Atop Wall Of Open Top Freight Carrier, E.g., Bulb-angle Mounted Patents (Class 410/110)
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Patent number: 11173828Abstract: An accessory configured to be secured within a stake pocket formed in a sidewall of a bed of a vehicle. The stake pocket includes an opening formed in an upper wall of the sidewall configured for receipt of the accessory, a first aperture that is not accessible from the bed, and a second aperture that is accessible from the bed. The accessory includes a locking mechanism that is configured to secure the accessory to either the first aperture or the second aperture.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2020Date of Patent: November 16, 2021Assignee: FCA US LLCInventors: Frederick F Bender, Leland L Decker
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Patent number: 11085209Abstract: A surface-mountable locking system is designed to secure an item to a surface via one or more mechanical engagements that are protected from tampering by encompassing the engagements point(s) within cavity-defining surfaces. In one example the mechanical engagement is effected by placing a pin in a box and securing the pin in the box using a bolt and the tampering protection is effected by the surfaces that define the box. In another example, the mechanical engagement is effected by placing a surface-attached anchor within a cavity and securing the anchor relative to the cavity using a bolt and the tampering protection is effected by the surfaces that define the cavity. The securing bolt may be, for example, the bolt of locking mechanism, a threaded bolt to engage a receptacle having complementary threads, or a smooth bolt to engage a receptacle having a shape complementary to that of the bolt.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2020Date of Patent: August 10, 2021Assignee: Bluewater Resources LLCInventors: Jake Llewellyn, Neal Llewellyn, John Llewellyn, Alexander Villareal
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Patent number: 9701254Abstract: An attachment mechanism is described for attaching accessories to a stake hole in the sidewall of a cargo area of a vehicle, such as a pickup truck. The mechanism comprises of a base plate with a grove formed in the top of the base plate having the shape of an inverted T. An attachment plate having a connector, also having the shape of an inverted T, is attached to the bottom surface of the attachment plate. An attachment such as a tie down ring, a tie down anchor, a flag pole or tent pole holder or the like is attached to the top surface of the attachment plate. The attachment plate can then be attached to the base plate by sliding the inverted T shaped connector into the inverted T shaped groove in the base plate. Another attachment mechanism is described which can be used to attach accessories to vehicles without stake holes or to other regions of a vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2013Date of Patent: July 11, 2017Inventors: Joseph P. O'Regan, Jack P. Oriente
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Patent number: 9511705Abstract: An anchor point is mounted within an aperture of a wall of a molded strip wherein a recessed peripheral shoulder of the aperture receives a flange of the anchor point and fills the aperture flush with a top surface of the molding. A locking plate of the fastening system contacts the recessed shoulder which is therefore clamped between the locking plate and the flange. A ring of the fastening system is movable between an extended position for receiving a line, and a retracted position hidden below the top surface of the molding when not in use.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2015Date of Patent: December 6, 2016Inventor: Donald S. Egigian
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Patent number: 9335117Abstract: A lock-up system for a firearm comprising a wedge assembly having a top wedge member and a bottom wedge member, each having complementary inclined surfaces; a barrel nut that is configured to receive an outer portion of an upper receiver; and a handguard that is configured to receive the barrel nut and the combined wedge assembly within a lower lip of the handguard. The wedge assembly may include an optional assembly screw and a locator pin where the top wedge member and bottom wedge member are tightly joined to each other via the assembly screw and the locator pin. In use, the lock-up system is used to join the handguard and barrel nut to a corresponding upper receiver with little to no play between the handguard and the upper receiver such that the connection between the two via the wedge assembly is intended to be permanent.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2014Date of Patent: May 10, 2016Assignee: Mega Arms LLCInventors: Michael A. Miller, James E. Reid
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Publication number: 20150071727Abstract: A bull ring for a vehicle comprises a top plate coupled to a rotating plate having a tie-down. Two opposing rail flanges extend from the rotating plate and a fastener selectively couples the rotating plate in a securing position relative to the top plate. The rail flanges extend beyond an outer edge of the top plate to define a clamping region with the top plate.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 11, 2013Publication date: March 12, 2015Inventors: Joshua Hemphill, Scott Aaron Ford, Philip Van Wyk, Beck Alan Oiness
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Patent number: 8974161Abstract: A bull ring for a vehicle comprises a top plate coupled to a rotating plate having a tie-down. Two opposing rail flanges extend from the rotating plate and a fastener selectively couples the rotating plate in a securing position relative to the top plate. The rail flanges extend beyond an outer edge of the top plate to define a clamping region with the top plate.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2013Date of Patent: March 10, 2015Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Joshua Hemphill, Scott Aaron Ford, Philip Van Wyk, Beck Alan Oiness
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Patent number: 8915684Abstract: A cargo deck includes a floor engageable with a load. The floor is formed from extruded aluminum in tubular panels extending transversely along the floor. Side rails are disposed on opposed sides of the deck. A plurality of longitudinally-extending support members support the floor, and are coupled to the floor via a plurality of support brackets extending angularly from the floor to the support members.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 2011Date of Patent: December 23, 2014Assignee: Fontaine Trailer Company, Inc.Inventor: James H. Adams
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Patent number: 8651784Abstract: A family of anchor devices that include a back plate mounted behind a mounting surface with a flange mounted in front of the mounting surface and generally a ring or hook carrier member that engages an anchor ring or a hook. In several embodiments the carrier can rotate without axles pins or the like allowing the load to align the device in a direction of maximum convenience and strength. A first embodiment provides a rotating ring in a recessed retaining cup that provides for maximum flexibility. A second embodiment provides a rotating ring in a clip carrier in a raised mounting flange. A third embodiment provides a swivel insert hook carrier that can rotate. A fourth embodiment includes a ring that engages a notch in a raised carrier. Fifth and sixth embodiments provide attachments for one or multiple hooks in a fixed-mounted, non-rotating flange.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2013Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Inventor: Andreā² Grasso
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Patent number: 8529176Abstract: A tie-down assembly for attachment to and detachment from a structure, such as a vehicle pick-up bed, includes a female fastener configured to collapse during insertion of the tie-down assembly into the structure. The female fastener is also configured to expand following the insertion for retention of the tie-down assembly on the structure. The tie-down assembly also includes a male fastener configured to threadably engage the female fastener. Additionally, the tie-down assembly includes a holder configured to retain and rotatably restrain the female fastener when the male fastener is being threaded into the female fastener and when the male fastener is being threaded out of the female fastener. The holder includes an aperture and the male fastener is configured to be inserted into the aperture. The holder is also configured to guide the female fastener to a fixed position for removal of the tie-down assembly from the structure.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2011Date of Patent: September 10, 2013Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Brian J. Jutila, David K. Rock, Ronald J. Wojciechowski, Srinivasa A. Mandadapu, Michael J. Clark, Vanessa Menezes Oliveira
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Patent number: 8393838Abstract: A side rail apparatus facilitates the securement of a load being carried on the bed or deck of a vehicle. The apparatus includes a side rail and a tie plate. The side rail has an upper horizontal member configured to be substantially continuous with the deck support surface when mounted to the vehicle, and a vertical member that is substantially perpendicular to the horizontal member. The vertical member has a horizontally directed recess formed in a top outer edge thereof to create a generally horizontal slot with a side opening through which the tie plate is received. The shape of the tie plate and of the slot is such that the tie plate, once inserted in the slot, is self-retained therein and will not disengage while the securement device is attached and tightened. In addition, the placement of the slot in the vertical member of the side rail effectively prevents material of various types from accumulating in the slot such that the side rail apparatus is ready for use with minimal preparation and effort.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2010Date of Patent: March 12, 2013Assignee: Wilson Trailer CompanyInventor: Brett Plazek
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Patent number: 8376674Abstract: A cargo strap assembly constructed and arranged for receipt by a stake pocket of a vehicle wherein the vehicle includes a sidewall which further defines an opening in communication with the stake pocket. The cargo strap assembly includes a cargo strap module which is constructed and arranged to fit within the stake pocket, the cargo strap module including a retractable cargo strap having an extendable end which is constructed and arranged to extend through the sidewall opening of the vehicle. The cargo strap assembly is completed by the addition of a cover plate which is constructed and arranged to be positioned against the sidewall of the vehicle and attach directly to the cargo strap module for securing the cargo strap module within the stake pocket.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2010Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Inventor: John R. Davis, III
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Patent number: 8096741Abstract: A vehicle body structure includes a vehicle interior cargo area having an interior wall, a track and a cargo accessory. The track is fixedly attached to the interior wall and the track includes a pair of parallel spaced apart wall portions defining a track slot therebetween. The cargo accessory includes a cargo supporting portion and an attachment portion. The attachment portion is configured and arranged to attach to the wall portions of the track retaining the cargo accessory in position with a snap-fit engagement arrangement.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2010Date of Patent: January 17, 2012Assignee: Nissan North America, Inc.Inventors: Brenna Denton, Tomohito Hashikawa
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Patent number: 8057143Abstract: A trailer includes a floor engageable with a load, the trailer floor comprising a plurality of floor panels. Each floor panel comprises a plurality of tubular portions that are hollow inside to reduce weight. The tubular portions have an upper wall comprising pairs of parallel channels which slideably receive at least one sliding bracket for securing the load to the trailer.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2008Date of Patent: November 15, 2011Assignee: Fontaine Trailer Company, Inc.Inventor: James H. Adams
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Patent number: 7997839Abstract: A tie-down attachment device and system for use in pickup trucks featuring a plurality of clamps that slide along the upper edge of the pickup truck bed rail used to hold bed caps in place without having to drill into the pickup truck bed is herein disclosed. The device comprises a clamping means that is secured by tightening a bolt with a strong grip or by wrench or pliers. The device further comprises a large eye bolt to which a strap, a rope, or other securing means can be connected and thus securing a load. The clamping device can be left in place on the bed rail or removed and stored when not in use.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2009Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Inventors: Dean L. Gallegos, Bonnie F. Gallegos
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Patent number: 7971919Abstract: Various enhancements to the capabilities of vehicles in general, and particularly light-duty utility vehicles, which can advantageously enhance the cargo-carrying capabilities of such vehicles. The present invention provides a cargo bed insert, as well as an insert system, for removable attachment to a vehicle's existing cargo box. Improvement to a light-duty utility vehicle, where the improvement is in the form of a cargo box for the vehicle which includes one or more features of the described cargo bed insert and/or system is disclosed. The invention contemplates methods for enhancing the cargo-carrying capability of a light-duty utility vehicle. In particular, methods for enhancing the cargo-carrying capacity of such a vehicle beyond a manufacturer's specified cargo weight capacity are provided. Lastly, the invention includes a mounting assembly for a removable attachment to a vehicle's frame.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2007Date of Patent: July 5, 2011Assignee: Vertanen Industries, Inc.Inventor: Michael J. Vertanen
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Publication number: 20100143064Abstract: An adjustable tie-down apparatus that is used to secure cargo in the bed of pickup truck by using an internal clamp and lever mechanism to clamp the L-shaped upper body, which rests flat against the top side of the rail of a truck bed, to the U-shaped lower body, which rests against the under side of the top of the rail and the interior of the downwardly protruding flange. The tie-down point is attached to backside of the U-shaped lower body and faces the interior of the truck bed to support the attachment of a cable, rope, strap, or similar anchor line for securing cargo placed in the bed of the truck. This apparatus may be placed at any point along the length of the rail of the truck bed and is adaptable to fit rails of varying thicknesses.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 11, 2009Publication date: June 10, 2010Inventor: David L. Gomez
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Patent number: 7594478Abstract: A truck bed stake hole assembly comprising a shaft with a threaded end; a bottom plate shaped like a rectangle with a corner missing and with a threaded hole in which the threaded end is receivable; and a top plate with a downward extending post that aligns with the missing corner of the bottom plate and with a hole slightly larger than the threaded end. To use, the shaft is placed through the hole in the top plate and threaded into the hole in the bottom plate; the bottom plate is inserted into a truck bed stake hole; the top plate rests atop the stake hole; and the bottom plate is rotated to wedge within the stake hole. To remove, the bottom plate is rotated counterclockwise until the post in the top plate acts as a stop and prevents rotation, and the assembly is then removed from the stake hole.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2007Date of Patent: September 29, 2009Assignee: Gameday, LLCInventors: Luther McKinley Karnes, Brian Joe Karnes, Roy Jeffery Lashley
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Patent number: 7549828Abstract: A removable vehicle bed tie down device comprises a clamp body and a gripper assembly that is securely advanceable relative to the clamp body. The clamp body and the gripper assembly are shaped and configured to apply a gripping force to two intersecting walls of a bed rail of a vehicle such as a pick up truck. The clamp body includes a mount point and a rib that may be formed as an integrated unitary structure with the clamp body, thus providing high strength and stiffness with low manufacturing costs. The rib extends over substantially the entire outer surface of the clamp body and distributes loads applied to the mount point over the entire clamp body and to the gripper assembly.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2006Date of Patent: June 23, 2009Assignee: 89908, Inc.Inventor: Anthony Smith
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Patent number: 7513727Abstract: An anchor assembly has a retainer and an interlocking link, with the link secured to the floor of a flatcar by the retainer. An adapter welded to the load bearing surface provides an enhanced banding radius which reduces the risk of band breakage, without requiring replacement of the existing anchor assembly. The adapter includes a saddle portion and preferably tabs to prevent misalignment during installation of the adapter onto the link. A metal band is connected at one end to a load bearing surface of the combined link and adapter of a first anchor assembly and at another end to a load bearing surface of the combined link and adapter of a second anchor assembly. A tensile force is applied to the steel banding and crimped with a clip to secure cargo.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2005Date of Patent: April 7, 2009Assignee: Ireco, LLCInventors: Rudolph E. Nadherny, Barry T. Glass
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Patent number: 7481610Abstract: A tie-down assembly is engaged within a truck side wall pocket to enable attachment of ropes, cables, bungee cords and the like. A body has an open ring formation and a bottom surface with an indented cavity and a mounting hole extending therethrough. A mount has a flange laying in contact with the outside surface of the truck side wall, and further has a bottom panel having an upwardly extending ridge which extends into the indented cavity of the body. A clamp includes a clamp plate with legs in contact with the inside surface of the truck side wall. The clamp has a fastener receiver engaging a fastener extending through the body and the mount, and which can be adjusted to provide clamping forces through the legs and flange on opposing sides of the truck side wall to secure the assembly to the side wall.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2007Date of Patent: January 27, 2009Inventor: Donald S. Egigian
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Patent number: 7458758Abstract: A hook hanger for a cargo trailer includes a body. The body includes: (i) a mounting bracket conforming in shape to and slidably engageable with an associated sliding track of an associated cargo trailer; (ii) a hook anchor connected to the mounting bracket; and, (iii) a wall that cooperates with the hook anchor to define a channel including an opening in a side of the body. The wall limits vertical movement of a hook connected to the hook anchor to prevent inadvertent disengagement by vertical movement. The hook is disengageable from the hook anchor only by sliding movement transverse to vertical and through the channel opening. The channel opening is selectively blocked by a movable leg member connected to the body.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2007Date of Patent: December 2, 2008Assignee: East Manufacturing CorporationInventor: James H. Adams
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Patent number: 7422401Abstract: A B-hook retainer shaped and configured so as to maintain retention of B-hook hardware in a shaped aperture that secures various and multiple types of lading tie straps and strap hardware comprising of straps of woven webbing. The lading tie strap being held in place by the appropriate B-hook provision and the said anchor being contained within a pocket in the wall or floor of railway box or flat car. Various industry lading tie straps with said B-hook already in use are allowed to be connected to the shaped aperture anchor. An appropriate ratchet inherent to the specific type of tie strap being used is operated to remove any remaining slack in the lading ties and then apply the desired tension thereon to secure the lading to the railway car. If slack develops in the lading ties due to transport load shifting the B-hook retainer will prevent inadvertent removal of the B-hook from the shaped aperture resulting in lading tie strap no longer securing the lading to the railway car.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2006Date of Patent: September 9, 2008Inventors: John W. Frett, William L. Volk, John B. Brewster
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Patent number: 7160069Abstract: A hook hanger for a cargo trailer includes a body defining (i) a mounting bracket conforming in shape to and slidably engageable with an associated sliding winch track of an associated cargo trailer; (ii) a hook anchor connected to the mounting bracket; and, (iii) a wall that cooperates with the hook anchor to define a channel between the wall and the hook anchor. The channel opens in a side of the body, and the wall limits vertical movement of an associated hook connected to the hook anchor to prevent inadvertent disengagement by vertical movement of the associated hook from the hook anchor. The associated hook is disengageable from the hook anchor only by sliding movement in the channel in a direction transverse to vertical. A retaining member is optionally connected to the body and movable to a locked position where it captures the associated hook in the channel.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2001Date of Patent: January 9, 2007Assignee: East Manufacturing CorporationInventor: James H. Adams
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Patent number: 7090449Abstract: A tie-down strap or chain anchor is described for use with a trailer or truck. The anchor includes a stem portion which is adapted to be secured to one side of the bed of the trailer or truck. A pair of spaced-apart plates are secured to the upper end of the stem portion and have a J-shaped receiver secured thereto and extending therebetween which includes an inclined portion and a generally U-shaped portion at the lower end thereof. The U-shaped portion has a slot or notch formed therein.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2005Date of Patent: August 15, 2006Inventor: Richard C. Hugg
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Patent number: 6974288Abstract: A cushioned banding anchor for securement of a load to a loading platform by use of a band having a loop at least at one end, and a banding anchor body with a cushioned roller retained within an inside aperture of the anchor body. The cushioned roller is designed to be positioned within the loop of the band. The banding anchor body has a loop portion at one end which is connected to the loading platform.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2004Date of Patent: December 13, 2005Assignee: Portec Rail Products Inc.Inventor: Richard A. Tatina
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Patent number: 6955510Abstract: A vehicle tie down rail conjoinment structure comprised of a first connector and a second connector each having a mounting surface at one extremity and an oblique slip-thrust surface formed at the opposite extremity. A threaded fastening component is utilized to conjoin the first connector and the second connector into a single physical entity, wherein the first connector is inserted into the inner diameter at the end section of the curved anchor footing of a vehicle tie down rail and the second coupling section is inserted into the inner diameter of the straight, thin long pipe member at the end section of the vehicle tie down rail.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2004Date of Patent: October 18, 2005Assignee: Her Jiunn Industry Co., LtdInventor: Yin-Shu Yang
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Patent number: 6953312Abstract: A method and aluminum extruded, one-piece, easy to install tie-down rail for restraining a cargo in a pick-up truck is provided. The tie-down rail is comprised of an upper cylindrical thin wall section, an adjoining downward extending, substantially vertical wall portion and an adjoining inward extending lower flange portion for supporting the rail on a side panel of the pick-up truck. Rectangular apertures are provided in the vertical wall portion for receiving a tie-down rope, strap, or bungee cord and apertures are provided in the flange portion for attaching the rail to the pick-up truck. The method for making the rail comprises the steps of extruding an aluminum blank, cutting the blank to a specified length to form the rail, stamping the apertures in the vertical wall portion of the rail, drilling or stamping the apertures in the flange portion of the rail and applying a finish to the rail.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2003Date of Patent: October 11, 2005Inventor: Donald G. Wheatley
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Patent number: 6939095Abstract: A tie-down strap or chain anchor is described for use with a trailer or truck. The anchor includes a stem portion which is adapted to be secured to one side of the bed of the trailer or truck. A pair of spaced-apart plates are secured to the upper end of the stem portion and have a J-shaped receiver secured thereto and extending therebetween which includes an inclined portion and a generally U-shaped portion at the lower end thereof. The U-shaped portion has a slot or notch formed therein.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2004Date of Patent: September 6, 2005Inventor: Richard C. Hugg
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Patent number: 6935820Abstract: A lighted anchor for a vehicle is adapted to be attached to the rear end of a side wall of the carrying bed of the vehicle. The anchor includes wires leading from an anchor light in the anchor member. The wires can be connected to the tail light of the vehicle so that the anchor light is on when the tail light is on.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2003Date of Patent: August 30, 2005Assignee: Putco, Inc.Inventors: James P. Elwell, Jamie R. Bernardy, Ben F. Conkey
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Patent number: 6887021Abstract: An apparatus for straightening and reinforcing a pickup truck bed wall having a bowed cornice, the apparatus including of a āUā beam having a bed wall drawing flange, the bed wall drawing flange having upper and lower ends, a rear flange having upper and lower ends, a web spanning between the upper ends of the bed wall drawing flange and the rear flange, and having a plurality of screw receiving apertures extending through the web; and including left and right pivotally mounted āDā rings mounted upon the rear flange by left and right ring mount plates; the straightening and reinforcing including steps of providing such apparatus, placing the apparatus over the cornice, drilling screw receiving apertures into the cornice, inserting screws through the screw receiving apertures, and turning the screws in a left to right or right to left succession, drawing the apparatus downward over the cornice, and causing the bed wall drawing flange to straighten the bow of the cornice.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2003Date of Patent: May 3, 2005Inventor: Mitchell D. Herring
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Patent number: 6846140Abstract: A flexible cargo bed tie-down system that allows the user to easily change, adjust, customize, and adapt his or her vehicle to specific needs at any given moment, and that interfaces with the rest of the truck in an optimum manner from a functional, structural, and aesthetic standpoint. Tie-down track(s) are provided that are integral with the body of the truck such that the exterior contour of the track(s) do not extend appreciably beyond the contour of the adjacent portions of the body. This permits the track(s) to blend in with the body of the truck, which improves functionality because the track(s) do not obstruct the placement of items on the truck. This also permits the portions of the body of the truck that support the tracks(s) to be specifically designed to take large loads, which thus allows the track(s) to support, separate and/or secure large loads.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2001Date of Patent: January 25, 2005Assignee: Nissan Design America, Inc.Inventors: Michael D. Anderson, Diane T. Allen, Stephen D. Ball
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Patent number: 6827532Abstract: A bed rail (10) for attaching to a sidewall (12) of a motor vehicle (14), comprising a pair of elongate members (60) held in spaced-apart relation by a leading end cap (16, 30) and a trailing end cap (18, 30), the elongate members defining a space therebetween and an ornamental indicia-bearing panel (20) disposed in the space, for mounting with fasteners to a cap of a sidewall of the motor vehicle. In one aspect, the bed rail assembles by recesses in the elongate members (60) receiving tongues (42, 44) on the end caps (30). A channel (62) in the elongate members hold the edges of the panel. In another aspect, an integral bed rail (90) defines a longitudinal slot (102) through which the panel (20) passes into the space. A method of attaching a bed rail to a sidewall of a motor vehicle is disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2003Date of Patent: December 7, 2004Inventor: Edwin Lee Nix
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Patent number: 6821067Abstract: A pickup truck has a bed and a pair of walls each with an inside and an outside surface and an upper rail. An upper rail cover, formed of solid reinforced steel, is coupled to the upper rail. An outside edge of the upper rail cover has a plurality of downward tie hooks. A plurality of ropes retain an object in the bed by looping and tying to the tie hooks.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2002Date of Patent: November 23, 2004Inventor: Steve Von Loehr
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Patent number: 6761519Abstract: An apparatus for securing a motorcycle in an upright position for transport. It consists of a female quick disconnect coupler attached to one end of a tie down strap, used to connect to a male coupler fitting machined as the end of an attachment bolt affixed either inside the open end of the handlebar, or threaded into the motorcycle frame or frame component. This provides a fast, convenient metal to metal securing point at the front end of the motorcycle at the outward end of the handlebars, as well as a coupling point located in another position as may be necessary to secure the motorcycle. Utilization of the quick disconnect coupler system provides the fastest means of attaching the tie down strap in a positive lock, metal to metal connection.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2002Date of Patent: July 13, 2004Inventor: Leslie K. Alderman
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Patent number: 6711786Abstract: A ratcheted lashing strap assembly is described. The assembly is formed of a lashing strap and a tightening device. The tightening device has a frame and a winding drum, rotatable in the frame, for winding up the lashing strap. A fixation end of the lashing strap, in the form of a loop, grips a retention strut that is parallel to the winding drum and is firmly attached to the frame. An eye of the loop is penetrated by a support strut, extending approximately parallel to the retention strut, that as a separate component from the tightening device protrudes by both ends from the loop eyelet and on the side opposite the winding drum from the cinching side is braced on the frame on the retention strut and assumes a variable distance from the retention strut. An end run, adjoining a loop foot, of the lashing strap is fixed in clamping fashion by the support strut between the loop and the lashing strap to be cinched.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2002Date of Patent: March 30, 2004Assignee: Spanset Inter AGInventors: AndrƩ MamiƩ, David Ehnimb
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Patent number: 6712568Abstract: A flexible cargo bed tie-down system that allows the user to easily change, adjust, customize, and adapt his or her vehicle to specific needs at any given moment, and that interfaces with the rest of the vehicle in an optimum manner from a functional, structural, and aesthetic standpoint. Tie-down track(s) are provided that are integral with the body of the vehicle such that the exterior contour of the track(s) do not extend appreciably beyond the contour of the adjacent portions of the body. This permits the track(s) to blend in with the body of the vehicle, which improves functionality because the track(s) do not obstruct the placement of items on the vehicle. The track(s) are provided with a predetermined region that provides for controlled deformation of the vehicle body in case of a collision.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2002Date of Patent: March 30, 2004Assignees: Nissan Technical Center North America, Inc., Nissan Design America, Inc.Inventors: Mark D. Snyder, Darren A. Womack, William G. Bowes, Michael D. Anderson, Diane T. Allen, Stephen Ball
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Patent number: 6709209Abstract: A railcar load securement apparatus uses an array of load securement anchors having bases adapted for strength and efficiency in mounting in a rail car, a plurality of vertical support members extending upwardly from a mounting base or bracket with a flush mounted anchor plate joining them, so that a plurality of tensioning members or straps can be readily mounted to retain cargo, but the anchor is flush to be unobstructive when unused. Flexibility in load adaptation is provided for in that a number of different load capture arrangements can be utilized.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2002Date of Patent: March 23, 2004Assignee: Holland CompanyInventors: Mark Y. Zhan, Stuart H. Thomson
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Patent number: 6669418Abstract: A device is mounted in the deck of a truck for catching a cargo-locating rope and is formed of a base, a top plate, and a rope-catching plate. The base is mounted in a mounting hole of the deck. The top plate is fastened with the top of the base. The rope-catching plate is slidably located in a receiving slot of the base such that the locating balls of the rope-catching plate are retained in first locating recesses of guide grooves of the base at the time when the rope-catching plate is pulled out of the base to catch the cargo-locating rope. When the rope-catching plate is pushed back into the base, the locating balls of the rope-catching plate move along the guide grooves to locate in second locating recesses of the guide grooves.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2002Date of Patent: December 30, 2003Inventor: Chia-Sheng Lin
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Patent number: 6665911Abstract: A concealable buckle apparatus includes a supporting element, a buckle, a locking device and a panel. The buckle is pivotally mounted on the supporting element between an extended position and a concealed position. The locking device is movably mounted on the supporting element between a locking position for locking the buckle in the concealed position and a releasing position. The panel is mounted on the supporting element and defining an opening through which the buckle extends in the extended position and a slot through which the locking device is accessible.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2002Date of Patent: December 23, 2003Inventor: Han-Ching Huang
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Patent number: 6641342Abstract: A floor pocket assembly for use in securing a load to a vehicle floor. A pair of slightly spaced coaxial circular plates are bolted to the floor and a connector is snapped over the top plate by a U-shaped member on one planar side thereof, and held in place by a spring loaded pin which extends into the bore of the two circular plates.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2002Date of Patent: November 4, 2003Inventor: Jean Marc Girardin
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Patent number: 6631539Abstract: A hook device has a main body having a pair of arm portions, a connection portion and a hook portion, a block mount disposed on the main body, a fastener seat disposed on the block mount, and a torsion spring. The block mount has a generally U-shaped middle portion, a pair of side collars connected to the generally U-shaped middle portion, and a positioning through hole. The fastener seat has a pivot pin support portion, a through aperture, a proximal end, and a distal end. Each side collar surrounds one of the arm portions of the main body. The torsion spring is disposed in the fastener seat. The pivot pin support portion of the fastener seat is inserted in the generally U-shaped middle portion of the block mount. A pivot pin fastens the block mount, the fastener seat, and the torsion spring together.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2002Date of Patent: October 14, 2003Inventor: Vincent Chang
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Patent number: 6626621Abstract: A generally Y-shaped winch assembly is described for use with a trailer or truck. The winch assembly includes a stem portion having a pair of horizontally spaced-apart plates extending upwardly from the upper end thereof. A strap receiver mechanism is rotatably mounted on the plates and is controlled by a conventional winch ratchet assembly. A spring-loaded hook member is mounted on the stem portion for engagement with the lower end of a side rail, the lower end of the side area of the trailer, or the lower end of a stand-off plate to maintain the winch assembly in a desired position at one side of the trailer.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2002Date of Patent: September 30, 2003Inventor: Richard C. Hugg
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Patent number: 6626623Abstract: A load tying assembly consisting of first and second hook plates, each having a plurality of hook receiving apertures therethrough; and at least a first “T” hook having first and second hook ends, the “T” hook being insertable between the first and second hook plates for respective engagement of the first and second hooks ends with a pair of apertures among the first and second pluralities of hook apertures.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2001Date of Patent: September 30, 2003Inventor: David A. DeLay
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Patent number: 6609275Abstract: A strap tightener has an auto-pulling device connected to a seat. The auto-pulling device includes a housing and a reversing device. The reversing device is rotatably received in the housing. The reversing device has a reel received in the housing to connect with one end of a strap. A spiral power spring is connected between the housing and the reel. Consequently, the strap can be automatically wound around the reel after the strap tightener is used. To collect the strap is convenient and the operating time of collecting the strap is saved.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2002Date of Patent: August 26, 2003Inventor: Chia-Sheng Lin
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Patent number: 6604898Abstract: A cargo anchor primarily intended for attachment to the upper edge of the side of an open bed truck, comprising a journal box and an integral clamping apparatus. The journal box comprises a base member, a cleat superimposed on the base member and screws for interconnecting the cleat to the base member. A transverse bore in at least one of either the base member or the cleat is disposed parallel to the planes of the base member and the cleat and is sized to carry a shaft or a “D” ring that functions to support load binding straps or ties. Integral with the journal box is a clamping device for attaching the journal box to a flat structural member.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2001Date of Patent: August 12, 2003Inventor: Brent A. Price
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Patent number: 6598270Abstract: An equipment mounting strap is disclosed for securing equipment in a rack having side frames. The equipment mounting strap includes two angled brackets, each bracket including a first leg defining a slot for receiving a strap and a second leg having means for fastening the angled bracket to one of the side frames of the rack, a bumper mounted on each angled bracket adjacent the slot, and a composite strap having one end fixedly fastened through the slot of one of the angled brackets and the other end detachably fastened through the slot of the other of the angled brackets.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2001Date of Patent: July 29, 2003Assignee: Ortronics, Inc.Inventors: Lars R. Larsen, Stewart A. Levesque, Lylette Schumacher
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Patent number: 6585466Abstract: A railcar load securement apparatus uses an array of load securement anchors having bases adapted for strength and efficiency in mounting in a rail car, a plurality of vertical support members extending upwardly from a mounting base or bracket with a flush mounted anchor plate joining them, so that a plurality of tensioning members or straps can be readily mounted to retain cargo, but the anchor is flush to be unobstructive when unused. The alternative embodiment anchor is particularly adapted to installation with a new-floor, being a tube mounted anchor providing a strong, economical mounting where vertical clearance, and particularly angle, adjustment is not needed. Flexibility in load adaptation is provided for in that a number of different load capture arrangements can be utilized.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2001Date of Patent: July 1, 2003Assignee: Holland CompanyInventors: Mark Y. Zhan, Stuart H. Thomson, David P. Crovetti
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Patent number: 6565300Abstract: A cargo tie down assembly attachment method for straightening and reinforcing a pickup truck bed wall having a bowed cornice, the apparatus including of a “U” beam having a bed wall drawing flange, the bed wall drawing flange having upper and lower ends, a rear flange having upper and lower ends, a web spanning between the upper ends of the bed wall drawing flange and the rear flange, and having a plurality of screw receiving apertures extending through the web; and including left and right pivotally mounted “D” rings mounted upon the rear flange by left and right ring mount plates; the straightening and reinforcing method including steps of providing such apparatus, placing the apparatus over the cornice, drilling screw receiving apertures into the cornice, inserting screws through the screw receiving apertures, and turning the screws in a left to right or right to left succession, drawing the apparatus downward over the cornice, and causing the bed wall drawing flange to straighten tType: GrantFiled: July 26, 2001Date of Patent: May 20, 2003Inventor: Mitchell D. Herring
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Patent number: 6527487Abstract: The present invention relates to an adjustable, locking cargo control system for a vehicle such as a flat bed trailer, van type trailer, train, airplane or the like. The tie down system comprises at least one groove within the floor of the truck trailer. Each groove has a flange extending inward on either side of the groove. One of the flanges has a plurality of notches formed in it. The system includes at least one tie down member comprising an anchor hook insertable into the groove wherein the hook registers against an anchor flange opposite the flange having the plurality of notches. Each tie down member further comprises at least one boss extending therefrom which is positioned and sized to engage at least one of the notches in the notched flange in a manner preventing the tie down member from sliding along the groove. A tie down chain or cable is attached to the tie down member in a manner to secure a load to the floor of the or other portion of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2001Date of Patent: March 4, 2003Assignee: East ManufacturingInventor: James H. Adams