Load Bracing Means Patents (Class 410/121)
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Patent number: 7318614Abstract: A bulkhead assembly for a vehicle such as, for example, a van or truck comprises a first panel adjacent and substantially perpendicular to a street-side wall of the vehicle, a second panel adjacent and substantially perpendicular to a curb-side wall of the vehicle, and a door panel disposed between the first and second panels, the door being hingedly attached to one of the first and second panels, wherein the panels are formed from a polymer material. In one embodiment, the panel adjacent the street-side wall of the vehicle (i.e., the driver-side panel) defines a cavity extending rearwardly into the cargo area, the cavity being sized (in terms of the cavity's width) to accommodate the seat-back of the driver's seat.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2005Date of Patent: January 15, 2008Assignee: L&P Property Management CompanyInventors: William D. Steiger, Dale A. Panasewicz, Dennis M. Futo
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Patent number: 7306416Abstract: A cargo restraint device for resisting movement of cargo items on a vehicle floor or cargo bed has a generally flat octagonal or rectangular base with a slip-resistant bottom surface to be supported on the floor or bed and a top surface for receiving at least a portion of a cargo item, and a hollow upright upper body portion that can be filled with heavy material such as sand to provide weight. The upper body portion has at least two upright members extending upwardly from the base member, each having outer surfaces for abutting the cargo item, and at least one having an aperture for receiving straps to encircle a cargo item held by the device. In one embodiment four upright members intersect at a center portion in a cross-shaped configuration. In another embodiment two upright members intersect at a center portion in an L-shaped configuration.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2006Date of Patent: December 11, 2007Inventor: John Joseph Arico
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Patent number: 7241092Abstract: A retainer for a vehicle cargo area that is bounded in part by a floor and a door moveable between open and closed positions includes a retaining member spanning at least a portion of the cargo area, a pivot feature operably associated with the retaining member, and a retaining feature that yieldably retains the retaining member in its second position to facilitate retaining cargo within the cargo area. The retaining member pivots about the pivot feature relative to the cargo area between a first position and a second position wherein the retaining member is inclined relative to the floor of the cargo area. When the door is open the retainer is normally in its second position to facilitate retaining cargo within the cargo area.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2005Date of Patent: July 10, 2007Assignee: DaimlerChrysler CorporationInventor: Stephen T Lim
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Patent number: 7214016Abstract: Improved panels suitable for use in bulkhead and partition systems. In one embodiment of the invention, the panels are seamless, one-piece members integrally formed from a single resinous material. In other embodiments, the panels include depressions that obviate the need to fill the panels with foam or other supportive filler material. In still other embodiments, the panels have no fasteners extending through panel so the panels are substantially impervious to moisture. Other embodiments have grooves or similar mounting apparatus disposed around their peripheral edges to which edging such as supports or flexible seals may be mounted. In yet other embodiments, the grooves are arranged so as to permit worn out seals to be quickly and easily replaced without the need to remove mechanical fasteners.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2005Date of Patent: May 8, 2007Assignee: FG Products, Inc.Inventors: Chad Nelson, Roger Nelson, Matt Nelson
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Patent number: 7195432Abstract: An adjustable cargo gate system for a flat bed of a truck or trailer comprising a grate of adjustable length having a center section and end sections which telescope into or out of the center section, and vertical and horizontal braces to hold the gate upright attached to cars that engage with and slide on tracks attached to the truck bed, is modified with the improvements hereinafter described. Track extensions onto the tailgate of the truck allow the gate system to be disposed at the rearmost end of the tailgate when opened flat. One-piece car brace members in the shape of right triangles replace the separate vertical and horizontal brace members and the separate sliding car members of the original system. Curved end sections are provided to enclose the sides of the opened tailgate. A bed-liner with integral tracks make installation of the system much simpler.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2005Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Inventors: Stephen Earle, Floyd Jacobs
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Patent number: 7189041Abstract: A retractable load support system for selectively raising a load from the bed of a trailer for allowing the usage of a forklift for loading and unloading the load. The retractable load support system includes a trailer having a bed, a plurality of openings within the bed, a plurality of supports extendable through the openings, a plurality of support members attached to the supports, and at least one actuator attached to the trailer and the support members for selectively lowering and raising the plurality of supports. A locking bar is extendable through locking apertures within the support members and a support frame of the trailer for locking the supports in a raised position.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2005Date of Patent: March 13, 2007Inventor: Mitchell E. Powell
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Patent number: 7160071Abstract: A truck bed divider apparatus includes a first side frame member, a second side frame member, and side-frame-to-side-frame spacing means connected between the first side frame member and the second side frame member. A pair of partition gates are hingedly connected between the first side frame member and the second side frame member. The partition gates prevent items carried on the truck bed from moving toward the front of the truck bed away from the tailgate. With one embodiment, the respective side frame members are fastened to walls of the truck bed, and respective partition gate are nested within the respective side frame members when the partition gates are not in use. The apparatus of the invention permits positioning of items carried on the truck bed near the end of the bed, near the tailgate, so that the items are easier to reach from the tailgate end of the bed.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2004Date of Patent: January 9, 2007Inventor: Steven B. Legge
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Patent number: 7156592Abstract: The present Invention is an apparatus for controlling a load in a vehicle, particularly a pickup truck where the load is longer than the bed of the truck. The apparatus comprises a channel mounted to or defined by the bed or tailgate of the truck. A load-restraining member slidably engages the channel to adjust for loads of different sizes. The load-restraining member also rotatably engages the channel and may move between an upright position for use and a horizontal position for storage. The load-restraining member may be secured in the upright position.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Inventor: Stephen J. Cava
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Patent number: 7121778Abstract: The present invention provides a device to secure cargo within the cargo area of a transport vehicle, using a rigid plate and at least one bracing member to maintain the rigid plate upright against the cargo to be secured; and at least one rigid arm to extend from an upper portion of the rigid plate across the top of a portion of the cargo, where the arm is configured to be engageable with at least one retainer.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2004Date of Patent: October 17, 2006Inventor: Paul Dockery
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Patent number: 7048485Abstract: A telescoping cargo brace is disclosed in which the brace secures cargo on at least three sides while minimizing the use of walls or contact points to secure the cargo. The brace is a fork-shaped or u-shaped telescoping device that secures between adjacent walls of a storage container or transport vehicle. The forked shaped portion of the device has two parallel, spaced apart legs each of which telescopes perpendicularly from a shared cross-member. Likewise, each leg is telescoping. Thus, both the legs and the cross-member are scalable along their respective lengths to adjust to the size of a load of cargo. The brace also includes a third telescoping leg, opposite the fork-shaped portion, so as to permit the device to be installed between adjacent walls utilizing only three contact points. An adjustment mechanism controls extension of the telescoping legs and the outward pressure exerted on the walls by the brace.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2004Date of Patent: May 23, 2006Inventors: Patrick L. Dean, Sr., Fred Ivon Curnow
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Patent number: 7037055Abstract: A restraining device that is mountable on a track, has an elongated member and an attachment mechanism connected to an end of the elongated member, to mount the member on a track. The elongated member has a tubular core with an upper end and a lower end and a tubular sleeve having an upper-end opening and a lower-end opening. The core is received within the sleeve such that the sleeve is axially movable relative to the core, and the upper end of the core is connected to the attachment mechanism through the upper-end opening of the sleeve. A spring provides spring-loading for the sleeve such that the upper end of the sleeve is urged against the track to resist motion of the elongated member on the track. The attachment mechanism has a mount for slidably mounting the elongated member on the track, and a pivoting joint connected between the elongated member and the mount, such that the pivoting joint allows the elongated member to be pivoted relative to the track.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2003Date of Patent: May 2, 2006Assignee: Hannibal Material Handling, Inc.Inventors: Stephen James Rogers, Vadim Chernobilsky, Gregory Rudin, Senad Dzaferovic, Gregor Dermendzhyan
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Patent number: 7004697Abstract: A load handling mechanism for use with loaded tankers has two transverse attachment members associated with longitudinal beams supporting the tank structure. Cables and associated spreader bars are attached to the transverse attachment members to provide a single lift point loading means for the tanker allowing loaded tankers to be easily loaded and unloaded in to transport means such as ships.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2002Date of Patent: February 28, 2006Assignee: United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventor: Adam Alaweih
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Patent number: 6877940Abstract: Improved panels suitable for use in bulkhead and partition systems. In one embodiment of the invention, the panels are seamless, one-piece members integrally formed from a single resinous material. In other embodiments, the panels include depressions that obviate the need to fill the panels with foam or other supportive filler material. In still other embodiments, the panels have no fasteners extending through panel so the panels are substantially impervious to moisture. Other embodiments have grooves or similar mounting means disposed around their peripheral edges to which edging such as supports or flexible seals may be mounted. In yet other embodiments, the grooves are arranged so as to permit worn out seals to be quickly and easily replaced without the need to remove mechanical fasteners.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2001Date of Patent: April 12, 2005Assignee: FG Products, Inc.Inventors: Chad Nelson, Roger Nelson, Matt Nelson
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Patent number: 6851695Abstract: The present invention relates to a base rail kit for a motor vehicle. The base rail kit includes a base rail including first and second mounting flanges, a first bracket including a first base rail support platform and a first mounting lug, a second bracket including a second base rail support platform and a second mounting lug, first and second spacers and first and second fasteners.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2003Date of Patent: February 8, 2005Assignee: Cequent Towing Products, Inc.Inventors: Thomas W. Lindenman, Richard W. McCoy, Anthony S. Roberts, Kelly W. Walterhouse
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Patent number: 6840725Abstract: A load restraint for use in a container is disclosed. The road restraint comprises a support to locate and extend generally vertically within a first locating formation (such as a corrugation in a wall) within a container. A transverse member extends from the support member across the container to engage with a second locating formation (such as another corrugation). A load engaging member is secured to the transverse member to extend from the transverse member to engage a load within the container. The load engaging member is adjustable in position with respect to the transverse member whereby it can contact a load spaced from the transverse member over a range of distances.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2003Date of Patent: January 11, 2005Inventor: Anthony Moore
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Patent number: 6827534Abstract: An air return bulkhead is disclosed which may be adapted to fit on differently-sized trailer walls around differently-sized trailer refrigeration units. The bulkhead includes an upper support panel with ridges or other discontinuities thereon. The discontinuities bound areas sized to accommodate standard refrigeration units, and a cutting tool may be easily guided along these discontinuities to form a space wherein the refrigerator may be fit when the bulkhead is mounted to the trailer wall. Also disclosed is a bulkhead which includes flutes and columns thereon wherein the ends of the flutes and columns may be removed by use of a cutting tool to allow the bulkhead installer to tailor the airflow into the refrigerator inlet as desired.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2003Date of Patent: December 7, 2004Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Ltd.Inventor: Gregory L. Onken
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Patent number: 6789987Abstract: A cargo freight container has four walls (1a to 1d), a top (2) and a bottom (3), which form an interior having an inner ceiling (4) and an inner bottom (5). Between the inner ceiling (4) and the inner bottom (5) there is at least one load support (6), which is movable against goods (7) to be loaded in the container such that the goods (7) can be supported against the load support (6) at least in one direction.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2002Date of Patent: September 14, 2004Assignee: Oy Langh Ship ABInventor: Hans Langh
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Patent number: 6779956Abstract: A cargo containment apparatus is formed from a series of individual panels linked together to permit deployment in a variety of configurations for containing cargo items within a larger cargo area of an automotive vehicle. The linked panels of the cargo containment apparatus are pivotable relative to one another to permit substantial flexibility in the apparatus to attain a shape that corresponds to the items to be transported in the cargo area. The panels are can be formed with bag hooks that can be engaged with the handles of conventional plastic grocery bags and tote bags for effectively restraining movement thereof within the automotive cargo area. Pins on the bottom surfaces of the panels engage the carpet in the automotive cargo area to restrict the movement of the cargo containment apparatus within the automotive cargo area.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2002Date of Patent: August 24, 2004Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Gary Steven Strumolo, Chad Nathan Cook, John W. Jaranson
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Patent number: 6752575Abstract: A portable, scalably adjustable cargo securement apparatus is provided which includes laterally extensible rail members, longitudinally extensible rail members, and elongated stabilizer arbors having an elongated, tubular configuration generally circular in cross-section which interconnect via a plurality of impingement locking brackets so as to form a generally square-shaped framework for confining cargo within its boundaries. The impingement locking brackets function to allow for selective, lateral and longitudinal slidable engagement by laterally extensible rail members and longitudinally extensible rail members. The cargo securement apparatus is adapted to be utilized in a cargo area of sport utility vehicles. A plurality of feet function to bear against a cargo floor, thereby according balanced stability to the cargo securement apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2002Date of Patent: June 22, 2004Inventors: Manfred Moore, Louis Cravens
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Publication number: 20040115021Abstract: A cargo space organizer comprising a first elongated member, a second elongated member, a retention assembly and a plurality of extension members. The retention assembly is attached to a first end of the second elongated member and is configured for engaging a mating retention feature of the first elongated member. The retention assembly enables the second elongated member to be attachable at a plurality of different mounted positions between first and second ends of the first elongated member. A first one of the extension members is repositionably attached to the first end of the first elongated member. A second one of the extension members is repositionably attached to the second end of the second elongated member. Each one of the extension members is repositionable between a plurality of respective positions thereby enabling an overall length of the respective elongated member to be selectively increased or decreased.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 8, 2003Publication date: June 17, 2004Inventor: Jesse J. Carmichael
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Publication number: 20040052605Abstract: A cargo containment apparatus is formed from a series of individual panels linked together to permit deployment in a variety of configurations for containing cargo items within a larger cargo area of an automotive vehicle. The linked panels of the cargo containment apparatus are pivotable relative to one another to permit substantial flexibility in the apparatus to attain a shape that corresponds to the items to be transported in the cargo area. The panels are can be formed with bag hooks that can be engaged with the handles of conventional plastic grocery bags and tote bags for effectively restraining movement thereof within the automotive cargo area. Pins on the bottom surfaces of the panels engage the carpet in the automotive cargo area to restrict the movement of the cargo containment apparatus within the automotive cargo area.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 18, 2002Publication date: March 18, 2004Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Gary Steven Strumolo, Chad Nathan Cook, John W. Jaranson
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Patent number: 6702533Abstract: A safety sheet cargo tie-down system comprises a substantially rectangular safety sheet, and four securing straps which are fixedly secured to corner regions of the substantially rectangular safety sheet upon the forwardly disposed surface thereof. The securing straps are effectively brought around such corner regions to the rearwardly disposed surface so as to form a pair of securing straps arranged within a criss-crossed X-shaped array or arrangement. Each pair of securing straps has a slip-type fastener fixedly secured upon one free end portion of one of the securing straps, and the free end portion of the other one of the securing straps is passed through such fastener. In this manner, as each pair of securing straps is tightened, the safety sheet is properly secured with respect to cargo load barrels or drums.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: Randy Williams, Jay Tyer, Kevin A. Illescas, Philip Groen, Terence Siegers
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Patent number: 6702532Abstract: A cargo restraining device for use in tine cargo areas of vehicles, trailers, and boats for holding cargo secure and resist sliding and tipping of the cargo placed on a flat surface therein. The restraining device includes a lower portion and an upper portion. The lower portion comprises material having a coefficient of friction for enhanced adhesion against a metal, carpet or plastic supporting surface. The box, container, or cargo (item) is placed on flop of the lower portion of the restraining device which is deposed between the box and supporting surface. This will cause the cargo item to resist movement. The upper portion of the restraining device consists of a rigid material integrally attached to the lower portion making the bond as strong as the lower portion and mechanically locking the two materials together. Thus transferring any energy applied to the upper portion to the lower portion.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 1999Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Inventor: James A. Throener
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Patent number: 6692204Abstract: An easy access device to assist in loading and unloading cargo from the bed of a pick-up truck. The device includes two elongate side pieces, a head cross piece, and a lower adjustable cross piece. The device makes it unnecessary to get into and out of the bed of a pick-up truck to load or remove cargo. The device makes it easier to reach the cargo from the rear of the truck. The device has retractable handles to help move the cargo. Even if a bed cover is present, cargo is simply moved by the device into position to be loaded or unloaded. The device also divides the truck bed into compartments to allow orderly arrangement of cargo of various sizes.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventor: Robert E. Ricard
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Patent number: 6688821Abstract: An adjustable cargo area organizer system for adjustably organizing a cargo area of a vehicle having at least a pair of opposed side walls orientated generally parallel to each other. The adjustable cargo area organizer system includes a partition assembly for portioning the cargo area of a vehicle into compartments. The partition assembly includes at least one panel that has a pair of opposed first end surfaces. Each of the opposed first end surfaces is selectively abuttable against the pair of opposed side walls of the vehicle. The panel has a front surface that has at least one elongated channel extending therein. At least one divider is provided that has an end that is slidably secured in the elongated channel. The divider subdivides one of the compartments of the cargo area into sub-compartments.Type: GrantFiled: January 2, 2002Date of Patent: February 10, 2004Inventor: James F. Snyder
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Patent number: 6626753Abstract: An air return bulkhead is disclosed which may be adapted to fit on differently-sized trailer walls around differently-sized trailer refrigeration units. The bulkhead includes an upper support panel with ridges or other discontinuities thereon. The discontinuities bound areas sized to accommodate standard refrigeration units, and a cutting tool may be easily guided along these discontinuities to form a space wherein the refrigerator may be fit when the bulkhead is mounted to the trailer wall. Also disclosed is a bulkhead which includes flutes and columns thereon wherein the ends of the flutes and columns may be removed by use of a cutting tool to allow the bulkhead installer to tailor the airflow into the refrigerator inlet as desired.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2001Date of Patent: September 30, 2003Assignee: Illinois Tool Works IncInventor: Gregory L. Onken
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Publication number: 20030152437Abstract: A load restraint for use in a container is disclosed. The road restraint comprises a support to locate and extend generally vertically within a first locating formation (such as a corrugation in a wall) within a container. A transverse member extends from the support member across the container to engage with a second locating formation (such as another corrugation). A load engaging member is secured to the transverse member to extend from the transverse member to engage a load within the container. The load engaging member is adjustable in position with respect to the transverse member whereby it can contact a load spaced from the transverse member over a range of distances.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 7, 2003Publication date: August 14, 2003Inventor: Anthony Moore
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Patent number: 6599070Abstract: The pallet stabilizer frame when combined with a pre-existing, load-bar it will prevent pallets and freight from shifting laterally during shipping. It is comprised of a frame 20, internal support bars 22, pressure point plate 24, extension tubing 24, attached latching 30 pin 28, and load-bar bracing system (not shown). The pallet stabilizer prevents freight from falling laterally by extending into the pocket of space and across to the opposing wall. The frame rest against the freight and inserts into a load-bar system that telescopically extends and is held in place by tension. The pallet stabilizer is easy to use, reusable, no tools are needed and it can be disassembled when not in use.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2002Date of Patent: July 29, 2003Inventors: Kevin M. Stedman, Pauline J. Stedman
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Patent number: 6572314Abstract: The present invention embodies a method and structure for constraining logs on a truck or trailer without the use of safety wrapper chains or straps. In this apparatus, the stakes, bunks, bunk pockets, head board and tail board are used to constrain logs on the bed of the truck or trailer. The stakes may be permanently or semi-permanently fixed into a bunk pocket and the stakes constrain the movement of the logs from side to side on the truck or trailer. The head board and tail board are permanently attached to stakes which are correspondingly inserted into pockets welded into the bed of the trailer or truck and are permanently or semi-permanently fixed in the pockets. The head board and tail board constrain the movement of the logs from front to back on the truck or trailer. This systems configuration makes it possible for the logs to be hauled without the addition of safety wrapper chains or straps to secure the load.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2001Date of Patent: June 3, 2003Assignee: Great Lakes Manufacturing, Inc.Inventor: Craig French
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Patent number: 6524043Abstract: An adjustable cargo gate system for a flat bed of a truck or trailer is provided for restraining objects, including small items, from sliding or moving about when the vehicle accelerates, decelerate, or makes sharp turns. It consists of a grate of adjustable width supported in a vertical position by braces attached to cars sliding on a pair of tracks extending from front to rear on the bed or floor of the vehicle. The grate can be positioned at any point athwart the bed of the vehicle, including diagonally across it. The bars of the grate provide anchoring for tie-downs to secure items that are too large to fit within the vehicle bed, or small items that might escape through the openings in the grate.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2001Date of Patent: February 25, 2003Inventors: Stephen D. Earle, Floyd Jacobs
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Patent number: 6511270Abstract: A clamp to be placed against payload objects carried in a truck or other vehicle including a corrugated bed liner comprising one or more pairs of movable opposing jaws, each pair selectively engaging a portion of the truck bed liner. The clamp jaws are slidebly retained in grooves in a clamp frame, and moved by spirally disposed grooves in a disk rotated by a connected operator lever. Further improvements include anchoring apertures to further secure the object(s) with rope or strapping, and latching apparatus to maintain the clamp in a closed or “engaged” position relative to the bed liner.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2001Date of Patent: January 28, 2003Inventors: Thomas Burke, Glenn M. Sigley
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Patent number: 6511272Abstract: A new and improved cargo holder for pickup trucks is disclosed which is adaptable to a pickup truck bed of any size. The cargo holder is designed to hold and maintain cargo within the bed of a pickup truck without ropes and/or ties. The cargo holder could be manufactured from aluminum, galvanized steel, or heavy gauge plastic.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2001Date of Patent: January 28, 2003Inventor: John Stafford
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Patent number: 6503036Abstract: A vehicle sliding floor extension having a composite/plastic sliding extension plate attached to a truck bed or SUV rear compartment by a base plate having molded rails of metal, plastic, or composite to facilitate the controlled movement of the extension plate, the movement of the extension plate being manually or motor actuated. The durable deck surface has a plurality of holes drilled or formed to accommodate the positioning of modular partitions for containing or restraining items being transported. Motorization is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2002Date of Patent: January 7, 2003Inventors: Lawrence M. Bequette, Nicholas John Wladyka
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Patent number: 6478061Abstract: A courier expressable cargo quilt having an elongated, substantially rectangular body comprising an insulative material including a plurality of panels substantially foldably connected, defining an accordian-like structure, the accordian-like structure having an unfolded position adapted to facilitate placement of the body substantially over a tmperature sensative load by unfolding the accordian-like structure and a folded position adapted to provide a courier-expressable cargo quilt; and an exterior cover structure adapted to at least partially enclose the accordian-like structure.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2000Date of Patent: November 12, 2002Inventor: Robert W. Haberkorn
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Patent number: 6454501Abstract: A cargo securing system for securing and organizing cargo being carried by a vehicle. The cargo securing system includes at least one divider chain assembly and at least one anchor chain assembly. The anchor chain assembly is mountable on one of the spaced walls. The divider chain assembly is removably couplable to the anchor chain assembly. In an embodiment each of the chain assemblies includes a chain comprising a plurality of panels and a plurality of intermediate members alternately linked together.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2000Date of Patent: September 24, 2002Inventor: Neil Parker
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Patent number: 6454148Abstract: A collapsible cargo container is useful in combination with a cargo compartment or the like of a vehicle, which a cargo floor upon which cargo is carried, a first wall extending generally upward from the cargo floor, a second wall extending generally upward from the cargo floor, and a corner that is defined by an intersection of the first and the second walls. The cargo container comprises a first partition, a second partition, and a pivot that interconnects the first and second partitions. The first partition has a first end and an opposing second end, with the first end hingedly connected with the cargo compartment, so the first partition hinges between an open position in which the first partition extends generally away from the first wall, and a closed position in which the first partition extends generally along the first wall from the first end to the second end toward the corner.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2000Date of Patent: September 24, 2002Inventor: Lynnwood C. Cook
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Publication number: 20020119023Abstract: A T-flange engaging load bearing bed consisting of a metal sheet having an upper load bearing surface, a lower surface, and having a post receiving slot, and further consisting of a C-channel beam having an upwardly opening T-receiving channel, the C-channel beam being fixedly attached to the lower surface of the metal sheet so that the upwardly opening T-receiving channel underlies the post receiving slot.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 28, 2001Publication date: August 29, 2002Inventor: David A. Delay
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Patent number: 6431804Abstract: A preassembled endgate (10) for blocking movement of a load (12) along the floor (30) of a vehicle (14) includes a floor panel (40) adapted to extend along the vehicle floor, and a load panel (90) engageable with the load. The endgate (10) also comprises a first hinge (140-142) connected between the load panel (90) and the floor panel (40) to enable the load panel to pivot relative to the floor panel between (a) a stored condition in a side by side relationship with the floor panel and (b) a blocking condition extending upward from and transverse to the floor panel. The endgate (10) also comprises a brace panel (150) extending between and transverse to the load panel (90) and to the floor panel (40) to maintain the load panel in the blocking condition relative to the floor panel.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 1999Date of Patent: August 13, 2002Inventor: John M. Wetzig, III
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Publication number: 20020090276Abstract: An adjustable cargo gate system for a flat bed of a truck or trailer is provided for restraining objects, including small items, from sliding or moving about when the vehicle accelerates, decelerate, or makes sharp turns. It consists of a grate of adjustable width supported in a vertical position by braces attached to cars sliding on a pair of tracks extending from front to rear on the bed or floor of the vehicle. The grate can be positioned at any point athwart the bed of the vehicle, including diagonally across it. The bars of the grate provide anchoring for tie-downs to secure items that are too large to fit within the vehicle bed, or small items that might escape through the openings in the grate.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 1, 2001Publication date: July 11, 2002Inventors: Stephen D. Earle, Floyd Jacobs
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Publication number: 20020071733Abstract: A cargo securing system for securing and organizing cargo being carried by a vehicle. The cargo securing system includes at least one divider chain assembly and at least one anchor chain assembly. The anchor chain assembly is mountable on one of the spaced walls. The divider chain assembly is removably couplable to the anchor chain assembly. In an embodiment each of the chain assemblies includes a chain comprising a plurality of panels and a plurality of intermediate members alternately linked together.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 8, 2000Publication date: June 13, 2002Inventor: Neil Parker
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Patent number: 6394721Abstract: A tubular dunnage bar of rectangular cross-section has an inner wall, an outer wall and two side walls. The inner wall has a slot extending lengthwise of the dunnage bar. A channel extends lengthwise within the dunnage bar. The channel has a bottom wall spaced from and parallel to the inner and outer walls of the dunnage bar and side flanges secured to the side walls of the dunnage bar. The channel and the inner wall of the dunnage bar form a pocket. A dunnage strip is received in the pocket and has a nose projecting outwardly through the slot. The channel and the side walls and outer wall of the dunnage bar form a space. The bottom wall of the channel has a trough-shaped, strengthening portion displaced downwardly into the space. The trough-shaped portion of the bottom wall of the channel is arcuate in cross-section and is located midway between the side flanges of the channel.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2000Date of Patent: May 28, 2002Assignee: Richfield IndustriesInventor: Howard T. Campbell
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Patent number: 6368036Abstract: A device and method of loading nursery items on a truck is disclosed wherein a portion of a first panel of high tensile strength sheet material is adhered to a first wall of a truck's storage compartment and a portion of a second panel of high tensile strength sheet material is adhered to a second wall of the truck in mirror relationship to the first panel. Various nursery items are packed in the storage compartment between the first panel and the second panel. A gate is positioned in front of the packed nursery items between the first and second panels. The second ends of the first and second panels are secured together in a tensile state such that the gate and the nursery items are securely held in place.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 1999Date of Patent: April 9, 2002Assignee: Monrovia Nursery CompanyInventor: Michael E. Vario
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Patent number: 6364388Abstract: An air return bulkhead comprising a first bulkhead portion and a second bulkhead portion joined by a convoluted hinge member. The hinge permits the bulkhead portions to be moved relative to each other.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2000Date of Patent: April 2, 2002Assignee: Thermo King CorporationInventors: David B. Ziegler, Verlin Wirth, Jerry Kiesner
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Patent number: 6364584Abstract: A combination shipping container, shipping container locking device and a door blocking apparatus inhibits access to the interior of the shipping container while it is being shipped. The blocking apparatus comprises a pair of legs joined to form a generally L-shaped, elongate member, wherein one of the legs provides a pair of spaced apart apertures, with each of the apertures fitted over the container locking device and locked in place adjacent to a set of closed doors of the shipping container. The other of the legs of the elongate member extends upwardly from the first leg in a position for blocking the doors of the shipping container from being opened.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2000Date of Patent: April 2, 2002Inventor: Patrick Asher Taylor
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Patent number: 6360166Abstract: An apparatus and method for removing logs from a forestry site. The apparatus and method includes a primary mobile machine having means attached to a rearward portion thereof for holding a first end of a first log cluster. The apparatus and method also includes a first secondary mobile machine with a first end having means for holding a second end of the first log cluster, and a second end having means for holding a first end of a second log cluster. The primary mobile machine and the first secondary mobile machine are interconnected by the first log cluster.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2000Date of Patent: March 19, 2002Assignee: Caterpillar lnc.Inventor: L. Gregory Alster
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Patent number: 6357979Abstract: A cargo van bulkhead provides a barrier between the driver and passenger of a van and the cargo compartment. The bulkhead comprises a molded, complexly curved unitary panel which fits snugly against the bottom, sidewalls and top of the van behind the driver's and passenger's seats. The bulkhead includes a plurality of horizontal convolutions which define alternate ribs or projections and recesses which greatly improve the rigidity and strength of the bulkhead. An irregular flange disposed about the periphery of the bulkhead is configured to mimic the interior profile of the van and thus facilitate installation and securement thereto. An optional opening in the upper central portion of the bulkhead may receive a window which facilitates inspection of the cargo within the van as well as a view out the rear of the van if the rear doors of the van are equipped with windows.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2000Date of Patent: March 19, 2002Assignee: Durakon Industries, Inc.Inventors: John Montagna, Jerald Gower, Robert C. Whiteside
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Publication number: 20020009347Abstract: A new and improved cargo holder for pickup trucks is disclosed which is adaptable to a pickup truck bed of any size. The cargo holder is designed to hold and maintain cargo within the bed of a pickup truck without ropes and/or ties. The cargo holder could be manufactured from aluminum, galvanized steel, or heavy gauge plastic.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 20, 2001Publication date: January 24, 2002Inventor: John Stafford
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Patent number: 6315346Abstract: A tailgate movable in horizontal and vertical directions and being operative to (1) lock down loads that are too long to be accommodated within the standard length of the bed of a pickup truck or any other vehicle having a cargo bed with sidewalls, or (2) lock down confined moveable loads that are liable to slide or shift within the truck bed. A motorized chain drive produces the forward and backward horizontal movement of the tailgate thereby securing the total cargo and preventing shifting and sliding of the loads within the truck bed. The drive also produces the vertical movement of the tailgate which, together with the plurality of spring-loaded legs and spread pressure pads, provides a pressure locking system thereby holding down long, uneven cargo loads which are eccentrically loaded relative to the length of the truck bed and preventing torsion or slippage of said loads within the truck bed.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 1999Date of Patent: November 13, 2001Inventor: Herbert Martin
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Patent number: 6261038Abstract: A new Cargo Theft Prevention System for providing a pivotable barrier-type assembly associateable with the doors of a conventional cargo container thereby preventing opening of the doors. The inventive device includes a panel pivotally mounted to a rail car floor, and at least two locking shafts removably secured to the floor a finite distance from the panel and removably engaging the panel to support the panel substantially parallel to the door of a cargo box to prevent opening.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2000Date of Patent: July 17, 2001Inventor: Jimmy D. Cowan
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Patent number: 6241439Abstract: An arrangement is provided for securing objects against a sliding in a cargo space of a motor vehicle. Supporting elements are arranged perpendicularly to the cargo space floor and can be adjusted relative to the cargo space floor between a lifted active position and a lowered passive position. A cargo plate extends in parallel to the cargo space floor and has openings which can each be penetrated by a supporting element. The cargo plate is further developed such that the loading of the cargo space can take place in a normal manner and a securing of the objects can be ensured during the transport. A lifting device causes a relative movement between the cargo plate and the supporting elements which extends perpendicularly to the cargo space floor.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 1998Date of Patent: June 5, 2001Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AGInventor: Norbert Weber