Having Canopy Means Patents (Class 296/163)
  • Patent number: 9650086
    Abstract: A drag reduction apparatus for mounting at the rear of a trailer. The apparatus includes a first unit which is secured to the first door of the trailer and a second unit which is secured to the second door of the trailer. Each of the units includes an upper panel, an intermediate panel and a lower panel. The units are selectively movable between a stowed position and a deployed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2017
    Inventor: Raimund Pfaff
  • Publication number: 20150084368
    Abstract: A cover assembly for the slide out portion of a recreational vehicle or camper is provided, which is adapted to prevent water and debris from collecting along the upper surface of the slide out portion when extended. The assembly comprises a frame affixed to the vehicle and positioned above the slide out portion thereof. The frame forms a clevis that supports a hingedly attached cover. The cover extends downward and over the slide out portion when the slide out portion is retracted. When extended, the slide out portion forces the cover outward and upward. The cover is sized to rest against the slide out portion and engages its outer, upper edge when fully extended. The cover forms a slanted surface when extended, and then retracts to a substantially vertical state when retracted. A lock secures the cover to the frame between uses and while the vehicle is in motion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2014
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventor: Jessie Tenpenny
  • Patent number: 8876189
    Abstract: A vehicle mounted canopy including mounting brackets conforming to a vehicle roof with tracks attached thereto. Each outside track has stopping pins and a roller slidingly and rotationally disposed within the recess between the stopping pins to receive an inside track disposed on each side of a canopy frame that slidingly engage the respective outside track to extend the canopy frame. There is also a T-handle lock permitting a user to secure the inside track and outside track in a locked position in the mounting bracket and to alternately release the inside track and outside track from the mounting bracket to the stopping pins to permit usage of the canopy in an extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Inventor: Warren S. Williams
  • Patent number: 8800582
    Abstract: Storable exterior lift cover systems, apparatus, devices, methods, etc. are configured to be used with a lift device or the like (such as an exterior lift that raises, transports, stores and lowers mobility devices like scooters, power chairs and the like) mounted to a motor vehicle using a trailer hitch or the like. A covering apparatus has a foldable frame that can be unfolded to allow a pliable cover to extend over the lift platform and any cargo. Retraction of the cover and folding of the frame compactly configures and stores the cover apparatus, for example between the lift platform and a motor vehicle to which the lift is secured. Embodiments of the storable exterior lift cover permit easy deployment and storage of a cover that can be reliably transported externally in its deployed or stored configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Bruno Independent Living Aids, Inc.
    Inventors: Adam C. Hooper, Timothy J. Dexter, Andrew A. Bayer
  • Patent number: 8789548
    Abstract: A portable hunting or wildlife observation structure is designed to fit to the bed of most pickup trucks. All components of the structure may be stored inside a lockable storage case, which also acts as a bed width adjustable bench seat for the user when the structure is assembled. The structure's five-sided structure may incorporate height adjustable shooting bars and a roof structure. A weatherproof camouflage material provides a surround and roof cover for the structure. Separate weatherproof camouflage material may be magnetically attached to conceal the truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Inventor: Richard Andrew Atherton
  • Patent number: 8528962
    Abstract: Described herein is a mobile home 1 being a caravan, recreational vehicle or the like that includes an outdoor deck section 3 that pivots from the main structure 2. When in an open configuration, the deck 3 is available for use and, when being moved, the deck portion 3 is moved to integrate with the main structure 2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Inventors: Matthew Bevan Wilkie, Stuart Michael Winterbourn
  • Patent number: 8267105
    Abstract: The portable magnetic awning apparatus is easily attached to and removed from a chosen metallic vehicle or surface. Soft magnets negate potential scarring. In the collapsed state, the apparatus is importantly relatively small. The scissor frame supporting the awning easily collapses to allow the vertical members to be collapsed inwardly to a side-by-side position, with the pivoting members pivoting upwardly for further compact state. The pliable awning and bib further enable lightweight collapsibility. The pivoting members which are pivotally and positionally lockable, along with the telescopic rods, provide a wide variety of selectively established positioning and extendability. Lock knobs manually lock the pivoting members as chosen relative to the vertical members. The bib is hingedly attached to the awning to further provide selective positioning in relation thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Inventor: Cleveland Denmark, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8240323
    Abstract: A rain shielding device for an automobile includes an umbrella holder, an umbrella cloth, and a power accumulator. The umbrella holder includes a first edge column mounted on a vehicle door, a second edge column mounted on a vehicle body, a plurality of main umbrella sticks between the first edge column and the second edge column, and two interlock members. The umbrella cloth is covered on the umbrella holder. The power accumulator includes a movable member, a plurality of auxiliary umbrella sticks, and an energy-storing member. The interlock members move the movable member when the vehicle door opens, and then the movable member interacts with the auxiliary umbrella sticks to push the main umbrella sticks and umbrella cloth unfolding. The energy-storing member stores energy when the umbrella cloth unfolds and releases energy when the vehicle door is closed; thus provides an auxiliary force when the umbrella cloth folds/unfolds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Ann Show Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chih-Chung Lee
  • Patent number: 8225807
    Abstract: A shade system for mounting atop a vehicle. The system features a first support panel attachable flush with the top of the vehicle via an attachment means and a second support panel pivotally attached to the first support panel. The second support panel can pivot from atop the first support panel to a vertical position perpendicular to the first support panel via a hydraulic arm. A shade housing is disposed atop the second support platform. A shade component is rolled on a spool in the shade housing. The shade component can be extended from and retracted into the shade housing. The shade component can be stabilized to keep the shade component in an extended position via a securing means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Inventor: Kendel C. Cain
  • Patent number: 8052196
    Abstract: A cover assembly 10 having a cover support portion 30 having various members 34, 36, and 38 each having respective bodies 70 which respectively have a plurality of cells 80 which make the members 34, 36, 38 lightweight and structurally sound, and the members 34, 36, 38 cooperatively deploying a cover 32 over the bed 14 of a selectively movable assembly 12.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Inventor: John Micheli
  • Patent number: 7988219
    Abstract: A recreational vehicle slide out roof block prevents foreign material such as water, dirt, or debris from accumulating on a recreational vehicle slide out roof. A slide out roof block has a size and shape selected to fill a gap between a slide out roof and an awning sheet extending over the slide out roof. Embodiments of a slide out roof block comprise a compressible bolster having a rain flap along a bottom edge of a front side. The bolster includes a block of compressible polymer foam in some embodiments. One or more pole sleeves may optionally be attached to the front side of the bolster. A pole inserted into a pole sleeve may be used to install or retrieve a slide out roof block. Some embodiments have an airtight cover and a valve, enabling a slide out roof block to be compressed for storage and reinflated for installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Inventor: Richard E. Young
  • Patent number: 7798547
    Abstract: A mobile booth system, carried by a truck or like mobile vehicle, creates a portable, temporary in situ booth or enclosure at a remote location. A pair of side by side slide assemblies are formed by respective nests of C-channels and I-beams, each assembly extending and retracting through an opening in a sidewall of the truck wherein to deploy and retract a roof section outwardly from the truck. The roof section is deployed through a dedicated opening in the sidewall, which opening may be closed by a closure panel but opened by deployment of the roof section. When deployed, an enclosure is formed by attaching a drop cloth to the roof section. The enclosure when used as a paint booth enables rapid deployment of a drop cloth about irregular or difficult surfaces to be painted, as well as to contain overspray and fumes created by the spraying operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Inventor: Bruce C. Antaya
  • Patent number: 7794001
    Abstract: A mobile medical facility capable of treating a plurality of patients and being transported over the roadways without requiring extensive transporting means. In general the mobile medical facility includes a trailer. The trailer defines a floor area and has at least a first and second configuration. In the first configuration, the floor area is reduced to allow for transporting of the trailer over the public highways. In the second configuration, the floor area of the trailer is expanded and large enough to support a plurality of beds for treating patients. In some embodiments, the floor area in the second configuration may be at least twice as large as the floor area in the first configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: Charlotte-Mecklenburg Hospital Authority d/b/a Carolinas Medical Center
    Inventors: Thomas H. Blackwell, Kevin T. Staley
  • Patent number: 7568491
    Abstract: The vehicle-mounted awning is a quick setup framework that supports a weatherproof fabric canopy, and is configured for use to the rear of a vehicle. A multi-sectioned bumper bar attaches to the hitch receiver of a vehicle. Opposing ends of the bumper bar have vertical extension pieces, each extending vertically and having a slightly arcuate free end for support of an arcuate multi-sectioned upper side panel frame on either side of the bumper bar. Multi-sectioned lower side panel frames are pivotally connected to opposing ends of the bumper bar. Upper and lower side panel frames are removably connected at their distal ends to provide cantilevered support. Additional multi-sectioned framework extends rearward protective coverage. A flexible water-resistant fabric is wrapped over the support framework to provide a covered canopy region. The framework of the device comprises a plurality of collapsible elements for storage in a small bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Banfill, Peter J. Thompson
  • Patent number: 7344182
    Abstract: A vehicle awning system includes a plurality of arm supports disposable in a spaced apart relationship on a vehicle roof with each support having a cantilevered portion disposable in a spaced apart relationship with the vehicle roof. A roller is disposed between the cantilevered portion and the vehicle roof and a fabric having a topside and a bottom side is wound on the roller and extendable therefrom with a lead rail. A plurality of articulated arms interconnect a corresponding arm support with the lead rail and are disposed over the fabric topside for tensioning the fabric between the roller and the lead rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Assignee: Girard Systems
    Inventors: Vince Weddell, Robert G. Heitel
  • Patent number: 7334593
    Abstract: The present invention provides a support device associated with an object such as a vehicle tailgate or a residential deck for holding an umbrella with an umbrella pole supporting at least one serving tray to provide shade from the sun for a user occupying a portion of the object. The support device comprises a bent plate support in contact with the object. At least one retainer strap with a hook at each end holds the bent plate in contact with the object. An umbrella pole support is connected to the bent plate support to receive and help hold the umbrella pole. At least one support collar is welded to the bent plate to receive and support the umbrella pole support. Additional accessories and applications are also realized within the scope of this invention including a fishing pole holder, a bowl holder and a light assembly for night use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Inventor: Bryan K. Avery
  • Patent number: 7328935
    Abstract: A trailer canopy system for providing an area adjacent a trailer that is protected from inclement weather includes a canopy that is extendable from a side of a trailer. The canopy protects an area under the canopy from inclement weather when the canopy is extended from the trailer. A support bar is coupled to a free edge of the canopy positioned opposite of the trailer. Each of a pair of bracing assemblies is pivotally coupled to each of the support bar and the trailer. Each of the bracing assemblies pivots between a stored position and a deployed position. The stored position is defined when each of the bracing assemblies is positioned adjacent the side of the trailer. The deployed positioned is defined when each of the bracing assemblies extends away from the trailer and supports the support bar and the canopy over a ground surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Inventor: Robert Tarin
  • Patent number: 7273245
    Abstract: A camper and trailer combination includes an open-topped, wheeled enclosure, a plurality of spars which span the open top of the enclosure, a canopy which is positionable over the spars to cover the open top of the enclosure. The spars are connected to the open-topped enclosure to permit a movement of the spars between an upright condition at which the canopy can be spread over and cover the spars and a collapsed, out-of-the-way condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Inventor: John Robert Ray
  • Patent number: 7243979
    Abstract: A recreational utility trailer having a subfloor and a fold-up top deck creating a storage space therebetween for storing a fabric shelter. The trailer also has movable suspension and hinged tongue for raising the trailer to a transit position and for lowering the trailer to a loading position. The suspension uses fluid cylinders to raise and lower the trailer. A hinged frame supports the fabric shelter when erected, and is storable between the subfloor and top deck. Attachment points may be provided to secure one or more accessories or a load to the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Assignees: Aurora Borealis Sales & Distributing, Inc., River Ridge Designs, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Stene, Gerald J. Nelson
  • Patent number: 7237826
    Abstract: A cargo system includes a plurality of rigidly connected compartments adapted to mount on the roof of a vehicle. The plurality of compartments includes a first compartment suitable for mounting a retractable awning and a second compartment suitable for storing cargo. The first and second compartments each include a flooring and a sidewall wherein the first compartment is rigidly connected to the second compartment by at least one of the flooring and the sidewall. One of the plurality of compartments includes a liquid container, at least a portion of the container being suspended in the compartment. The liquid container includes a tube suitable for passing liquid that emerges from the cargo system. In addition, a light assembly is operatively associated with the cargo system. The light assembly includes an electrical conductor suitable for providing power to the light assembly, the conductor emerging from the cargo system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Pik 4 Trip Ltd.
    Inventors: Yaron Sagi, Israel Bloch
  • Patent number: 7234760
    Abstract: An awning assembly for the front portion of a recreational vehicle. The awning assembly in a closed position provides an aerodynamic profile for the front portion of the recreational vehicle, so that a front wall can be arranged to allow more efficient use of the interior. In one embodiment, the front wall is vertical so that the front portion of the interior has a full ceiling height. The awning assembly in an open position helps to block out external elements, so that the front wall can be used more efficiently. In one embodiment, the front wall includes a window, and the awning assembly provides a shade for that window while allowing an occupant to look outside towards the front of recreational vehicle. Various structures and methods for implementing the awning assembly to the front portion of the recreational vehicle are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Assignee: Alfa Leisure, Inc.
    Inventor: Johnnie R. Crean
  • Patent number: 7213869
    Abstract: A hold down may include a weight associated with a coupling mechanism that is configured to removably couple to a foot of an awning support arm assembly. An RV awning and hold down system may include: an awning assembly having at least one support arm assembly disconnected from a side of an RV; and at least one hold down comprising a weight associated with a coupling mechanism, the coupling mechanism removably coupled to a foot of the at least one support arm assembly. A method for holding an RV awning assembly in position may include: disconnecting at least one support arm assembly of the awning assembly from a side of an RV; and removably coupling a foot of at least one support arm assembly to a coupling mechanism associated with a weight of a hold down.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Inventor: Robert N. McClellan
  • Patent number: 7188889
    Abstract: A retractable cover for a slide-out unit on a recreational vehicle, mobile home, travel trailer, or the like, includes a roll bar that is movable with the slide-out unit away from the side of the vehicle with the roll bar mounted in a housing having a closure plate which is easily pivoted to an open position or removed to facilitate maintenance or removal of debris that may accumulate in the housing during a retraction of the cover. The housing is mounted on the slide-out unit with brackets permitting the brackets to be located at any position along the length of the housing and also permitting the housing to assume a length that is much greater than the width of the slide-out unit providing a better cover for the slide-out unit during inclement weather.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Assignee: Garefree/Scott Fetzer Company
    Inventors: Robert Wagner, Scott W. Thompson
  • Patent number: 7178857
    Abstract: A camping system convertible between a transporting configuration and a camping configuration. The system includes a large storage compartment to allow storage of large items such as all terrain vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles and other large items even when in the compact transporting configuration. The system includes side walls that pivot upward and outward to create side compartments for sleeping or other uses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Assignee: Let's Go Aero, Inc.
    Inventor: Marty Williams
  • Patent number: 7178536
    Abstract: An awning construction for a camping accommodation or the like, including a roof and at least one side wall, as well as a container which is mountable on a wall of a camping accommodation, which is arranged to include, in a closed position of the rest, at least the tent cloth of an awning, wherein the container includes, in mounted condition, a substantially horizontal and at least one substantially vertical section, which container further has an open position to take the awning out of the container and put it up and wherein the container is further provided with a fixing device for an edge of the tent cloth of the awning, located, in the operative position, in the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Inventor: Egbert Berend Holtkamp
  • Patent number: 7163257
    Abstract: An awning mechanism for a recreational vehicle having a slider includes a box awning having a frame and a roller disposed therein with an awning rolled about the roller and extendable therefrom. The awning includes a leading edge and a bracket is provided for mounting the frame to a stationary wall of the recreational vehicle. A header attachable to the slider beneath the frame is provided with the bracket and the header having a generally coplanar relationship with the slide out in a fully retracted position. Linkage is provided which interconnects the header and the leading edge and includes structure enabling shortening of the linkage as the header passes beneath the leading edge on the roller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: Girard Systems
    Inventor: Robert G. Heitel
  • Patent number: 7156451
    Abstract: The invention relates to a housing unit (1), such as a caravan or a motor home with an extensible room (3) or slide-out and an awning (7) with a rollable awning canvas (8) attached above this room (3), so that, when sliding out the room (3), the awning canvas (8) will automatically be rolled off above this room (3) until the foremost edge of the awning canvas (8) will have passed the front wall (4) of the slide-out (3), in order to protect this front wall from the sun. Rolling off the awning canvas (8) automatically is preferably caused by the sliding out motion of the slide-out (3). Furthermore, an arm (12), (13) connected to the canvas (8) may be provided, which is rotatably connected to the slide-out and which will be rotated when moving out the slide-out and will take along the awning canvas (8) until it will pass the said front wall (4). This invention likewise relates to an awning (1) provided for such a housing unit (1) and a method to install the awning (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: Omnistor Accessories NV
    Inventor: Jan Verhelst
  • Patent number: 7100625
    Abstract: A fastening assembly and method to releasably secure a panel of a novel screen room enclosure to a structure. The fastening assembly includes a clip having a channel portion fastened to a flat portion, the channel portion having an opening adapted to receive an edge of a panel, and, a locking fastener having an elongated locking member adjustable between a first position and a second position. The flat portion of the clip comprises a hole for accepting the locking fastener such that the locking member can pass through the hole when the locking member is in the first position, and cannot pass through the hole when the locking member is in the second position. A screen room enclosure to be used with an awning of a structure and releasably coupled to the structure with a fastening assembly. A method of securing a side panel of the screen room enclosure to the structure with the clip is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Dometic Corporation
    Inventor: Fernando Valles
  • Patent number: 7093888
    Abstract: A deck for use with a vehicle having a frame includes a platform. The platform has opposite upper and lower surfaces. The platform is operatively coupled to the frame of the vehicle for selective movement between a storage position, wherein the upper surface is disposed substantially underneath the vehicle and a use position wherein the upper surface is disposed alongside the vehicle for ingress and egress thereon. A stabilizer extends from the lower surface for supporting the platform above the ground while in the use position. The stabilizer is selectively height adjustable to maintain the upper surface in a generally horizontal position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Inventors: Anthony R. Anderson, Michael S. Warner
  • Patent number: 7059660
    Abstract: An awning apparatus for mounting on the bed of a truck is comprised of a plurality of post assemblies, wherein each post assembly is designed to fit into the posthole of a truck bed, a plurality of collapsible tent pole assemblies inserted into the post assemblies and a flexible sheet member attached to the tent pole assemblies. A pair of cords are arranged such that one cord is attached to the flexible sheet member near the forward corner opposite the forward most post assembly and the other cord is attached to the flexible sheet member near the aft corner opposite the aft post assembly and the other ends of the cords are attached to the sub-frame of the truck, such that the tent pole assemblies extend outboard of the truck bed and are bent into an arched shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Inventor: Gary Ernest Juola
  • Patent number: 7055890
    Abstract: An awning assembly for the front portion of a recreational vehicle. The awning assembly in a closed position provides an aerodynamic profile for the front portion of the recreational vehicle, so that a front wall can be arranged to allow more efficient use of the interior. In one embodiment, the front wall is vertical so that the front portion of the interior has a full ceiling height. The awning assembly in an open position helps to block out external elements, so that the front wall can be used more efficiently. In one embodiment, the front wall includes a window, and the awning assembly provides a shade for that window while allowing an occupant to look outside towards the front of recreational vehicle. Various structures and methods for implementing the awning assembly to the front portion of the recreational vehicle are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: Alfa Leisure, Inc.
    Inventor: Johnnie R. Crean
  • Patent number: 7017976
    Abstract: A retractable awning cover for a slide out unit on a recreational vehicle, mobile home, travel trailer or the like includes a scissors arm support system that elevates a support bar running longitudinally of the vehicle to establish a gable shape for the awning cover when extended. The support bar is automatically lowered during retraction so as to be alignable with the scissors arms that support the support bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: Carefree/Scott Fetzer Company
    Inventors: Jeffrey B. Rutherford, Robert Wagner
  • Patent number: 6997497
    Abstract: A cargo system includes a plurality of rigidly connected compartments adapted to mount on the roof of a vehicle. The plurality of compartments includes a first compartment suitable for mounting a retractable awning and a second compartment suitable for storing cargo. The first and second compartments each include a flooring and a sidewall wherein the first compartment is rigidly connected to the second compartment by at least one of the flooring and the sidewall. One of the plurality of compartments includes a liquid container, at least a portion of the container being suspended in the compartment. The liquid container includes a tube suitable for passing liquid that emerges from the cargo system. In addition, a light assembly is operatively associated with the cargo system. The light assembly includes an electrical conductor suitable for providing power to the light assembly, the conductor emerging from the cargo system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Pik 4 Trip Ltd.
    Inventors: Yaron Sagi, Israel Bloch
  • Patent number: 6840568
    Abstract: A slide-out room and awning assembly for a recreational vehicle. The assembly includes a roll enclosure for attachment to an exterior side wall of the vehicle, a roll rotationally journalled within the roll enclosure, a slide-out room for extension from the exterior side wall, an elongated trough attached to the slide-out room, and an awning fabric attached at a proximate edge to the roll and attached at a distal edge to the elongated trough. When the slide-out room is in a retracted position, the awning fabric is wrapped around the roll. When the slide-out room is in an extended position, the awning fabric is extended from the roll over a top wall of the slide-out room at a downward slope from the roll to the trough such that debris and liquid flow into the trough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: Dometic Corporation
    Inventors: Alejandro Carrillo, Michael Hicks
  • Patent number: 6811207
    Abstract: A motor vehicle (2) including a door assembly (4) configured to provide support for a canopy assembly (12) attached to the door assembly. The canopy assembly includes a canopy (18) and at least one canopy support member (20 and 22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: Textron Automotive Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Jim Dalpizzol, Keith Riha
  • Patent number: 6782936
    Abstract: An automatic lateral arm awning system for a recreational vehicle includes awning material having a first and a second end, a roller secured to the material first end for wrapping said awning material thereabout and a header secured to the material second end. A frame is provided for enclosing the roller and awning material and sealing with the header in order to prevent wind-generated noise upon driving of the recreational vehicle. A pair of spring loaded arms interconnecting the frame and said header for urge the header away from the frame upon rotation of the roller in one direction and an electric motor, disposed within the roller, rotates the roller. The awning material unrolls from the roller and extends outwardly from the frame upon rotation of the roller in the one direction and wraps around said roller upon rotation of the roller in an opposite direction. Awning material stretch is accommodated in order to insure sealing between said header and said frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: Girard Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Larry Girard, Howard Jelinek
  • Publication number: 20040135396
    Abstract: A slide-out room and awning assembly for a recreational vehicle. The assembly includes a roll enclosure for attachment to an exterior side wall of the vehicle, a roll rotationally journalled within the roll enclosure, a slide-out room for extension from the exterior side wall, an elongated trough attached to the slide-out room, and an awning fabric attached at a proximate edge to the roll and attached at a distal edge to the elongated trough. When the slide-out room is in a retracted position, the awning fabric is wrapped around the roll. When the slide-out room is in an extended position, the awning fabric is extended from the roll over a top wall of the slide-out room at a downward slope from the roll to the trough such that debris and liquid flow into the trough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventors: Alejandro Corrillo, Michael Hicks
  • Publication number: 20040135339
    Abstract: Disclosed is a movable side step for a vehicle. The movable side step comprises a fixing means being connected to a body frame of the lower portion of the vehicle, a stepping means being connected movably in forward and out backward to the fixing means, and an operating means for operating said stepping means according to the opening/shutting of a door of the vehicle. According to the movable side step of the present, the vehicle may be driven more safely. Further, when the vehicle is parked, it does not require a wide parking space. Further, children or the old and the weak may safely get into or get out of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Moon-Kuen Kim
  • Patent number: 6695388
    Abstract: An awning device, an associated kit and an associated method of using the kit to assemble the device for use as an auxiliary rain shield over a sleeping unit slidably attached to a recreational camping vehicle are disclosed. The device includes the interconnected components of two pair of securing brackets, a pair of corner posts, a generally rectangular sheet, a primary adhesive strip, and a complementary adhesive strip. The interconnected components of the device make up the auxiliary rain shield over the sleeping unit which provides the sleeping unit additional protection from water damage. The kit includes the unassembled components of the device. The method of using the kit includes the steps of adjoining, affixing, aligning, connecting, extending, hooking, mounting, obtaining, and screwing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Inventor: Marc Thisdale
  • Publication number: 20040000800
    Abstract: A motor vehicle (2) including a door assembly (4) is provided. The door assembly is configured to provide support for a canopy assembly (12) attached to the door assembly. The canopy assembly includes a canopy (18) and at least one canopy support member (20 and 22).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2003
    Publication date: January 1, 2004
    Inventors: Jim Dalpizzol, Keith Riha
  • Patent number: 6659530
    Abstract: A retractable cover for recreational vehicle to provide retractable sunshade comprises a support frame connectable to a recreational vehicle roof. A cover spindle is connected to the support frame. A cover first end is windably connected to the cover spindle. A cover arm is rotatably connected to the support frame. The cover arm is connected to the cover second end. Multiple arched truss arms are rotatably connected to the support frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Inventor: Herbert R. Jones
  • Publication number: 20030178805
    Abstract: A selected-length first, preferably tubular, rear member substantially subtending a side region of a vehicle just to the fore of the vehicle's rear wheel well has when mounted to the vehicle an integral extension that slides within, and strongly engages, another selected-length, forward, member that substantially subtends the remaining side region of the vehicle, extending so far as the vehicle's front wheel well. The two members together as are (i) individually selected in length, and (ii) slid together to a variable extent, jointly form a two-piece vehicular side, or nerf, bar that is precisely sized to the vehicle to which it is applied, strong, and suitably shipped by conventional land and air freight carriers. Lower levels of inventory are thus required to suit a wide range of vehicular applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2002
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Inventor: Jerry Michael Elrod
  • Patent number: 6619726
    Abstract: A retractable awning for a recreational vehicle is provided wherein the awning is stored behind a pivoting door that closes flush with the side of the recreational vehicle when the awning is not deployed over a slide-out unit. The pivoting door is adjacent the awning and the pivoting door closes flush with the side of the recreational vehicle with the awning enclosed in its side mounted compartment. With the retractable awning completely behind the plane defining the side of the recreational vehicle and protected by a locking door, the awning does not add any additional unwanted width to the recreational vehicle and is protected from unfurling during transport. An automatic locking mechanism is provided for ensuing that the door remains closed during transportation. Further, a debris clearing mechanism is preferably installed adjacent the spool which collects the retractable awning as it retracts, thereby cleaning the awning of debris prior to its withdrawal into the compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: Fleetwood Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas Glenn Jones
  • Patent number: 6598612
    Abstract: An easily deployed ridge pole is used, in combination with standard awning deployment hardware, to change the shape of the canopy fabric of an extended retractable awning. The ridge pole engages the underside of the awning fabric to impart a Mansard shape to the canopy. This shape incorporates first and second planes of canopy fabric wherein the plane closest to the RV has a less steep pitch than the plane furthest from the RV. The shape has airfoil qualities which stabilize the effects of high wind velocities on the awning. The shape also provides room under the relatively flat plane for doors under the awning to open without engaging the awning fabric. The ridge pole is supported by struts which in some embodiments provide foundations for fabric stabilizing clamps that are affixed to loose edges of canopy fabric.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Inventor: James R. Crowe
  • Patent number: 6572174
    Abstract: The structure illustrates is an articulating cover for the bed of a vehicle which includes a hinge connecting a first portion and a second portion and which can articulate as the cover is raised. This configuration provides a stable isolation to area over and both in and above the truck bed area. A higher level of articles can be stored in the truck bed area and still remain partially covered with the first portion providing a vertical shield from wind and shade. The truck bed can also accommodate passengers while provide shade both from the front vertical portion and the second portion which remains horizontal. The second attribute enables the truck bed to be converted into a comfort area especially amenable to sitting, relaxing and enjoying a view, tailgating and other activities involving the truck bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Inventors: Javier Hernandez, Alfredo Dominguez
  • Publication number: 20030094833
    Abstract: A retractable awning combined with an expandable camping trailer includes telescoping support arms and rafter arms that support a roll bar and an awning sheet secured thereto. The support arms and rafter arms automatically extend when the trailer is expanded from a collapsed position and are further extendable into a deployed use position and locked in this position by appropriately manipulating the support and rafter arms and securing them in extended positions with lock mechanisms. The support and rafter arms are conditioned for retraction by releasing the lock mechanisms and positioning the awning adjacent to the side of the trailer such that when the trailer is collapsed by dropping the top of the trailer downwardly toward the bottom of the trailer, the support and rafter arms automatically collapse into nested relationships.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2002
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Applicant: Carefree/Scott Fetzer Company
    Inventors: Scott P. Thompson, Garret Mauldin, Christopher M. White
  • Publication number: 20020139408
    Abstract: A lightweight, portable, inflatable cover to protect a vehicle from the elements that can dent and damage a vehicle surface, a tent for summer camping or winter ice fishing a cover or cushion to protect items in transit. Having a multitude of air chambers (26) vertical walls adhered to a top layer and a bottom layer with openings (28) in inner vertical walls allowing air to pass through openings filling air chambers as cover is inflated. An air valve stem (46) an air release screw in plug (32) to inflate and deflate cover. Elastic opening for antenna (40), grasp handles (42), reflector strips for safety with a identification name or number (22). Doors or flaps (11) with large zippers (20), and clear inserts (48). A cord (18) and locking pulley (16) to secure cover to vehicle and grommets (36). Air vents covered with breathable material (25) prevents air lifting, and circulation of air keeps interior of vehicle cooler in the summer and air vents are insulated for winter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2001
    Publication date: October 3, 2002
    Inventor: Phyllis Muriel Mitzner
  • Publication number: 20020092552
    Abstract: A retractable awning for a recreational vehicle is provided wherein the awning is stored behind a pivoting door that closes flush with the side of the recreational vehicle when the awning is not deployed over a slide-out unit. The pivoting door is adjacent the awning and the pivoting door closes flush with the side of the recreational vehicle with the awning enclosed in its side mounted compartment. With the retractable awning completely behind the plane defining the side of the recreational vehicle and protected by a locking door, the awning does not add any additional unwanted width to the recreational vehicle and is protected from unfurling during transport. An automatic locking mechanism is provided for ensuring that the door remains closed during transportation. Further, a debris clearing mechanism is preferably installed adjacent the spool which collects the retractable awning as it retracts, thereby cleaning the awning of debris prior to its withdrawal into the compartment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2001
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Inventor: Thomas Glenn Jones
  • Patent number: 6354650
    Abstract: A locking device for a pick-up truck topper, lift-gate or pick-up truck topper window includes an electrically powered actuator and a movable latch mechanically linked to the actuator. The latch is movable between a locked position in which the latch engages the lift-gate or window and locks the lift-gate or window in a closed position, and an unlocked position in which the latch releases the lift-gate or window to allow the lift-gate or window to be swung into an open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Inventors: David L. Terhaar, David J. Terhaar
  • Patent number: RE37567
    Abstract: A retractable awning for use on mobile homes, recreational vehicles or the like having slide-out units as a part thereof includes an awning sheet that is secured along an inner edge to the side of the mobile home with the opposite edge being secured to a torsionally biased roll bar rotatably disposed on the outer ends of support arms pivotally mounted to the outer face of the slide-out unit. A flexible tie-down strap secures the awning in an extended position with the support arms projecting substantially horizontally away from the outer wall, and upon release of the tie-down strap, the awning automatically retracts to a position immediately adjacent to the outer wall of the slide-out unit. The awning sheet always overlies the top wall of the slide-out unit when the slide-out unit is extended and regardless of whether or not the awning is extended or retracted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2002
    Assignee: Carefree/Scott Fetzer Company
    Inventor: Brent W. Murray