Combined Patents (Class 293/117)
  • Patent number: 4798409
    Abstract: A vehicle bumper for releasably holding an attachment comprises a first face facing upwardly, a second face facing away from the vehicle body, and first and second accessory engaging members including first and second cylindrical surfaces interrupting the first bumper face and spaced from each other longitudinally of the first bumper face. An accessory for releasably engaging the bumper comprises a base plate having a base plate face that faces downwardly and engages the bumper, and first and second bumper engaging elements including first and second cylindrical surfaces interrupting the first base plate face and spaced from each other longitudinally of the base plate face for releasably interengaging the first and second accessory engaging members of the bumper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 17, 1989
    Inventor: Robert Miller
  • Patent number: 4789156
    Abstract: A portable basketball goal for use on a pick-up truck has a adjustable frame assembly that is inner-connected to and stabilized by a pick-up truck. The portable basketball goal can be dis-assembled into modular units and easily transported within the truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1988
    Inventor: Ray D'Annunzio
  • Patent number: 4778212
    Abstract: The application relates to a front bumper moulding for motor vehicles with an integrated bumper wherein lateral portions of the front bumper moulding are designed so that they can be swung out or extended from a retracted to an extended position, thus providing an unchanged appearance at a retracted position when the vehicle is stopped and at low driving speeds and an especially favorable flow behavior at high vehicle driving speeds, and wherein lateral portion of the front bumper moulding are located in front of the vehicle front wheels and are designed as moveable air spoiler elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1987
    Date of Patent: October 18, 1988
    Assignee: Daimler-Benz Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Johann Tomforde
  • Patent number: 4775282
    Abstract: A carrier is mountable on the rear of a vehicle for carrying a conveyance for handicapped persons. The carrier has a frame adapted to be attached to the conveyance. The platform is slideably and hingeably attached to this frame. The platform is vertically positionable above the ground for storage. The carrier also includes a drive motor coupled between the frame and the platform for lifting the platform while keeping it horizontal. This driver is sized to lift the platform with it loaded with the conveyance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1986
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1988
    Inventor: George R. Van Vliet
  • Patent number: 4770457
    Abstract: An aerodynamic underfloor panel for the front end region of motor vehicles is disclosed. The panel includes an elastically deformable plate attached at its rear end behind the front wheel casings of the vehicle body and moveably guided at its front end by a guide arrangement disposed at a front bumper skirt. An hydraulically actuated adjusting mechanism is provided which includes a stirrup engaging the top side of the plate to bend the plate downwardly toward the roadway at high vehicle speeds to thereby decrease the aerodynamic lift. During the elastic bending of the plate, the front end of the plate is moved longitudinally of the vehicle along its guide support of the front bumper skirt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1987
    Date of Patent: September 13, 1988
    Assignee: Daimler-Benz Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Johann Tomforde
  • Patent number: 4753376
    Abstract: A bumper cleat provides a lift-off mount for bumper secured motor vehicle accessories. Two vertically oriented L-shaped walls form an L-shaped channel between them which secures a mating L-shaped foot for an accessory frame. Fasteners are employed to secure the accessory frame vertically. The L-shaped channel provides retention from movement in two planes while allowing for water drainage to prevent ice buildup or rust.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 28, 1988
    Inventor: Vincent Tulio
  • Patent number: 4750753
    Abstract: A folding step assembly adapted for attachment to a vehicle with a base having an outwardly extending peripheral flange where the assembly can be attached to the bumper, for example in the area where a license plate is normally held. A first step is hingably connected to a lower edge portion of the base by a hinge device and adapted to be tilted between an extended horizontal position and a stored vertical position against the flange of the supporting plate. A bias device such as a spring is fitted around the hinge pin to bias the first step to a normally vertical position generally parallel to the supporting plate with the step abutting the flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1986
    Date of Patent: June 14, 1988
    Inventor: Morris L. Dezern
  • Patent number: 4746263
    Abstract: A telescoping hoist assembly normally stored in the rear bumper area of a pickup truck includes a boom telescoping into and out of a mast pivotally anchored at one end of the pickup bumper structure. A power winch operated by the pickup electrical energizer is axially mounted on the outward end of the boom. With boom extended out of the mast the cable is connected with the anchored area of the mast for a hoist self erecting action interrupted, when the mast is vertical, by stop members at the base end of the mast. A mast stored jack structure supports hoist loads independently of the pickup suspension system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1986
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1988
    Assignee: Jo Ellen Watson
    Inventor: Larry D. Cook
  • Patent number: 4738464
    Abstract: A combined receiver trailer hitch and bumper assembly (10) is described. The assembly includes a receiver (11) and bar (12) attached to first extensions (18) to be secured to a frame (102) as in a conventional trailer hitch. End portions (16) on an angle plate (15) and second extensions (19) forward of the first extensions removeably support bumpers (20). The assembly allows easy replacement of the bumpers and an aesthetically pleasing appearance to the trailer hitch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 19, 1988
    Assignee: Putnam Manufacturing
    Inventor: Rex D. Putnam
  • Patent number: 4735448
    Abstract: A manually operated winch bumper is mountable to the rear of a vehicle. A winch drum is rotatably carried by the bumper and provided with a pair of coaxial shafts projecting in opposite directions from the winch to the ends of the bumper. The winch can be manually operated with a crank from either end of the bumper by insertion of the crank into sockets provided at the outer ends of the shafts. A third socket is provided for one of the shafts adjacent the winch drum such that the winch can also be operated from a position intermediate the ends of the bumper. Placement of the winch at the rear of the vehicle helps in pulling it out of terrain in which it is stuck since the vehicle will be pulled out from the direction it entered. Provision of crank sockets at either end and in the middle of the bumper allows manual operation of the winch even in an environment where shrubbery or other obstacles prevent access to portions of the bumper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 1986
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1988
    Inventor: Howard M. Hart
  • Patent number: 4722651
    Abstract: A device for attachment to the rear of a pickup truck as a replacement for the rear bumper includes a transverse frame member which is pivotally mounted on brackets carried on the chassis. The frame member carries a pair of arms each of which is pivoted at an outer end of the frame member and extends across the frame member in a folded position with an outer stub portion extending outwardly and around the end of the frame member to define ends of the bumper. Hydraulic rams can pivot the frame member about a horizontal axis and can pivot the arms about vertical axes at the outer ends of the frame member. Flanges extending from the rear face of the frame member confine and receive the arms and define a compartment for a hitch pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1987
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1988
    Inventor: Dean L. Antal
  • Patent number: 4697541
    Abstract: A crossing arm unit for use on the front of school buses and the like to protect children walking in front of the school bus, the crossing arm unit including a frame attached to the front bumper of the school bus, and a movable arm pivotally mounted in the frame for movement between a retracted position along side the bumper and an extended position projecting outwardly from the bumper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1982
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1987
    Assignee: Specialty Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: James H. Wicker
  • Patent number: 4697842
    Abstract: A front cover device for small-sized vehicles having a steering support which supports a front wheel steering mechanism. The front cover device comprises a leg shield member which surrounds the steering support portion and which covers the front and lateral sides of the steering support, and a goods accommodating space which is formed within the leg shield member and around substantially the entire circumference of the steering support. The front cover device is relatively solid and light with substantial design freedom for providing a favorable appearance while providing a relatively large goods accommodating space. The leg shield member includes a lid member which is pivotally secured at the lower end thereof to a front portion of the leg shield member through at least one hinge mechanism. Also, the vehicle includes at least one bumper comprising an elastic member which is mounted so as to cover the hinge mechanism, whereby the bumper comprises a forwardmost projection of the front cover device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1986
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1987
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Katsuyoshi Kawasaki
  • Patent number: 4688656
    Abstract: A safety device attachable to a motor vehicle for preventing the motor vehicle from running over an object, the device including a plate assembly, a safety bar assembly slidably connected to the plate assembly, a first mechanism for raising and lowering the safety bar assembly with respect to the plate assembly, at least one switch assembly and a second mechanism for turning off the motor vehicle. The plate assembly includes first and second plate members which are spaced apart in parallel. The second plate member is pivotably connected to the first plate member. The second plate member pivots around a horizontal axis. The first mechanism is attached to the second plate member. The safety bar assembly is attached to the second plate such that it can only slide relative to the second plate in a direction towards and away from the second plate. The switch assembly is attached to the first plate and extends to contact the second plate. The switch assembly is connected to the second mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 1985
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1987
    Inventor: Erma W. Kent
  • Patent number: 4674933
    Abstract: A load toting vehicle apparatus includes a vehicle such as a pick up truck having a special cylindrical bumper, rotably mounted to the rear thereof, with special bumper mounting brackets. The bumper mounting brackets have sleeves for the cylindrical bumper to rotate in, and a pair of spears are removably attachable to the cylindrical bumper for spearing a load of hay, or the like. The bumper has a rotating mechanism for rotating the bumper in the sleeves so as to lift the spears and any load mounted on the spears. The vehicle can be driven to spear a load of hay, or the like, then the load lifted and moved with the vehicle to a different location. The spears can be removed from their operating position and stored inside the hollow cylindrical bumper and locked in the bumper with a threaded clamp. The actuating mechanism includes a leverage bracket attached to the cylindrical bumper and connected with a hydraulic cylinder for rotating the cylindrical bumper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1985
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1987
    Inventor: Ronald D. Brown
  • Patent number: 4674782
    Abstract: A storage bumper 10 having a compartment assembly 16 with a lid 12 pivotally mounted thereto. Compartment assembly 16 is constructed with upright walls 24 connected to or formed with bottom wall 42 and mounted to base plate 18. Lid 12 is constructed with a seal 26 and reinforcing flanges 20 attached to the underside. Additionally, lid 12 is formed with wings 38 on each longitudinal end to limit opening and catches 30 and 32 for engagement within releasable latches 34 and 36 mounted on wall 24. Recessed wall 44 is set back to allow attachment of accessories to base plate 18 and the mounting of a vehicle license plate. Elongate holes 50 are formed in base plate 18 and adaptor plate 54 providing adjustable mounting of storage bumper 10 to a variety of vehicle frame configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1985
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1987
    Inventor: Robert A. Helber
  • Patent number: 4667995
    Abstract: A bumper guard-headlamp assembly including a body affixed to a vehicle bumper to which a headlamp is secured having a first surface which extends horizontally further from the bumper than the headlamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1986
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1987
    Assignee: Per-Lux Inc.
    Inventor: Firle J. Wilkins
  • Patent number: 4653788
    Abstract: A front bumper for motor vehicles comprises a hollow body having at least one frontal inlet aperture acting as an air intake, and two rear end apertures defined by nozzles arranged to direct respective air flows towards the brakes for the front wheels of the vehicle. The cavity within the body also communicates with a rear tubular appendage acting as a duct for conveying an air flow towards the radiator of the vehicle engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1986
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1987
    Assignee: Fiat Auto S.p.A.
    Inventor: Nevio Di Giusto
  • Patent number: 4635983
    Abstract: A cable pulling truck has a rear bumper assembly secured to the vehicle frame. The bumper assembly includes two laterally outwardly extensible telescoping outrigger supports, each carrying at its outer end an upstanding vertical support tube for receiving therein the shaft of an associated winch motor in its use configuration. Each outrigger also carries a hand-operated jack assembly for supporting the vehicle on the ground, each jack assembly being pivotally movable between storage and use conditions. Multiple hydraulic and electrical couplers are carried by the bumper assembly for connecting the cable pulling system to hydraulic and electrical systems on board the truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 13, 1987
    Assignee: Illinois Bell Telephone Company
    Inventors: Donald P. Boland, William Menz, Glen R. Seimetz
  • Patent number: 4634163
    Abstract: Apparatus for mounting a trailer hitch on a vehicle. An elongate frame having a planar base includes a pair of ends upturned at an angle substantially less than ninety degrees. A pair of elongate planar support brackets extend at right angles to the base from each end. A rear vehicle bumper is mounted on the base opposite from the extended brackets which are used to mount the bumper-and-frame combination on a vehicle. The base includes a hole for mounting a trailer hitch thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1985
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1987
    Assignee: Judd & Judd, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald E. Bundy, Ronald W. Bundy
  • Patent number: 4620736
    Abstract: This describes a special means for attaching an accessory such as a trailer hitch or winch to the bumper of a vehicle. It includes an accessory mount or a wedge insert insertable into a mounting frame or bracket. A tongue and groove assembly cooperates between the bracket and accessory mount for holding the accessory mount in position. Means are also provided for reinforcing the bumper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1986
    Assignees: Franklin L. Best, Betty L. Best
    Inventor: Teddy L. Shanks
  • Patent number: 4613147
    Abstract: A rear underride protection (1) intended for vehicles (2) comprising a bar (10) transversal to the direction of motion of the vehicle (2) and fixed to the vehicle (2), and a movable bar (13) displaceably arranged in the longitudinal direction of the fixed bar (10). At one end the movable bar (13) has a means of attachment (14) to enable fitting of an implement, e.g. in the form of a side-plough (3). The projection of the movable bar (13) can be adjusted at one's option and the sliding motion be effected by means of a double-acting hydraulic cylinder to which oil is supplied from the forced oil system of the vehicle (2). The hydraulic cylinder actuates the movable bar (13) by a buffer means, the purpose of which is to spare the rear underride protection (1) and implements connected to this great mechanical stresses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1985
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1986
    Assignee: AB Mahler & Soner
    Inventor: Gosta Kjellqvist
  • Patent number: 4610458
    Abstract: A carrier attachable to a vehicle having a bumper mounted to the vehicle frame via bumper attachment members or a pair of energy absorbing shock absorbers. The carrier includes a pair of straps having a first portion, an integral depending second portion and an outwardly extending, integral third portion. In one embodiment, clamp members, each formed with outwardly extending outer flanges and an intermediate arcuate portion, are securable in an inverted relationship around the energy absorbing shock absorbers and have the first portion of each strap attached thereto such that the second portion of each strap extends downward below the bottom of the vehicle bumper and the third portion of each strap extends outward beyond the vehicle bumper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1985
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1986
    Inventor: Robert L. Garnham
  • Patent number: 4600204
    Abstract: A shopping cart having an upwardly opening basket supported on a wheeled base. The basket includes a front wall rigidly joined between a pair of side walls through intermediate front corners. The front and side walls are defined by intersecting wire rods which extend vertically and horizontally to form a gridlike construction. The horizontal wires are normally positioned outermost relative to the vertical wires and are substantially vertically spaced apart. An elongated striplike plastic bumper is positioned to extend longitudinally along and conform with each of the vertical front corners of the basket. The bumper is of a substantially L-shaped cross section and has an inner surface which enables it to conform to and abut against several of the vertically spaced horizontal wires. Upper and lower hooks associated with the bumper project inwardly and downwardly to engage a pair of vertically spaced horizontal wires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1985
    Date of Patent: July 15, 1986
    Assignee: United Steel & Wire Company
    Inventor: Ronald L. Badger
  • Patent number: 4579497
    Abstract: A truck has a stowable round bale hauler that includes a beam hinged to the truck rear, and rotated about a horizontal base axis with hydraulic cylinders. Arms journaled at their ends to the beam are pivoted by hydraulic cylinders connecting the arms and the beam. The arms may be pivoted to and from a folded position, and the beam rotated to and from a stowed position, in which positions the arms and beam are contiguous with the vehicle rear. The arms are meshed when folded, with one arm adjacent and between the other arm and the beam to form a substantially flat vehicle rear. Pointed bale stabbers on the arms are proximate the base axis with the arms folded. The arms may be pivoted from the folded position to an open position, where the bale stabbers are distal of the base axis and separated more than a bale length. The arms are pivotable toward each other to an engaged position where the stabbers impale a bale positioned between the arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 1984
    Date of Patent: April 1, 1986
    Inventor: David Nine
  • Patent number: 4570986
    Abstract: A bumper assembly for a vehicle comprising a front wall member (18) and an attached bottom wall member (21) supporting two vertical pins (23). Two tool boxes (25) each include a well (33) to receive a pin for support on the bottom wall member in a manner to allow each box to be pivoted outward away from the front wall member to allow access to the box interior. A center tool compartment (46) is formed between the tool boxes with a hitch receiver (44) extending therethrough such that the hitch locking pin is positioned in this center compartment. A cover (30) supported on spring loaded hinges (31) allows locking the tool boxes and center compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1984
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1986
    Inventor: Jimmie L. Sams
  • Patent number: 4567955
    Abstract: A motor vehicle has a radiator for the liquid of the engine cooling circuit supported by the front part of the motor vehicle bodywork, and a conveyor for air for cooling the radiator having a part which is movable resiliently towards the front part of the bodywork in the case of a frontal collision of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1984
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1986
    Assignee: Fiat Auto S.p.A.
    Inventor: Michele Baravalle
  • Patent number: 4541661
    Abstract: A combination bumper and step device adapted to be mounted on the rear of a truck. A pair of horizontally spaced channels are pivotally mounted on the rear of the vehicle frame and extend vertically downwardly therefrom. A pair of vertically spaced horizontally extending steps are rigidly mounted on the spaced channels. A shock absorber is attached to and extends between each of the spaced channels and the truck frame. The steps provide a safe and rigid means for an individual to enter and leave the rear of the truck and the shock absorbers and pivotal mounting of the channels enable the device to move inwardly beneath the truck and absorb a certain amount of impact energy without damaging the device. One of the steps engages the vehicle frame when the device is in a retracted position to provide a positive mechanical stop for the device to prevent damage to the shock absorbers and to prevent any vehicle or other object from running underneath the vehicle body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1983
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1985
    Assignee: Park Poultry, Inc.
    Inventor: Theodore L. Hawk
  • Patent number: 4525005
    Abstract: A vehicle bumper bar is made of at least one completely closed box shaped dy wound of fiber-reinforced synthetic resin impregnated strands or bands with a fiber orientation that may vary along the length of the bar and also from one wall of the box shape to the other. Several bodies of closed cross-section may be bonded together, for example by the resin curing, to form a single integral body of approximately square configuration. Towing elements may be integrated directly into the bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1983
    Date of Patent: June 25, 1985
    Assignee: Messerschmitt-Boelkow-Blohm Gesellschaft mit beschraenkter Haftung
    Inventors: Wolfgang Prochaska, Ralf-Thilo Schulz
  • Patent number: 4487396
    Abstract: A wrecker for towing disabled automobiles and the like has attachment fittings on the rear bumper each for securing a scotch block chain and a snatch block to the bumper at the same location on the bumper. When an automobile is being winched into towing position, buckling forces exerted on the bumper by tension developed in the scotch block chains are counterbalanced by forces exerted on the bumper by tension developed in the winching cable which is passed around pulleys on the snatch blocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1983
    Date of Patent: December 11, 1984
    Inventor: Frederick M. Hoffman
  • Patent number: 4466646
    Abstract: This bumper assembly forms a streamlined end of a vehicle and incorporates a channeled inner spring bumper which supports a cellular energy absorber unit and displaceable lamp assemblies. The lamp assemblies are displaced to a protected position within the inner bumper as the energy absorber unit and the inner spring bumper operate to dissipate impact energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1983
    Date of Patent: August 21, 1984
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: John A. Delmastro, Paul D. Van Duyn
  • Patent number: 4424996
    Abstract: Herein disclosed is a combination bumper-and-radiator structure for attachment to the front end of an automotive vehicle having a fore-and-aft direction, comprising: a front bumper having a horizontally elongated base wall portion, and upper and lower wall portions elongated along and rearwardly of the base wall portion, the base wall portion being formed with at least one air inlet opening, and a radiator grille positioned between the upper and lower wall portions of the front bumper and partially exposed to the open air through the air inlet opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1981
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1984
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Company, Limited
    Inventor: Kazuhiko Yoshiyuki
  • Patent number: 4413761
    Abstract: A vertical back plate member is provided for mounting to a bumper. A pair of parallel side members extend from the back plate. A partition member joins the side members and forms a socket area with the back plate and side members to receive and position a bumper rack member in a vertical position. A strut member joins the side members near front edges of the side members and is positioned below a bottom edge of the partition member such a distance so as to permit a bumper rack member to be inserted between the bottom edge of the partition member and the strut member. Each side member has aligned first holes between the bottom edge of the partition member and the strut member to receive a pin which passes through a rack member to prevent horizontal movement of the rack member and to serve as a pivot point for movement of the rack member from a horizontal position to a vertical position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1982
    Date of Patent: November 8, 1983
    Inventor: Norman Angel
  • Patent number: 4405141
    Abstract: A pair of separate stackable steps is described, one for supporting each foot of the user. Each step includes a sheet metal body that comprises a bumper engaging fulcrum section inclined upwardly proceeding towards its free edge and having a bumper engaging downwardly turned lip defining a hook at its free end adapted to slide over and engage the bumper, a downwardly extending center section and a horizontally extending platform section. The steps can be stacked closely together for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1981
    Date of Patent: September 20, 1983
    Inventor: Leonard B. Jurek
  • Patent number: 4398764
    Abstract: An air balance panel for vehicles which includes an air balance panel integrally and unitarily formed with a vehicle bumper which is made of plastic and which further includes a flexible portion and a drive mechanism operatively connected to the air balance panel for acting on the flexible portion of the air balance panel according to a predetermined signal. The air balance panel also includes an arm member operatively connected to the drive mechanism for acting on the flexible portion of the air balance panel. Also included are link members interposed between the arm member and the air balance panel for transmitting driving force from the drive mechanism to the air balance panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1981
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1983
    Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Teiji Okuyama
  • Patent number: 4387920
    Abstract: A lamp assembly is yieldably supported to the cellular energy absorbing media of resilient plastic material of a vehicle bumper by live hinges which permit lamp displacement on bumper impact to reduce or eliminate lamp assembly damage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1981
    Date of Patent: June 14, 1983
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Ronald W. Slaughter, David L. Carpenter
  • Patent number: 4331323
    Abstract: In an electric winch system, wherein the system includes an electric winch provided on the outside of a vehicle body, a DC power source provided within an engine room, a pair of connector parts consisting of one connector part connected to the DC power source and exposed to the outside of the vehicle body, and other connector part connectable to one connector part, and a control switch connected to the other connector part, thereby controlling the running of an electric motor of the electric winch by way of the pair of connector parts, when the pair of connector parts are joined together, this electric winch system comprises; a power source switch provided between the DC power source and the electric winch in the vehicle body; and a power-source-switch controlling means adapted to turn the power source switch to a close position only when the pair of connector parts are joined together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1980
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1982
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Toshiyuki Sekimori, Hiromichi Shigenobu
  • Patent number: 4324427
    Abstract: An automobile bumper has a flexible adiabatic device and buffer springs therein. The adiabatic device may be partially drawn out of the bumper to cover the top surface of the automobile body so as to prevent the sun from shining directly on the automobile when the automobile is parked in an open-air place, and may act as a shock-absorbing device when impact blows are received in the bumper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1980
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1982
    Inventors: Vincent P. W. Huang, Laurence P. Y. Huang
  • Patent number: 4305694
    Abstract: A hydraulically operated tailgate associated with a low bed, semi-trailer vehicle has a pivoted extension that is displaceable between an extended position coplanar with the ramp surface of the tailgate and a bumper position transverse to and underlying the ramp surface. A hydraulic actuating mechanism displacing the extension to the bumper position, simultaneously locks the tailgate mechanically to the frame of the semi-trailer vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1979
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1981
    Assignee: Wilson Trailer Company
    Inventor: Michael L. Chan
  • Patent number: 4273352
    Abstract: A combination push and tow bar/hitch assembly including a pair of spaced apart parallel outwardly extending mounting bars pivotally attached at their lower ends to the front frame of a motor vehicle. A first transverse brace member is positioned between the mounting bars near the center point and a second transverse brace member is positioned between the outer ends of the mounting bars. A U-shaped frame with a coupler at its apex is pivotably attached to the second transverse brace for use when the bar/hitch is in the horizontal towing position. A ball mounted at the midpoint of the first transverse brace is engaged by the coupler on the U-shaped frame to lock down the frame when the bar/hitch is upward in the push position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1979
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1981
    Inventor: Lyle A. Jorgenson
  • Patent number: 4266817
    Abstract: A dual-step rear bumper assembly for a truck. The bumper assembly comprises a main or lower crossmember 15 extending the full width of the truck. The crossmember provides the principal bumper strength and also the lower step (16 or 17) of a dual-step feature. To this crossmember 15 is attached an upper crossmember 28 having tread portions providing the upper step 29 or 31 of the dual-step feature. The bumper assembly ends are capped by end bulkheads 41 and 44. Intermediate bulkheads 42 and 43 box in the ends of the license plate cavity located at the center of the bumper assembly. The bulkheads may be of a much lighter gauge metal then the bumper cross members. The bulkheads provide the necessary vertical compression load resistance to support the weight of a person stepping on the upper step portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1978
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1981
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventors: James L. Mason, Steve Varjabedian
  • Patent number: 4239253
    Abstract: A vehicle body extender having a frame, at least one housing supported by the frame, the frame resiliently attached to an axle by a spring, wheels rotatably mounted at each end of the axle, the frame comprising of at least two frame members longitudinally extending towards the vehicle to which the extender is to be coupled, a connecting device to rigidly connect the longitudinally extending frame member to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1978
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1980
    Inventor: Richard R. Golze
  • Patent number: 4213644
    Abstract: An automotive body assembly including an energy absorbing bumper assembly of elastomeric foam material, such as urethane, for compressing to absorb energy in response to an impact with a light means disposed in a recess and support means connected to the light means and supported by the elastomeric material for moving with the elastomeric material upon the compression thereof to move the light means and thereafter return the light means to the initial position. The support means includes an eyebrow portion disposed forwardly of the light means. In one embodiment the eyebrow portion is embedded within the elastomeric material and in another embodiment the eyebrow portion is disposed over the elastomeric material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1978
    Date of Patent: July 22, 1980
    Assignee: McCord Corporation
    Inventors: Jerry V. Scrivo, John V. Maloney
  • Patent number: 4204701
    Abstract: Multiple attachment points for receiving universal adapters are retained by a relatively rigid structure in a generally rectangular orientation. The structure is rigidly attached to a structurally sturdy member such as the underframe of a vehicle. One arrangement of the attachment points employs four slots which are oriented at the effective corners of a rectangle and parallel to the anticipated direction of main tension loading. These slots are arranged to receive extension arms of a bracket-like adapter to which any of a wide variety of accessories can be mounted. For a vehicle, the slot-retaining frame can be rigidly secured to the underframe between the vehicle body and the protective bumper, attached to or included within a surface of the bumper or even mounted upon the flat bed surface of the vehicle body. In yet another arrangement of the mounting points, an arrangement of bars is rigidly secured to a box-like structure which is in turn secured to the vehicle body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1978
    Date of Patent: May 27, 1980
    Inventor: Victor C. Oltrogge
  • Patent number: 4176858
    Abstract: A pneumatic bumper system for the protection of moving vehicles and passengers therein is used with a passenger safety device such as an inflatable air bag. A pressurized gas container has a flexible portion with an impact surface. The pressure of the compressible gas in this container increases upon impact with an object and causes a valve to open, directing the passage of compressed gas to inflate the air bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1976
    Date of Patent: December 4, 1979
    Assignee: Safety Consultants
    Inventor: Murray Kornhauser
  • Patent number: 4170380
    Abstract: 1. Heavy duty energy absorbing devices and energy absorbing bumpers for cars; how to mount them to existing cars and accommodate in the structure various shapes and sizes of existing bumpers on the cars.2. Collapsible steering columns and collapsible tables for passengers.3. Seats moving forward in event of collision and keeping the passengers and driver constantly restrained between the seat and collapsible steering column or table, without action by the passengers.4. A safe car in which the chassis is extremely rigid and shatters in the event of an accident; and the passengers' module propels in top of the front end of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1973
    Date of Patent: October 9, 1979
    Inventor: Eli Raitport
  • Patent number: 4167274
    Abstract: A hitch assembly for a vehicle having a rearwardly extended frame adapted to be contacted by a trailing vehicle and including brackets mounted on the frame operative when the vehicle is being pushed to provide a stop against overriding of the trailing vehicle relative to the frame. A connector member is removably associated with the frame and has releasable connection to the brackets thereon for converting the frame to a towing mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1977
    Date of Patent: September 11, 1979
    Assignee: Caterpillar Tractor Co.
    Inventor: Jack H. Trittipoe
  • Patent number: 4159833
    Abstract: An elongated horizontal channel member is mounted by means of a dual spring shock absorber in transverse position on one end of a towing vehicle. A pair of horizontal support arms have a first pair of corresponding ends pivotally mounted on the channel member for shifting along the channel member and swinging relative to the channel member about upstanding axes shiftable along the channel member with the first pair of arm ends between first outwardly convergent positions and second substantially aligned positions generally paralleling the channel member with the first pair of arm ends disposed remote from each other and the second other pair of arm ends disposed adjacent each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1978
    Date of Patent: July 3, 1979
    Assignee: M & W Gear Company
    Inventor: Elmo R. Meiners
  • Patent number: 4149733
    Abstract: A low-profile vehicle, such as a loader for use in a mine or the like, has fuel tanks secured to the rear of the main frame to form the rear bumpers and counterweights for the vehicle. A center bumper is attached to the tanks and extends therebetween. The center bumper has a cutout intersected by a draw pin. The tanks are interconnected by a common drawtube from which fuel is picked up for and returned from the engine. Apertured stiffening plates are mounted in the tanks to reinforce the walls of the tank and to form baffles for the fuel in the tanks. Vents, guards, quick fill and conventional fuel inlets are provided on the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1977
    Date of Patent: April 17, 1979
    Assignee: Caterpillar Tractor Co.
    Inventor: Frank A. Grooss
  • Patent number: 4138152
    Abstract: A storage box bumper assembly comprising floor, rear wall, front wall and top portions forming a vehicle bumper having a chamber therein, the top portion being hingedly mounted for opening and closing the chamber, and two frame members connected to the bumper and extending outwardly therefrom, the frame members being adapted for attachment to a frame portion of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1977
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1979
    Inventor: Oscar Prue