track on the shroud. Several anchoring structures are mounted on the shroud about the drum. The structures can hold the drum in one of several rotational positions of the drum on the shroud. Flow directing fins in the drum are pivoted by a linkage which can engage a tab on the drum so as to lock the fins in a selected pivot position. Rotational force is imparted to the drum and fins by flanges obliquely attached to the fins so that the fins are spun by the exhaust flow from the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: John G. Korpi
  • Patent number: 5924513
    Abstract: A trailer tire retaining rail is provided including a trailer having an axle with at least one inflatable wheel rotatable mounted to each end thereof. A plurality of rail assemblies each have an outboard member mounted to the trailer adjacent to an outboard end of an associated wheel and an inboard member mounted to the trailer adjacent to an inboard end of an associated wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1999
    Inventor: Allan E. Jones
  • Patent number: 5887895
    Abstract: A mechanism adapted for reducing damage to a tire of a vehicle caused by execution of sharp turns, the tire being adapted to roll across the ground surface during forward vehicle travel, and said tire slides across the surface of the ground laterally with respect to forward vehicle travel during execution of sharp turns such that the tire encounters large laterally directed forces during execution of said sharp turn. A sprayer is carried by said vehicle for lubricating said tire with a lubricating fluid such that the fluid lubricates the tire for reducing friction between the tire and the ground as the tire slides laterally across the ground surface during execution of a sharp turn. An operator engagable control is provided for allowing the operator to selectively actuate the sprayer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1999
    Inventor: Basil O. Easter
  • Patent number: 5860385
    Abstract: A school bus is equipped with a crossing arm mechanism that is mounted on the front bumper at the passenger side. The mechanism includes a crossing arm assembly that is pivoted between a retracted (stored) position adjacent the front bumper and an extended (operative) position where the crossing arm assembly extends outwardly of the bus bumper in a perpendicular fashion to control pedestrian traffic. The crossing arm assembly includes a plastic bracket that is pivotally attached to an actuating mechanism and a cantilever beam that is attached to the bracket at one end. The bracket has two vertically spaced pivot arms and a beam mounting portion that supports the cantilever beam. The cantilever beam is a plastic extrusion that comprises upper and lower tubular sections that are interconnected by a web portion. The extrusion is modified at one end for attachment to the bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1999
    Assignee: Transpec Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald C. Lamparter
  • Patent number: 5839759
    Abstract: A vehicle capture device and method of utilizing such to stop the progress of a fleeing vehicle. The device is mounted to the front of a chase vehicle and includes arms which include hook portions that are capable of initially extending outwardly under portions of the fleeing vehicle and then extending upwardly so that the hook portions grasp undercarriage portions of the fleeing vehicle after which the chase vehicle may brake to a stop so as to, in effect, capture the fleeing vehicle in a safe positive manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Inventor: Kevin A. Trigo
  • Patent number: 5669332
    Abstract: A portable chute for immobilizing an animal (e.g. a dairy cow) which has a front gate, a rear gate, and a stanchion for immobilizing the animal, all of which are operable by a single operator from a single location at the rear of the chute. The chute is pivotably mounted onto the bed of a vehicle and is rotatable by a fluid-operated cylinder between a horizontal or hoof-trimming position on the bed of the vehicle and an upright, vertical or cow-loading position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Inventor: William S. Riley