Convertible Box Patents (Class 296/10)
  • Patent number: 7399038
    Abstract: A mortar buggy with stake bed assembly provides a removable flat heavy duty base platform and a rear panel that can be fitted onto the chassis of an existing mortar buggy or similar conveyance in place of a hopper. The stake bed assembly provides removable front and side panels made of solid steel or similar alloy that can be configured to attach vertically in a hopper configuration or horizontally in an extended flat bed configuration, to provide additional loading surface for long or large items. The stake bed assembly also provides for a removable front tailgate with the ability to hinge at both its top and bottom so that the front tailgate can swing either up or down.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Assignee: Stone Construction Equipment, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen C. Vandewinckel, Francis W. Wenzel
  • Patent number: 7222905
    Abstract: A reconfigurable truck bed has a plurality of receivers. A variety of accessories have structure that mates with the receivers in order to support the accessories on the truck bed. The accessories may be selectively positioned in a particular receiver or set of receivers. The accessories may also be conveniently oriented or reoriented for a particular circumstance or use. As such, the truck bed may be selectively reconfigured to meet the needs of a user and provide a particular benefit. In another aspect, a body structure or a chassis structure of any motor vehicle may be provided with receivers. Frames providing the receivers may be added onto bodies or chassis of any motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Inventor: Edward Jaeck
  • Patent number: 7201453
    Abstract: A mortar buggy with stake bed assembly provides a removable flat heavy duty base platform and a rear panel that can be fitted onto the chassis of an existing mortar buggy or similar conveyance in place of a hopper. The stake bed assembly provides removable front and side panels made of solid steel or similar alloy that can be configured to attach vertically in a hopper configuration or horizontally in an extended flat bed configuration, to provide additional loading surface for long or large items. The stake bed assembly also provides for a removable front tailgate with the ability to hinge at both its top and bottom so that the front tailgate can swing either up or down.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2007
    Assignee: Stone Construction Equipment, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen C. Vandewinckel, Francis W. Wenzel
  • Patent number: 7004495
    Abstract: A vertically stowable modular multi-purpose trailer is provided. The trailer includes a forward support section including a first tubular frame having a main body portion with a first upper platform and rear interface side, and forward trailer neck; a pair of caster wheels attached proximate said rear interface; and a first planar deck substantially covering the first upper platform. The trailer further includes a rear support section including a second tubular frame having a second upper platform and a forward interface; and a second planar deck substantially covering the second upper platform. A pair of hinge assemblies interconnecting rear interface and said forward interface. The trailer is adapted to be configured in a deployed configuration, wherein the forward support section and rear support section are longitudinally positioned next to each other forming a generally horizontally oriented common planar platform for supporting a payload.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Inventor: Kenneth R. Thurm
  • Patent number: 6913815
    Abstract: The present invention provides a plastics-covered metal plate excellent in chipping resistance, corrosion resistance etc. made by covering one surface or both surfaces of a metal plate with at least two kinds of plastics layers whose rates of elongation are different and a process of covering a car body by using said covered metal plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: Kansai Paint Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tadashi Watanabe, Tadayoshi Hiraki, Akira Tominaga, Takeshi Yawata
  • Publication number: 20040164578
    Abstract: A convertible cargo bed cover can function as both a tonneau cover and a cargo bed cap. The cover is raised by motorized elements to be substantially aligned with a roof of a passenger cabin of the vehicle. Side and rear window panels stored inside the cover can be installed to transform the cover to a cap to enlarge available enclosed cargo space. Rear pillars are installed at the rear corners of the tonneau cover in its raised position to complete the installation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2003
    Publication date: August 26, 2004
    Inventors: Kenneth S. Mack, Thomas S. Moore, Russell C. Fielding
  • Patent number: 6644708
    Abstract: A vehicle cargo bed has reconfigurable drop side and tail panels. Tail lights are incorporated within the reconfigurable panels. Each side panel is hinged with respect to the cargo bed so that the side panel can pivot downwardly to a cargo bed widening horizontal position or upwardly to a vertical or horizontal position spaced from the cargo bed. The cargo bed includes a storage box accessible through the side entrance. The side panel may also be hinged with respect to itself to form a lip or small restraining wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Bruce M Grzegorzewski, Randy C Curtis, Mark R Moore
  • Publication number: 20030168874
    Abstract: A cargo enclosure with removable roof panels that can be used as ramps to load and unload heavy items. Each roof panel is built such that it can support a heavy load being translated over it. The cargo shell capable of being locked with or without the roof panels installed in a variety of means known to those experienced in the art.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2002
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Inventor: Mo A. Bautista
  • Patent number: 6607228
    Abstract: A storage enclosure includes a base including a top panel extending transversely from a front panel. The base is attachable to a load deck of an open deck vehicle such that an enclosed space is defined by the front and top panels and the load deck. The base includes mounts within the enclosed space that are attachable to a bracket for attaching the base to the load deck. The top panel includes side portions that extend from opposite ends of the front panel, and a removable cover panel is disposed between the side portions. A cage is mounted to the base that defines a cage compartment above the top panel. The cage includes legs that extend through the base and are engaged by locking elements to removably secure the cage to the base. The cage includes frame segments that are releasably connected to one another by release pins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Assignee: Markets Direct, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert B. Carter, III, Vincent Alexander Baxter, W. Eric Garris, H. Kurt Menke, David S. DeVerter
  • Patent number: 6588819
    Abstract: A molded truck shell is provided having side walls hinged along the top of the shell, thus allowing the entire side wall to pivot upwardly and outwardly, providing increased access to cargo stored in a truck bed. Additional lateral seams between the side wall and shell are located on the front and rear of the shell rather than on the side of the shell thereby further increasing the opening into the truck bed and creating a visually clean appearance. Water penetrating through the side wall hinge line is directed away from the interior of the truck bed by a moisture flange that conducts the water to the exterior of the truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Inventor: David C. Block
  • Publication number: 20030111858
    Abstract: A storage enclosure includes a base including a top panel extending transversely from a front panel. The base is attachable to a load deck of an open deck vehicle such that an enclosed space is defined by the front and top panels and the load deck. The base includes mounts within the enclosed space that are attachable to a bracket for attaching the base to the load deck. The top panel includes side portions that extend from opposite ends of the front panel, and a removable cover panel is disposed between the side portions. A cage is mounted to the base that defines a cage compartment above the top panel. The cage includes legs that extend through the base and are engaged by locking elements to removably secure the cage to the base. The cage includes frame segments that are releasably connected to one another by release pins.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2001
    Publication date: June 19, 2003
    Inventors: Robert B. Carter, Vincent Alexander Baxter, W. Eric Garris, H. Kurt Menke, David S. DeVerter
  • Publication number: 20030085584
    Abstract: A unitary removable bedliner for use in conjunction with the cargo box of a pick up truck is formed by a bottom wall, a pair of opposing sidewalls extending upward from the bottom wall, and a front wall also extending upward from the bottom between the opposing walls. Each wall has a rail extending perpendicular to and outwardly from its upper edge. The bedliner is preferably formed of a thermoplastic or thermoset material and is molded to form fit the cargo box, including the wheel well covers, of the pick up truck. The rails of the bedliner align with and rest upon the corresponding rails of the cargo box. The rails may be formed with stake pockets corresponding to stake pockets within the cargo box rails for continued use if desired. The tailgate of the pick up truck may not be covered by the bedliner, allowing access to the cargo space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Mark A. Golden
  • Patent number: 6474714
    Abstract: A convertible cargo body for a vehicle for allowing the user to convert cargo boxes to trailers depending upon the type of cargo being carried. The convertible cargo body for a vehicle includes a cargo body support assembly being adapted to be mounted upon a chassis of a vehicle; and also includes a cargo body assembly including a first box member being securely supported upon the cargo body support assembly and also including a second box member being hingedly attached to and removably disposed upon the first box member; and further includes a wheeled trailer assembly for supporting the second box member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Inventor: Ernest R. Stettner
  • Patent number: 6446997
    Abstract: An inflated raft trailer adapted for transporting an inflated raft to and from a river, a lake and other water recreation areas. The trailer is designed to be pulled behind a vehicle and to quickly discharge the raft from the top of the trailer into the water and quickly return the raft to the top of the trailer at the completion of a trip. The inflated raft trailer includes a trailer bed mounted on a wheeled axle. The trailer bed includes front and rear portions, first side portion and second side portions and a center portion. A vertical front frame is mounted along a length of the front portion. A movable tail gate frame, with an elongated roller mounted thereon, is hinged along a length of the rear portion of the trailer bed. The tail gate frame can be raised from a lowered position to a raised vertical position. A vertical first side frame is mounted along a length of the first side portion and a vertical second side frame is mounted along a length of the second side portion of the trailer bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Inventors: Walter F. Bergman, Darrell J. McKay
  • Patent number: 6427500
    Abstract: A latch, lock and hinge system having components that are well suited for use with closures such as tonneau covers that close the upwardly opening rear cargo compartments of pickup trucks and the like, includes rotary latch assemblies that are mounted on hinges for releasably engaging latch strikers to provide cover mounting connections that permit the cover both to pivot between open and closed positions, and to be removed when desired. The hinges have pivotally connected arms that are biased to hold the hinge-carried latches adjacent the cover when the cover is removed. Also included are other rotary latch assemblies that are connected by flexible cables to a latch operator assembly having an elongate housing that defines near its opposite ends a pair of recesses wherein latch operators are nested that can be concurrently moved toward each other by the fingers of one hand to unlatch and pivot open the cover. The latch operator assembly is lockable to prevent the cover from being opened and/or removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: The Eastern Company
    Inventors: Lee S. Weinerman, Scott A. Arthurs
  • Publication number: 20020096902
    Abstract: A flexible pick-up box enclosable liner for use in a motor vehicle having a pick-up box rear compartment. The flexible pick-up box liner includes an enclosable liner arranged to form a base portion, several sidewalls, and an upper portion, which collectively define an internal compartment, as well as an adjustable fastener system for selectively reducing and expanding the volume of the internal compartment. The liner preferably includes several fasteners for attaching the liner to a pick-up box, and a structural support system for retaining the upper portion of the liner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Publication date: July 25, 2002
    Inventors: Lawrence J. Oswald, Del C. Schroeder, John Sabol, William W. Doolittle III
  • Patent number: 6371719
    Abstract: A recreational vehicle carrier for use with a pickup truck having a bed and side walls comprises a first platform adapted to be fixedly mounted to the side walls of the truck and a second platform adapted to be slidably mounted to the side walls and movable therealong. The platforms present generally planar surfaces which extend between the side walls. The second platform is selectably slidable between a first position overlapping the first platform and a second position adjacent the first platform. The vehicle carrier further includes a pair of ramps removably coupled to a lateral edge of the first platform for loading or unloading a recreational vehicle. A vehicle is loaded onto the second platform when the second platform is at the first position and onto the first platform when the second platform is at the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Inventor: Leroy J. Hildebrandt
  • Publication number: 20010038216
    Abstract: The present invention provides a plastics-covered metal plate excellent in chipping resistance, corrosion resistance etc. made by covering one surface or both surfaces of a metal plate with at least two kinds of plastics layers whose rates of elongation are different and a process of covering a car body by using said covered metal plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2001
    Publication date: November 8, 2001
    Inventors: Tadashi Watanabe, Tadayoshi Hiraki, Akira Tominaga, Takeshi Yawata
  • Patent number: 6199929
    Abstract: A bracket that is suitable for attachment to the rails of a pick-up truck or dump truck cargo body has attachment holes that support two perpendicular rails in orthogonal arrangement with respect to a cargo box railing or surface. The brackets are readily formed from low cost materials and may be stamped and formed with a minimum number of processing steps using a preferred method of the invention. When used in combination with existing cargo and dump boxes and other cargo carrying vehicles, the brackets extend the utility of the vehicle and offer a faster recovery of capital.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Inventor: Ronald D. Hansch
  • Patent number: 6158798
    Abstract: A multi-use structure for use in combination with a pickup truck. The structure includes a pair of longitudinal panels, each panel having a number of pocket stakes that are movably adjustable along the bottom edge of the panel to align with the pockets in the sidewalls of a pickup bed. This adjustment allows the panels to be used as sideboards on a variety of pickup truck models that may have various stake pocket spacings. When the situation requires, the panels may be removed from the stake pockets and the panels may be positioned at the rear of the truck and used as ramps. A strap with a lip positioned at one end of each panel extends down to engage the tailgate or bed of the truck to provide a firmer grip when the panels are positioned as ramps. A pair of sleeves attached at one end of one of the panels acts to telescopically connect the panels in end-to-end relationship where the panels may be used as a ladder or bridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Inventors: Robert G. Stedtfeld, Jon Gordon Stedtfeld
  • Patent number: 6152510
    Abstract: A stake and rail assembly for increasing the cargo carrying capacity of a pickup truck or the like vehicle comprising: a front wall, a pair of generally parallel side walls, a rear wall and upright stakes for insertion into the cavities in the vehicle or attachment by bolts to the vehicle, wherein the front and side walls comprise a plurality of horizontal rails attached to the stakes to form three sides of an enclosed volume, the rear wall comprises a plurality of horizontal rails, a first pair of angularly mounted members and at least one upright attached to the horizontal rails of the rear wall and capable of engaging a parallel second pair of angularly mounted members and at least one upright on the front wall when the rear wall is vertically juxtaposed with the front wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Inventor: Reginald W. Newsome
  • Patent number: 6149217
    Abstract: A pickup truck bed topper that is collapsible into a stored position to allow items to be transported on an open topped pickup truck bed and extended to form an enclosure to keep items being transported away from the wind and the other elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Inventor: Ashley J. Plamondon
  • Patent number: 6068324
    Abstract: The cargo system according to the present invention may include a roof passage having a weather tight hinging mechanism. A roof passage panel is configured having an "h-shaped" edge member pivotably attached to a hinge allowing for movement of the panel between a first or closed position wherein the hinge mechanism is sealed in a weather tight manner, a second or "up-opened" position wherein the roof passage panel is oriented in a substantially vertical position above the roofline of the cargo system, and a third or "down-opened" position, wherein the roof panel is oriented again in a substantially vertical position below the roofline of the cargo system. The cargo system including multiple function sealing passages may also include a ramp/hatch passage which allows access to the cargo system, typically via the rear panel. The ramp/hatch passage is configured to permit access to the bed of the vehicle via the ramp/hatch passage, which may be opened as a hatch or alternately as a ramp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Inventor: Ralph E. DeKlotz
  • Patent number: 5518288
    Abstract: A multiple configuration cargo system for a pickup truck as provided, having a front panel, a pair of side panels, a pair of side hinged roof panels and a pair of rear cargo panels. The cargo system is provided with a rear access insert that is a combination truck bed extension and ramp assembly, interfitting between the rear panels and closed roof panels. The ramp assembly is attached to the bed extension, for movement between a fully extended position angled from the ground to the bed of the truck and a partially extended support position wherein the ramp assemblies support the bed extending segment in a horizontal plane for weight bearing use. The roof panels meet along the longitudinal axis of the truck bed and pivotally move between (1) a closed position substantially parallel to the truck bed, (2) a vertically opened position in an upwards direction, and (3) an open position in a vertical and downwards direction into the cargo space defined by the side panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1996
    Assignee: Kenneth L. Taylor
    Inventor: Ralph E. Deklotz
  • Patent number: 5492259
    Abstract: A cargo support frame structure for vehicles is disclosed as including a replacement rear supporting bumper having two upright members attached thereto and extending above the bumper to a predetermined height that is, for most types of vehicles, in excess of the roof height of the vehicle. A connecting member is disposed between one end of each of the upright members opposite to where each upright member is attached to the supporting bumper and is attached thereto. A longitudinal member is perpendicularly attached near to the center of the connecting member and extends longitudinally generally parallel with the center-line of the vehicle. A front cross member having two ends is attached to the end of the longitudinal member that is opposite to the end where the longitudinal member is attached to the connecting member and extends perpendicular with respect to the longitudinal member. The two ends of the front cross member are each attached to a front upright member at a first end of each front upright member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1996
    Inventor: Clyde A. Tippets
  • Patent number: 5486031
    Abstract: An assembly (10) is disclosed including first slides (38) secured by bolts (64) to a topper (26) and second slides (36) secured by bolts (68) to the side walls (18) of a pickup truck (12). The first and second slides (36, 38) are of a tubular shape, with each of the first slides (38) further including first and second vertical legs (44) located on opposite sides of the second slides (36) and a horizontal seal leg (46) for sandwiching a seal (66) against the topper (26). First connectors (50) having female head portions (52) and second connectors (60) having male head portions (62) horizontally slideably received in the female head portions (52) include tabs (54) slideably received in the ends of the tubular shape of the slides (36, 38) and secured therein by the securement bolts (64, 68). A tubular weatherstrip (88) is slid on a cross bar (90) held by L-shaped portions formed on the connectors (50) of the front ends of the second slides (36).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 23, 1996
    Inventors: David K. Ronchetti, Robert A. Ronchetti, William L. Ronchetti
  • Patent number: 5431472
    Abstract: A pickup truck side rail apparatus includes paired front and rear rail members which are pivotally mountable to opposed sidewalls along a truck bed. The rail members are stored in lowered positions in which they extend longitudinally above and parallel to the sidewalls. They are vertically spaced from the sidewalls to form longitudinal side rails above and along the sidewalls. The rail members are pivotal to upright positions. In their upright positions, the rail members extend vertically from the front and rear ends of the opposed sidewalls. A pair of overhead cross-bars can be mounted between the transversely aligned rail members when in their upright positions. The overhead cross-bars extend transversely above the pickup truck bed to form an overhead rack for carrying lengthy objects above the truck bed and cab.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 11, 1995
    Assignee: Technic Tool Corporation
    Inventor: Ronald G. Coffland
  • Patent number: 5429403
    Abstract: An extension assembly having a pair of extension members which are pivotally mounted atop cargo box sidewalls. The extension members are automatically raised and lowered by pneumatic actuators having extendable and retractable rams. A roller arrangement is coupled with the extension members to vertically move and stabilize a roll-up tarpaulin apparatus and associated end-caps therewith. The roller arrangement moves in uniform cooperation with the pivoting extension members. Further, the extension members are laterally supported in the raised position by a plurality of horizontally spaced-apart supports which are pivotally connected to the extension members. The supports are pivotally connected to sliding collars mounted around trusses which laterally transverse the cargo box. During the raising operation, the sliding collars contact stoppers affixed to the trusses whereby the extension members are securely held in a vertically raised position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 4, 1995
    Inventor: Andrew J. Brasher
  • Patent number: 5423587
    Abstract: A combination camper shell and lumber rack for a pickup truck. A framework is mounted on the truck and used as a lumber rack when the covering shell is not installed, and then when desired the lumber rack is readily converted to a framework for supporting a covering shell. The lumber rack is structured so that it may be converted to a full camper shell frame by setting in place several rafter members that are adapted to be removably mounted across the top of the lumber rack frame to define the camper top profile. A flexible foldable soft top is shaped and arranged to extend over the lumber rack frame with the rafters in position and to be secured in position so as to enclose the frame. The walls of the shell are formed of a fabric, plastic or equivalent material shaped to cooperate with the frame and be supported thereby to define the camper covering sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 13, 1995
    Inventor: Brian L. Ingram
  • Patent number: 5398985
    Abstract: A rigidly constructed tonneau cover, hatch and seat assembly is disclosed for converting the truck bed of a standard pickup truck into an expanded seating capacity outside of the truck cab. The assembly is comprised of a generally rectangular tonneau cover for covering the bed portion of the pickup truck. This cover includes a hingably openable back portion that functions like a trunk to allow easy access to the truck bed. This portion can be locked so the contents of the truck bed are secured. The tonneau cover also has a removable hatch that provides access and protection for a rotatably mounted windshield, and for persons in one or more seats slidably mounted on the truck bed. In the closed position, the hatch protects the truck bed, seats, and added cargo, etc., from damage and undesired access. When the hatch is detached from the tonneau cover, it may be positioned vertically behind the seats and projects above the surface of the tonneau cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 21, 1995
    Inventor: Bruce Robinson
  • Patent number: 5314225
    Abstract: A replacement hard-top for a convertible sport truck or utility vehicle. The replacement top has a lightweight shell member and has at least one channel dimensioned to receive the vehicle's factory installed weather-seal in a tight frictional fit in order to form a weather-tight junction between said top and said body. The replacement top also has at least one notch, carried by the rear panels of the shell member, that is dimensioned to receive the vehicle's tail-gate when said tail-gate is in a closed position thus forming a weather-tight junction between said top and said tail-gate. This allows the replacement top to be interchangeable with the soft convertible top without replacing the factory installed weather-seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1994
    Assignee: Fleet Air Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventor: W. Dale Gordon
  • Patent number: 5110021
    Abstract: A combination rack for hauling pipe, locker for storing tools and extended sidewalls for hauling bulky material on the back of a pickup truck comprising two doors, each hinged respectively to the top edges of opposing sidewalls of the truckbed and which close over the truckbed to form a lockable enclosure or may be oriented to an upright position and fixed by a pair of rack members extending across the truckbed on which may be carried long lengths of pipe, lumber, etc. In one embodiment, the installed rack members are raised above the roof of the cab so that pipe can extend over the roof instead of out of the tailgate. The racks may be easily removed for storage or they may be folded against the underside of the truck when it is desired to close and lock the doors. Spring loaded lift assists facilitate opening the doors and may be locked to add additional support when the doors are open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1992
    Inventor: Fredric O. Dawson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4982971
    Abstract: A recreation vehicle enclosure includes a base to which a cover is pivotally secured at one end. The base is, preferably, rectangular in plan form and triangular in section to provide stiffness and to elevate a cover hinge to allow the cover to be fully opened in irregular terrain and to be gravity stabilized when open. Optional features include wheels and wheel mounts to convert the enclosure to an open road trailer and to convert the cover, when inverted, into an off-road trailer. The cover is shaped to accept nesting of covers for shipment and to reduce profile. An optional hitch provides means to attach to a towing vehicle. An optional solar panel, on the cover, charges the battery of a protected vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 8, 1991
    Inventor: Randy L. Marin
  • Patent number: 4979865
    Abstract: Apparatus for loading and unloading materials onto and from a truck bed includes a corner-mounted swivel hoist mechanism which is releasably clamped to the walls of the truck bed and includes an upper swivel boom member and a lower winch assembly having a cable which can be passed either upwardly over the boom member or rearwardly along the truck bed; and a dump body can be placed on the truck bed and lifted at its front end by the hoist in dumping materials contained in the body. The dump body has an open frame and an inner flexible liner with a rear flap portion of the liner being releasable to an open or lowered position to facilitate removeal of the contents from the body when tilted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 25, 1990
    Inventor: Jerome R. Strickland
  • Patent number: 4974898
    Abstract: A telescoping cover for storage facilities, particularly vehicle cargo beds, which utilizes a plurality of cover sections in successive mutual telescopically receivable relation that slide on guideways in a self-cleaning manner. In the preferred embodiment, a plurality of movable cover sections are provided which are successively mutually telescopable into a stationary cover section through use of a pair of parallel guideways. Each cover has a top from which depend downwardly mutually opposing sides. The guideways, which are attached to the storage facility side walls, are made of an elongated base having a substantially flat surface from which extend a plurality of elongated bosses. The bosses have an upper portion which is disposed in offset relation to a lower portion which in turn mates with the elongated base. The movable cover sections have a slot in the lower terminus of each side receiving a boss.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 4, 1990
    Inventor: Irving Baranski
  • Patent number: 4946214
    Abstract: A collapsible container has a top frame and bottom frame with folding walls having predetermined fold lines therein. The container has a closed position which is a flat platform configuration. In this configuration the walls are folded within the platform which may be used as a pallet for piece goods. The container has an open position where the top frame is raised and the container can be integral with a wheeled vehicle and used as a bulk carrier. Thus the container can be used for one shipment as a pallet for piece goods and for a next shipment as a bulk carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 7, 1990
    Inventors: Dietmar J. Neumann, Josef Linecker
  • Patent number: 4930831
    Abstract: The side extension of the invention includes first and second extension wall portions each circumscribing one-half of the area defined by the upstanding walls of the wagon body. The side extensions have a groove which is engaged by a lip extending from and disposed substantially perpendicular to the upstanding walls. The first and second extension wall portions have coupling elements formed at each end thereof which are secured to one another by bolts to lock the side extension on the wagon. The side extension when mounted on the wagon extends beyond the upstanding walls of the wagon body to increase the depth of the passenger department.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 5, 1990
    Assignee: Radio Flyer Inc.
    Inventors: Richard A. Valiga, Richard S. Hart
  • Patent number: 4909556
    Abstract: Transport container for the transport of bulk material provided with a filling-hole in the upper part and an emptying device in the rear. For the loading and unloading of also parcelled goods the container is provided with a side section that can be opened, and that the emptying device comprises a pneumatic pressure discharger with a pressure vessel into which the bulk material can freely flow from the container through a check valve and in which, with the check valve closed, pressure can be produced for discharging the bulk material through a discharge pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1987
    Date of Patent: March 20, 1990
    Inventor: Tarmo Koskinen
  • Patent number: 4877283
    Abstract: A flexible cover system adapted for enclosing the rear hatch opening of an automobile having an immovable roof structure over the passenger compartment and a hatch frame rearward of the roof structure defining the hatch opening. The hatch opening provides communication between the passenger compartment and the environment outside the automobile. The flexible cover system comprises a flexible water-impermeable sheet dimensioned for covering the hatch. The sheet has a peripheral edge margin. Securements along at least portions of the peripheral edge margin of the sheet are adapted for securing the sheet tautly over the hatch opening and adjacent the hatch frame. The securements are releasable only upon access to a designated portion of the peripheral edge margin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 31, 1989
    Inventors: Johnny L. Little, Vernetta Little
  • Patent number: 4875731
    Abstract: A combination pick-up truck bed liner and camper top. A bed liner conforms to the contour of a pick-up truck's bed and protects the bed from deterioration due to rust, abrasion and other damage of the type often inflicted upon unprotected truck beds. The bed liner is releasably secured to the bed and is made of light in weight materials so that it can be inverted and used as a camper top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1989
    Inventor: Samantha L. Ruiz
  • Patent number: 4842326
    Abstract: Modular motor vehicles are provided with a plurality of independently operable functionally different automobile and truck type core vehicles and a plurality of interchangeable functionally different body and chassis modules attachable to the core vehicles. The core vehicles utilize standardized first engagement means including frames and adapter plate elements connected to or "unitized" into the core vehicles. Said first engagement means of the cores have positioning elements and alternating connecting elements at standardized predetermined spacing and location defining a structurally rigid bed for the modules. The modules incorporate a second engagement means, located and spaced to compliment said first engagement means, making it possible to easily align, connect and disconnect the modules with respect to the core vehicles. The modules incorporate a third engagement means to align and connect the multiple-piece modules together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1989
    Assignee: John A. DiVito
    Inventor: Robert DiVito
  • Patent number: 4828315
    Abstract: A pickup truck cargo canopy assembly which is enclosed and provides complete protection from weather, theft and vandalism in the cargo area is described. The cargo canopy assembly is divided into two separate sections. The front canopy section which is mounted permanently to the truck bed sidewalls and frontwall is provided with an opening behind the pickup truck cab window and a functional window on each side. The rear canopy section which is unitarily manufactured is attached to the front section and the truck bed sidewalls by clamps that may be detached by removing a pin holding the two parts of the clamp together. This provides a removable rear section that may be stored when an open truck bed is desired. A hinged rear window assembly is attached to the rear edge of the top of the rear canopy section that also contains a latch and lock to provide a secure cargo area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 9, 1989
    Inventor: Scott A. W. Muirhead
  • Patent number: 4824163
    Abstract: A convertible cover for an open-top vehicle box such as a trailer or the box of a pick-up truck. The cover is removably secured to the box and has a top wall with at least one opening therein spaced from an edge of the top wall to form a seat section on the top wall intermediate the opening and an adjacent side edge of the top wall. A flat removable panel is secured in close fit on the top wall and overlies at least the opening. The panel is supportable elevated from the top wall to constitute a table top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 25, 1989
    Inventor: Jaroslav Hendrych
  • Patent number: 4824157
    Abstract: A utility cage for vehicles is particularly shaped half octagon upwardly from a wide horizontal base. The cage is primarily designed for use on the bed of a pickup truck and has adjustable attachment fittings compatible with stake apertures in the pickup truck bed side walls. The cage has tubular frame support members and tubular framed panels fully covered on one side by expanded metal material. Conformingly shaped side panels removably pivotally attached to a frontal end panel and rear support members can be exchanged, reversed, and turned over for placement into a variety of use positions. A rear panel is upwardly hinged to the rear support members for opening, closing or removal. A reinforced removable top panel can be used as a secondary bed in a pickup truck, as a loading ramp, or as a table-like extension the pickup truck tailgate. The side panels can be turned upwardly and a covering placed over the caged area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 25, 1989
    Inventors: Wade S. Nielsen, Steven L. Abshier
  • Patent number: 4815787
    Abstract: A topper provided with a U-shaped frame that is sealingly secured to the lower coplanar edges of its side walls and the joining front wall, with the frame having a plurality of depending posts that mate with sockets along the flanged upper edges of the truck side walls. The posts serve as supports when the topper is dismounted. The frame is provided with a lower surface seal for contact with the side wall flanges, and latches releasably secure the topper in mounted condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1988
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1989
    Inventor: Charles R. Hale
  • Patent number: 4799726
    Abstract: A removable canopy cover for an open truck bed. A cap having an inverted U-shaped rearwardly directed edge is provided over the front end of the bed, and a movable hoop having a forwardly directed edge is provided over the rear of the truck bed. The inwardly directed edges of the side walls, cap and hoop are channeled to receive the conforming edges of a multiple panel cover. The panels are foldable for compact storage and when unfolded, conform to the corresponding inwardly directed edges of the cap, hoop and side walls. The rear hoop is moved rearwardly, the cover positioned at the edges of the cap and the side walls, and the hoop pushed forward to trap and interconnect the cover as between the side walls, cap and hoop. A locking member in the form of a support bar extends between the hoop and cap. The support bar telescopes to permit the rearward movement of the hoop and includes a lock member that locks the bar against telescoping as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1989
    Assignee: Warn Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary M. Scott
  • Patent number: 4746161
    Abstract: Cushioned components are arranged to fit together in laterally immobilized fashion to form a furnished interior for the bed of a pick-up truck. The assembly is constructed of modular pieces which, when assembled, form a pair of seats above the wheel wells of the truck bed and a storage compartment extending across the width of the truck at the forward end of the truck bed. All surfaces of the assembly that are directed toward the truck bed interior are cushioned with carpeting, fabric, or padding. The modular components may be quickly assembled and disassembled, so that the bed of the pick-up truck may be utilized for heavy duty work within the furnished interior assembly, and then transformed into a luxurious den within the space of a few minutes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1988
    Inventor: Gary W. Futrell
  • Patent number: 4735457
    Abstract: Improvements in a freight vehicle having a cargo space convertible from that suitable for handling piece goods to that suitable for bulk material. A conventional cargo space for piece goods has openings for filling and discharging bulk material. A double-walled inflatable bag having its bottom attached to a rigid support platform is positioned in erected condition to handle bulk material and is movable to a stored position near the roof of the cargo space to allow handling of piece goods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1986
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1988
    Inventors: Vincent C. Bonerb, Peter J. Bonerb, James J. Bonerb, Thomas J. Bonerb
  • Patent number: 4712827
    Abstract: A convertible car having an extendible and contractible rear cabin section. A cabin roof section is pivotally lowerable to a load carrying position and a rearmost cabin portion is forwardly displaceable over the lowered roof section into engagement with a forwardmost cabin portion to contract the cabin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1987
    Assignee: Logicar A/S
    Inventor: Jakob Jensen
  • Patent number: 4709956
    Abstract: A removable cover for a pick-up truck bed, including a plurality of inverted "U"-shaped frames standing upright and a windowed vinyl canopy rested thereupon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1986
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1987
    Inventor: Lawrence S. Bowman