Recessed In Car Facing Patents (Class 410/112)
  • Patent number: 11654833
    Abstract: A deployable hanger assembly for a vehicle is provided. The hanger assembly includes a housing having a front side, a back side having one or more ribs, and an aperture extending in from the front side, and a deployable hanger that pivots relative to the housing between a flush retracted stored position within the aperture and an outward extending deployed use position. The deployable hanger assembly also includes a backer plate having one or more slots configured to receive the one or more ribs on the back side of the housing, wherein the backer plate is configured to engage a backside of a trim component of the vehicle and the housing is configured to engage a front side of the trim component, and wherein the one or more ribs extend through an opening in the trim component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2023
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Jedidiah Paul Durkin, Ryan Ritter
  • Patent number: 11485272
    Abstract: A device for securing a material handling device in a transport vehicle comprises an arm supporting at opposite ends a first attachment member configured for attaching to a shaft of a handle of the material handling device, which is configured for steerably moving the material handling device, and a second attachment member configured for attaching to the transport vehicle. The arm is movable relative to the first attachment member between a working position in which the arm is arranged to extend outwardly from the shaft of the handle to position the second attachment member at a spaced location therefrom for connecting to the transport vehicle, so as to secure the material handling device in fixed relation to the transport vehicle, and a storage position in which the arm is arranged generally parallel to the shaft of the handle to position the second attachment member at or adjacent the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2022
    Inventor: Sean D A Bednarek
  • Patent number: 10106262
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device (100) for attaching an apparatus onto a panel including at least one mortise, characterized in that it includes: a clamping member (102) including a clamping jaw (105) shaped so as to be capable of engaging with a first surface opposite the panel; and an anchoring dowel (108) rotatably secured to the clamping member (102) and including an anchoring jaw (109) capable of engaging with a second coupling surface of the panel, the clamping member (102) being capable of being translatably moved relative to the anchoring dowel (108) between: a position for blocking the attachment device (100), in which the clamping jaw (105) and the anchoring jaw (109) engage so as to attach the attachment device (100) to the panel; and a position for installing the attachment device (100), in which the clamping jaw (105) is shaped so as to be capable of passing through the attachment mortise of the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2018
    Assignee: SOGECLAIR S.A.
    Inventor: Mathieu Deloubes
  • Patent number: 10081291
    Abstract: An anchor plate attached to a base wall of a recess in a sidewall or inner surface of a tail gate. The anchor plate includes a connection wall that defines an E-clip opening or receptacle. A tie-down bar is attached to or formed as a part of the connection wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2018
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Gregory Graves, Richard Bolt, Timothy George
  • Patent number: 9308854
    Abstract: A floor anchor assembly for cargo vans that mounts totally below surface of cargo floor, but will provide for tie-down attach points above the cargo floor. Such anchor assemblies combine a rigid frame with a high strength web-cable that forms a loop. The web-cable loop from the anchor will rout through the center of the anchor and extend upward to pass through a narrow slot cut into the cargo floor panel. When the loop end is fully extended, the top of the loop will be just above floor surface for use as a tie-down point. When particular anchor loops are not needed, the extended loop-ends are merely pushed down into the slot to allow for easy roll and slide of cargo pallets and boxes. The loop-ends are immediately retrievable using a tool like a small screwdriver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2016
    Inventor: Robert W. Miller
  • Patent number: 8956094
    Abstract: A low profile hold down assembly is mounted to the exterior surface of a sidewall of a trailer. The hold down assembly includes a cover member formed from the same material from which the sidewall of the trailer is formed and therefore is aesthetically desirable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Wabash National, L.P.
    Inventors: Michael Thoma, Danny L. Gilbert, Francis Smidler
  • Patent number: 8662804
    Abstract: A low profile hold down assembly is mounted to the exterior surface of a sidewall of a trailer. The hold down assembly includes a cover member formed from the same material from which the sidewall of the trailer is formed and therefore is aesthetically desirable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Wabash National, L.P.
    Inventors: Michael Thoma, Danny L. Gilbert, Francis Smidler
  • Patent number: 8613578
    Abstract: A hidden tie down provides a round collar that is inserted into a like-sized round aperture formed in a planar surface. A cap and cap mount are attachable to the collar at the outer face of the surface. A fastener secures the collar to the surface at the inner face of the surface. Two opposing bushings are disposed within the collar to retain each end of a hook loop within them. The hook loop includes a round lid that closes off a like-sized round opening in the cap such that, in one position, the lid closes off the cap opening and creates a substantially flush surface across the cap. In another position, the hook loop extends outwardly from the cap opening to provide an attachment structure. Each bushing includes a detent to retain the hook loop in a stowed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Inventor: Ronald M. Hutchinson
  • Patent number: 8550757
    Abstract: A flexible cargo bed tie-down system allows the user to easily change, adjust, customize, and adapt his or her vehicle to specific needs at any given moment, and interfaces with the rest of the vehicle in an optimum manner from a functional, structural, and aesthetic standpoint. One embodiment of the invention provides a vehicle having a side wall construction enclosing a cargo bed at a side of the cargo bed. The side wall construction includes an outer portion which runs generally vertically at an outer portion of the vehicle, and a top portion which runs generally horizontally from the outer portion toward a longitudinal center of the vehicle. A tie-down rail is mounted adjacent to the top portion such that a part of the top portion overhangs at least a portion of the tie-down rail. The tie-down rail is configured to accept a tie-down fitting and includes a slotted opening generally aligned with an interior edge of the top portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Nissan North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael D. Anderson, Diane T. Allen, Stephen D. Ball
  • Patent number: 8517648
    Abstract: To provide a load-carrying platform structure which allows loading irrespective of the kind or shape of a load, reliably secures the load onto the load-carrying platform, and does not cause a decrease in the full load capacity. In a structure in which a frame includes a load-carrying platform, and wall portions are provided in the outer periphery of the loading portion of the load-carrying platform with recesses being provided in the inner wall surfaces of the wall portions. Hooks for securing the load in place are provided in the respective recesses so as to fit within the inner wall surfaces of the wall portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takeshi Kobayashi, Nobutaka Ban, Yukinori Kawaguchi
  • Patent number: 8414237
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Inventor: André Grasso
  • Patent number: 8388286
    Abstract: A tie-down eye for a cargo space of a motor vehicle has an annular loop pivoted on a mount that is formed with a journal part wrapped around a portion of the loop, and the mount and the loop are secured in a frame element fixed in a floor of the cargo space. The loop, which serves for attachment of securing straps, retaining ropes, retaining nets, or similar load-securing elements on or against the cargo surface can pivot between a nonuse position recessed in the frame element and use position projecting upward therefrom. The mount is formed with a cutout in its journal part wrapped around the loop, and a projection extending radially from the loop extends through this cutout and bears against an inner peripheral edge of the cutout when in the use position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Gebr. Kemmerich GmbH
    Inventors: Joerg Niklas, Oliver Bongen
  • Patent number: 8376674
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: John R. Davis, III
  • Patent number: 8079793
    Abstract: A low profile hold down assembly is mounted to the exterior surface of a sidewall of a trailer. The hold down assembly includes a cover member formed from the same material from which the sidewall of the trailer is formed and therefore is aesthetically desirable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: Wabash National, L.P.
    Inventors: Michael Thoma, Danny L. Gilbert, Francis Smidler
  • Patent number: 8057143
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Fontaine Trailer Company, Inc.
    Inventor: James H. Adams
  • Patent number: 7780384
    Abstract: A hook attaching unit in accordance with the invention is constituted by a hook member which is rotatably attached to an end portion of a base plate, a bolt with a flange inserted to a bolt insertion hole of the base plate, and a resin cover member in which a cover body is connected to an annular basement portion. Since the hook member, the cover member and the bolt are integrally assembled, it is not necessary to install the bolt separately in the work field and then install the cover member after attaching the hook, and as such, the workability at the time of fastening is improved. Further, since the cover member invisibly covers the bolt head portion, improved safety and outer appearance is obtained. The hook attaching unit can be also utilized for attaching a seat belt anchor plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Aoyama Seisakusho Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Katsuhisa Katou, Katsunori Arai
  • Patent number: 7686551
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Black & Gray Design & Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Andre′ Grasso
  • Patent number: 7537423
    Abstract: A device has a chain fitting which is connected to the floor of a transportation vehicle, such as a flatbed trailer. The chain fitting has a cap on one end thereof, which is installed in a mating aperture formed in the vehicle floor. The side rail has an aperture opposite the floor aperture, this aperture having a smaller diameter than the floor aperture. A side rail is installed along an edge of the floor, tis side rail having an aperture positioned opposite the aperture in the floor and having a smaller diameter than the floor aperture. The cap is installed on the top side of the floor with a short chain piece attached thereto running through the aperture with a second cap at the lower end which is secured to the lower end of the chain. A length of securing chain is attached to the chain fitting, this securing chain being attached to cargo to be restrained. The cap is partially beveled along its contact surface with the floor and engages the sides of the aperture in the floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: Ancra International, LLC.
    Inventor: Ralph L. Abato, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7476070
    Abstract: A device consisting of a short chain fitting is linked to the floor of a transportation vehicle, such as a flatbed trailer. The chain fitting has a cap on one end thereof, which is installed in a mating aperture formed in the vehicle floor. The cap is installed on the top side of the floor with a short chain piece attached thereto running through the aperture with a second cap at the lower end which is secured to the lower end of the chain. A length of securing chain is attached to the chain fitting, this length of chain running substantially vertical to the floor and attached to cargo to be restrained. The cap is partially beveled along its contact surface with the floor and engages the sides of the aperture on the top part of the floor. The cap itself and the beveled surface thereon facilitate detachment of the chain fitting when so required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: Ancra International, LLC
    Inventor: Ralph L. Abato, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7431548
    Abstract: A housing assembly for housing a restraint device is provided. The housing assembly may be recessed into a floor or a wall of a building or a vehicle. The restraint device may be a retractor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: Indiana Mills & Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Aaron Acton, Jeffrey A. King
  • Patent number: 7389971
    Abstract: A tightening device leverage tool includes a bar member with a bar axis; a first receiver mounted to the bar member, and a second receiver mounted to the bar member and spaced-apart along the bar axis from the first receiver. The first and the second receivers are simultaneously engageable with a respective one of a first ratchet buckle member and a second ratchet buckle member, spaced apart from one another, for pivoting at least one of the first and the second ratchet buckle members about a pivot axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Inventors: Sylvain Gaudreault, Jules Savard
  • Patent number: 7390155
    Abstract: A tie down or strap anchor apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus provides a housing that can be mounted flush with a deck, floor or the like. A connector removably attaches to the housing by depressing a piston downwardly. When not in use, the connector is removed and a spring urges the piston.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Inventors: Carroll Diaz, Robbins Marshall Claypool, Jr., Lawrence Crochet, Jr., Mark A. Danos
  • Patent number: 7281889
    Abstract: A flexible cargo bed tie-down system allows the user to easily change, adjust, customize, and adapt his or her vehicle to specific needs at any given moment, and interfaces with the rest of the vehicle in an optimum manner from a functional, structural, and aesthetic standpoint. One embodiment of the invention provides a vehicle having a side wall construction enclosing a cargo bed at a side of the cargo bed. The side wall construction includes an outer portion which runs generally vertically at an outer portion of the vehicle, and a top portion which runs generally horizontally from the outer portion toward a longitudinal center of the vehicle. A tie-down rail is mounted adjacent to the top portion such that a part of the top portion overhangs at least a portion of the tie-down rail. The tie-down rail is configured to accept a tie-down fitting and includes a slotted opening generally aligned with an interior edge of the top portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2007
    Assignee: Nissan Design America, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael D. Anderson, Diane T. Allen, Stephen D. Ball
  • Patent number: 7134819
    Abstract: A tie-down assembly includes a housing configured to receive a pair of bails. A cross-bar and post are used to rotatably connect the bails to the housing. The pair of bails can be identical to allow a strap to be cinched to the housing. Alternatively, the bails can be shaped differently, for example, to center a strap within the bail or to facilitate the use of multiple straps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: A.L. Hansen Manufacturing Co.
    Inventors: Charles Bullock, William S. Hansen, II
  • Patent number: 6908269
    Abstract: A dynamic cargo restraint system has a stationary hook member mounted in a bezel for engagement with a second movable hook member that is stored in a second bezel. The movable hook member is attached to a cord that is engaged with a retraction mechanism housed within the corresponding wall of the cargo area to retract the cord for automatic storage when the movable hook member is not in use. The movable hook member can be threaded through the handles of grocery bags before being attached to the stationary hook member to support the grocery bags in an upright orientation. The hook members and the bezels can be formed in a variety of shapes, and are stored substantially flush with the walls of the cargo area. The stationary hook member can be pivoted within it's bezel to project outwardly therefrom for engagement with the movable hook member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Bruce Youngs, Curt Aumiller, Chelsia Ka Po Lau, Nicholas Waskul, Richard Beck
  • Patent number: 6846140
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Assignee: Nissan Design America, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael D. Anderson, Diane T. Allen, Stephen D. Ball
  • Patent number: 6793449
    Abstract: Disclosed are a retractable tie-down cord assembly and a removable tie-down assembly for securing cargo in the cargo area of a station wagon, utility vehicle, mini van or the like. In one embodiment the tie-down cord assemblies also provides for a tie-down cords to be stored in the interior side wall of the vehicle and the tie-down cord hooks to be stored on the interior side wall of the vehicle and positioned so as to be available as utility hooks within the cargo area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Leak Corporation
    Inventors: Tracy Simpson, Douglas J. Kroll
  • Patent number: 6779465
    Abstract: A car body for a rail vehicle including a plurality of beams (1) arranged to carry one or more wall elements (3-5). At least one of said beams (1) includes an attaching member (6), extending substantially in the longitudinal direction of the beam, for engagement with at least a part of one or more components intended to be supported by the beam (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Assignee: Bombardier Transportation GmbH
    Inventor: Conny Sjöbäck
  • Patent number: 6746168
    Abstract: A writing instrument includes a barrel defining a channel, an arcuate cam member coupled to the barrel and a writing element in communication with the cam member. The cam member is rotatable between a first position in which a writing end of the writing element is retracted within the channel and a second position in which the writing end of the writing element is extended out of the channel. The cam member rotates about an axis of rotation that is transverse to the longitudinal axis of the writing instrument. Various features which improve the functioning of the writing instrument or cam member may be provided separately or in combination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Assignee: BIC Corporation
    Inventors: Donald A. DeLuca, Daniel A. Ferrara, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6742974
    Abstract: A cargo-securing panel adapted to form a body of a cargo-carrying vehicle is provided. Such a panel comprises a honeycomb-configured core having opposed faces, wherein the core defines an angular groove having a portion extending between the faces and a portion extending through one of the faces. The core further defines a recess adjacent to the groove. A facing sheet is engaged with the one face of the core so as to form a composite. The facing sheet defines a gap extending therethrough in correspondence with the portion of the groove extending through the one face. An angular member includes a flange corresponding to the groove and is configured to be slidably engaged with the groove in order to secure the member to the composite. The member further includes an external portion extending outside the core and parallel to the one face, wherein the external portion defining an aperture corresponding to the recess in the core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Inventor: A. Ralph Haire
  • Patent number: 6712568
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Assignees: 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
  • Patent number: 6709209
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Holland Company
    Inventors: Mark Y. Zhan, Stuart H. Thomson
  • Patent number: 6655886
    Abstract: Tie down anchors for a railcar having a body arranged and affixed to the side wall to serve at an anchoring point. The upper and lower end sections have expanded widths on which a pair of cutout areas are formed to serve as a vent opening for moisture to escape from behind a mounted anchor in a first embodiment. In a second embodiment, holes are formed through the upper and lower end sections to create a moisture vent opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Ireco, LLC
    Inventor: Robert Grandy
  • Patent number: 6626622
    Abstract: A sidewall for a cargo container is provided having at least one pair of composite panels joined together. Each composite panel includes an inside and an outside face member, each member having a body portion and at least one joint portion. The inside face member of each composite panel has an inclined portion connecting the body and at least one joint portions. At least one joint portion of the inside face member of each composite panel is parallel to and abuts a joint portion of the outside face member of the composite panel, each composite panel having a core member sandwiched between and bonded to the body portions of the inside and outside face members. Adjacent composite panels are joined at an outer surface of a joint portion of the first or second member of a first composite panel which overlaps and abuts an outer surface of a joint portion of the first or second member of a second composite panel. The first composite panel and second composite panel are joined through logistics plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: Strick Corporation
    Inventor: Ronald Zubko
  • Patent number: 6585466
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: Holland Company
    Inventors: Mark Y. Zhan, Stuart H. Thomson, David P. Crovetti
  • Patent number: 6578902
    Abstract: The wall joint of the present invention is configured to reduce or eliminate protrusions into the interior of the trailer or container, but does not require coining or stamping of the edges of consecutive sidewall panels. According to some highly preferred embodiments of the present invention, the wall joint includes two consecutive sidewall panels, each bent to form a main plateau, a spliced plateau and a jogged portion serving as a transition therebetween. In this way, the spliced plateau lies in a plane substantially parallel to, but spaced apart from, the main plateau, with the thickness of the sidewall panel most preferably remaining substantially constant throughout. When two consecutive sidewall panels are positioned next to each other, the spliced plateaus of the two consecutive sidewall panels abut each other and lie in a first plane, while the main plateaus of the two panels preferably lie in another parallel plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Assignee: Stoughton Trailers, LLC
    Inventor: Gerald Allen Sill
  • Patent number: 6503035
    Abstract: An automotive vehicle having a structural reinforcement system for maintaining the integrity of the vehicle during aircraft transportation is disclosed. The structural reinforcement system includes a pair of cables attached to a body member and a pair of frame members of the vehicle. The cables divert loads placed upon the frame members by aircraft restraints to the body member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: J. Donald Perrott
  • Patent number: 6494651
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Assignee: Holland Company
    Inventors: Mark Y. Zhan, Stuart H. Thomson
  • Patent number: 6481941
    Abstract: A lading tie anchor for use in a railway boxcar having an interior metal lining, the lining having an aperture or indentation formed therein for receipt of the anchor, with the anchor comprising a one-piece body adapted to be received or seated in the opening or indentation in the metal lining. The anchor has at least two opposed edge portions that define a central opening, with the edge portions engaging the metal lining. A continuous, vertically-orientated anchoring post spans the central opening, the post including an aperture or drain hole in its lower portion to facilitate the transportation of liquid from the anchor into the aperture or indentation in the metal lining.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: Ireco, LLC
    Inventors: Rudolph E. Nadherny, Peter R. Sutcliffe
  • Patent number: 6106206
    Abstract: A lashing device integrated in truck superstructure walls, in particular plywood panels, has a plurality of lashing cups (2) arranged next to each other in horizontal rows. Each lashing cup (2) has a truncated cone shape which tapers towards the cup bottom (2a), can be form-fitted into corresponding recesses of the superstructure walls and fixed therein with an adhesive. Each lashing cup (2) has a strip (5) located inside and at the center of the lashing cup (2), and an outer flange (8) that extends parallel to the cup bottom (2a) around the open cup side. The strip (5) in each lashing cup (2) matches an end coupling piece (9) of a locking bar that can be inserted between two opposite lashing cups (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Spier GmbH & Co., Fahrzeugwerk KG
    Inventors: Willi Spier, Herbert Hagedorn
  • Patent number: 6065917
    Abstract: A tie-down anchor is provided for strapping cargo to a cargo bed. The tie-down anchor includes a receptacle member, which in turn includes a base and a mounting flange secured to the base. The mounting flange is mounted to the cargo bed in alignment with a mounting hole in the bed. A strap-receiving member is disposed in the receptacle member supported on the base for floating rotary and pivotal movement. The strap-receiving member includes a base leg having a length greater than the diameter of the mounting hole and an extension fixed to the base leg to create an opening for receiving the strap. The extension is narrower than the mounting hole so that the extension may pass through the mounting hole and extend above the bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Thomas Allan Shambeau, Loren Fredrick Hansen
  • Patent number: 6050763
    Abstract: A utility hook for a pick-up truck is provided. Every Pick-up truck has some sort of bed or cargo carrying area. Typically, the bed is bound by sidewalls that include a vertical exterior wall, a horizontal top portion and a short overhang section. The preferred embodiment of the present invention provides for a base disposed below and attached to the horizontal top portion and between the vertical exterior wall and the short vertical overhang. An attachment structure is pivotally attached to the base via a pivot pin. Attachment structure includes an orientation section and a cargo engagement section disposed on opposite side of the pivot pin. The attachment structure is capable of pivoting such that it is disposed vertically above a plane formed perpendicular to the bottom edge of the short vertical overhang. A stop is also provided to contact the orientation section in order to hold the attachment structure in a defined orientation with respect to said base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    Inventor: Steven R. Swailes
  • Patent number: 5934849
    Abstract: Anchoring systems include a panel having a surface and a channel recessed from the surface and a tracking plate having a spine connected with the panel in the channel. The anchoring systems further include receiving units for receiving a cargo anchoring mechanism. The tracking plate preferably further includes a face member connected with the spine member such that a portion of the spine member and the face member are spaced apart to define a cavity. The tracking plate is preferably adhered with the panel having the spine connected in the channel and the face member adhered with and coextensively overlying the inner surface of the panel. Further, the receiving units, preferably apertures of the tracking plate, can be aligned with a cavity formed between the face member and the spine member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Assignee: A. Ralph Haire
    Inventor: Andrew Ralph Haire
  • Patent number: 5823724
    Abstract: End caps for insertion into the ends of a tie-down track of the type used to secure cargo, wheelchairs and the like typically to the floor of a vehicle. The end caps are curved and permit the easy insertion of an assembly of the tie-down track and end caps into a routed groove in the floor. Preferably the end caps and the tie-down track have a beveled flange so that the resulting installed track has a smooth transition from the floor surface to the track surface. With the end caps of the present invention, there is no need to square off the ends of a routed groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Assignee: New Haven Moving Equipment Corp. of California, Inc.
    Inventor: Ray Lee
  • Patent number: 5803525
    Abstract: A tailgate construction for a pickup truck provides a tailgate 28 having an attachment means consisting of the rod 44 extending laterally of the tailgate 28 between its side portions 36, 38. A pair of windows 46, 48 is formed through an inner surface 42 of the tailgate to provide access to the rod for purpose of anchoring tie down mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Lawrence Lipinski, Terrance Dean Savitsky, Stacey Ann Boersma
  • Patent number: 5702144
    Abstract: An article storage structure has a wall defining a cavity in an inner lining of a motor vehicle tailgate, and a belt for fastening an article stored in the cavity. The belt extends along an inner surface of the wall and has opposite ends exposed in the cavity. A fastening device is connected to the opposite ends of the belt, for tightening the belt. The article storage structure effectively utilizes the space in the tailgate, and firmly and reliably holds the article in position in the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tatsuo Matsuura, Atsushi Inoue
  • Patent number: 5597193
    Abstract: An interlocking panel truck bed liner comprises a horizontal grid base formed in a solid planar rectangular configuration. The base has an upper surface and a lower surface. The lower surface includes coupling devices to permit affixation to the floor of a truck bed. The upper surface has a plurality of perpendicularly intersecting, rectangular-shaped horizontal grooves. Four vertical sidewall liners are each formed in a solid planar rectangular configuration with a front surface and a rear surface. The rear surface of each sidewall liner includes coupling devices to permit vertical affixation to the sidewalls and tailgate of a truck. The front surface of each sidewall liner includes vertical grooves positioned in alignment with the grooves in the grid base. A plurality of interlocking panels are each formed in a planar rectangular configuration. Each panel has two identical surfaces. The panels are positioned vertically in an operative orientation and include a plurality of coupling devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1997
    Inventor: Robert H. Conner
  • Patent number: 5494388
    Abstract: This invention is directed to a tie-down device for use with small trucks such as pickup trucks having sides. The sides comprise an exterior wall and an interior wall. There is positioned between the exterior wall and the interior wall an elongated member such as a rod or a tube. There is positioned on the elongated member a clamp having an eye bolt. A cargo box or cargo may be positioned on the bed of the pickup truck. A stretchable elastic tie-down device having a hook on each end may be stretched over the cargo box and attached to the eye bolt on one side of the pickup truck and to an eye bolt on the other side of the pickup truck to hold the cargo box in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1996
    Inventor: Gary Stevens
  • Patent number: 5419603
    Abstract: An enclosure for use with a cargo bed liner providing access to a tie-down fastener attached to the cargo bed. The liner with which the enclosure is used includes a wall portion having a hole therein. The liner wall is aligned in relation to the cargo bed wall such that the fastener is accessible through the hole in the liner wall when the liner is installed. The enclosure includes a casing used for insertion into the hole in the liner wall. The casing also includes as least one aperture for the receipt of the fastener and an open portion sized to be substantially coincident with the hole in the liner wall when the casing is inserted through the hole. In this manner, access is provided to the fastener through the open portion of the casing. Also included as part of the enclosure is a flanged portion having an opening therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 30, 1995
    Assignee: Futurex Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard J. Kremer, Stephen R. Wood
  • Patent number: RE36073
    Abstract: An enclosure for use with a cargo bed liner providing access to a tie-down fastener attached to the cargo bed.Iadd., and method for installing the liner to provide such access. The fastener has a connecting portion for connecting the fastener to the cargo bed wall and an extended portion extending from the cargo bed wall.Iaddend.. The liner with which the enclosure is used includes a wall portion having a hole therein. The liner wall is aligned in relation to the cargo bed wall such that the .Iadd.extended portion of the .Iaddend.fastener is accessible through the hole in the liner wall when the liner is installed. The enclosure includes a casing used for insertion into the hole in the liner wall. The casing also includes as least one aperture for the receipt of the .Iadd.connecting portion of the .Iaddend.fastener and an open portion sized to be substantially coincident with the hole in the liner wall when the casing is inserted through the hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Assignee: Futurex Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard J. Kremer, Stephen R. Wood