For Protecting The Vehicle Body Patents (Class 280/770)
  • Patent number: 5618073
    Abstract: A protective cover for covering the outer surface of a rear bumper of a motor vehicle. The protective cover may consist of a single panel of flexible material, or, alternatively, two panels of flexible material and a central portion formed from a transparent polymer that provides visual access to a rear license plate that may be located in a recess formed in the rear bumper. The protective cover is secured in place across the rear bumper by straps that are looped through attachment handles affixed to the motor vehicle's rear wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 8, 1997
    Inventor: Steven Criscione
  • Patent number: 5531500
    Abstract: A bullet-proofing panel for attachment to the exterior door surfaces of a police cruiser or the like comprising an outer polymeric skin having a contour corresponding to the contour of the sheet metal of the vehicle's doors. The polymeric skin member when affixed to the outer sheet metal panels of the vehicle's doors defines a predetermined space or pocket therebetween which contains a barrier member, preferably a woven KEVLAR.RTM. material, capable of stopping bullets from practically all handguns. Because the outer polymeric skin can be shaped to follow the contours of the original vehicle and painted to match, the bullet-proof panel does not detract from the overall ornamental appearance of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1996
    Inventor: Richard T. Podvin
  • Patent number: 5516181
    Abstract: A roll-up covering for motor vehicles comprised of a rectangular main section 10 and side flaps 14 with antenna slits 18, 20 in either to accommodate antennas. A cylinder 16 is fixed perpendicular to the length of the main section and located between the main section and the top of the vehicle while in use. The side flaps 14 partially cover the side of the vehicle while in use and fold over the top of the main section for removal. Combined, the covering rolls around the cylinder for compact storage. Rear adjustable straps 26 anchor the covering in the rear compartment of the vehicle for theft prevention and as a means of changing the fit of the covering. Front elastic straps 11 and side elastic straps 12, in conjunction with the rear adjustable straps and the cylinder, tension the main section and side flaps to provide an airspace 34. The airspace between the covering material and the majority of the top vehicle surfaces provides for insulation and ventilation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1996
    Inventor: Craig D. Thompson
  • Patent number: 5511822
    Abstract: This invention comprises apparatus and methods for extending the useful life of paint on a motorcycle by removably securing a tank pad, bra, and/or skin that is manufactured from a magnetic sheet material, to a metallic motorcycle gas tank and thereby protect the paint from abrasion and destructive elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1996
    Inventor: Daniel B. Wolanski
  • Patent number: 5496069
    Abstract: A composite protective shield installed with a vehicle for protecting, occupants of the vehicle, and/or a destructible or volatile apparatus affected by the elements, the composite shield comprising mounting means to mount the shield adjacent the occupant and/or destructible or volatile apparatus, the shield being formed from a resilient matrix providing the form thereof, such as sheet molding compound, the resilient matrix having predetermined heat distortion properties and abrasive resistance properties to provide maximum shielding for the particular use, the resilient matrix of the shield being provided with a heat management system adjacent the occupants of the vehicle and or the destructible or volatile apparatus, the heat management system to dissipate the heat on the side of the shield to which heat may be applied thus maintaining the occupant and or the destructible or volatile apparatus harmless and safe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventor: Frank Milligan
  • Patent number: 5474817
    Abstract: A molding having a relatively simple structure, but which provides a pleasing appearance which is adaptable to a variety of ornamental and artistic applications. The molding includes an ornamental core which varies in width along the longitudinal direction of the molding, with a trimming attached to the sides of the ornamental core. The overall width of the molding (including the ornamental core and trimming) varies along the longitudinal direction of the molding corresponding to the varying width of the ornamental core. In addition, merging portions or sections are provided at which the trimming merges together, with the ornamental core not visible or not present at such portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1995
    Assignee: Tokai Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yukihiko Yada, Tosikazu Ito
  • Patent number: 5460305
    Abstract: A magnetically mounted tool pouch including a soft flexible fabriclike protective panel member having a plurality of magnets distributed therein for the purpose of holding the panel member to the side of an automobile and furthermore the panel member has a series of pouches affixed to an outer surface for the purpose of holding tools. The magnetically mounted tool pouch is generally used by personnel working beneath a vehicle on a movable platform commonly referred to as a creeper thereby protecting the automobile side panels from grease and damage from the hands of a mechanic moving to and from the vehicle underside. And the magnetically mounted tool pouch provides rapid tool access by holding tools frequently needed by the mechanic within easy reach.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1995
    Inventor: Michael J. Ahearn
  • Patent number: 5458945
    Abstract: A removable protective cover for a snowmobile including a sheet sized for enclosing a cowling of a snowmobile, the sheet having a top panel with a front panel, a rear panel, and a pair of side panels extended therefrom to define a hollow interior and a common bottom edge, the top panel having a opening formed thereon and an elastic band secured thereto about the periphery of the opening for holding the sheet about a windshield of a snowmobile, the rear panel having a large lower cut out formed thereon to create a pair of opposed lower corners and a small upper cut out extended upwards from the lower cut out to create a pair of upper corners, an upper rear edge extended between the upper corners, and a pair of opposed lower rear edges, the sheet further having a cable with an end located near an upper corner, another end located near the other upper corner, and an intermediate portion therebetween coupled to the lower rear edges and the bottom edge, and a cable securement mechanism for securing the ends of the
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 17, 1995
    Inventor: Patrick Tall
  • Patent number: 5452935
    Abstract: A flexible body arranged to be projected within the opening between an associated vehicular windshield and its hood is provided, having a bottom wall including a flexible registration boss to be sealingly projected into the opening, with a top wall having handle structure for ease of manipulation of the organization in placement relative to the vehicle. A modification of the invention includes flap members arranged for wiping of debris and precipitation relative to the vehicular windshield prior to removal of the body from the opening. A modified body structure is arranged to include a pneumatic chamber coextensive with the body to enhance sealing within the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 26, 1995
    Inventor: Nicolas O. Mascia
  • Patent number: 5397146
    Abstract: A protective device for protecting a frame member of a bicycle is disclosed. The device comprises a tubular section having a frame member engaging surface and an exterior surface which is opposite to the frame member engaging surface, the frame member engaging surface and the exterior surface forming a first edge defining a first aligning portion along the first edge. The frame member engaging surface and the exterior surface further form a second edge defining a second aligning portion along the second edge. The first and second edges are spaced apart from each other and opposite from each other when the tubular section is around the frame member in a protective position. The tubular section is dimensioned to span substantially the length of the frame member when the tubular section is positioned over the frame member and the aligning portions are positionable around the frame member when the tubular section is positioned over the frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 14, 1995
    Inventor: David S. Fischer
  • Patent number: 5356193
    Abstract: A protective cover for the frame surrounding the front windshield of a motor vehicle which prevents the paint and metal of the auto body frame from being damaged by airborne debris. The protective cover is a single unit molded from a semi-rigid material and designed to conform to the natural shape of the frame surrounding the front windshield. The protective cover contains an area of no material at its center whereby a driver's vision is totally unobstructed while driving. Two main attachment mechanisms are located respectively on the right and left vertical portions of the protective cover. The attachment mechanisms are continuous extensions of the same semi-rigid material comprising the overall structure of the protective cover. The outer edges of the attachment mechanisms hook around the backside of the vertical frame post of the motor vehicle and create a sufficient pulling force as to secure the protective cover to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 18, 1994
    Inventors: Britton W. Palmer, II, Robert C. Terkhorn
  • Patent number: 5331993
    Abstract: A fastening device for assisting and securing a cover to a boat frame when the boat frame is generally square in cross-section. The fastening device is comprised of a base wall member and a pair of resilient arms that extend outwardly from one side of the base wall member at an angle substantially perpendicular to the base wall member. The resilient arms are adapted to extend substantially along the top and bottom sides of the boat railing toward the back side of the boat railing. The resilient arms have a gripping hook on the distal end thereof depending inwardly toward one another with each hook being adapted to curve around the radial edges of the boat rail. A snap stud is affixed or molded to the fastening device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 26, 1994
    Inventor: Ronald R. Billbury
  • Patent number: 5320392
    Abstract: The present invention is a removably attachable vehicle body protection pad which is designed to be placed on the doors of a vehicle in a removable fashion when the vehicle is parked, so that the vehicle is protected when people in adjacent vehicles open their doors. The present invention provides a protection for the vehicle from being scratched or dented by other vehicles. The removably attachable pad includes an impact absorbent member having a fabric front surface and a plastic back surface, one or more magnetic strips for attaching the pad to a vehicle body, and one or more handle holes for holding the pad and fastening a security cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 14, 1994
    Inventor: David M. Hart
  • Patent number: 5310217
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a ram guard, which is attached to a stabilizer arm having an exposed hydraulic ram, having an outside surface which has a linear length greater than the length of the rod when fully extended. More specifically, the ram guard of the present invention comprises an outside surface attached to a stabilizer arm which has a linear length greater than the length of the piston rod of the ram, an upper surface to cover the exposed piston rod, and an end surface which attaches to the piece of the stabilizer arm to which the piston rod is attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1994
    Inventors: Robert L. Paskey, Janice M. Paskey, Curtis W. Paskey, William D. Paskey
  • Patent number: 5290618
    Abstract: A single layer protective cover of a flexible synthetic leather-like material resistant to automotive chemicals and having a smooth cushioning non-slipping non-scratching inward or under surface of a length and width to cover an automotive fender adequately for its protection against scratches while a technician is working under the raised hood of the automobile and flexible means having terminal hooks to secure said cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 1, 1994
    Inventors: Richard R. Olson, Brian J. Regnier
  • Patent number: 5280989
    Abstract: An improved halter type protective cover is constructed out of static cling vinyl cut to fit over the front part of the hood and front fenders of a car to protect the finish from dirt, bug stains, road grime, tar, flying particles, stones and similar damaging material. It is fastened to the front end by means of the electrostatic properties of the material and without the use of adhesives.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 25, 1994
    Inventor: Rodolfo H. Castillo
  • Patent number: 5273316
    Abstract: A finish protective cover for a stationary vehicle which comprises a left fender cover and a right fender cover, each of which is contoured to fit the left or right fenders of the vehicle, respectively, and to extend at least partially into the engine compartment or trunk and at least partially down the outer side of the fenders. The fender covers each have a first end and a second end. The protective cover also comprises a front cover which is contoured to fit across the nose or tail of the vehicle and extend at least partially into the engine compartment or trunk, the front cover having a first and second side which are removably attachable to the first end of the fender covers, respectively, and a cowl cover which is contoured to fit across the cowl of the vehicle and extend at least partially into the engine compartment or trunk, the cowl cover having a first and second side which are removably attachable to the second end of the fender covers, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1993
    Inventor: Richard Infante
  • Patent number: 5258893
    Abstract: A cab guard for the rear window of a pickup truck is provided with electrically activated brake lights which illuminate rearwardly and being further adapted with a means for insulating the lights from vibration and physical shock, the cab guard being mountable in a pair of standards on the pickup truck and rigidly attachable to the pickup truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1993
    Inventor: David N. Finneyfrock
  • Patent number: 5209545
    Abstract: The covering of the invention is made in separate cover sets of tough and strong flexible material, each set being made up of separate pieces for attachment to a longitudinal side of an automotive vehicle, normally a pick-up truck, in serial arrangement to extend from bottom to top of panels thereof. The pieces are attached by fasteners including marginal pockets in the sheet material for engaging parts of the vehicle, sets of snap fasteners, and strip fasteners of rigid or semi-rigid material most of which are of hook formation. Strip fasteners of flat formation are provided for tucking into the doors of the vehicle along the windows thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1993
    Inventor: Dorothy L. Slaugh
  • Patent number: 5195778
    Abstract: A new and unique car utility apron is presented having a soft flexible outer layer with a number of pockets spaced on the two sides of the apron. The front of the apron has the upper half cut out and replaced with webbing so that the radiator can take air in if the engine is running while the apron is in place. One side of the auto apron has an air power connecting hose while the opposite side has an electrical power connecting hose. The auto apron is attached about the engine compartment of a car by hooks at the top and an elastic band and another set of hooks at the bottom. Tools may be placed in the pockets when not in use or in convenient slots near the upper portion of the apron while temporarily not in use. Electrical or air power may be connected through to the engine compartment simply by connecting the appropriate hose or electrical cord at the bottom of the auto apron. When the apron is not in use it may be folded or rolled into a small package to hold the tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1993
    Inventor: Keith T. Dismuke
  • Patent number: 5193869
    Abstract: This invention discloses an improved body protection device for a vehicle. The body protection device mounts between the front and rear fender wells by the attachment of a flexible attachment to the fender lip in each well. A "L" shaped linkage attaches to each flexible attachment with a pivotal spring retainer attached between the "L" shaped linkage and the flexible attachment linkage. Curved linkage attaches the "L" shaped linkage to a body protection bar which extends between the front and rear attached curved linkage. A stop is mounted on the "L" shaped linkage to limit the movement of the body protection bar against the side of the vehicle when in place. Various adjustments are incorporated to provide means to accommodate various vehicle dimensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1993
    Inventor: John F. Land
  • Patent number: 5188407
    Abstract: A magnetic-strip, car-door protector has an elongated, main body portion having an inner layer made of magnetic material for attaching the strip to a car door, and also has a flexible, terminal flap that is inserted in the crack of the door, so that the strip-protector is not able to be pulled out, thereby preventing the theft thereof. In another embodiment, a universal, theft-protecting flap that is slidable along the elongated main body portion is provided, so that it may be adjusted to fit all makes and sizes of cars. The main elongated portion has V-shaped depressions formed along the entire width of both the front and rear surface-faces, whereby the unit may be more readily and easily rolled up and stored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1993
    Assignee: James Villaveces
    Inventors: James W. Villaveces, Gordon Muma
  • Patent number: 5184857
    Abstract: The present invention is a removable side bumper which is designed to be placed on the vehicle in a removable fashion when the vehicle is parked so that the vehicle is protected when people in neighboring vehicles open their doors. The present invention provides a shielding, by means of cushioned segments with an inner core tubing for support and a foam outer tubing for a cushioning, connected by a flexible cord which anchors to the wheel wells or the door wells of a vehicle and will prevent the side of the vehicle from being scratched or dented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1993
    Inventor: Michael J. Hawkins
  • Patent number: 5174594
    Abstract: The disclosure is directed to an improved horse drawn carriage providing several safety and performance features. A transverse shaft tip to shaft tip deflector is fittable over wooden shafts to prevent snagging objects such as trees and fence posts between horse and harness. Wheel deflectors, wheel guards, a low position passenger seat, and a removable rear platform assembly for standing passengers are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1992
    Assignee: Earl L. Marshall
    Inventors: Earl L. Marshall, Thomas O'Carroll
  • Patent number: 5171037
    Abstract: A fender guard associated with and protecting the fenders mounted on a utility type trailer or similar vehicle. The fender guard includes a plurality of generally parallel, laterally spaced rails or frame members that overlie the upper surface of a fender with downwardly and outwardly inclined end portions forming a continuation of the rails or frame members having an attaching bracket at the lower end thereof for mounting on the trailer frame or other rigid component of the trailer. The rails or frame members which overlie the fender are also connected to the fender to provide protection for the fender from heavy objects coming into contact with the fender and also provides a surface on which a person can stand when performing various functions associated with loading and unloading a trailer. The fender guard saves the fenders from damage due to individuals standing on the fenders or hitting the fenders with various loads, equipment and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1992
    Inventors: Clinton K. Thompson, Bart A. Baker
  • Patent number: 5165747
    Abstract: Adhesive molding strips for protection of a vehicle body particularly the side wheel wells and the interior bed of a pickup truck. The molding strips include an adhesive layer which facilitates permanent application of the strips to the vehicle body for protection against dents and other damage. In a pickup truck, the strips are applied to the longitudinal ribs formed in the bed floor, side walls and tailgate thereby protecting against damage while facilitating evaporation of accumulated water. As molding for wheel wells and the like the strips are readily deformable to follow the curvature of the wheel well. The strips are formed of a resilient material which assumes its original configuration upon indentation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1992
    Assignee: Masco Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles E. Stringer, Brian W. Glombowski
  • Patent number: 5162139
    Abstract: A plurality of strips are interconnected for a locking communication relative to one another in a longitudinal orientation relative to a forward panel, door panel, and rear panel of an associated vehicle on each side of the vehicle to include a central flexible flange mounting a removable "C" shaped covering thereover. Forward and rear strip members each include pivotally mounted "U" shaped flanges for positioning in locking communication with the fender well portion of the vehicle to fixedly secure the strip structure to the vehicle. The strips include locking end portions for maintaining the strips in aligned orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1992
    Inventors: Michael Gomez, David M. Hayhurst
  • Patent number: 5158324
    Abstract: A protective cover for vehicles is disclosed, wherein a flexible material having a magnetic base portion with a resilient top portion laminated thereto is cut in segments to conform to a portion of an exterior body surface of a vehicle. More than one segment is placed adjacent to each other in side by side relation to provide a protective cover for a vehicle. The vehicle may be any known type of vehicle, and the protective cover may be cut to cover any portion of the vehicle where protection is desired. Indicia may be disposed upon at least one segment of the protective cover, and the resilient top portion is preferably visually distinct from magnetic base portion for ease of assembly. A plurality of spaced grooves are provided across the magnetic base portion of each segment so that moisture may pass beneath the flexible material, while the segments are removably secured to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1992
    Inventor: Robert W. Flesher
  • Patent number: 5139306
    Abstract: An improved mounting system for securely attaching a piece of arcuate trim around a vehicle fender is disclosed herein. Such vehicle fenders have an inner edge that terminates in an upwardly directed flange, while the vehicle trim has a mounting flange nestable over the fender flange which further includes a plurality of elongated slots. The mounting system comprises a U-shaped strip of resiliently deformable metal whose opposing sides define a U-shaped recess for receiving the upwardly directed flange of the fender, as well as a fastener assembly for fastening the mounting flange of the trim to the clamping member that includes a threaded stud, one end of which is connected to a first side of the U-shaped strip of metal forming the clamping member. When the free end of the stud is inserted through one of the slots in the trim, and a nut is threadedly engaged to the stud, the mounting flange of the trim is secured to the clamping member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1992
    Assignees: Siegfried Oh, Gerda Holey
    Inventors: Siegfried Ott, Gerda Holey
  • Patent number: 5129695
    Abstract: A flexible bump protector panel is attachable to the outer surface of an automobile door to prevent its being dented or nicked by the doors of nearby vehicles. A flexible flap extends from the lower edge of the panel for disposition about the door lower edge. One or more flexible straps is/are attached to the flap and to the panel upper edge for extension over the door upper edge. The straps can be tensioned prior to door closure for clamping engagement with the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1992
    Inventor: Charles E. Norman, II
  • Patent number: 5129677
    Abstract: A cover which covers the top and glassed area of a vehicle and includes hard, impact resistant panels to cover windows of the vehicle against breakage. The cover may be associated with bars which are stowed beneath the doors of the vehicle and which are movable upwardly to a position outwardly of the sides of the vehicle. When in the upper position, the bars protect the sides of the vehicle and prevent the doors from being opened. Controlling the bars are cables which are motor driven. Brackets extend outwardly from the cables to mount the bars. A locking latch may also ride within slits in the door and door jam to prevent the door of the vehicle from being opened when the system is in the operative position. With the protection bars in the up position, the cover may be attached thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1992
    Inventor: Donald J. Marshall
  • Patent number: 5129678
    Abstract: A dirt and grease protective cover for the outer rear panel of the trunk of an automobile and its rear bumper. The cover is formed of a flexible sheet of material having a plurality of first hook and loop fastener strips attached to its rear surface adjacent its top edge and a plurality of second hook and loop fastener strips attached to its rear surface adjacent its bottom edge. The flexible cover sheet is mounted in the trunk of a vehicle so that it may fold out and cover the rear of the automobile with the rear surface of the cover sheet and this rear surface would be folded against itself when in its retracted position in the trunk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1992
    Inventor: Theodore F. Gurbacki
  • Patent number: 5125704
    Abstract: A padded, elastic car grill band or detachably self-attaching strip snugly fits around the exposed, lower portion of a car grill to prevent injury when the lower portion of a car grill becomes exposed and a hazard when the car grill raises up with the car hood, as is true for some cars made by Mercedes-Benz. A connection (such as a rivet) is present at a lower middle portion of the band to act as a stop and prevent further travel by the band up the car grill. This ensures that it is only the lower portion of the car grill, including exposed edges, that is covered. The band may also be adjustable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1992
    Inventor: Zeev Perechodnik
  • Patent number: 5112092
    Abstract: A removable apparatus for preventing abrasions, dents, and dings to the external surface of vehicle doors is provided. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, composite layered padding is provided which is configured to be releasably received by a external surface of a vehicle door and disposed longitudinally thereof. A plurality of magnetic strips is contained within the padding, or a clamp or elastic strap is fixedly attached to the padding for sustaining the disposition thereof relative to the vehicle door. A cable fixedly attached on one end thereof to the padding is releasably attached at its other remote end to a top portion of a vehicle window for preventing the forcible removal of the padding therefrom. Substantially all potential abrasions, dents and dings to the exterior of a vehicle door are thwarted by impacts being absorbed by the padding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1992
    Inventor: Ricco D. Pucci
  • Patent number: 5072979
    Abstract: A protective panel is provided for removable attachment to the side of an automobile or the like to protect the automobile against scratches and dents. The protective panel includes a main panel section and one or more side panel sections hingedly attached to the main panel section. Magnets are provided for attaching the panel sections to the side of the automobile. Additionally, anti-theft tabs attached to the main panel section are formed to hook around the edge of the automobile door and wedge into the door jam to prevent theft of the protective panel. The protective panel may fold into a compact assembly for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1991
    Inventor: Randolph M. Swinton
  • Patent number: 5062665
    Abstract: A door edge guard having a metal body having a straight portion and a curved portion. The metal body is completely surrounded by a plastic insulating cover. The body and the cover are secured to the trailing edge of an automobile door with an adhesive, such as a piece of double sided tape. The curved portion of the body has two radii of curvature, wherein the first radius of curvature is larger than the second. The center of the first radius of curvature is offset from the center of the second radius of curvature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1991
    Assignee: Adell Corporation
    Inventor: Gerald R. Schotthoefer
  • Patent number: 5056817
    Abstract: A flexible automobile bra securable to the exterior surface of an automobile is constructed of at least one panel which absorbs mechanical impact, provides mechanical stabilization to inhibit flapping under windy or high-speed conditions, faciltates water drainage, and limits temperature rise of covered portions of the vehicle. The bra comprises at least one panel having a first, non-abrasive layer; a second thermal radiation reflective layer which is also preferably a thermally conductive, radar reflective metal; a third layer of elastomeric reticulated foam, which can be a radar-absorbing type; and a fourth layer of water impervious material which is preferably water vapor permeable. In an alternative embodiment, the reflective second layer is eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1991
    Assignee: Innovision Technologies Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Kip L. Fuller
  • Patent number: 5057169
    Abstract: Cushioned packaging and protecting with laminate of a thin resilient resin foam layer adhered to a strong supporting sheet. Laminate may also have metal foil or metallized layer, and/or water-repellent surface layer, and/or antistat surface layer and/or volatile corrosion inhibitor and/or a cohesive-nonadhesive surface coating or a low-tack pressure-sensitive adhesive coating. Automatic packaging of a series of articles between long webs of wide cushioning laminates having faces of heat-sealable foam. One web is fed foam-face-up across a table, the articles to be packaged placed on it in spaced locations, heat applied to foam edges to just about melt the foam there, and a second web applied foam-face-down over the spaced articles and heat-sealed to the lower web at its edges. Tranverse heat sealing and severings are effected between successive articles. The heat sealings can be set by cold pressings. Web backings can be made relatively non-porous to minimize bleed-through of melted foam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1991
    Assignee: The Crowell Corporation
    Inventor: Herbert B. Adelman
  • Patent number: 5042836
    Abstract: A covering apparatus is disclosed which is adaptable to cover any one of a plurality of similarly positioned motor vehicle compartment closures, for example engine compartment hoods, where such closures are of unlike size and/or shape such as would be the case on vehicles of different manufacture, model year or the like. The apparatus includes a pliable cover having preselected dimensions so that when the cover is positioned on the outwardly facing surface of the closure to be covered portions of the cover extend independently of one another substantially beyond the edges of the closure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1991
    Inventor: Thomas E. Swanson
  • Patent number: 4997227
    Abstract: A truck bed liner having a flexible protective flap supported by a frame mounted on the bed of a pickup truck. The flap is movable between a first stowed position within the bed of the truck and a second extended position in which the flap may be draped over at least a portion of the exterior surface of the truck bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1991
    Inventors: Thomas C. Falzone, Margaret J. Jackson
  • Patent number: 4997229
    Abstract: An apparatus for covering selected portions of a vehicle body is disclosed having a plurality of cover sections with each section being configured to cover different selected portions of the vehicle body, for example portions of the front fenders, bumper area, engine compartment hood, and headlamp housings of an automobile. Some cover sections are provided with resilient securing and conforming cords engageable with the covers, with the cords being adjustable in overall length to provide for the continued ability to secure and conform the covers to the vehicle body over time. The cover sections are quickly and simply securable to the selected portions of the vehicle body utilizing a minimum of direct attachments thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1991
    Inventor: Thomas E. Swanson
  • Patent number: 4974892
    Abstract: A protective automotive guard is set forth for securement to an automotive door panel and the like for protection against impact from adjacent vehicles. The guard includes a matrix of rods securable to the door utilizing various devices, such as magnetic tape, double faced tape, and suction cups. A further embodiment of the device utilizes removable rods for replacement subsequent to their damage. A third embodiment of the device includes an alarm for alerting an adjacent vehicle of impact with the automotive guard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 4, 1990
    Inventor: Clair A. Huard
  • Patent number: 4969674
    Abstract: A resilient vehicle side bumper including a resilient body member having a male portion and a female portion. Coacting end portions of the male and female portions are releasably joinable at a plurality of selected positions to form the body member at a selected length. A rotatable locking tab extends from the back of vehicle side of the male and female portions for releasably locking the side bumper to the vehicle. A plurality of suction cups and magnet strips on the vehicle side of the male and female portions releasably adhere the body member to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 13, 1990
    Inventor: Scott J. Wagner
  • Patent number: 4968084
    Abstract: An automotive pickup retrofit apparatus including a formed strip of thin, rigid material structured for close matable connection protectively and decoratively covering a portion of the rear contoured panel of the tailgate. One embodiment includes a formed, elongated sheet of thin, rigid material forming a protective and decorative outer layer structured for close matable connection over substantially the entire front or rear panel of the tailgate. An open or bottomed frame structured for connection within an aperture formed through the central portion of the tailgate is also provided which may include further protective ornamentation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 6, 1990
    Inventors: John R. Asher, Georgette C. Asher
  • Patent number: 4957180
    Abstract: A guard assembly for protecting lower portions of an earthmoving vehicle, such as the engine, transmission, and drive train, includes a guard plate which is held captive within a first space defined by sidewalls and endwalls of the vehicle frame. The guard plate can move within predetermined limits in longitudinal and lateral directions within the first space. Prior art lower guard assemblies utilize threaded fasteners to secure the guards directly to the vehicle frame. This produces loosening and breakage of the threaded fasteners when the vehicle frame flexes and twists. The subject guard assembly allows the guard plate to move slightly as the vehicle frame flexes and twists. Since the threaded fasteners holding the guard plate in place do not penetrate the guard plate, the threaded fasteners are not overstressed or slipped at the joint interfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 18, 1990
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Bryan G. Lammers, Kenneth V. Blaha
  • Patent number: 4953909
    Abstract: A decorative and functional vehicle hood protector which is aesthetic in appearance so as not to detract from the overall appearance of the vehicle, is functional in that it securely protects the vehicle from damage by dirt and debris which may fall on or be thrown upon the hood and which has an anti-theft attaching means to prevent a thief from stealing the hood protector when the vehicle is left unattended on the street or in a public parking lot. The hood shield is made of one piece of clear material conformed to the shape of the hood of a vehicle. The hood shield is retained on the hood by an attaching apparatus which is held in place through a channel member wedged onto the edge of the hood and wedged in the groove between the hood and the fender of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 4, 1990
    Inventor: Timothy N. F. Crane
  • Patent number: 4943085
    Abstract: A side bar assembly for attachment to a chassis of a pick-up truck, off-road vehicle or the like capable of being mounted on such vehicles of a plurality of different sizes and configurations, wherein the side bar assembly is formed of a pair of substantially L-shaped tubular members as half-bar tube sections to collectively form a generally U-shaped side bar to extend laterally from a side of the vehicle. A substantially semi-cylindrical connector sleeve defining a concave tube-gripping recess receives the aligned end portions of the tubular members with the connector sleeve partially encircling and gripping the adjacent portions of the tubular members over more than half the circumferential extent of each, and mounting brackets are provided for bolt securement to the vehicle chassis to receive and support end portions of the side legs therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 24, 1990
    Assignee: Sparkomatic Corporation
    Inventor: Michael J. Straka
  • Patent number: 4936599
    Abstract: A universal tow guard for mounting to the front of a towed vehicle. There are first and second planar plastic shield members having a lip around top, bottom, and outer edges thereof. Each has an upper mounting point adjacent the top outer edge and a lower mounting point adjacent the bottom outer edge. Each also has a plurality of horizontal support bracket holes adjacent the bottom edge, a plurality of horizontal strut hole vertical pairs adjacent the top edge, and a plurality of horizontal width adjustment hole vertical pairs adjacent an inner end thereof. The second shield member slidably fits within the lips of the first shield member. There are a pair of adjustable struts for connection between selected ones of the strut hole vertical pairs and a front surface of the vehicle. There are also a pair of support brackets for connection to selected ones of the support bracket holes and for resting on the vehicle bumper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 26, 1990
    Inventor: Thomas C. McNamee
  • Patent number: 4935638
    Abstract: A side bar assembly for attachment to a chassis of different sizes of pick-up trucks, the side bar assembly including a pair of substantially L-shaped tubular members forming half-bar tube sections to collectively form a generally U-shaped side bar to extend laterally from a side of the vehicle, and a cylindrical connector sleeve having a central bore corresponding substantially to the outer diameter of the tube legs to receive the latter therein in alignment with each other with the connector sleeve encircling the adjacent portions of the tube legs over more than half the circumferential extent of each and a pair of mounting brackets to receive end portions of the side bar legs therein. The connector sleeve also includes a thickened portion defining an upwardly facing flat step surface at the top of the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 19, 1990
    Assignee: Sparkomatic Corporation
    Inventor: Michael J. Straka
  • Patent number: 4909559
    Abstract: An apparatus for protecting the upper portions of the side walls of a vehicle cargo bed is disclosed. The apparatus includes an elongate body having a medial section, a first end, and a second end, both ends extending downwardly from the medial section. The first end includes a magnet system which enables its attachment to a vehicle bed wall without mechanical fasteners. The second end includes a hook member adapted to engage the ledge portion normally found in most vehicle cargo beds. The entire apparatus is preferably of one-piece construction, and manufactured of rubber. It also includes a flexible joint between the first end and medial section to facilitate use of the apparatus with walls of different thickness. Finally, the top of the medial section includes a plurality of longitudinally extending ribs designed as shock absorbers for any cargo or objects positioned thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1988
    Date of Patent: March 20, 1990
    Inventor: Steven Zettle