Clarence W Anderson

US Patent:

6443345, Sep 3, 2002

Filed:

Jul 10, 2000

Appl. No.:

09/612822

Inventors:

John M. Bloemer - Sun Prairie WI
Clarence A. Anderson - Middleton WI

Assignee:

Graber Products, Inc. - Madison WI

International Classification:

B60R 900

US Classification:

224519, 224502, 224509, 224532, 224924

Abstract:

An equipment rack incorporating four linked members which mount an equipment rack support to a hitch insert. The linked members are formed by two pairs of pivotally linked arms which in turn are pivotally inked to the hitch insert and to an equipment rack mounting bracket. Each pair of linked arms provides three pivot bearings which have mutually parallel axes. In the collapsed position the linked arms making up each pair are parallel and the equipment rack support and hitch insert are in juxtaposition. In the extended position the arms making up each pair are substantially co-linear. A mechanical link locks the rack support to the hitch insert when the rack is retracted against the rear of the vehicle.

US Patent:

60859547, Jul 11, 2000

Filed:

Jul 15, 1998

Appl. No.:

9/115979

Inventors:

John M. Bloemer - Sun Prairie WI
Clarence A. Anderson - Middleton WI

Assignee:

Graber Products, Inc. - Madison WI

International Classification:

B60R 900

US Classification:

224509

Abstract:

An equipment rack incorporating four linked members which mount an equipment rack support to a hitch insert. The linked members are formed by two pairs of pivotally linked arms which in turn are pivotally linked to the hitch insert and to an equipment rack mounting bracket. Each pair of linked arms provides three pivot bearings which have mutually parallel axes. In the collapsed position the linked arms making up each pair are parallel and the equipment rack support and hitch insert are in juxtaposition. In the extended position the arms making up each pair are substantially co-linear. A mechanical link locks the rack support to the hitch insert when the rack is retracted against the rear of the vehicle.