Vehicle Attached Auxiliary Carriers Patents (Class 414/462)
  • Patent number: 10183606
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a roll-off transport device, particularly a roll-off tipper, comprising a bottom structure, a connecting structure which is connected, particularly rigidly, to the bottom structure on the face side and protrudes upwardly therefrom, and a loading arm connection arranged on the connecting structure for the loading arm of a swap body vehicle. The present invention also relates to a transport unit comprising a swap body vehicle and a roll-off transport device according to the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2019
    Assignee: BOMAG GmbH
    Inventors: Rafael Schomaker, Joachim Ponstein, Maximilian Philippsen, Thomas Thelen
  • Patent number: 10173574
    Abstract: A lift system comprising a chassis having a frame. The frame including a first extension member and a second extension member opposite thereof. Each of the first extension member and the second extension member being extendable and coupled to the frame. A first scissor support is coupled to the first extension member. A second scissor support is coupled to the second extension member. The first and second scissor supports are configured rigid and extendable from each of the first and second extension members. A platform is coupled to each of the first and second scissor support. The platform is configured to rigidly support an object coupled thereto. A first actuator is coupled to the frame. The first actuator is configured to extend and retract the first and second extension members. A second actuator is coupled to the scissor lift and configured to move the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Inventor: Kenneth Ochenkowski
  • Patent number: 10160371
    Abstract: A vehicle rack for hauling one or more personal recreational vehicles is provided. A vehicle rack may be adjustable to allow one or more personal recreation vehicles to be stored above a vehicle's cargo area allowing the vehicle to also tow a trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2018
    Assignee: Frost Contracting, INC.
    Inventor: Richard J. Frost
  • Patent number: 10112549
    Abstract: The Vehicle Ladder Mounting System is comprised of two parallel or nearly parallel (angled) guide rails and one or two end accepting means. The embodiments of the Ladder Mounting System can be easily adapted, augmented, and modified because of the structure of the guide rails (or aluminum channels in the guide rails). The vehicle ladder mounting system can be mounted to a tubular or solid cross-member by a clamping means using a universal mounting clamp. The design of the embodiments of the Ladder Mounting System allows for multiple configurations as the guide rails can be adjusted to fit the width and/or angle of the ladder. The design of the embodiments of the Ladder Mounting System allows the width and/or angle to be fixed by means of the use of interior cross-member assemblies thus forming a cradle to support the ladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2018
    Inventor: Jeffery Wayne Sutton
  • Patent number: 10059273
    Abstract: A vehicle roof top cargo carrier provides pivoting loading/unloading of all types of cargo to and from the carrier via the rear of the vehicle. The vehicle roof top cargo carrier has a frame attachable to existing rack members on the roof of the vehicle, a carriage movably carried on the frame and able to pivot with respect to the frame once the carriage is fully extended from the rear of the frame via pivot rods at the front of the carriage receivable in pivot brackets at the rear of the frame, and a support retained on the carriage and configured to adjustably telescope from the rear of the carriage for contacting the ground. The carriage has cargo receptacles for holding the cargo that can be changed to accommodate different cargo. For height reduction, the carriage may be removed from the frame while the frame remains connected to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2018
    Inventor: James Ira Mercurio
  • Patent number: 10017096
    Abstract: A boat hauler system which provides a folding boat cradling structure capable of being installed within a pickup truck bed. The boat hauler system may be used to transport, launch, and retrieve a small boat from a body of water without employing a boat trailer. The boat hauler system also includes an electric winch and support legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2018
    Inventors: Bruce W. Helmick, Karen F. Helmick
  • Patent number: 9987995
    Abstract: An assembly for a storing and releasing a ladder comprising an outer lock that includes outer base extending along an axis and a pole extending transversely from the outer base to a pole end for disposition in a parallel and spaced relationship to the first drop-down arm in the cradle position for preventing the rail of the ladder from falling off the outer lock. A pole anchor connects the pole to the outer base for adjustment to various adjusted positions along the axis. A latch defines a catch for engaging the outer base in the latched position to retain the outer base in the cradle position and a locking hole for receiving a secondary lock to maintain the latch in the latched position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2018
    Assignee: Ranger Design
    Inventors: Ilko Paunov, Alain Pepin
  • Patent number: 9914400
    Abstract: A cargo loader including a base suitable to attach to a roof of a vehicle is disclosed. The cargo loader may include a linear guide having a first end and a second end. The first end of the linear guide is attached to the first portion of the base via a first rotational device. The second end of the linear guide is releasably attached to the second portion of the base. The cargo loader may include a cargo mount having first end and a second end. The first end of the cargo mount is unattached to the linear guide and the second end of the cargo mount is attached to the linear guide via a second rotational device. The cargo loader may include an energy transfer device attached to the second portion of the base and the cargo mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Inventor: Ralph Johnsrud
  • Patent number: 9821719
    Abstract: In order to create a movable roof rack for motor vehicles, wherein the roof rack has a support device for receiving a load, in particular for receiving a roof box, and wherein the support device is movable between a travel position and a loading position, at least one profiled support section (115, 116, 215, 216) is provided in order to move the support device between the travel position and the loading position, and the at least one profiled support section (115, 116, 215, 216) is arranged on a vehicle pillar (101, 102, 201, 202) of a motor vehicle and is designed to support the support device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2017
    Assignee: SEs Solutions GmbH
    Inventor: Serle Espig
  • Patent number: 9815413
    Abstract: A cargo carrier device supports cargo thereon for movement relative to a truck box between a loading position substantially at ground level rearward of the truck box and a transport position above the vehicle. The device includes a cargo frame defining a planar rack for supporting cargo thereon above a passenger cab of the truck in the transport position. A cargo supporting crossbar can be selectively positioned above the planar rack which is adapted to suspend cargo therefrom. A four bar linkage which pivots through an intermediate over-center position between the loading and transport positions is adapted to support the crossbar i) centrally above the truck box in the transport position and ii) rearward of the truck box and lower in elevation in the loading position for use in hoisting suspended cargo into the truck box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2017
    Inventor: Michael Rudnicki
  • Patent number: 9751407
    Abstract: A system is disclosed having a primary vehicle and a secondary vehicle that is carried by the primary vehicle when not in use. The system further includes at least one of an immobilizing device to immobilize the primary vehicle if the secondary vehicle is removed from the primary vehicle, a data storage device for storing information regarding usage of the primary and secondary vehicles, a user interface device for displaying information regarding usage of the primary and secondary vehicles, and a user prompt for providing information regarding potential opportunities for use of the secondary vehicle to encourage usage of the secondary vehicle and lower CO2 emissions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2017
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Torsten Gerhardt, Marcus Hurst, Robert Spahl, David Burrage
  • Patent number: 9707880
    Abstract: A lift system comprising a chassis having a frame. The frame including a first extension member and a second extension member opposite thereof. Each of the first extension member and the second extension member being extendable and coupled to the frame. A first scissor support is coupled to the first extension member. A second scissor support is coupled to the second extension member. The first and second scissor supports are configured rigid and extendable from each of the first and second extension members. A platform is coupled to each of the first and second scissor support. The platform is configured to rigidly support an object coupled thereto. An actuator is coupled to the scissor lift. The actuator is configured to move the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2017
    Inventor: Kenneth Ochenkowski
  • Patent number: 9676343
    Abstract: A convertible roof rack is provided that is generally comprised of a light bar and a roof rack that is spaced from the roof of a vehicle. The roof rack is also rotatably interconnected to a support structure associated with the rear of the vehicle such that it is capable of moving from a first position of use adjacent to the roof to a second position of use away from the roof where the light bar remains interconnected to the vehicle adjacent to the windshield. As such, electrical connections associated with the light bar remain intact when the roof rack is rotated away from the roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2017
    Assignee: INTELLIGENT DESIGNS 200 CORP.
    Inventor: Paul Badillo
  • Patent number: 9630565
    Abstract: A ladder loading system includes a base frame and a stowage frame, wherein the stowage frame is rotatable relative to the base frame. The stowage frame and base frame are connected at a least one pivot having a main pivot axis. The ladder loading system includes a linkage mechanism. The linkage mechanism includes an idler link that rotates about an idler axis. The linkage mechanism also includes a coupling means for coupling the idler link to the stowage frame. That is, the rotation of the idler link is linked to the rotation of the stowage frame in a master and slave relationship. Suitably, due to the operation of the ladder loading system, rotation of the stowage frame drives rotation of the idler link about the idler axis. The linkage mechanism further includes a control member connected between the idler link and stowage frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: RHINO PRODUCTS LIMITED
    Inventor: Dominic Gallagher
  • Patent number: 9463748
    Abstract: Provided are powered roof racks for tall vehicles, configured for cargo loading or unloading near to and parallel to the ground. The cargo is lifted to or lowered from roof height using an electric drive. Cargo motion comprises two separate essentially linear motions. The motion on and off of the roof is linear and essentially horizontal. The motion between roof height and the near ground level loading/unloading position is linear and near vertical. During all operations the load remains parallel to the ground. The majority of cargo load is supported on the ground during loading/unloading. All parts may be stored in a low profile roof mounted package when not in use, and ensures that setup and teardown uses a minimal number of easy to execute steps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2016
    Assignee: API Engineering, LLC
    Inventor: Kenneth Lee Presley
  • Patent number: 9457727
    Abstract: A rack assembly that is used to load and unload heavy or bulky material on an overhead rack of a truck, van, trailer, or similar vehicle. The rack assembly may include a base assembly, which may be sized to fit a range of vehicles, trailers, and the like. The rack assembly includes a movable part which rolls down over the side of the vehicle and allows improved access to simplify the loading and unloading operations used to secure any material to the rack. The movable part may include a manual handle, or a power assist mechanism, to assist in loading and unloading operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2016
    Inventor: Milton C. Hobbs
  • Patent number: 9403566
    Abstract: A robotic mobile low-profile transport vehicle is disclosed. The vehicle can comprise a first transport module having a frame assembly, a mobility system, and a propulsion system and a second transport module having a frame assembly and a mobility system. A multi-degree of freedom coupling assemblage can join the first and second transport modules together. The vehicle can include a first platform supported about the frame assembly of the first transport module, and a second platform supported about the frame assembly of the second transport module. Each of the platforms can be configured to receive a load for transport. Additionally, the vehicle can include a control system that can operate to facilitate intra-module communication and coordination to provide a coordinated operating mode of the first and second transport modules and the coupling assemblage about a given terrain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Assignee: Sarcos LC
    Inventors: Stephen C. Jacobsen, Marc X. Olivier, John McCullough, Fraser M. Smith
  • Patent number: 9381867
    Abstract: An automated lift hauler configured for attachment to a vehicle frame near a rear of the vehicle. When not in use, the lift hauler is substantially concealed beneath the vehicle. During use, the lift hauler extends from beneath the vehicle such that large items may be supported by a lift hauler platform. A single piston integrated into an upper frame assembly drives a mounted, slidable bracket which moves the lift hauler from protracted position to retracted position and vice versa. The mounted, slidable bracket slides thereby moving two pairs of link arms in a scissor motion to raise and lower a lower frame assembly relative to an upper frame assembly. The lift hauler includes a series of frame members and utilizes a scissor design. Operating the lift hauler may be accomplished using a remote control or in-cab control panel or mounted control panel near the rear of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2016
    Inventor: Brad Robinson
  • Patent number: 9371040
    Abstract: A vehicle roof rack for securing objects to the top of a vehicle having cross-bars mounted to the roof of the vehicle, has two pivot bars slidably connected to two load tubes. Each pivot bar is connected to a bracket via a hinge, and bracket is then mounted onto the cross-bars. Each of the load tubes has an interior cavity and the first ends of the pivot bars are slidably inserted within an end of the load tubes, so that the load tubes can be slid between an extended position and a closed position. Each load tube has a first portion with an open profile, and a second portion with a closed profile. In the extended position, the second portion of the load tube abuts the mounting bracket and acts as a stop to keep the load tube from freeing itself from the pivot bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2016
    Inventor: Joseph Townsend
  • Patent number: 9327654
    Abstract: A ladder rack for supporting a ladder in a stowage position and for moving the ladder between the stowage position and a loading/unloading position at which the ladder can be loaded onto the rack or unloaded from the rack. The ladder rack includes a frame assembly which is mounted on a support structure such as a vehicle roof and a bed platform having opposite ends that are coupled to the frame assembly for sliding and hinged movement with respect to the frame assembly. At least one of the ends of the bed platform is configured to be extendible when pivoted downward into a loading or unloading position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2016
    Assignee: Adrian Steel Company
    Inventors: Thomas Richter, Rob Sautter
  • Patent number: 9242609
    Abstract: A foldable bicycle carry rack includes a frame, a support member, a connection member and two plates. The support member is connected to the first end of the frame. The connection member has an installation hole to receive the first end of the frame and the two plates are connected to two sides of the connection member. Each plate has a first end protruding from the connection member and the support member is connected to the two respective first ends of the two plates. The plates and the support member are synchronically pivoted about a pivot unit which extends through the plates, the connection member and the frame. The plates and the support member are pivoted about the pivot unit until the plates and the support member are parallel to the frame to fold the bicycle carry rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: KING RACK INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Chiu-Kuei Wang
  • Patent number: 9233634
    Abstract: A detachable hitch mounting motorcycle transport caddy defining a powered elevated lift integrated with the towing vehicle electrical system, a wheel support frame, extending tie bars and an integrated electrical wiring system for connection to the motorcycle to apply transport signaling to the motorcycle from the tow vehicle, the wheel support frame lowered to the ground to load the motorcycle without requiring and ramp or lifting and raised into a transport position, placing the motorcycle rear wheel as the road contact wheel as the motorcycle is towed in a neutral position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2016
    Inventor: Chad Level
  • Patent number: 9227544
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention can have one or more of the following features for a vehicle lifter: (a) a floor, (b) a frame operably coupled to the floor, the frame having a support extending from one end of the frame to an opposite end of the frame, (c) a trolley frame located between the frame and the support, (d) a support bar capable of being coupled to a vehicle, (e) a hydraulic lifter operably coupled to the support bar and the trolley frame, (f) a wheel operably coupled to the trolley frame, (g) a winch operably coupled to the trolley frame, (h) a winch line operably coupled to the winch at one end and to the frame at another end, (i) a housing coupled to the trolley frame, (j) a hydraulic motor within the housing, and (k) a hydraulics container within the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Inventor: Lawrence Rogge
  • Patent number: 9216698
    Abstract: An auxiliary storage system for attachment to a vehicle, including a storage container and a hitch assembly for releasably connecting the storage container and the vehicle together. The hitch assembly includes a central body, a first connection subassembly for attaching the central body and the vehicle together, and a second connection subassembly connectable with the storage container and movable relative to the central body, for attaching the central body and the storage container together. When the second connection subassembly is connected with the storage container, the storage container is movable thereby between a raised position, in which the storage container is located above a ground surface, and a lowered position, in which the storage container is located on the ground surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2015
    Assignee: Nashco Enterprises Ltd.
    Inventor: Ryan Lorne Rhodes
  • Patent number: 9211846
    Abstract: A sporting goods carrier combines the standardized racks and flexibility of a car top carrier with the ease of access and gas conservation of a hitch mounted carrier by providing standard roof rails extending parallel to the mount (and thus parallel to the vehicle) so that sporting equipment such as bicycles, skis and so on may be carried cross-wise to the vehicle at the rear. Using standardized load bars allows the hitch mounted device to accept the many types of roof rack sports equipment carriers already on the market. Load bars may be tilted, U-shaped, moved in and outward and the mount may be rotated below bumper level to allow easy loading and unloading of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2015
    Inventor: Stephen Norman Donnigan
  • Patent number: 9193304
    Abstract: A sports equipment vehicle for transporting sporting equipment is disclosed. The rack comprises of a plurality of support sections that allow the equipment carrying member to translate from the top of the vehicle roof to the side of the vehicle. Each support section has a bottom member, top equipment holding member, a first leg member, a second leg member, and a strut connected to the bottom member and the top equipment holding member. The support sections move from a transport position that has the top equipment holding member substantially parallel to the vehicle's roof to a loading position where the top equipment holding member is on a substantially inclined plane with a portion below the vehicle's roof. The first and second leg members act as a radius bar for an arc-like motion of the top equipment holding member and the strut assists with the racks movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2015
    Assignee: Outdoor Girl LLC
    Inventors: Alicia Svaldi, Heidi Hostetter, Thomas Thorson, Thomas Svaldi, Dennis Svaldi, Katheryn Svaldi
  • Patent number: 9193305
    Abstract: A movable utility rack is provided. The utility rack presents an ergonomic and easily accessible configuration to a user. One embodiment of the movable utility rack includes a base frame and first and second spaced apart track assemblies mounted on the base frame. The first and second spaced apart track assemblies have a curved shape and each define a channel at a first radius of curvature. A first support member is carried by the first track assembly within the channel thereof, and a second support member is carried by the second track assembly within the channel thereof. A drive arrangement is operatively connected to the first and second support members to move the support members within the channel defined by each track assembly along an arcuate path that has a second radius of curvature that is substantially equal to the first radius of curvature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2015
    Assignee: Rockford Process Control, Inc.
    Inventor: Rodney Mark Kramer
  • Patent number: 9156410
    Abstract: A roof-rack mechanism includes one or more retaining devices attached to a track, and a lock device engaged with the track and the retaining device for detachably attaching the retaining device to the track. The retaining device includes a base member, and a bracket attached to the base member and mounted on the track. The bracket includes a recess formed between two legs for engaging with the track, and the lock device is engaged with the track and the legs of the bracket. The retaining device includes two flaps engaged onto the legs of the bracket and secured to the legs and the track with the lock device. The retaining device includes a cover pivotally attached to the base member with a coupler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2015
    Assignee: Beto Entineering & Marketing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Lo Pin Wang
  • Patent number: 9145158
    Abstract: The present disclosure concerns a tablet holder securing a tablet to a stroller, chair, table, or the like. The tablet holder involves a multiple adjustable mechanisms to accommodate different size of the tablet and viewing angles. The tablet holder provides a secure platform for the user to interact with the tablet, and it is conveniently foldable and can be disassembled while not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Inventor: Luis Cruz
  • Patent number: 9145095
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a bicycle support apparatus and method is provided. The bicycle support apparatus can support a bicycle in a horizontal or vertical direction. The bicycle support apparatus can also be secured to any horizontal, vertical, or any angular face. Still further, the bicycle support apparatus can be mounted onto a moveable object, such as an automobile. Slideably secured to an elongated member of the support apparatus is a bicycle fork securement member and a bicycle bottom bracket pad. The securement member secures the fork of the bicycle, and the bicycle bottom bracket rests on the pad. Such securement can be vertically, horizontally, stationary, or moveable configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Inventors: Kenneth E. Hubacher, Gregory A. Keshishian
  • Patent number: 9132781
    Abstract: The present document describes a ladder rack system for displacing a ladder between a loading/unloading position on one of a side, a front and a rear of a vehicle and a stored position on a roof top of a vehicle, the ladder having a first ladder end and a second ladder end, the ladder rack system comprising: a first assembly to be mounted on a first end of the roof top for receiving the first ladder end; and a second assembly to be mounted on a second end of the roof top at a distance from the first end for receiving the second ladder end, the second assembly comprising: a pivoting rail to be pivoted between the loading/unloading position in which the pivoting rail extends substantially vertically or at an angle on the one of a side, a front and a rear of the vehicle and the stored position in which the pivoting rail extends longitudinally along the roof top; and a carriage slidably mounted on the pivoting rail for receiving the second ladder end and for sliding along the pivoting rail when the pivoting rail
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2015
    Assignee: TECHNO-FAB 9000 INC.
    Inventor: Paul Thibault
  • Patent number: 9102286
    Abstract: A workbench assembly that may be reversibly mounted to a trailer hitch receiver of a vehicle with a stabilizer assembly that is also reversibly mounted to the trailer hitch receiver that functions to hold workbench assembly stable and free from motion relative to the trailer hitch receiver. Workbench assembly is collapsible or foldable so that it may be collapsed and folded tightly against the back of the vehicle during vehicle travel and unfolded or extended backwards from the vehicle during use of the workbench. Workbench may have rounded edges for clamping thereto by special clamps. Workbench may have one or more locking groove in its surfaces for locking or clamping thereto by special clamps. When not in use, workbench assembly may stored or mounted on the shop wall by detaching it from the trailer hitch receiver on the vehicle and remounting to a special wall mount assembly attached to the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2015
    Assignee: DD Custom Industries, LLC
    Inventors: Von Deming, Brent Deming
  • Patent number: 9096182
    Abstract: A bicycle rack for a vehicle is disclosed herein. In one or more embodiments, the bicycle rack includes: (i) a central support assembly; (ii) a first rail member coupled to the central support assembly, the first rail member having an elongate groove formed therein for receiving a portion of a first wheel of a bicycle; (iii) a second rail member coupled to the central support assembly, the second rail member having an elongate groove formed therein for receiving a portion of a second wheel of the bicycle; (iv) a first pedal support assembly coupled to the central support assembly, the first pedal support assembly configured to structurally engage a first pedal of the bicycle in a supporting relationship; and (v) a second pedal support assembly coupled to the central support assembly, the second pedal support assembly configured to structurally engage a second pedal of the bicycle in a supporting relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2015
    Assignee: Allfab, Inc.
    Inventors: Russell William Roth, Lonnie Joe Kyer
  • Patent number: 9073590
    Abstract: A trailer is presented. First and second axles are provided, each of the first and second axles being configured to couple to at least two wheels. A chassis is connected to the first and second axles, and a hitch is connected to the chassis. A lift system engaging structure is connected to the chassis of the trailer. The lift system engaging structure is configured to releasably engage a lifting component of a lift system. The lift system is configured to raise the lifting component to position the trailer in a stowed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2015
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Andrew John Fox, Patrick M Shafer, Allen Benson Sheldon
  • Patent number: 9056623
    Abstract: A game animal transporting apparatus having a support tube attachable to the rear hitch of a transport vehicle and a support frame attachable to the support tube to function as an exterior cargo carrier. The support frame is rotatable in either a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction for ease of loading objects onto the support frame. The support frame is lockable in a horizontal position for transport. The support frame is detachable from the support tube. A handle and wheel assembly are attachable to the support frame to form a mobile utility cart. The cart can be wheeled to a remote location to retrieve a game animal and then returned to the transport vehicle, after which, the support frame can be secured to the support tube, the handle and wheel assembly can be detached, and the game animal can be transported to another location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2015
    Assignee: VIKING SOLUTIONS, LLC
    Inventors: Ronald R. Woller, John A. Woller, John A. Woller, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9033641
    Abstract: A carrier system for transporting an electric scooter behind a vehicle with a hitch receiver having a base platform, an extension ramp removably attached to a side edge of the base platform at an angle with respect to the base platform via a first attachment means, a base support tube where the base platform is mounted atop of, a hitch tube adapted to be telescopically received in a hitch receiver of a vehicle, wherein when the hitch tube is engaged with the base support tube and the tubes are secured together via a pivot bolt, the base support tube can pivot between a storage position and an extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Inventor: Glenn R. Barefoot
  • Publication number: 20150132090
    Abstract: Disclosed is a system to assist hauling and loading of cargo above a passenger truck. The system has a forward frame and a rearward frame that are pivotally attached to the cargo area of the passenger truck. The frames tilt between an upright stowage position and a downward loading position. The frames are connected by a mechanical-advantage member to tilt the rearward frame faster than the forward frame when moving between the loading and stowage positions. Additionally, a spring, piston or other force facilitator device can be used to gain further mechanical advantage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2014
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventor: Nicholas Joseph Giamatti
  • Publication number: 20150125245
    Abstract: A ladder loading system includes a base frame and a stowage frame, wherein the stowage frame is rotatable relative to the base frame. The stowage frame and base frame are connected at a least one pivot having a main pivot axis. The ladder loading system includes a linkage mechanism. The linkage mechanism includes an idler link that rotates about an idler axis. The linkage mechanism also includes a coupling means for coupling the idler link to the stowage frame. That is, the rotation of the idler link is linked to the rotation of the stowage frame in a master and slave relationship. Suitably, due to the operation of the ladder loading system, rotation of the stowage frame drives rotation of the idler link about the idler axis. The linkage mechanism further includes a control member connected between the idler link and stowage frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2013
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Inventor: Dominic Gallagher
  • Publication number: 20150117994
    Abstract: A utility carrier that attaches to a hydraulically actuated hitch interface for a tractor, skid steer vehicle, or similar vehicle. The utility carrier has an L-shaped frame including a back panel and a floor. Couplers for releasable mounting of the carrier to a variety of hitch interfaces are mounted on the back panel. Corner posts, releasable to facilitate compact shipping, are used to releasably secure a front panel and two side panels to form, if desired, a closed area. The utility carrier can he lifted and tilted by the hydraulically actuated hitch interface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2013
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventor: Hubert Defrancq
  • Patent number: 9017002
    Abstract: A hauler apparatus includes a lower bracket having a first support arm with a first support arm opening extending therethrough. The hauler apparatus includes an upper bracket having a second support arm with a second support arm opening extending therethrough. The hauler apparatus includes a frame arm which extends through the first support arm opening, and has a distal end which terminates within the second support arm opening. The outer shape of the frame arm is different from the inner shape of the first and second support arm openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Inventor: Joseph Joynt
  • Patent number: 9011072
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for transferring an object from a lower accessible position to a higher storage position, which is particularly useful on vehicles. The present invention also relates to a method of transferring an object from a lower accessible position to a higher storage position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Inventor: Marc Anthony DiVerdi
  • Publication number: 20150098778
    Abstract: A lifting assembly for use on vehicles of a variety of types, including recreational vehicles, vans, trucks and the like, and includes one or more lifting structures that will support a deck structure. The lifting assembly will be removably mounted to the vehicle frame so that the whole assembly can be removed from the vehicle, and the deck structure is pivotally mounted to the lift assembly so that it can be moved between a stored position when not in use, or a transport position when loads are to be carried. When in the transport position the deck will be movable between lowered and raised positions so that items can be placed on the deck in the lowered position and then transported once the deck is raised to a desired height.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2014
    Publication date: April 9, 2015
    Inventors: Matthew Marvin Derrick, Stephen Edward Gerencser
  • Patent number: 8998257
    Abstract: A wheelchair transport system and apparatus enables users to transport a wheelchair by way of a motorized, tadpole-configured tricycle. The wheelchair transport apparatus includes a main frame, a pivot assembly, and a lever arm assembly. The main frame includes an elongate frame member that attaches to a motorized tricycle. The pivot assembly includes pivot arm and chair support assemblies. The pivot arm assembly includes two pivot arms pivotally attached to the main frame. The chair support assembly includes two support members pivotally attached to the pivot arms. The lever arm assembly is attached to a forward pivot arm. Together, the lever arm assembly, the pivot arms, and the support arms are positionable intermediate a lowered position and a raised position. The raised positions enable the user to transport a wheelchair as supported upon the support arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Inventor: Rory J. Hebel
  • Patent number: 8998557
    Abstract: An apparatus for loading a camper-insert, or other large-volume load, onto the bed of a pickup truck comprises a stiff-leg frame for supporting the load from the ground, the frame preventing the load from applying weight to the tail end of the bed with damaging consequences while the load is being cantilevered into position over the frame by the draw of a winch and cable system. The apparatus uses at least one telescoping leg to lift the rear of the load as part of a novel hoist assembly, which dynamically braces the telescoping leg on a foot while providing minimal interference to nesting the camper-insert closely to the host surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Inventor: David Douglas Dieziger
  • Patent number: 8991889
    Abstract: An ergonomic ladder rack assembly mounted on the roof of a topper for a pick-up truck bed or on the roof of a cargo van, the topper having a ladder rack assembly mounted thereon, the ladder rack assembly designed to lift, move and return a ladder load between a stowed position atop the roof of the topper or van and a deployed position alongside of the vehicle. The roof of the topper or van has recessed areas formed therein for containing components of the ladder rack to thereby lower the height profile of the combination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Inventors: Avraham Y. Levi, Francois Boisvert
  • Publication number: 20150086312
    Abstract: An apparatus comprises a mounting bracket engaged with an inside of a vehicle cargo area. An axle having a first end portion and a second end portion is oriented longitudinally inside the vehicle cargo area to engage with the mounting bracket. A first radius arm has a vehicle end portion and a container end portion that is engaged with the first end portion of the axle and to a first pivot assembly on a container, respectively. A second radius arm has a vehicle end portion and a container end portion that is engaged with the second end portion of the axle and to a second pivot assembly on the container, respectively. The first and second radius arms are configured to be operable to deploy the container from the inside of the vehicle cargo area to a sidewall of the vehicle cargo area in a generally arcing motion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2013
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventor: David Ohnesorge
  • Publication number: 20150086311
    Abstract: A power lift and transfer system and method are disclosed. In one particular exemplary embodiment, the power lift and transfer system and method may be realized as a power lift and transfer system. The power lift and transfer system may move, stow, and carry a mobility device for a user with a disability, and then assist the person with the disability to transfer in and out of a vehicle. The power lift and transfer system may further transport the wheeled or other mobility device from a position in a rear or on top of the vehicle to passenger or driver areas of the vehicle, and then assist the user by means of a conveyor belt to transfer laterally into the automobile seat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2013
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventor: Thomas F. Egan
  • Patent number: 8985933
    Abstract: An apparatus for facilitating the storage of equipment such as ladders in the upper area, but particularly in the upper area on the outside of emergency vehicles such as trucks which includes a capability of moving the ladder to an extended lower deployed position to facilitate immediate access thereto by emergency workers such as firemen. An outer bracket is connected to an inner housing through a parallel linkage with the inner housing attached to the vehicle and the outer bracket attachable to the equipment. The outer bracket includes a downwardly extendable sliding carriage to facilitate positioning of the equipment at a lower level for aiding in retrieval thereof utilizing a flexible control arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Inventor: Michael P. Ziaylek
  • Patent number: 8974169
    Abstract: A fork lift, and especially a fork lift for a truck, may have structure on a forklift carriage for selectively receiving any of a variety of attachment tools. Alternatively, an assembly may be secured to the carriage and the assembly may provide the structure for selectively receiving the attachment tools. The structure may include a bolt and lever mechanism for selectively securing and releasing the attachment tools. A method may include selectively securing any of a variety of attachment tools including, but not limited to, a trencher, an auger, a backhoe, and a hydraulic breaker. These attachment tools may be connected to a hydraulic system for control of the attachment tools. The method may include the preliminary steps of locking the forklift against movement along a mast and insertion of fork tips in pocket(s) supported in the truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Inventor: Richard J. Mizner
  • Patent number: RE46253
    Abstract: A rollator carrier is operable to quickly support and secure a rollator. The carrier includes a pair of cradles to support the rollator, and an arm that rotates between a horizontal and vertical position. With the arm down, a user can easily lift the rollator into the relatively low cradles. The user can then rotate the arm up to the vertical position and secure the rollator to the carrier with a clamp of the carrier extending from the top end of the arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2016
    Assignee: Steady Enterprises, LLC
    Inventor: Sherry Costanza-Steady