Vehicle Attached Auxiliary Carriers Patents (Class 414/462)
  • Patent number: 8973898
    Abstract: A portable and foldable lift can be attached to a surface such as a tailgate of a truck. The lift can be slid off the gate and used to lift heavy objects from the ground to the bed of the truck. The portable and foldable lift is returned in a folded position to the tailgate for easy storage. The portable and foldable lift can also be attached to a work bench, either on top or underneath, and can be folded up and stored out of the way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Inventor: Brent Hurd
  • Publication number: 20150050107
    Abstract: The present invention relates to goods or cargo carrying a cart or wagon which can be hitched to the rear of a variety of vehicle by means of a height adjuster. The cart or wagon comprises; a height adjuster, floor or tray, and removable or pivoted wheels with hand breaks. The invention also relates to a lifting mechanism for raising and lowering the cart or wagon to easily load or unload goods which can be carried entirely on the receiver hitch bar of a vehicle. The invention also relates to a lifting mechanism for raising and lowering a platform onto which a scooter or motorcycle has been loaded which can be carried entirely on the receiver hitch bar of a vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2014
    Publication date: February 19, 2015
    Inventor: J. Scott Kipp
  • Patent number: 8944742
    Abstract: A trash receptacle mover including a first quick-attach assembly secured to an off-road vehicle and a second quick-attach assembly connected to a trash receptacle attachment member. The quick-attach assemblies may be selectively connected together. The trash receptacle attachment member may be secured to a recessed bar on the trash receptacle so that the trash receptacle may be lifted from the ground and transported to a distant location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Inventor: Curt J. Hill
  • Patent number: 8926253
    Abstract: A platform lift trailer includes a chassis to which a lift device is mounted. The chassis is configured to be coupled to a standard motor vehicle trailer hitch or the like using a coupler. Some embodiments of the coupler provide protection against larges torsional forces applied between a motor vehicle and coupled trailer when they are angularly displaced relative to one another. One or more ground-engaging wheel assemblies are mounted to the chassis to assist in supporting the weight of the lift and any cargo thereon. The platform lift trailer is highly adaptable so that a wide variety of lifts can be mounted to the platform lift trailer and thus to smaller motor vehicles. Adaptation of mobility lifts and the like to a larger array of motor vehicles is therefore possible. One or more embodiments of a trailer coupler use torque-limiting apparatus so that vertical angular displacements of a motor vehicle and a coupled trailer do not apply large forces directly between the motor vehicle and the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Bruno Independent Living Aids, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott K. Uttech, William W. Belson, III, Andrew A. Bayer, Timothy G. Schwarz, Adam C. Hooper
  • Patent number: 8919626
    Abstract: A power chair carrier system includes a power chair having an elevating motor mounted thereon for raising or lowering the seat of the power chair and for raising or lowering the power chair drive assembly including wheels when the chair is mounted on a vehicle. A hitch assembly is removably connected to a vehicle and includes a docking structure for removably connecting to an upper portion of the power chair to permit the drive assembly and wheels of the power chair to be raised while the chair is in a docking position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Inventor: Ronald E. Smith
  • Patent number: 8911195
    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: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: VisibleElectronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew Marvin Derrick, Stephen Edward Gerencser
  • Publication number: 20140308101
    Abstract: Lift for a bicycle rack or luggage rack, whereby this lift (1) includes a frame (3) for mounting against a wall; a guide (6) provided on this frame (3) which extends in an essentially upward direction; a height-adjustable carriage (7) on this guide (6) to which the bicycle rack or luggage rack (2) is fastened; and drive elements (24) for moving the carriage (7), whereby the guide (6) is extendable by including a ‘fixed part’ (8) that is fastened on the frame (3) and a ‘movable part’ (9) that can be moved vertically with respect to the fixed part (8) of the guide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2014
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Applicant: BROSTOR, naamloze vennootschap
    Inventor: Lieven Louis Lucien BRUTSAERT
  • Patent number: 8858153
    Abstract: This invention relates to a top mount method, a top mount system and a combination of forklift truck and carrying vehicle having such a top mount system. The top mount method differs from the known methods in that the forklift truck lifting assembly at least is provided with a remote control unit to permit the operator of the forklift to mount the forklift onto the carrying vehicle from a position remote from the forklift. The top mount system comprises a track having a carriage slidably mounted therein and a ram for moving the carriage relative the track. The obviates the need to use the drive of the forklift under remote operation. Finally, there is provided a combination of a forklift and a carrying vehicle having the top mount system which together provide a useful and safer alternative to the known combinations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Inventors: Barry McGrane, Kevin Turnbull, John McFadden
  • Patent number: 8857689
    Abstract: There is provided an apparatus for storing a ladder on the outer rear wall of a cab of a semi tractor. It comprises an outer stationary frame that is bolted to the rear surface of the tractor cab proximate one side of the cab and contained within the outer frame are first and second panels that are pivotally joined to one another where one of the first and second panels is also pivotally joined to the stationary frame. The second inner panel carries a ladder support bracket. When stowed, a latch mechanism prevents the inner articulated frame panels from extending relative to the stationary outer frame. Upon unlatching, the two inner articulated panels can be rotated such that the ladder will be positioned to the side of the tractor cab and accessible to an individual standing on the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Inventor: Avraham Y. Levi
  • Publication number: 20140255135
    Abstract: A tow bar attachment (10) having a holder (11) mounted thereon the tow bar attachment (10) is intended to be mounted on a towing vehicle such that the tow bar attachment (10) is fixed thereto. The holder (11) is adapted to carry a front wheel (12) of a two-wheeled vehicle (motor bike).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2014
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Applicant: LIFTOW RIDE PTY LTD
    Inventor: Wayne Yorke Roe
  • Patent number: 8815285
    Abstract: The present invention relates to extended release dosage forms of metoprolol or salts thereof comprising a water insoluble and non-swellable inert core and one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients. The invention also relates to processes for the preparation of an inert core and extended release dosage forms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Wockhardt Ltd.
    Inventors: Prashant Manohar Mandaogade, Venkatesh Madhavacharya Joshi, Saurabh Srivastava, Vinayak Dinkar Kadam, Girish Kumar Jain
  • Patent number: 8800582
    Abstract: Storable exterior lift cover systems, apparatus, devices, methods, etc. are configured to be used with a lift device or the like (such as an exterior lift that raises, transports, stores and lowers mobility devices like scooters, power chairs and the like) mounted to a motor vehicle using a trailer hitch or the like. A covering apparatus has a foldable frame that can be unfolded to allow a pliable cover to extend over the lift platform and any cargo. Retraction of the cover and folding of the frame compactly configures and stores the cover apparatus, for example between the lift platform and a motor vehicle to which the lift is secured. Embodiments of the storable exterior lift cover permit easy deployment and storage of a cover that can be reliably transported externally in its deployed or stored configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Bruno Independent Living Aids, Inc.
    Inventors: Adam C. Hooper, Timothy J. Dexter, Andrew A. Bayer
  • Patent number: 8777542
    Abstract: The advanced life has brought the use of strollers, wheelchairs and carriers for easing the life and human care. However, handling these objects in and out of a vehicle has turned to be a practical problem. Commonly these units are lifted for placement in the trunk or inside a vehicle, however, manipulation of these units which have a noticeable weight and a rough shape are difficult and labor intensive. Particularly, by some mothers that does not have enough reserve doing other chores. This activity will increase the pain of those who just had C-sections or it can cause a new back and joint pains or worsen the existing ones. This application introduces methods and means to allow such a process to be done easily. This application introduces new units and methods which allows strollers and carriers and similar units to be placed inside a box means which is attached to the rear of a vehicle by use of a door that opens and stands on the ground to function as a ramp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Inventor: Yousef Daneshvar
  • Patent number: 8777074
    Abstract: One possible embodiment of the invention could be a hitch-mounted telescopic rack and its operation, the rack could be comprised of a vertical telescopic tube assembly having an inner tube movably received within a hollow outer tube, the hollow outer tube having a hitch attachment end while the inner tube has an attachment end that connects to a top tube assembly that movably supports one or more rollers perpendicularly to the vertical telescopic tube assembly; wherein the hitch attachment end is reversibly received by a trailer hitch of an automotive vehicle to vertically orient the vertical telescopic tube assembly and place the rollers in a horizontal position distal from the trailer hitch, the one or more rollers moving an object relative to a rear edge of a top of the automotive vehicle as well as supporting the rear overhanging portion of the object that is placed on the top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Inventors: Michael Thomas DeMers, James Kevin Redmond
  • Publication number: 20140169918
    Abstract: A roof rack for loading and unloading cargo to and from the roof of a motor vehicle is described. The roof rack is characterized by enabling the cargo to be loaded at an accessible height and then lifted onto the roof of the motor vehicle while the cargo is maintained in a fixed position. In another embodiment, the cargo is reoriented from a first orientation to a second orientation during the loading and unloading procedure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2012
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Inventor: Paul Kevin Buller
  • Patent number: 8734082
    Abstract: An improved implement support device for using an implement with a motor vehicle, with the device having an implement support structure, a lift mechanism, and a swing mechanism, where the implement support structure is suitably adapted to support and manipulate useful implements, such as a snowplow blade, a pair of fork lift forks, a container, a platform, and the like, with the lift mechanism suitably adapted to move the implement vertically in both an upward and a downward direction and the swing mechanism suitably adapted to move the implement laterally in both a leftward and a rightward direction, and with the implement able to be concurrently moved both vertically and laterally by substantially simultaneous operation of both the lift mechanism and the swing mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Inventor: David E. Grant
  • Patent number: 8714901
    Abstract: A garbage can lifter having a pair of arms operatively connected to a handle, and a pair of pins secured to exterior surfaces of the pair of arms. The pair of arms is adapted to be operatively connected to one or more lifting arms of a tractor. The garbage can lifter also has a cross member secured to the pair of arms and the handle. The handle is positioned between the pair of arms and between interior surfaces of the pair of arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Inventor: David Cordy
  • Patent number: 8708634
    Abstract: A vehicle carrier assembly adapted to be mounted to the rear of a recreational vehicle which is designed to carry and transport a secondary vehicle. The carrier assembly includes a lift system which includes a pivoting subassembly combined with a deployable ramp. The ramp extends from the pivoted subassembly at an angle until it reaches the ground. The ramp extends from the pivoted subassembly in a direction perpendicular the longitudinal axis of the recreational vehicle. The secondary vehicle would then drive onto the angled ramp. The ramp is then retracted back to its first position, atop the pivoting subassembly. The pivoting subassembly is then pivoted back from its deployed angular position back to an original horizontal position. The secondary vehicle is secured to the vehicle carrier. The recreational vehicle is now ready to travel with an easily mountable and demountable secondary vehicle aboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Inventor: Walter B. Mears
  • Patent number: 8696295
    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. One or more hydraulically-driven pistons move the lift hauler from a concealed position beneath the vehicle to a use position rearward of the vehicle. The lift hauler comprises a series of frame members and utilizes a scissor design to facilitate movement between a lower position, which allows large items to be loaded on a lift hauler platform, to a raised position which allows the large items to restrained and transported. 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: January 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Inventor: Brad Robinson
  • Patent number: 8678737
    Abstract: A personal mobility vehicle lift mounted to the rear portion of a vehicle to transport a personal mobility vehicle from location to location comprising a platform assembly configured to support a personal mobility vehicle thereon operatively coupled to a lift assembly to selectively raise and lower the platform assembly with or without a personal mobility vehicle thereon and a mount assembly coupled to the lift assembly to mount the personal mobility vehicle lift to the rear portion of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Inventors: Anthony P. DiGiovanni, Jeffery R. Moone
  • Publication number: 20140064893
    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: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: TECHNO-FAB 9000 INC.
    Inventor: Paul THIBAULT
  • Patent number: 8657552
    Abstract: A support rack has spaced vertical rails and horizontal upper, lower and intermediate rails. The horizontal rails are coupled to the vertical rails. A pivotable locking bar is between the horizontal rails. Side plates with rearward ends are attached to the vertical rails adjacent to the lower rail. The side plates have forward ends forwardly of the vertical rails. A rectangular ramp/platform has a forward edge extending forwardly of the vertical rails and a rearward edge extending rearwardly of the vertical rails and having parallel side edges. Hinges pivotally couple the ramp/platform adjacent to its forward edge to the side plates adjacent to their forward edges for movement between raised and lowered orientations. A cross support bar has ends attached to the ramp/platform adjacent to the side edges parallel with and rearwardly of the horizontal lower rail. The cross support bar is spaced above the ramp/platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Inventor: Keith Raney
  • Publication number: 20140037410
    Abstract: An equipment storage and retrieval system retrieves equipment from the back of pick-up trucks and other cargo carrying vehicles. A guide rail and a frame with attached rollers and equipment hold-downs, platforms or carts allow for easy access, retrieval, and storage of equipment in the bed of a vehicle. A frame extends out the back of a pickup for access to equipment, and folds into a vertical position for improved use of the pickup bed. A brake system prevents locks the sliding frame in place until the brake is released by a brake lever.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventors: MARK PATTON, Kurt Barats
  • Patent number: 8641355
    Abstract: An apparatus for removing and installing a truck cap, the apparatus is formed by a box member having an opening, the box member being adapted at one end to a truck hitch and the other to a sleeve. A mast is rotatably disposed in the sleeve. A boom having a first end and a second end is fixedly attached at a right angle at the first end to the mast. A first slideable member is slideably coupled to the boom at the second end of the boom. A spread arm is fixedly attached at a right angle to the first slideable member. At least two bumpers are disposed on the spread arm and one bumper on the boom. In use, the rod of a jack disposed within the box member engages the mast through the opening of the box member to raise or lower the mast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Inventor: Gary Pawlak
  • Patent number: 8641359
    Abstract: A mobility scooter device comprising an electrically powered wheeled vehicle provided with a lifting unit for lifting or lowering the vehicle. The lifting unit comprises an extendable lifting arm having two end portions a first end portion that is connected to the vehicle and a second end portion coupled to a support base provided with wheels. The lifting unit can be wheeled to bring the lifted vehicle over a transportation platform for mounting the vehicle body on the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Afikim Electric Vehicles Ltd.
    Inventor: Avner Fishbein
  • Publication number: 20140003895
    Abstract: The invention concerns a motor vehicle (1), preferably a truck or a lorry, comprising a battery exchange station (2), the battery exchange station (2) comprising at least one battery (3), an actuator element (4) and a connecting element (5) arranged between the battery (3) and the actuator element (4), the actuator element (4) being movable from a first to a second position, such that in the first position the at least one battery (3) is arranged completely under the motor vehicle (1), while in the second position the at least one battery (3) is arranged completely outside, preferably behind, the motor vehicle (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2012
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Applicant: PENDELMATIC INTERNATIONAL V/ JAN MØLLER
    Inventor: Jan Max Clausen Møller
  • Patent number: 8616354
    Abstract: A configurable briefcase desktop having two generally planar support columns, each support column having a fixed length section and an extendable section. The extendable section of each support column is comprised of a scissors linkage and an elongated foot member. The elongated foot member provides improved load distribution across the surface supporting the invention. Embodiments typically include a fold lock mechanism to releasably lock each support column in its folded configuration. Other embodiments have a support stiffening mechanism adapted to yieldably resist movement of its respective support member from its support configuration. Further embodiments comprise at least one load sensor system to provide a warning signal when the extendable section of a support column is in extended configuration and subjected to a compression force in excess of a predetermined amount. In some embodiments the fold lock mechanism and support stiffening mechanism of a particular support column may be mechanically ganged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Inventor: Vatche Azirian
  • Publication number: 20130341124
    Abstract: A vehicle-attached lifting device and tool support is provided. The device comprises a dual-rail frame supported in an upright configuration by the vehicle tow hitch, wherein an internal subassembly support frame is positioned between the rails for the purposes of supporting different lifting and tool support subassemblies. Along the sides of the upright frame is a pair of ground support members that extend downward towards the ground to support the frame during operation, preventing the load from compressing the vehicle suspension or damaging the same. A winch controls the vertical positioning of the support frame within the dual-rail frame, which controls the position of a lifting or tool support subassembly. Many subassemblies are contemplated for use with the present invention for the purposes of assisting a user without requiring manual input therefrom. The device can also adjust with relation to the vehicle using different trailer hitch attachments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2013
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Inventors: James Allen Robinson, Jeremy James Robinson
  • Patent number: 8608201
    Abstract: A combination tray rack and trailer device attaches to a vehicle, such as an ATV. The device may be used in a first mode as a tray rack and may be used to help load game or equipment into the tray rack. The device may also be used in a second mode, as a two wheel cart or trailer. The device may plug into the ATV receiver. In still another embodiment, the device may be removed from the ATV and may be used as a two-wheeled cart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Inventor: Gregory Lovett
  • Patent number: 8602437
    Abstract: A motorcycle dolly hitch assembly couples to a vehicle to tow a motorcycle. The assembly includes a hitch arm having a first end configured for coupling to a vehicle. A support sleeve is coupled to a second end of the hitch arm. A support member has a first arm and a second arm. The second arm is slidably inserted into the support sleeve. A cradle, configured for supporting a wheel of a motorcycle, is coupled to the first arm of the support member. A locking mechanism is mechanically coupled to the second arm of the support member and the support sleeve wherein a position of the support member is lockable into a static position relative to the support sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Inventor: Edward J. Morris
  • Publication number: 20130315693
    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: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2013
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Inventor: Marc Anthony Diverdi
  • Patent number: 8585072
    Abstract: An apparatus for towing a motorcycle has a support platform with torque arms joined by a cross bar. The front wheel of the motorcycle is secured to the support platform and the motorcycle frame is secured to the cross bar. The support platform, torque arms, and cross bar prevent the motorcycle from lying to either side or turning about its steering neck as a towing vehicle turns. Instead, the support platform rotates about a pivot post held by upper and lower pivot sleeves. The lower pivot sleeve is secured to a tongue that attaches to a trailer hitch. The pivot post may slide up and down while supported by a jack, raising and lowering the support platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Inventor: James Momaly
  • Publication number: 20130266411
    Abstract: A trailer having an enclosed area with an integral toolbox is presented. The trailer includes a bulk tank with at least a first hopper and a second hopper. The first hopper has a first discharge port and the second hopper has a second discharge port. A discharge pipe is connected to the first and second discharge ports. A storage box is formed between and integral with the first hopper and the second hopper to define a storage chamber. A door is mounted on the storage box having open and close positions for respectively providing access to and blocking access to the storage chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2012
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Applicant: MAC TRAILER MANUFACTURING, INC.
    Inventors: John Morgan, Michael A. Conny
  • Patent number: 8540474
    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: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Inventor: Thomas F. Egan
  • Patent number: 8534981
    Abstract: An auxiliary assembly for attachment to a truck bed, the truck bed having pivoting bale lift arms, and the truck bed further having a hydraulic ram powered bale arm actuator, the assembly including a cargo carrying frame, left and right releasably attachable and pivoting mounts for interconnecting the cargo carrier and distal ends of the bale lift arms, and a pair of cargo leveling arms pivotally mounted to span between and interconnect the truck bed and with the cargo carrier for simultaneous and substantially parallel leveling arm motion, the leveling arm motion stabilizing the cargo carrier during pivoting motions of the bale lift arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Inventor: Berry K. Bortz
  • Patent number: 8511525
    Abstract: A ladder rack incorporating one or more roller assemblies clamped or otherwise affixed to the side rails of the ladder rack that are made to serve as a fulcrum for facilitating the loading and unloading of ladders onto and from a roof rack mounted atop a cargo van or similar work vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Inventor: Avraham Y. Levi
  • Patent number: 8505951
    Abstract: A hitch mounted waste container transporter for mounting in a standard hitch receiver on a vehicle using a locking pin includes a hitch bar having a first end equipped for connection to the hitch receiver and having a distal end, a hitch bar bracket having a lower end rigidly connected to said distal end of the hitch bar and an upper end which includes a transverse locking pin, an intermediate bar is pivotally connected at its first end to the hitch bar bracket such that the intermediate bar moves between about 0 and 25 degrees from a common axis of the hitch bar, and a rigid container support bar connected to a second end of the intermediate bar which is about 110-115 degrees obtuse to the axis of the intermediate bar having a tine to removably engage a waste container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventor: Marc A. Bohse
  • Publication number: 20130202395
    Abstract: There is provided an apparatus for storing a ladder on the outer rear wall of a cab of a semi tractor. It comprises an outer stationary frame that is bolted to the rear surface of the tractor cab proximate one side of the cab and contained within the outer frame are first and second panels that are pivotally joined to one another where one of the first and second panels is also pivotally joined to the stationary frame. The second inner panel carries a ladder support bracket. When stowed, a latch mechanism prevents the inner articulated frame panels from extending relative to the stationary outer frame. Upon unlatching, the two inner articulated panels can be rotated such that the ladder will be positioned to the side of the tractor cab and accessible to an individual standing on the ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2012
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Inventor: Avraham Y. Levi
  • Patent number: 8496146
    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: August 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: Intelligent Designs 2000 Corp.
    Inventor: Paul Badillo
  • Patent number: 8479933
    Abstract: A truck-mounted crane is disclosed. The truck-mounted crane may include an elongated pole member, a pivoting arm pivotally attached to the elongated pole member, a support member secured to the elongated pole member, an extension member secured to the support member, an elongated securing member, and an anchoring member. When secured to a truck, the support member may rest on the rim of a truck bed with the secured extension member being positioned within a socket of the truck bed rim. In such configuration, one end of elongated pole member may be pivotally attached to the pivoting arm and the other end of the elongated pole member may be secured to a cargo loop of a truck using the elongated securing member and an anchoring member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Inventor: Moises C. Vaquera
  • Publication number: 20130149083
    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 9, 2011
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: VisibleElectronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew Marvin Derrick, Stephen Edward Gerencser
  • Publication number: 20130142602
    Abstract: A battery-powered lift assembly includes a lift and a cam mounted to a vehicle hitch. The cam defines a substantially vertical finger notch and an angled finger notch. A biased folding bracket is pivotally coupled with the cam. A pallet is pivotally coupled with the lift and a cam follower is mounted to the pallet in a position to cooperatively interact with the folding bracket. When a load is on the pallet, the folding bracket yields to the cam follower permitting it to enter the substantially vertical finger notch and the pallet remains in a substantially horizontal position as the fill moves from a lowered position to a raised position. Without a load, the folding bracket directs the cam follower into the angled finger notch, which caused the pallet to pivot into a substantially vertical position. In this position, the cam may he tilted away from the vehicle hitch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2011
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Inventor: ROBBEY BARNTS
  • Patent number: 8449239
    Abstract: A bracket assembly for vehicle waste tanks having first and second longitudinal frame members. The longitudinal frame members each have proximal ends and lateral edges. In addition, the longitudinal frame members each have sidewalls extending therefrom. The sidewalls extend from their respective proximal ends a predetermined distance. Each proximal end has hinge assemblies that mount onto a vehicle. In the preferred embodiment, the bracket assembly for vehicle waste tanks is mounted onto an underside of the vehicle, so that it is not seen and does not obstruct any functionalities of the vehicle, which may be a recreational vehicle having a kitchen, a bathroom, a bedroom and a living room. The vehicle may also be defined as a caravan, camper, or camper van. The vehicle is intended for everything from brief leisure activities such as vacations and camping, to full-time living, for which they are often parked in special trailer parks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Inventor: Brian Birkenstock
  • Patent number: 8439240
    Abstract: Carrier racks are coupled to a vehicle such that a user can access a pack (e.g., to open and close the pack) carried by the carrier racks. When the vehicle is stationary, items may be loaded and unloaded from the pack while the pack remains securely held by the carrier rack. An all terrain vehicle can include a vehicle frame carrying an engine and a carrier rack fixedly coupled to the vehicle frame. The carrier rack has a longitudinal axis that is substantially parallel to a center plane of the all terrain vehicle. The carrier rack extends upwardly from a rearward end of the vehicle. A longitudinally-extending straddle-type seat is between a handlebar assembly of the all terrain vehicle and the carrier rack such a pack on the carrier rack is positioned directly rearward of a rider.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Inventors: Rick E. Steiner, Carson J. Steiner
  • Patent number: 8419064
    Abstract: An apparatus for adding weight to a work vehicle includes a receptacle and at least one arm projecting from the receptacle. The receptacle and the at least one arm are configured to receive weights. The apparatus for adding weight to a work vehicle also includes at least one connecting point configured to attach the apparatus to a three-point hitch of the work vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations, LLC
    Inventor: Edward N Erhardt
  • Publication number: 20130078065
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a cargo lift designed to allow an individual to lift heavy objects from the ground, onto the back of an all-terrain vehicle, without other mechanical assistance. The invention comprises a novel lifting mechanism based on an unconventional use of dampers that can be lowered into position using a small amount of force and can raise a heavy object without the use of hydraulic pumps, electricity, or other energy sources that may be impractical in remote areas. The lift stores the user's downward force as potential energy and releases that force as kinetic energy to lift the cargo.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2011
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Inventor: Kenneth Butler
  • Patent number: 8393665
    Abstract: A pick-up truck bed toolbox system utilizes a tool storage box which, in its stored, stationary position, rests on the floor of the bed of a pick-up truck such that it is parallel to the side wall of the truck. Electric motors, which can be remotely operated, are utilized to rotate dual, upstanding screw shafts which are connected via laterally extending cantilever arm members to the front and rear ends of the toolbox. The screw shafts raise the toolbox from its resting position on the floor of the bed of the pick-up truck, to an elevated position over the floor, and the shafts then operate to move the arm members laterally to extend the tool box to a position passed the side wall. The screw shafts can then be activated to lower the tool box to a lowered position outside the truck, adjacent to and alongside the sidewall, thus providing easy and ready access to the toolbox. The same system is utilized to return the toolbox from this lowered position outside the truck, to the floor of the truck bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Inventors: Kenneth J. Villano, John M. Morris
  • Patent number: 8388038
    Abstract: A multiple use vehicle accessory is provided that has a frame with first and second side members spaced from one another in a lateral direction of the accessory. The first side member carries first and second apertures that are spaced from one another in a longitudinal direction of the accessory and are both oriented in the lateral direction. The frame includes a plurality of cross members that extend in the lateral direction, and a first end that is attached to both the first and second side members. The first end at least partially defines a channel that extends in the lateral direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Inventor: Daniel K. Hastings
  • Publication number: 20130051960
    Abstract: A frame rack is detachably positioned on a bed of a pickup truck. A winch is secured to one end of the frame rack. A pair of spaced parallel bottom rollers is secured to the opposite end of the frame rack. The bottom rollers are supported by a brace assembly, which engages a hitch receiver carried by the truck. A boat bow is tied to a rope and gradually pulled onto the bed of the truck by the winch pulling the rope. Once the boat is loaded on the truck it is supported by the frame rack during the transport.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Inventor: John Paul Cox, JR.
  • Patent number: 8382418
    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: August 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Inventor: Marc A. DiVerdi