For Use With Automobile Patents (Class 40/643)
  • Patent number: 11710426
    Abstract: A license plate holder includes a base with a first connector for attaching the base to a vehicle, a transmissive substrate, and a frame. The frame defines a central opening to permit display of indicia on a license plate display region of a license plate disposed between the base and the frame. The frame further defines a frame display region adjacent the central opening. The frame includes a rear connector disposed adjacent a rear of the frame to removably attach the rear of the frame to the base and includes a front connector disposed adjacent a front of the frame to removably attach the transmissive substrate to the front of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2023
    Inventor: Frank Joseph Tortorella, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10497291
    Abstract: A frame for displaying a placard on a grain bin is attached to the grain bin with conventional threaded fasteners having shank portions and head portions. The head portions of the fasteners attaching the frame to the bin do not interfere with the placard's insertion into the frame by way of ramp-like protuberances formed into the frame portions above where the fasteners are located. The protuberances deflect the placard over the fasteners' heads and allow the placard to be fully inserted into the frame with either a frictional, clearance or interference fit between the fastener and the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2019
    Assignee: BUCKHORN, INC.
    Inventors: Scott Bailey, Eric Bellman
  • Patent number: 10315589
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for a vehicle component cover. In one example, a vehicle component cover may be adapted to conceal vehicle components within an engine compartment, and the cover may include an embedded support structure having a plurality of lock orifices positioned to align with a plurality of openings of a solid encasement. The plurality of lock orifices are adapted to couple in locking engagement with a plurality of extensions of an emblem of the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2019
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Gary Nola
  • Patent number: 9796338
    Abstract: A card holder for vehicles is provided. The card holder includes an outer holder secured to a vehicle body and having a card storage portion formed therein and an opening formed in a top of the card storage portion into which a card is inserted into or withdrawn from, and an inner holder removably inserted into the card storage portion. The inner holder is biased proximate to one inner side wall of the card storage portion when inserted, and includes a supporting portion, which is bent or protruded from a lower end thereof in which a distal end of the supporting portion is proximate to the opposite inner side wall of the card storage portion. Foreign materials that enter the card storage portion through the opening are removed by withdrawing the inner holder out from the card storage portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2017
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Hyun Kim
  • Patent number: 9296527
    Abstract: A utility cover identification system including a cover, a tray having a recess and being embedded within the cover, and an identification plate insertable into the tray to engage the tray recess to retain the identification plate within the tray. A method of forming the cover identification system includes the steps of coupling the cover and a tray together, curing the cover to secure the tray to the cover, and inserting an identification plate into the tray and retaining the identification plate in the tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2016
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Fred Matthew Schweinberg, Steve A. Castle, Mike E. Fisher, Mark E. Mikes, Eric M. Slater, Wiley R. Tipton
  • Patent number: 9284745
    Abstract: A memorial for outdoor display is disclosed. The memorial includes a post for mounting in the ground and a display case. The display case is further comprised of a frame and a center display. The frame comprises three pieces situated on the bottom, left and right of the display case. Each piece includes a groove along an interior surface. Adapted to fit within the groove are two components of the center display: a transparent face and a print. A backing member is adapted to be disposed on the back of the frame pieces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2016
    Inventors: Nick Marco, David Welter
  • Patent number: 9087461
    Abstract: The biodegradable badge has a paper name tag placed within a translucent envelope carried by a lanyard secured to the envelope by at least one clamp. The paper name tag degrades readily. The translucent envelope shows the name tag but upon disposing of the envelope, it degrades in the waste stream and at a landfill. The envelope has a material that degrades rapidly by solar, thermal, and chemical action with minimal release of toxic and volatile organic compounds. The lanyard also degrades readily in the waste stream with material such as textile blends or that of the envelope. The clamp joins the lanyard to the envelope. Designed for single use, the clamp strongly grips the lanyard and then the envelope, and then the clamp degrades when placed in the waste stream. The entire biodegradable badge poses no long-term pollution of the environment as it uses formulations, such as polyethylene terephthalate (g) and poly lactic acid, along with natural fibers such as cotton and wool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2015
    Assignee: Technical Sales & Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott McKye
  • Patent number: 8960762
    Abstract: A check assembly for a visor assembly of a vehicle is coupled with a headliner of a vehicle roof near a center portion of the vehicle, away from the vehicle door or windows. A clip on the check assembly is adapted to secure small lightweight items and deter such items from being exposed to weather or wind conditions near vehicle door windows, a vehicle sunroof, or an exposed top. The visor portion may engage a clasp on the check assembly and operate between deployed and non-deployed positions, whereby the clip of the check assembly may be concealed in the non-deployed position. According to one embodiment, the check assembly includes a resilient clip protruding rearward from a body portion thereof over a depressed area on the headliner for holding a lightweight item therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: David Huelke, Phil Joseph Linson, Jim Allen Stec, Justin Lee Healy, Jeff Todd Baxter, John Andrew Stakoe, Alexander V. Deych
  • Patent number: 8955244
    Abstract: A system for mounting a badge to a component of a vehicle is provided. The system comprises a mounting base including a fastening aperture extending in a direction through a plane defined by the mounting base, a trim ring coupled with a peripheral edge of the mounting base and configured to selectively mount the badge between the trim ring and the mounting base when said trim ring is coupled with the peripheral edge, and a flexible fastening member including a first end that is fixedly coupled with the mounting base and a second end that is positioned within the fastening aperture. The flexible fastening member is configured to be positioned around at least a portion of a component of a vehicle and between the mounting base and the badge to fasten the badge to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: OXK, LLC
    Inventors: Scott Osiecki, Donwoong Kang
  • Patent number: 8938897
    Abstract: In combination with a highway tractor of the type having an operator's cab mounted on a frame, a vertical pivotal coupling means coupled to the frame behind the cab adapted to be coupled to a trailer, and an aerodynamic structure at the top of the cab which includes a plurality of LED bulbs and a heat generating element in the front of the aerodynamic structure. A front panel of glass or plastic material having information such as a logo containing letters and/or images located on its first surface, second surface or embedded surface covers the LED bulbs with a weatherproof seal. Light from the LED bulbs provides illumination for the information on the front panel to be viewed from the front of the highway tractor and heat from the heat generating element helps to keep the front panel having information such as a logo free of snow and/or ice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Inventors: Peter Anthony Borreggine, Gaston Ivan Bilbao
  • Patent number: 8910405
    Abstract: A device is disclosed for the safe, secure and reliable display of a municipal meter parking ticket, or similar item, from the interior of an automobile or motor vehicle. The device includes a base with a rotating lid. The rotating lid locks or engages over the municipal meter parking ticket which is on the base. Additionally, a chamber may be formed with a slot through which the municipal meter parking ticket is inserted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Inventors: Ivy Skow, Peter Skow
  • Patent number: 8730024
    Abstract: A removable fuel tank indicator having a housing, wherein the housing is removable and universal to all automobiles and wherein the housing attaches to an automobile connection point located within the interior of the automobile; a removable arm temporarily attached to the housing, wherein the removable arm signals which side of the automobile a fuel tank is located; a means for attaching the housing to the automobile connection point wherein the automobile connection point is located within the interior of the automobile and said connection point is capable of attaching to the housing; the fragrance cartridge adapted for insertion into the opening and locking into the cavity of the housing, wherein where the cartridge is properly inserted into the opening and cavity of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Inventor: Carlos H. Cabezas
  • Patent number: 8678468
    Abstract: A check assembly portion of a visor assembly for a vehicle is generally fixedly coupled with the headliner of the vehicle roof near a center portion of the vehicle, away from the vehicle door or windows. Adapting a clip to a check assembly portion of a visor assembly to secure small lightweight items will deter such items from being exposed to weather or wind conditions near a vehicle door, a vehicle sunroof, or an exposed top, which a visor portion of a visor assembly typically becomes closer to such locations. The visor portion may also be operable between a deployed and a non-deployed position, wherein the clip on the check assembly may be concealed in the non-deployed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: David Huelke, Phil Joseph Linson, James Allen Stec, Justin Lee Healy, John Andrew Stakoe, Alexander V. Deych, Jeff Todd Baxter
  • Patent number: 8671574
    Abstract: An apparatus for removably attaching dealer tags to various vehicles, comprising two or more mounting devices, each comprising a center portion with a mounting hole for mounting the device on the vehicle's tag or license mounting structure using a screw or bolt or similar mounting means. At one end of the device is a mounting post supported by a mounting post support with a ridge, protrusion, or indentation on two opposing sides. The mounting post support is flexibly attached to the center portion, and can be bent around and removably attached to the center portion by means of inserting the ridge or protrusions into corresponding holes or slots in the sides of the center portion. The other end of the device comprises a flexible arm or structure with a hole adapted to fit over the mounting post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Inventor: Dennis Brandon
  • Patent number: 8671601
    Abstract: A system and method for mounting a badge to a component of a vehicle is provided. The system comprises a mounting base including first and second fastening apertures defined therein, and a trim ring coupled with the mounting base having an opening defined therein. The badge is adapted to be securely mounted between the trim ring and the mounting base so that the badge is positioned within the opening in the trim ring. The system further includes a flexible fastening member that is configured to be positioned within the first and second fastening apertures, positioned around at least a portion of the component of the vehicle, and between the mounting base and the badge to fasten the badge to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: OXK, LLC
    Inventors: Scott W. Osiecki, Donwoong Kang
  • Patent number: 8671604
    Abstract: For a marking carrier, the following is provided for the purpose of simple production and installation: the marking carrier has at least one spring tongue extending from the main body of the marking carrier, the spring tongue being designed to act on the vehicle component in a resilient manner and to preload the main body against the vehicle component in a preloading direction, and the marking carrier has at least one spring tab, which acts on the vehicle component in such a way that the spring tab retains the marking carrier in a retaining direction opposite the preloading direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Lucas Automotive GmbH
    Inventors: Markus Mallmann, Maria Heinemann, Stefan Krebs, Peter Stahl
  • Publication number: 20130152439
    Abstract: Improved covers for floor-located vehicle identification numbers (VINs) are disclosed. Exemplary VIN cover embodiments may be of a simple one-piece design and may include tabs or other retention elements along underside edges thereof. The retention elements engage the vehicle carpet and trap the carpet when the cover is installed into a VIN viewing window provided in the carpet. The underside of the cover may also include a carpet gripping mechanism that engages the carpet surface and helps to maintain the position of the cover after installation. A section of vehicle carpet removed to permit viewing of the VIN may optionally be retained and installed to the underside of the cover so as to reside in the window area when the cover is in place.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2011
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Marek Myszkowski
  • Patent number: 8455074
    Abstract: Forms containing a removable hang tag are disclosed. An example form includes a substrate including a first line of weakness defining a central area and a perimeter area. The form includes a second line of weakness in the central area to divide the central area into a first side and a second side. The form includes a third line of weakness formed in the perimeter area to define a sleeve area. The form includes a fourth line of weakness formed in the sleeve area to divide the sleeve area into a first sleeve layer and a second sleeve layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Moore Wallace North America, Inc
    Inventor: David R. Emmert
  • Patent number: 8424915
    Abstract: A tag system for vehicle repair shops or collision repair centers includes a set of mirror tags, a set of releasably attachable key ring tags with associated key rings, and a set of releasably attachable instruction tags. The mirror tags are adapted to be hung from the rear view mirror of a vehicle, and are reusable to allow each tag to be used multiple times while conveying different information to service personnel. Each mirror tag may include an identifier for identifying the mirror tag, a hook-and-loop attachment strip for releasably attaching a key ring with keys to the vehicle, and a hook-and-loop attachment strip for releasably attaching one or more members of a set of instruction tags. Each key ring tab may include an identifier matching the identifier of the mirror tag, a key ring for holding the key to the vehicle, and a hook-and-loop attachment strip for attaching the key ring to a mirror tag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Inventor: Kenneth R. Haag
  • Patent number: 8365410
    Abstract: Certain example embodiments of this invention relate to a grille badge including an outer member and an inner member configured to be snapped together. The inner member includes a living hinge to facilitate the connection to the outer member. The inner member is at least initially inserted into the outer member in a bent position, the inner member being bent or snapped into place via the living hinge provided thereto during manufacturing and/or assembly. In certain example embodiments, the outer element includes at least one slot for receiving at least one corresponding tab provided to the inner element. In certain example embodiments, the inner and outer members include corresponding snap features for securing the connection therebetween. An assembled grille badge may be connected, directly or indirectly, to a vehicle (e.g., to the vehicle, to a front-end assembly, to a grille, etc.), for example, using one or more snap features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Guardian Industries Corp.
    Inventors: William J. Doroghazi, Greg F. Hintzke, Thomas J. Fenbert
  • Patent number: 8220188
    Abstract: A device for connecting a placard to the rearview mirror of a motor vehicle includes a hanger which connects to the stem of the rearview mirror. A placard holder has a first jaw and an opposite second jaw, the first and second jaws are shaped and dimension to removably receive the placard. The placard holder is removably connectable to the hanger. In embodiments of the invention, the placard holder is magnetically connected to the hanger, and the jaws of the placard holder are magnetically urged together to hold the placard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Inventor: Martin E Keller
  • Patent number: 8181372
    Abstract: A system and method for mounting a badge to a component of a vehicle is provided. The system comprises a mounting base including first and second fastening apertures defined therein, and a trim ring coupled with the mounting base having an opening defined therein. The badge is adapted to be securely mounted between the trim ring and the mounting base so that the badge is positioned within the opening in the trim ring. The system further includes a flexible fastening member that is configured to be positioned within the first and second fastening apertures, positioned around at least a portion of the component of the vehicle, and between the mounting base and the badge to fasten the badge to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: OXK, LLC
    Inventors: Scott W. Osiecki, Donwoong Kang
  • Publication number: 20110214598
    Abstract: An informational display device and method for displaying informational material about an item to potential customers for the item. The device includes a housing for removably receiving informational material, and a clip portion for attachment to the item. In example forms, a vehicle information sheet or buyer's guide is secured to a window of a vehicle and can be removed, replaced and reused. In one form, the display device is modular and includes a clip adapted to be slipped over the top of a door glass of the vehicle, a rail removably attached to the clip, and a document display housing secured to the rail and comprising an inner panel and an outer panel, and defining a chamber therebetween for receiving and displaying a document, with at least a portion of the document display housing being transparent to allow viewing of the document therethrough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2011
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Inventor: Anthony J. TUCKER
  • Publication number: 20110154705
    Abstract: The invention is directed toward a card display holder for displaying and storing one or more placards on the interior side of a vehicle windshield. The card display holder includes a left side wall and a corresponding right side wall where the left side wall is essentially parallel to the right side wall. Positioned between both side walls is a back wall. Also, the card display holder has a front wall that includes a left portion and a corresponding right portion, the left portion being essentially parallel to the right portion. A bottom wall connects the front wall to the back wall creating a surface area sufficient for one or more placards to rest within the card display holder. A aperture can be positioned within the back wall. The card display holder is preferably of unibody in construction and manufactured from a plastic or composite.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2010
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Applicant: PARK 'N DISPLAY, LLC
    Inventor: John David Gardiner
  • Patent number: 7936269
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a registration sign for vehicles, where the registration sign (2) comprises a sign package (38) consisting of individual plastic film sections (6a, 9a), a bottom sheet (18) and a front panel (12), and also comprises a frame (21) which surrounds the sign package. According to the invention, the registration sign (2) comprises in addition at least one transponder (50) for receiving and/or transmitting radio signals and the transponder (50) is embedded in the frame (21). The present invention also relates to a method for the manufacture of a registration sign whereby at least one transponder (50) is fastened on and/or in the sign package (38) for the registration sign (2) and the transponder 50 is embedded in the frame (21) when the latter is injection-molded round the edges of the sign package (38).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: AB Scandinavian Motorcenter
    Inventors: Jan Persson, Kent Fält
  • Patent number: 7930846
    Abstract: A inspection wallet in the form of a paddle comprising a sleeve to define a front pocket and a rear pocket, the front pocket having a window and the rear pocket retaining a book of inspection insets having a status side, the inserts foldable for inserting into the front pocket across a divide in the status side and having an alternative message either side of the divide to enable each message to be shown through the window, the inserts having a counterfoil in the book consistent with a reverse side to the status side to provide a record of inspection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: SG World Limited
    Inventor: Russell Barnard
  • Patent number: 7921563
    Abstract: An example grille badge includes an outer member and an inner member configured to be snapped together. The inner member includes a living hinge to facilitate the connection to the outer member. The inner member is at least initially inserted into the outer member in a bent position, the inner member being bent or snapped into place via the living hinge provided thereto during manufacturing and/or assembly. In certain example embodiments, the outer element includes at least one slot for receiving at least one corresponding tab provided to the inner element. In certain example embodiments, the inner and outer members include corresponding snap features for securing the connection therebetween. An assembled grille badge may be connected, directly or indirectly, to a vehicle (e.g., to the vehicle, to a front-end assembly, to a grille, etc.), for example, using one or more snap features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Guardian Industries Corp.
    Inventors: William J. Doroghazi, Greg F. Hintzke, Thomas J. Fenbert
  • Patent number: 7882653
    Abstract: A novel method at least includes: receiving at least one placement offer for the placement of an advertisement, the offer including proposed consideration; accepting an placement order; and displaying an advertisement which is the subject of an accepted placement order on a plurality of mobile, changeable advertising message displays carried by a plurality of coordinated automobiles, which changeable displays are capable of displaying more than one separate message at different times. Each changeable message display at least includes: a visual display; a multiple advertising message generator coupled to the visual display, the multiple message generator adapted to generate a plurality of different messages; and an message selector adapted to select a current message to be displayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: Frog Marketing, Inc.
    Inventor: Eslee Buckley Barlow
  • Patent number: 7877908
    Abstract: A vehicle plate retention frame and removably affixed cover plate. The retention frame may have at least one first part of a two-part separable fastener disposed thereon. The cover plate has at least one second part of the two-part separable fastener associated therewith so that the cover plate may be removably affixed to the retention frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Inventor: Francis E. Collins
  • Patent number: 7849621
    Abstract: A fastening device for fastening an accessory to a body part. The fastening device has a support element and a holding element. The support element is mounted to the body part from an exposed side and the holding element is mounted from a hidden side. The holding element has undercut elements via which it reaches from the hidden side through corresponding openings in the body part and reaches behind holding contours formed on the body part such that it is automatically fixed on the body part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG
    Inventors: Markus Keller, Heinz-Arno Kruschhausen, Adrian Beer
  • Patent number: 7818907
    Abstract: A sun visor cover that fits any vehicle sun visor, square, rectangular, oval or circular in shape and having personalized ornamental designs on its front surface. The sun visor cover provides elastic strips that allow it to be stretched and slipped over a vehicles sun visor, then the visor material is wrapped around the visor and secured by Velcro means. A sun visor mirror flap is provided, having a pocket that is sealed by means of Velcro, snap buttons, zippers or tie string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Inventor: Frank E. Warrington, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7686373
    Abstract: A combination hang-tag holder and displayer which includes a body; one or more fasteners of sufficient size to attach the body to an automobile sun visor; a hanging device located on the front of the body, either on the left side or right side, such that a hang-tag may be temporarily hung from the hanging device without requiring physical modifications to the hang-tag; and a securing device located on the front of the body on the upper corner opposite the hanging device. The combination hang-tag holder and displayer may be attached to an automobile sun visor, and a hang-tag may be hung from the hanging device for display of the hang-tag. The hang-tag may then be rotated to a horizontal position and secured by the securing device for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Inventors: Henry Frank McCabe, Cathy Elaine McCabe-McPherson
  • Patent number: 7571560
    Abstract: A method of presenting sales information to an automobile customer on an automobile having a window that may be slid vertically within a window frame. The method uses an informational slip and a slip holder sized to accept the information slip. The slip holder includes a clip defines a downwardly facing open channel and a tongue extending downwardly from the front wall. Also, a sheet of resiliently deformable material is attached to the tongue and bent backwards at a bending point defining the sheet holder bottom and a rear panel extending upwardly from the bending point. The informational slip is placed on the car window so that information is displayed through the front portion, which is transparent. The clip is formed so as to press the sheet into the window, thereby acting to reduce gaps between the informational slip and the front panel and, as a consequence, enhancing slip visibility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Inventor: Robert J. Peterman
  • Patent number: 7555858
    Abstract: A kit for use in securing a vehicular handicap permit to the interior of a vehicle windshield so that the permit is visible through the windshield includes a strip having Velcro on one side and a pressure-sensitive adhesive on the opposite side. The kit also includes a permit holder with pressure-sensitive adhesive on one side and a Velcro strip on the opposite side. The holder is secured to the permit by folding the holder so that two sections of the adhesive coating face one another and pressing the two sections against two sides of the permit adjacent to edges of the permit. The Velcro on the exposed side of the holder may then be secured to the Velcro on the strip, which is attached to the windshield by its pressure-sensitive coating so that the permit hangs downwardly behind the windshield.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Inventors: James L. Gerback, legal representative, Robert Binder
  • Publication number: 20090038194
    Abstract: A kit for use in securing a vehicular handicap permit to the interior of a vehicle windshield so that the permit is visible through the windshield includes a strip having Velcro on one side and a pressure-sensitive adhesive on the opposite side. The kit also includes a permit holder with pressure-sensitive adhesive on one side and a Velcro strip on the opposite side. The holder is secured to the permit by folding the holder so that two sections of the adhesive coating face one another and pressing the two sections against two sides of the permit adjacent to edges of the permit. The Velcro on the exposed side of the holder may then be secured to the Velcro on the strip, which is attached to the windshield by its pressure-sensitive coating so that the permit hangs downwardly behind the windshield.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2008
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Inventors: Robert Binder, James L. Gerback
  • Publication number: 20090000170
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a plate for symbol, in particular for vehicles. The plate comprises a sheet that bears the symbol, a frame, provided with an opening for leaving the symbol visible and a support comprising a partition wall and a space wherein the sheet seats. The partition wall is arranged between the sheet surface and the frame for preventing reciprocal contact thereof, thus preventing corrosion phenomena.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2007
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Applicant: Lupini Targhe S.p.A.
    Inventor: Angiolino Capuzzi
  • Patent number: 7389602
    Abstract: A handicap placard holder and method of use comprising a display surface for the placard, triangular side panels on sides of the display surface and bent at an angle from the display surface, means for holding the placard in place on the display surface, and means for attaching the holder to a dash of a motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Inventor: Anthony Simoes
  • Patent number: 7316087
    Abstract: A windshield wiper flag holder comprises a bracket that is securable to an outer face of a windshield wiper arm by a plurality of flexible locking ties. Extending at an acute angle from the plane of the bracket is a flag holder. The flag holder includes an elongated sleeve for receiving an elongated support associated with a flag. In one embodiment, the bracket and flag holder are of a single piece plastic construction. Further, a portion of the flag holder includes a fastening tab. A flag designed to be received and supported by the device can be provided with a flexible collar for snapping onto the fastening tab of the flag holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Inventor: Braxton W. Smith
  • Patent number: 7150120
    Abstract: A vehicle permit display device includes a substantially hollow, wide profile envelope formed of a transparent material. The envelope includes an opening on a side edge thereof for receiving a vehicle permit. A hook extends from an upper edge of the envelope for securing to a vehicle rearview mirror mounting post. Alternatively, the device may be fastened to a vehicle window using suction cups or other similar means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Inventor: George M Naymik
  • Patent number: 6931708
    Abstract: An exterior grille insert includes a central opening. An interior grille insert conforms to the shape of the interior opening of the exterior grille. The cutting of the interior opening of the exterior grille forms the interior grille. Either the interior grille or the exterior grille can be attached to and superimposed over the front of a vehicle grille for decorative purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Assignee: Putco, Inc.
    Inventor: James P. Elwell
  • Patent number: 6854545
    Abstract: A grille insert is provided for attaching in superimposed relationship over a vehicle grille. The grille insert includes a grille blank in the form of a sheet member having an outer perimeter. A plurality of decorative openings extend through the grille blank and a first flat surface and a second flat surface are provided on the grille blank. A first label is attached to the first flat surface and has a first logo and printed thereon and a second label is attached to the second flat surface and has a second logo imprinted thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: Putco, Inc.
    Inventors: James P. Elwell, Ben F. Conkey
  • Patent number: 6848204
    Abstract: An advertising device capable of publicizing a business, especially a business related to a vehicle, by mounting the advertising device on a vehicle, preferably in the license plate area, is secured to a vehicle with or without framing a license plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Inventor: Michael Nowak
  • Publication number: 20040221498
    Abstract: A device that is removably attachable to an interior surface of an automobile. The device includes a body portion defined by a planar surface area. A spring-clip fastening structure is attached to the body portion. The spring-clip functions to fasten identification information, such as a security pass, to the body portion. The body portion is provided with a beveled area, which area has an opening formed to receive a suction cup. The suction cup is employed to attach the device to an interior surface of the automobile. The planar surface area of the body is utilized to display advertisement media.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2004
    Publication date: November 11, 2004
    Inventors: Gregory Vico, Paul Vico
  • Patent number: 6789833
    Abstract: A tailgate advertising assembly includes a tailgate and a billboard. The tailgate is for attachment to a rear of a vehicle so as to be moved between a closed position and an open position as for loading and unloading, and has an upper extremity, a lower extremity, opposing side extremities, an inner face, and an outer face. The billboard is engaged to the tailgate, and overlies the outer face of the tailgate. The billboard supports advertising indicia.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Inventor: Frank R. Alber
  • Patent number: 6785993
    Abstract: A placard holder apparatus and method is provided. The apparatus includes a bracket mounted to a vehicle that is operative to transport a hazardous material. The bracket is operative to slidingly receive and engage with a placard holder. A placard clip may be mounted to the vehicle to prevent the placard holder from exiting the bracket. The placard holder includes a tray with a cavity of sufficient depth to hold a stack of adhesively mounted placards. For each shipment of a hazardous material in the vehicle, a placard with indicia representative of a hazard classification corresponding to the hazardous material may be adhesively mounted in the cavity of the tray. Once the cavity is filled with placards, the placard holder may be removed and replaced with an empty or less full placard holder. The full placard holder may be discarded or recycled to remove the adhesively mounted placards therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Inventor: Dennis Lea
  • Publication number: 20040159029
    Abstract: A device for displaying printed material is configured to be releasably attached to a vehicle shoulder belt to facilitate easy retrieval and/or viewing of the printed material. The device includes a flexible base sheet, a flexible pocket secured to the base sheet or a flexible panel secured to the base sheet to define a pocket, and a releasable fastener connect to the flexible base sheet to allow releasable attachment of the device to a vehicle shoulder belt. The releasable fastener is configured to connect opposite edges of the device together so that the device can be wrapped around a vehicle shoulder belt and secured thereto by connection of opposite edges of the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventor: Daniel L. Durham
  • Patent number: 6708435
    Abstract: A placard holder that includes a body portion and a hook portion extending from the body portion. The placard holder is configured to receive a placard, and the placard holder is configured such that the placard is viewable through the placard holder when the placard is received by the placard holder. Preferably, the placard holder is made of a relatively clear or transparent plastic, and the placard is slidable into the placard holder. Preferably, a side of the placard holder is configured to receive the placard or the top of the placard holder, including at least a portion of the hook portion, is configured to receive the placard. Preferably, the placard holder is configured such that the placard does not protrude from the placard holder once the placard is inserted in the placard holder. Hence, the placard holder fully protects the placard which is contained in the placard holder. The hook portion is configured to engage a rear view mirror of a vehicle such that the placard holder hangs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Inventor: Marshall T. Massey
  • Patent number: 6637632
    Abstract: A card holding structure in which each held card is visible, and from which a desired card is easily extracted when a plurality of cards are held, and a vehicle console box having the same are provided. The card holding structure capable of holding cards comprises a base plate, a holding member and a step-like member. The base plate is approximately parallel to the held cards, and in which the holding member and the step-like member are formed. The holding member comprises a leg portion connected to the base plate, and a head portion extending from the leg portion and having an inner surface parallel to the base plate. The step-like member has a stairs configuration increasing in height from the base plate toward the head portion. Each step of the stairs configuration comprises a riser portion approximately perpendicular to the base plate, and a flat portion on which a card can be placed. A height of each riser is larger than a thickness of a card to be held.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: TS Tech Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shigenobu Chiku
  • Patent number: 6564981
    Abstract: Car shows are a hobby of ever increasing popularity. During car show competitions or exhibition and information card is required to be displayed. The present invention shows a device for the display of information cards in a stylish way without detracting from the overall look of the car. The device is a modified clipboard to hang from the rearview mirror of a car. The rearview mirror clipboard is made of clear rigid, with a center hole and channel to accommodate the arm of the rearview mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Inventor: Michael P. Murphy
  • Patent number: 6546657
    Abstract: A document holder (11) comprising a rigid planar board (21) having one side covered by transparent flexible cover (22), the board (21) and cover (22) at one end being held in a retaining clip (12), said clip (12) comprising a substantially planar tongue (31) with a channel (32) extending along one edge thereof with an opening (34) facing away from the tongue (31).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Keymite, LTD
    Inventor: Richard John Gray