Abstract: A vehicle-mounted cargo lift including a frame and carry arms suitable for carrying a scooter, a personal transportation device, or other cargo. The frame includes a power inverter/converter, which provides power to a motorized worm drive, which raises and lowers the carry arms. Wheel chocks on the carry arms hold in place the scooter wheels. The cargo lift attaches to the back of a vehicle via a trailer hitch.

Abstract: A controller, control system and method for controlling an auxiliary device comprising a wheelchair lift, ramp, or the like are provided. An exemplary embodiment of the auxiliary device controller is microprocessor-based and communicates with a vehicle's OEM controller for receiving a plurality of sensor inputs, which originate from OEM and auxiliary sensors, process the sensor inputs, and control various OEM and auxiliary systems relative to the sensor inputs to effect a number of safety interlocks. The controller may operate to coordinate various OEM and auxiliary subsystems to automate auxiliary device operation to reduce operator error.

Abstract: A load bearing apparatus is configured to simulate a payload. The load bearing apparatus includes a load member configured to simulate the mass of a payload, a frame having frame members, a plurality of retainers configured to support the load member, and first and second outer guides coupled to the load member. The plurality of retainers includes a first retainer positioned at a first height and configured to support the load member at the first height, and a second retainer positioned at a second height different from the first height and configured to support the load member at the second height. The first and second outer guides are coupled to the load member and are configured to receive therebetween at least one lifting member of a lifting device. By using load members of different weights and positioning them at varying heights, different centers of gravity can be achieved.

Abstract: An all terrain vehicle having a vehicle frame with a boom frame attached to the vehicle frame, a saddle nest attached to the boom frame, a pivot saddle respectively secured to the boom frame, a telescoping boom secured in the pivot saddle, the pivot saddle comprising a post disposed adjacent and parallel to the telescoping boom, a locking sleeve slidably mounted on the post, and a latch formed on the vehicle frame with the locking sleeve and latch adapted to interlock to maintain the telescoping boom in an upright position.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for lifting and transporting a hay bale. The apparatus may include a hitch attachment for insertion into a receiver attached to a truck. The hitch attachment is coupled to an attachment slide which may be adjusted to match the height of the truck bed. The attachment slide is coupled to a bale spike which may be pivoted from a horizontal position to a vertical position. The attachment slide is coupled to a fifth wheel slide and coupler support, which is coupled to a fifth wheel ball hitch or other attachment point. A hydraulic cylinder or other power transfer means is attached at one end to the fifth wheel slide, and at the other end to the bale spike. A power source energizes a hydraulic pump to actuate the hydraulic cylinder. The apparatus may be assembled and installed by one person in a relatively short period of time, and likewise may be removed quickly.

Abstract: A trailer hitch mounted recreational equipment carrier for transporting various recreational equipment. The trailer hitch mounted recreational equipment carrier includes a support frame having at least a horizontal member and a vertical member, a first link arm pivotally coupled to the horizontal member, and a second link arm pivotally coupled to the vertical member. The second link arm may be a different length than the first link arm. The recreational equipment carrier also includes a crossbar support frame pivotally coupled to the first and second link arms to provide a pivotal motion geometry that facilitates the crossbar support being pivotally moved from a substantially vertical position to a substantially horizontal position.

Abstract: A personal vehicle transportation device to protect, secure, and transport a personal vehicle. The personal vehicle transportation device reduces the load placed on the towing vehicle and the personal vehicle transportation device is mechanically operable. The device includes a frame with a platform, a ramp and protective shell attached to opposite sides of the frame. The ramp and protective shell operate substantially simultaneously via a mechanized action. The protective shell includes inflatable bladders to secure the interior cargo.

Abstract: The cargo rack assembly a support rack such as the roof rack of a vehicle to assist in the loading and unloading of cargo onto the support rack. The assembly includes load bars connected to base bars via a pivoting lever; the load bars include straps and load arms for securing cargo to the assembly. The base bars are affixed to the support rack and the load bars and pivoting levers transition between a secured position and a loading/unloading position in a smooth motion. The assembly may include a tensioning system for biasing the load bars to the secure position to aid the user in lifting the cargo.

Abstract: The present invention overcomes the shortcomings of the prior art by providing a rotative platform powered manually through a hand crank or motor connected to a worm gear as the system motive force. Each of the arm bar lift is connected to a worm screw shaft providing synchronization as each arm bar rotates from the load position to the travel position. The device can rotate 360 degrees keeping a level platform through its entire rotation. This level platform rotation can only be achieved by having both arm bars connected and kept in time with each other with the worm gears and worm screw.

Abstract: Improvements in a vertical recreational vehicle ramp and lift that allows a recreational vehicle to be stored and transported in a vertical orientation. A cable from the lift mechanism connects to a recreational vehicle. The cable in then retracted to lift the recreational vehicle into a vertical orientation. This method of storage reduces the amount of space that is required to store a recreational vehicle. The storage method can be used in a garage, on the back or within a mobile transportation vehicle. The lifting device can be a powered or manual crank device that lifts the recreational vehicle. The ramp can be used to transport other vehicles into the truck and also provides protection of the wheels of the recreational vehicle against here the vehicle is stored.

Abstract: A hand truck ramp unit mounts to a hand truck rack unit which pivots on hinges.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a load bearing frame (1), and in particular to a load bearing frame (1) for mounting to the rim (2) of a rear cargo box area (4) of pickup truck (6) or other light motor vehicle. The load bearing frame (1) comprises mounting means 8 for mounting the frame (1) to a rim (2) of the cargo box area (4), an elongate load bearing member (10), said member defining a longitudinal direction (12) and having opposite first and second ends (18, 19), and supporting means (20-24) for supporting the load bearing member 10 on the mounting means (8).

Abstract: The base structure for a truck bed extension and ramp system has a horizontal U-shaped planar frame and dimensions for forming a margin over a tailgate of a pickup truck. A pair of posts extend vertically from the ends of the U-shaped frame. A tailgate-latch coupler is movably mounted on each post. This tailgate-latch coupler has dimensions for attachment to a tailgate latch member of a pickup truck. Each tailgate-latch coupler is movable up and down along the post and is connected to the tailgate latch member of a pickup truck and to retain the base structure to the truck box.

Abstract: A cover removal apparatus includes a frame, an electromagnet and a power source, which is electrically coupled to the electromagnet for selectively energizing the electromagnet. The removal apparatus may further include means for positioning the electromagnet relative to a cover and/or means for loosening the cover.

Abstract: A vehicle lifting and stowing “VLS” system compactly stores a vehicle by lifting and tilting it vertically. The VLS can be attached to a fixed structure for compactly storing a vehicle, or mounted to the aft end of a host vehicle, such as a motor home, for vertically mounting and transporting a smaller vehicle with the host vehicle. The VLS includes a main frame and two rotatable extensions hingedly joined end-to-end. The first extension is rotated by a drive mechanism while the second section maintains attachment to the vehicle, thereby lifting first one end of the vehicle and then the entire vehicle above grade. Some embodiments also include a pulling strap. Positioning of the vehicle above the extensions can automatically cause the second extension to contact and attach to the vehicle. Embodiments include alignment and/or support pins. Some embodiments include latches that hold the extensions together in the stowed configuration.

Abstract: An electric platform system includes a link unit pivotably connected between a connection member on the vehicle and a support link. The link unit includes multiple links and the support link. A support board is pivotably connected the support link and the support board can be pivoted upward when not in use. A driving unit is connected to the link unit and drives the link unit up and down to adjust the position of the support board. Two stop links are connected to the connection member and the support board. The two stop links have inclined surfaces which contact a side of the support board when pivoting the support board upward.

Abstract: An apparatus for transporting game with an all terrain vehicle is disclosed. The apparatus may be attached to the hitch of an ATV with an optional secondary attachment for an ATV rack. The apparatus uses a combined lifting and pivoting motion to raise the game from the ground and secure the game to the body of the ATV. This motion secures the game for transport and minimizes alterations to the ATVs center of mass, minimizing ATV tipping hazards when carrying heavy loads.

Abstract: A racking apparatus for use with a motor vehicle, the racking apparatus comprises a support frame adapted to support an object to be carried by the vehicle. A mechanism has one end attached to a rear portion of the motor vehicle and another end attached to a load support frame to connect the support frame to the motor vehicle, the mechanism comprising members and joints arranged to constrain movements of the support frame such that the mechanism is operable to reciprocably displace the support frame between a low position accessible to a person from the ground and a high position overhanging the motor vehicle.

Abstract: An apparatus for towing a bike, tricycle or the like having front and rear wheels including a pivoting tongue, a base and an extensible support member for receiving a front of the bike yet permitting one or more rear wheels to remain in contact with the ground. An opposing pair of arms are each carried by a pair of support arms for connection to the base of the apparatus. The support arms are pivotably connected to the base to rotate toward the support member for storing the apparatus and from the support member to secure tie arms for retaining the bike in connection with the apparatus and stabilizing the bike under tow.

Abstract: A portable ladder assembly for accessing a cargo carrying structure of a transport vehicle includes a first side rail and a second side rail connected to the first side rail by steps forming a ladder structure. A stake pocket mounting structure and a bracing structure is arranged and configured to engage a sidewall of the cargo carrying structure when the stake pocket mounting structure is received by a stake pocket of the cargo carrying structure.

Abstract: The invention is a towing device which utilizes a towing base, wheels, and a plurality of movable tracks, a tongue hitch attachment, and a vehicle locator swivel plate. The invention can be supplied with hydraulic surge brakes or electric brakes as well as brake and turn lights. The invention can use tie down straps for securing the vehicle to the dolly. The invention features an adjustable car locator swivel plate which allows the adjustment of the weight distribution to fine tune the load by moving the weight.

Abstract: A preferred embodiment of a lift and carrier assembly for a personal-transportation vehicle includes a first column, a second column telescopically disposed within the first column, a platform assembly pivotally coupled to the second column for supporting the personal-transportation vehicle, and a motor mounted on the first column and coupled to the second column so that the motor can lift the second column and the platform assembly, and a latch. The latch is movable between a first position, and a second position wherein the latch engages a pin mounted on the second column when the second column and the platform assembly are in a second position thereby securing the second column and the platform assembly in the second position.

Abstract: A control module operates a ramp in coordination with a powered sliding door. The control module couples to the OEM network and includes at least one microprocessor, a connector array coupled to at least one microprocessor, and interface circuitry. The microprocessor produces data sequences to keep the network busy, thereby preventing other modules on the OEM network from entering a low power mode. The connector array is adapted to receive daughter boards, plugs, plug-in modules, or wire jumpers for patches. The control module includes a display and a microprocessor is programmed to diagnose the operation of the ramp and provide the results of the diagnosis on the display.

Abstract: A ladder and equipment storage rack and method. In one form of the invention, a ladder and equipment rack is provided with mounts that connect to struts or other hanger devices to easily adapt to hold a ladder or other equipment. The storage rack can be used in vehicles, buildings or any other locations for storage.

Abstract: A cargo management device and vehicle including a cargo management device having a base portion having a surface. The device also includes a support portion pivotably mounted to the base portion and being configured to receive cargo. A locking member is pivotably mounted to the support member and in sliding contact with the surface of the base portion. The support member is capable of detachable engagement with a portion of the surface. A bridge portion is associated with the support portion and is capable of being secured at a first position with respect to the support portion. The device is capable of loading and unloading cargo from a cargo compartment by an incline formed by the support portion. A method for unloading cargo is also disclosed.

Abstract: A personal vehicle transportation device to protect, secure, and transport a personal vehicle. The personal vehicle transportation device reduces the load placed on the towing vehicle and the personal vehicle transportation device is mechanically operable. The device includes a frame with a platform, a ramp and protective shell attached to opposite sides of the frame. The ramp and protective shell operate substantially simultaneously via a mechanized action. The protective shell includes inflatable bladders to secure the interior cargo.

Abstract: A load handling apparatus to be mounted on a cargo area of a cargo vehicle is provided. The load handling apparatus comprises a pair of guide rail members adapted to be mounted on the cargo area, a support assembly having a first support member and a second support member slidably coupled to the pair of guide rail member for facilitating a slidable movement of the support assembly on the pair of guide rail members, a roller assembly adapted to slidably couple the support assembly to the pair of guide rail members, and at least one latching assembly adapted to selectively lock and unlock the slidable movement of the support assembly on the pair of guide rail members. The support assembly further comprises at least one bar member extending between the first support member and the second support. The support assembly is adapted to support a load thereon.

Abstract: A cargo hauling system is dimensioned to fit within a bed of a light truck. The bin moves forwardly and rearwardly relative to the truck bed along rollers provided on a tailgate of the truck. The tailgate is modified by reinforcing a perimeter of the tailgate, adding rollers to the tailgate, substituting reinforced linkages and hinges for factory originals, and adding a support member that extends between the trailer hitch and tailgate.

Abstract: A support for a bicycle having a front wheel and a rear wheel includes a frame and a trough-shaped support including a pivoting wheel engagement section pivotably mounted to the frame in a first location for movement about a pivot axis between a loading position and a support position. The pivoting wheel engagement section engages a portion of an outer periphery defined by a first one of the bicycle wheels, and faces upwardly to receive the bicycle wheel when the wheel engagement section is in the loading position and faces laterally when the wheel engagement section is in the support position. A second wheel engagement member is mounted to the support frame in a second location spaced from the first location, and is configured to engage a second bicycle wheel when the wheel engagement section is engaged with the first bicycle wheel in the support position.

Abstract: A carrier device supports a personal all terrain vehicle (ATV) in a truck bed of a truck so that the ATV can be supported at an incline within the truck box and the tailgate of the truck box can still be closed even on shorter length boxes to reduce wear on the tailgate during transport, and to reduce the wind resistance during transport as compared to carrier devices which support the ATV above the side walls of the truck bed. The carrier device comprises a frame mounted in the truck bed to support the ATV thereon in an inclined position extending at a forward and upward incline from a rear end to a front end of the bed. By supporting the rear end of the ATV adjacent the floor of the truck bed, loading ramps are only required to extend from the ground to the height of the floor of the truck box.

Abstract: A telescoping vehicle step comprised of three slide beams and a step. The first slide beam is shaped to slide within the hitch receiver of a vehicle. The second slide beam is inserted into the first slide beam. The third slide beam is inserted into the second slide beam. A step is attached to the third slide beam. The slide beams and step form a telescoping vehicle step which can be used to facilitate entry into the cargo bed of a vehicle. During use, the beams form a telescopic extension member which positions the step beyond the outer perimeter of a lowered tailgate. When not being used, the beams form a collapsed configuration which holds the step near the opening of the hitch receiver.

Abstract: One embodiment may include a tank assembly having a tank housing, a lever, and a release feature. The lever may be hinged at a first point to the tank housing and may be constructed to be hinged at a second point to a vehicle structure. The release feature holds and releases the tank housing from a first position and to a second position. The release feature may include a clamping mechanism to clamp and unclamp a catch, and a keeper to hold and release another catch.

Abstract: A material handling device may be configured to move and deliver a variety of materials throughout a worksite. The material handling device may be configured to be supported on a variety of vehicle platforms. Once the material handling device has been transported, the materials may be dumped from the material handling device. The dumping process may be initiated through the use of an actuator. The material handling device may comprise a dump body and a base frame. The dump body may be configured to be hingedly attached to the base frame. The base frame may comprise at least one first tube and at least one second tube. Both the first tube and the second tube may be configured to receive a fork and/or any other suitable support structure from a vehicle. The material handling device may comprise an actuator, a pump, and a reservoir which may be positioned within an actuator system area.

Abstract: A refuse container hitching device including a horizontally extending hitch insert, a vertically extending vertical member of adjustable length, a horizontally extending top member, a refuse container support plate that extending downwardly from the top member, and at least one locking strap for locking the handle of a refuse container to the support plate during towing.

Abstract: An accessory is mounted on the rear end of an All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) to pull logs and the like out of areas that are not accessible to trucks or other such vehicles. The accessory is a winch that is mounted on the ATV via the hitch attachment of the ATV. A brace extends from the rear end of the ATV to support the winch. A pulley system is attached to the winch whereby a log or the like is attached to the ATV. A counterweight is also mounted on the ATV.

Abstract: There is provided a hoist assembly for attachment to a standard vehicle hitch. The assembly may be levelled horizontally and vertically to provide for safe operation of the hoist. The assembly includes a base member, supported by two vertically adjustable legs and a post attached at one end of the base. A boom is attached and coupled to the post with a ram which provides lift capabilities for the hoist. The base member may be rotated to adjust the vertical position of the post. A load indicator is provided to indicate a load exceeding the capacity of the hoist assembly.

Abstract: A portable hoist for attachment to a trailer hitch drawbar includes a mast that comprises a plurality of mast segments assembled end to end in axial alignment at ground level and then rotated on a pivot bar inserted in the hitch drawbar from its horizontal assembly position to its vertical operational position. Similarly, to disassemble the hoist it is lowered from its vertical position to its horizontal position within easy reach of the user standing on the ground. The hoist boom is also installed with the mast horizontal in assembly position with the boom coaxial with the mast. The boom is then rotated to its operational position orthogonal to the mast when the mast is vertical. A friction bearing is installed on the mast so the mast above the friction bearing can rotate about the mast longitudinal axis. A winch is installed on the mast typically between the friction bearing and the boom so the winch rotates with the boom.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for transporting a game animal a hunter has killed or other large animal body is provided. The apparatus has a hitch bar attachable to a hitch receiver on a vehicle. A platform is connected to the hitch bar so that when the hitch bar is connected to a vehicle, the hitch bar alone supports the platform above the ground. For transporting an animal a hunter has killed, the head of the animal is secured onto the platform with the body of the animal extended behind the platform and lying on the ground. The animal can then be pulled by the vehicle, with the head supported above the ground by the platform and the body being pulled behind the platform along the ground.

Abstract: A capturing mechanism useful to retain a motorcycle on a variously inclined ramp includes an over-center spring loaded mechanism that is a self-triggered to deploy a hinged restraint compressing a motorcycle wheel against a conforming slip by the rolling translation thereof towards the forward end of the deployed ramp. Once thus temporarily fixed to the ramp the motorcycle and the ramp are then lifted onto the transport vehicle and then further restrained for transport by a rear bracket. At the destination the ramp, with the motorcycle fixed thereon, is lowered to the ground again and a detachable lever is then useful to fully release the spring loaded restraint.

Abstract: Overhead cargo rack apparatus for pickup trucks is described and includes an electromechanical actuator jack mounted onto a tiltable cargo platform and the electromechanical actuator jack actuated by a reversible switch connected to a circuit breaker connected to the pickup truck battery to tilt the tiltable cargo platform, and cargo mounted on the cargo platform and the cargo platform with cargo mounted thereon balanced on a fulcrum and the tilting raising the front end of the cargo platform and cargo mounted thereon to then lower the rear of the cargo platform and cargo mounted thereon to be in a loading or unloading mode and as an alternate the tilting action can be done manually by pulling downward the rear end of the tiltable cargo platform with cargo mounted thereon, and the electromechanical actuator jack in disconnect mode, when the tiltable cargo platform with cargo loaded thereon is balanced on the fulcrum mount.

Abstract: The present invention relates to cargo carrier. The cargo carrier attaches to a vehicle and includes a platform, an upper frame, a plurality of vertical supports, a support sleeve and a support beam. The platform itself is constructed from a plurality of longitudinal support members and a plurality of cross members that interfit with each other via a channel design and/or a shoulder and notch system. The platform is then mounted to a vehicle by attaching the support sleeve and support beam to an existing vehicle hitch. Once attached, the platform may be loaded with heavy items for transport.

Abstract: A motorcycle carrier attaches to a conventional trailer ball and supports a motorcycle front wheel for towing the motorcycle. The carrier resides approximately horizontally and provides a cradle for the motorcycle front wheel holding the front wheel, and motorcycle, in a vertical attitude. The carrier includes a downward facing mouth to place over the trailer ball. The mouth includes an aligning surface for cooperation with a flattened top surface found on known trailer balls. Retainers reside against surfaces of the trailer ball opposite the aligning surface to hold the ball in alignment with the alignment surface and thereby hold the position of the carrier on the trailer ball. Tie down straps may be used to further hold the motorcycle in a vertical attitude.

Abstract: A multi-animal hoisting system preferably includes a first hoisting section adapted to be coupled to a rear section of the existing all-terrain vehicle for loading and unloading a first animal from the all-terrain vehicle respectively. The system may further include a second hoisting section adapted to be coupled to a front section of the existing all-terrain vehicle for suspending a second animal at a desired height above a ground surface. The first and second hoisting sections may be independently and simultaneously operable such that the first and second animals are contemporaneously maintained at substantially stable positions respectively.

Abstract: A motorized ladder rack for loading or unloading a ladder on a vehicle is provided. The motorized ladder rack comprises a stationary front cradle, a pivotable and extendable rear cradle and a side rail. The rear cradle includes a motorized drive assembly which may be remotely controlled. The front and rear cradles are secured to the vehicle. The front cradle includes a support member, front and side guides removably secured to the support member and a side stop removably secured to the support member. The side rail is secured to the front and rear cradles and extends therebetween. The ladder rack is movable between a first position and a second position by activation of the motorized drive assembly.

Abstract: A transport vehicle includes a power unit, an attachment accessory, and an attachment mechanism configured to removably attach the attachment accessory to the power unit.

Abstract: A deer hoist for an all terrain vehicle includes a transverse mounting bar adapted to be attached to a trailer hitch drawbar on the vehicle. A beam vertically extends from the mounting bar and has a horizontal arm extending therefrom. A brake wench mounted on the vertical beam operates a cable along a plurality of pulleys disposed on the horizontal arm. A gambrel is secured to a distal end of the cable for suspending a deer. A width and height adjustable outrigger assembly is attached to the transverse mounting bar to prevent the all terrain vehicle from toppling when a load is placed on the hoist. The outrigger assembly can be conveniently disassembled and stored on the hoist when not in use. The hoist also includes an accessory rack and light for remote use.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a hitching apparatus for use with a vehicle that facilitates the coupling of equipment to a vehicle in a non-hinged manner so as to inhibit the lateral pivot of the equipment in relation to the vehicle. The present invention further relates to a novel hay bale suspension system that may be coupled to a vehicle through the hitching apparatus of the present invention and used to support and enable transportation of a round hay bale.

Abstract: A removable vehicle transport rack that attaches to a pickup or similar transport vehicle and provides the user with a means to transport or haul small vehicles like an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) or motorcycle. The rack uses a stinger extending from the transport vehicle hitch and then a removable deck that has pivoting center member which allows the deck to fold and unfold and thereby allowing ATVs or motorcycles to go up or down the deck's tracks. The tracks pivot or unfold to load ATVs and then fold, partially, once the ATV is in place and is secured. The user is able to take advantage of the extra length to load additional ATVs or other material where in the past one ATVs would occupy the whole of the transport vehicle's bed.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to a trailer for towing light weight items such as Motorcycles, All Terrain Vehicles, Jet Skis, garden tractors, mowers, golf carts or other miscellaneous loads. The Transporter embodied in this invention takes advantage of a fixed attachment to the rear of a towing vehicle that has a hinged interface to the trailer which allows vertical motion between the trailer and the towing vehicle but eliminates the sideways motions or yaw. The Transporter also has one or more castor type wheels which allow the trailer to be backed as an extension of the towing vehicle without danger of jackknifing. The castor wheels are easily removed allowing the side of the Transporter to rest on the ground, creating a ramp to drive the vehicle to be transported onto the Transporter. The side of the Transporter can then be lifted with a typical jack and the castor wheel assembly or assemblies slipped into place and fastened.

Abstract: The rack for a vehicle roof is a mechanized device for loading and unloading cargo onto and from a roof of a motor vehicle for transport. The rack includes a pair of horizontal support frame members mounted either directly on the roof of the vehicle, or onto an existing vehicle roof rack. A cargo carrying rack is mounted on cargo carrying arms, which are pivotally and slidably attached to a pair of traveling support arms that are, in turn, pivotally and slidably linked to the frame members. In some embodiments, a motor and gear train raise and lower the cargo carrying rack to and from the roof for loading and unloading cargo. In other embodiments, the cargo carrying rack is raised and lowered manually, with articulated stabilizer arms having a ratchet mechanism at one end and a spring-biased pulley at the other end dampening the speed of deployment.