U.S. patent application number 11/880815 was filed with the patent office on 2009-01-29 for protective vehicle cover.
Invention is credited to Michael Keeler.
Application Number | 20090025843 11/880815 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40294212 |
Filed Date | 2009-01-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090025843 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Keeler; Michael |
January 29, 2009 |
Protective vehicle cover
Abstract
A removable protective vehicle cover for motorcycles and
similarly designed vehicles for protecting the upper surface of the
vehicle from the elements. A cover sheet component protects vehicle
structures disposed rearward of the handlebars and incorporates two
front mounting elements for releasably receiving forward structures
of the vehicle. The cover sheet is deployed in a generally
horizontal plane and provides minimal wind resistance to any such
lateral forces. An optional cover module protects vehicle
components disposed forward of the handlebars and may be releasably
attached to the front edge of the cover sheet. A storage pouch may
be integrally incorporated with the vehicle cover to allow for
compact storage and portability of the vehicle cover when not in
use.
Inventors: |
Keeler; Michael; (Vero
Beach, FL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
HAYWORTH, CHANEY & THOMAS, P.A.
202 N. HARBOR CITY BLVD., SUITE 300
MELBOURNE
FL
32935
US
|
Family ID: |
40294212 |
Appl. No.: |
11/880815 |
Filed: |
July 23, 2007 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
150/167 ;
150/166 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B62J 19/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
150/167 ;
150/166 |
International
Class: |
B65D 65/02 20060101
B65D065/02 |
Claims
1. A protective vehicle cover, comprising: a flexible cover sheet
for protecting a vehicle and its components disposed rearward of
the handlebars, wherein said cover sheet is weather resistant, lies
generally in a horizontal plane, and has minimal vertical surfaces
providing for low wind resistance; two front mounting points having
a releasable connection to forward structures of said vehicle,
wherein said two front mounting points are fastened to a bottom
surface of said cover sheet; and a rear mounting point for
providing a releasable attachment to a rear structure of said
vehicle.
2. The protective vehicle cover of claim 1, wherein said two front
mounting points are selected from the group consisting of
loop-shaped fasteners, pockets, and retention straps.
3. The protective vehicle cover of claim 1, wherein said forward
structures of said vehicle are hand grips.
4. The protective vehicle cover of claim 1, wherein said rear
structure of said vehicle is selected from the group consisting of
the frame, rear fender, seat, rear wheel, tail light assembly, and
turn signal fixtures.
5. The protective vehicle cover of claim 1, wherein said rear
mounting point comprises a communicable attachment.
6. The protective vehicle cover of claim 5, wherein said
communicable attachment fastens a rear edge of said cover sheet to
said rear structure of said vehicle.
7. The protective vehicle cover of claim 6, wherein said
communicable attachment is selected from the group consisting of
hook and loop fasteners, strap and buckle fasteners, tie-off
straps, and hook straps.
8. The protective vehicle cover of claim 1, wherein said cover
sheet comprises an irregular hexagonal shape.
9. The protective vehicle cover of claim 8, wherein said cover
sheet is symmetrical and comprises a linear front edge unequal in
length and disposed parallel to a linear rear edge, two linear
parallel side edges that are equal in length and perpendicular to
said front edge and said rear edge, and two linear non-parallel
side edges that are equal in length.
10. The protective vehicle cover of claim 1, further comprising a
cover module for protecting vehicle components disposed forward of
said handlebars.
11. The protective vehicle cover of claim 10, wherein a releasable
attachment connects a rear edge of said cover module to a front
edge of said cover sheet.
12. The protective vehicle cover of claim 10, wherein said cover
module further comprises a plurality of attachment members for
releasably fixing said cover module to said vehicle.
13. The protective vehicle cover of claim 11, wherein both said
cover sheet and said cover module are independently functional when
not releasably attached.
14. The protective vehicle cover of claim 1, wherein said cover
sheet further comprises a top surface and a bottom surface with a
peripheral edge there around, wherein said peripheral edge is
folded to said bottom surface and fixed thereto by a fixation means
thereby, forming a finished peripheral edge.
15. The protective vehicle cover of claim 14, wherein said fixation
means is selected from the group consisting of stitching, heat
seal, and adhesive.
16. The protective vehicle cover of claim 1, further comprising an
integrated storage pouch for compact storage of said vehicle cover
when not in use.
17. The protective vehicle cover of claim 16, wherein said
integrated storage pouch is disposed at the midpoint on a rear edge
of said cover sheet.
18. The protective vehicle cover of claim 1, wherein an
air-circulating space is formed between said cover sheet and said
vehicle when said cover sheet is deployed.
19. A protective vehicle cover, comprising: a flexible cover sheet
of irregular hexagonal shape for protecting a vehicle and its
components disposed rearward of the handlebars, wherein said cover
sheet is weather resistant, lies generally in a horizontal plane,
and has minimal vertical surfaces providing for low wind
resistance, said cover sheet further comprising a symmetrical
shape, a linear front edge unequal in length and disposed parallel
to a linear rear edge, two linear parallel side edges that are
equal in length and perpendicular to said front edge and said rear
edge, and two linear non-parallel side edges that are equal in
length; two front mounting points having a releasable connection to
forward structures of said vehicle, wherein said two front mounting
points are fastened to a bottom surface of said cover sheet; and a
rear mounting point for providing a communicable attachment between
said rear edge of said cover sheet and a rear structure of said
vehicle.
20. A protective vehicle cover, comprising: a flexible cover sheet
of irregular hexagonal shape for protecting a vehicle and its
components disposed rearward of the handlebars, wherein said cover
sheet is weather resistant, lies generally in a horizontal plane,
and has minimal vertical surfaces providing for low wind
resistance, said cover sheet further comprising a symmetrical
shape, a linear front edge unequal in length and disposed parallel
to a linear rear edge, two linear parallel side edges that are
equal in length and perpendicular to said front edge and said rear
edge, and two linear non-parallel side edges that are equal in
length; two front mounting points for releasably receiving grip
ends of said handlebars, wherein said two front mounting points are
fastened to a bottom surface of said cover sheet; a rear mounting
point for providing a communicable attachment between said rear
edge of said cover sheet and a rear structure of said vehicle; a
cover module for protecting vehicle components disposed forward of
said handlebars wherein a releasable attachment connects a rear
edge of said cover module to said front edge of said cover sheet,
said cover module further comprising attachment members for
releasably fixing said cover module to said vehicle; and an
integrated storage pouch for compact storage of said vehicle cover
when not in use, wherein said integrated storage pouch is disposed
at the midpoint on said rear edge of said cover sheet.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] Not applicable.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not applicable.
INCORPORATION-BY-REFERENCE OF MATERIAL SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT
DISK
[0003] Not applicable.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] 1. Field of the Invention
[0005] The present invention generally relates to protective
vehicle covers, more specifically, the present invention relates to
a lightweight protective covering for motorcycles and
motorcycle-like vehicle.
[0006] 2. Background Art
[0007] The deteriorating effects of direct sunlight and water are
well known and much time, effort, and money has been spent
protecting vehicles and other items from these effects. The
detrimental effects commonly include fading, blistering, and
cracking. The largest impact from these effects is often felt by
the uppermost horizontal surfaces of vehicles.
[0008] Vehicles such as motorcycles, bicycles, motor scooters, all
terrain vehicles, personal watercraft, snowmobiles, and similarly
designed vehicles are particularly susceptible to these effects
since, by design, the vehicles are used in outdoor conditions and
have no protective bodies or coverings inherently incorporated in
their design. Due to their manner of use, such vehicles are
typically exposed to atmospheric elements for extended periods of
time.
[0009] More specifically, vehicle owners such as motorcyclists
often desire to protect their vehicles from damage that can be
caused by exposure to rain and, particularly, by exposure to the
sun. Commercially available covers are customarily made of material
such as vinyl or canvas which is essentially non-stretchable in
character. Such covers are normally relatively large and
cumbersome, typically making them non-portable for a
motorcyclist.
[0010] Such covers are usually draped over the motorcycle and are
relatively loose fitting, customarily being secured by ties or the
like. In any event, such devices, being very loosely fit to the
motorcycle, do not afford adequate protection from the elements.
This situation is aggravated by virtue of the fact that motorcycles
come in various sizes and configurations, while the conventional
covers do not.
[0011] In addition, motorcycle riders utilize their motorcycles for
many purposes, including pleasure trips, running errands, and
riding to and from work. It is therefore desirable that the seat
and fuel tank be kept free of dust, dirt, and moisture which may
accumulate when the motorcycle is parked, so as not to soil the
rider's clothes. In hot climates, the black vinyl material of which
motorcycle seats are typically composed may become very hot,
causing considerable discomfort to the rider when first mounting
the motorcycle. In the most extreme cases, the heat may even cause
bums. Such heat further serves to seriously degrade the vinyl
material. Many motorcycle riders also take pride in the overall
appearance of their motorcycle, especially in the cleanliness and
shininess of the fuel tank. The intense sunlight and high
temperatures that characterize the motorcycle riding season,
rapidly oxidizes the paint or lacquer finish of motorcycle fuel
tanks, providing a degraded appearance. Some examples of motorcycle
coverings and protectors that have been granted patents include the
following:
[0012] In U.S. Pat. No. 3,659,872, Warner discloses a foldable
cover structure that completely covers a motorcycle. The cover has
front and rear openings with fasteners and a top opening for the
handlebars, with another covering portion that fastens over the top
opening.
[0013] In U.S. Pat. No. 3,884,523, Allen describes another
protective cover for a motorcycle that stores within the seat of
the cycle. The cover encloses the entire motorcycle, with no
openings, and must be stuffed back into the seat for storage and
riding of the motorcycle.
[0014] In U.S. Pat. No. 4,171,145, Pearson, Sr. describes a
retractable protective covering which may be unrolled from a spring
loaded spool mounted in a housing attached to a motorcycle behind
the motorcycle seat to cover the seat and the tank of the
motorcycle. The covering has a long, rectangular top panel formed
of heavy waterproof material, and two long, narrow upper side
panels and two long, narrow lower side panels, with an upper and
lower side panel on each side of the top panel. A pair of V-shaped
bars, fastened to opposite sides of the housing, serves as guides
in unfolding the upper and lower panels as the protective cover is
extended. The covering is preferably fabricated from a nylon
fabric.
[0015] In U.S. Pat. No. 4,283,084, Gallagher discloses a protective
cover for a motorcycle that is pentagonal in shape. The cover has
an elastic curved edge that fits the rear seat portion, a pair of
elastic bands for engaging the foot posts, and a set of Velcro
strips for joining the cover about the cycle frame between the
engine and the front wheel. The cover is described as fabricated
from a lightweight, flexible material such as "ripstop" nylon,
polyester fabric or other materials which resist the effects of
weather.
[0016] In U.S. Pat. No. 5,062,560, Wasden shows a flexible
protective bicycle cover that fits over the seat, crossbar,
handlebars and the front fork of a bicycle. The covering is a
contour fitted covering of stretchable material that provides
aerodynamic features with little or no protection of the bicycle it
is covering.
[0017] U.S. Pat. No. 5,562,139 by Cseri discloses a stretchable
cover for providing a tight aerodynamic fit on the cycle to protect
against the elements while the cycle is at rest or being
transported. The cover is stretched over the front structure, the
cycle frame and seat, attached to the front structure and seat and
secured to the foot pegs to retain the cover on the cycle. Openings
are provided in the cover for any side mirrors. The stretchable
fabric material can be a nylon spandex fabric, known as
Spandura.RTM., which is commercially available.
[0018] In U.S. Pat. No. 5,676,288, Spirk shows a portable
protective cover for a bicycle adapted to be connected to the
handlebars and seat of a bicycle. The protective cover is made of
waterproof or water resistant materials to protect various bicycle
components from the elements. The protective cover includes an
elastic material design to secure the protective cover to the
bicycle. The protective cover can include an integrated storage
pouch to conveniently and compactly store the protective covering
when not in use.
[0019] In U.S. Pat. No. 5,795,009, Sack et al. describe a removable
sun shade for motorcycles that includes a fabric sheet for
extension over the upper part of the motorcycle, forming an
air-circulating region between the motorcycle and the sheet. The
sheet has a number of attachment members around its edge for
securing the sheet to various parts of the motorcycle to hold the
sheet in place. A storage pouch is attached to the sheet for
reversible attachment to the motorcycle at various locations as
most suitable for each model. The material of the fabric sheet is
described as "weather resistant with breathability".
[0020] In U.S. Pat. No. 6,516,884, Henry discloses a sunscreen
protector for motorcycles that covers the seat and fuel tank area
to protect these components from the deteriorating effects of
sunlight. The protector shade includes a rectangular sheet of
tightly woven nylon/lycra elastomeric material sized to cover only
the motorcycle seat and fuel tank. Four elastic strap members and a
plurality of hook loop members with attached, coated J-hook members
are employed for attachment to selected attachment points on the
motorcycle.
[0021] Thus, there is an unmet need for a protective vehicle cover
that covers the seat and fuel tank regions of the vehicle and which
can be employed for a large variety of vehicle designs and sizes.
The cover also needs to be easily attached to and detached from the
vehicle while being small enough for convenient storage.
[0022] Additionally, many conventional protective covers envelope
the entirety of the vehicle and are more suitable for long term
storage. Everyday use of such covers requires more preparation by
the user and subjects the vehicle to cross winds that may overturn
the vehicle causing significant damage. Therefore, it is a purpose
of this invention to provide a cover that protects the vehicle from
detrimental environmental factors, while not subjecting the vehicle
to destabilizing lateral forces.
[0023] While the invention is amenable to various modifications and
alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of
example in the drawings and will be described in detail. It should
be understood, however, that the intention is not necessarily to
limit the invention to the particular embodiments described. On the
contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents,
and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the
invention, as defined by the appended claims.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0024] It is an aspect of the present invention to provide a
protective vehicle cover adapted to be releasably connected to both
the handlebar region and a structure located rear of the seat of a
vehicle to protect vehicle components from the elements when the
vehicle is not in use.
[0025] It is a further aspect of the present invention to provide a
protective vehicle cover having minimal vertical surfaces thereby
reducing wind resistance and lateral forces that may damage the
vehicle.
[0026] Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide a
protective vehicle cover with a cover sheet that lies generally in
a horizontal plane and further allows air to circulate between the
cover and the vehicle.
[0027] A still further aspect of the present invention is to
provide a protective vehicle cover that further includes an
optional cover module that protects vehicle components located
forward of the handle bar region of the vehicle.
[0028] In accordance with one embodiment, there is provided a
protective vehicle cover, comprising a flexible cover sheet for
protecting a vehicle and its components disposed rearward of the
handlebars, wherein the cover sheet is weather resistant, lies
generally in a horizontal plane, and has minimal vertical surfaces
providing for low wind resistance, two front mounting points having
a releasable connection to forward structures of the vehicle,
wherein the two front mounting points are fastened to a bottom
surface of the cover sheet, and a rear mounting point for providing
a releasable attachment to a rear structure of the vehicle.
[0029] The scope of the present invention may further include a
cover module for protecting vehicle components disposed forward of
the handlebars wherein a rear edge of the cover module is
releasably attachable to the front edge of the cover sheet and both
the cover sheet and the cover module are independently functional
when not releasably attached.
[0030] Further, the present invention may incorporate an integrated
storage pouch for retaining the vehicle cover when not in use. The
integrated storage pouch may preferably be disposed at the midpoint
along the rear edge of the cover sheet.
[0031] The above and other aspects of the present invention will
become more readily appreciated and understood from a consideration
of the following detailed description of the preferred form of the
present invention when taken together with the accompanying
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0032] FIG. 1 depicts a top view of a protective cover of the
present invention.
[0033] FIG. 2 depicts a bottom view of the protective cover
depicted in FIG. 1.
[0034] FIG. 3 depicts a top view of the rear edge of the cover
sheet of the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 4 depicts a bottom view of the rear edge of the present
invention.
[0036] FIG. 5 depicts the protective cover of the present invention
folded into a compact storage pouch.
[0037] FIG. 6 depicts an attachment means between the cover sheet
and the cover module of the present invention.
[0038] FIG. 7 depicts a top view of protective cover of the present
invention further including a motorcycle shown in phantom for
illustrative purposes.
[0039] FIG. 8 depicts a left side view of a protective cover of the
present invention.
[0040] FIG. 9 depicts a right side view of a protective cover of
the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0041] Referring now to the drawings, wherein the drawings are for
the purpose of illustrating preferred embodiments of the invention
only and not for the purpose of limiting the same, in FIGS. 1, 2
and 7-9, there is shown a protective vehicle cover 10.
[0042] The protective vehicle cover 10 is primarily intended to
shield the upper portions of a vehicle from the detrimental effects
of sun, heat, precipitation, and other elements. Accordingly, the
vehicle cover 10 is preferably composed of a lightweight weather
resistant material that may be resistant to sun, ultraviolet rays,
various forms of precipitation, and/or any other known causes of
weathering. The vehicle cover 10 material may further possess
characteristics of breathability to permit air circulation there
through. Suitable materials may include, but are not limited to,
nylon, ripstop nylon, vinyl materials, polyester fabrics and other
materials known within the art. In use, the vehicle sheet 10 may
protect the handlebars, hand grips (HG), hand brakes, headlight
(H), instrument panel (IP), fuel tank (FT), seat (S), and other
central components of the vehicle. A taut fit ensures both maximal
stability and protection for the vehicle. When the cover sheet 20
is extended over the vehicle and attached as described, a space
will be formed between the cover sheet 20 and the upper portion of
the vehicle permitting air to circulate beneath the cover sheet 20.
Further, it is important that the vehicle cover 10 material be thin
and pliable so that it can be readily folded into a package
corresponding in size to one's hand (as shown in FIG. 5).
[0043] A top view and a bottom view of one embodiment of the
vehicle cover are depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2, respectively.
Protective vehicle cover 10 may comprise a flexible cover sheet 20
and an optional cover module 50 that are each composed of a
lightweight flexible material, as described above. Cover sheet 20
further comprises a top surface 21 and a bottom surface 22 having a
reinforced peripheral edge 23 folded upon the bottom surface 22 and
fixed thereto by a fixation means 24 thereby forming a finished
peripheral edge (best shown in FIG. 2). Preferably, the fixation
means 24 is embodied by stitches 24 that allow for sufficient
stretching and will not break when used for their intended purpose.
The stitches 24 may comprise nylon thread or any other suitable
materials known within the art. Additionally, the method of
stitching may include box-stitching, zig-zag stitching, or any
forms of stitching known within the art that preferably adds
strength and/or durability to a stitched connection. While
stitching is the preferred method of reinforcing the peripheral
edge 23 of the cover sheet 20, any conventional material edge
reinforcing methods (e.g. adhesives, heat seal, etc.) may be
employed.
[0044] The preferred overall shape of the cover sheet 20 is best
described as an irregular hexagonal shape, as shown in FIGS. 1, 2
and 7. Cover sheet 20 may comprise a front edge 25 that is parallel
but unequal in length to a rear edge 26, a first parallel lateral
edge 27 equal in length to a second parallel lateral edge 28, and a
first non-parallel lateral edge 29 equal in length to a second
non-parallel lateral edge 30. Both the first parallel lateral edge
27 and second parallel lateral edge 28 may be disposed
perpendicular to both the front edge 25 and the rear edge 26 of the
cover sheet 20.
[0045] The primary mounting points for attaching the cover sheet 20
to a vehicle form a three point mounting system. The mounting
points may be constructed of materials including, but not limited
to, a flexible nylon band, a web strap, a pocket, an elastic cord,
line or strap, and any other similar materials which may further
incorporate beneficial features such as snap-fastening means, hook
and loop fasteners, buttons, various types of clips, clasps, belt
means, buckles, and the like. Preferably, the primary mounting
points are comprised of a cut-resistant material.
[0046] The three point mounting system preferably comprises two
front mounting points 31 and one rear mounting point 32. The two
front mounting points 31 are preferably disposed at or near the
forward corners 33 of the cover sheet 20 and preferably attach to
the hand grips (HG) of the vehicle. Alternatively, the two front
mounting points 31 may attach to any other convenient forward
components of the vehicle such as, but not limited to, the
handlebars, hand levers, instrument panel (IP), mirrors (M), and
mirror stem (MS). The two front mounting points 31 are preferably
disposed on the bottom surface 22 of the cover sheet 20 via a
stitched connection, an adhesive connection, a heat seal
connection, or any conventional connection means known within the
art. The configuration of the two front mounting points 31 may
include, but is not limited to, loop-shaped fasteners, pockets,
elastic retention straps, and the like. A pocket mounting point may
be formed by sewing extra pieces of stretchable material onto the
bottom surface 22 of the cover sheet 20. Such pockets may serve to
enclose the handle bars and hand levers of the vehicle. Preferably,
the two front mounting points 31 are of a generally looped-shaped
configuration so as not to necessitate the tying of each individual
front mounting point 31 to a forward component of the vehicle, such
as the hand grips HG.
[0047] The rear mounting point 32 may be disposed between the rear
corners 34 along the rear edge 26 of the cover sheet 20, and may be
attached to the top surface 21, bottom surface 22, or the
peripheral edge 23 of the cover sheet 20. The rear mounting point
32 provides the third primary point of contact with a rear
structure of the vehicle such as, but not limited to, the frame,
fender (F), seat (S), tire (T), tail light assembly (TA), turn
signal fixtures, and the like. The rear mounting point 32 may
comprise a loop-shaped configuration for attachment around an
appropriate rear structure of a vehicle, such as those enumerated
above. This configuration may be formed in a wide variety of
embodiments including, but not limited to, a strap fixedly attached
at both its ends to the rear edge 26, a strap fixedly attached to
the rear edge 26 at one of its ends and communicably connectable 35
to the rear edge 26 at its opposite end, and two respective straps
each having one end fixedly attached to the rear edge 26 and each
strap having a free end communicably connectable 35 to the free end
of the other strap. Such communicable connections 35 are fully
releasable and may include, but are not limited to, hook and loop
fasteners, snap-fastening means, buttons, various types of clips,
clasps, latches, belt means, buckles, hooks, hooks and D-rings, tie
off strap ends, and the like.
[0048] Additional secondary attachment members 36 may be used to
supplement the three point mounting system. As depicted in FIGS. 1,
2, and 7-9, secondary attachment members 36 may be fixedly secured
to the cover sheet 20 along its lateral edges 27-30. Preferably,
the secondary attachment members 36 may be disposed at the lateral
corners 37 which are located at the intersections of a parallel
lateral edge 27, 28 and the respective non-parallel lateral edge
29, 30. Secondary attachment members 36 may also be disposed along
the front edge 25, front corners 33, rear edge 26, and rear corners
34 of the cover sheet 20 if a more secured attachment to the
vehicle is desired. Configurations of the secondary attachment
members 36 may include, but are not limited to, loops, straps,
lines or elastic cords which may further utilize hook and loop
fasteners, snap-fastening means, buttons, various types of clips,
clasps, latches, belt means, buckles, hooks, hooks and D-rings, and
the like to provide attachment to structures of the vehicle.
[0049] Referring to FIGS. 1-5, the vehicle cover 10 may further
comprise an integrated storage pouch 40. The storage pouch 40 may
be integrated along any available surface or peripheral edge 23 of
the cover sheet 20. Preferably, the attachment point for the
storage pouch 40 is at the midpoint of the rear edge 26 of the
cover sheet 20. The pouch 40 may be configured in any general
shape, with preferred embodiments having a rectangular or square
shape. The pouch 40 may be formed by overlaying two layers of
material and fixedly fastening the two layers to each other around
their respective peripheries, leaving one edge unfastened forming
the mouth of the pouch 40. A portion of the mouth of the pouch 40
may be integral with or attached to cover sheet 20, preferably
along a peripheral edge 23, so that the cover sheet 20 will remain
attached to the pouch 40 in both the stored and deployed positions.
As shown in FIG. 3, each adjacent material layer at the mouth of
the pouch 40 further comprises a complimentary closure means 42a,
42b for releasably closing the mouth of the pouch 40 when the
vehicle cover 10 is deployed. During cover 10 deployment, the pouch
40 is empty and may be temporarily used to store incidental
items.
[0050] As depicted in FIGS. 3-5, when storage of the vehicle cover
10 is desired the cover 10 may be compacted, rolled, or folded into
a size and shape insertable within the pouch 40 via folding cover
10 over integral closure means 42a. With cover 10 folded over
closure means 42a and into the pouch 40, the mouth of the storage
pouch 40 may be releasably fastened, as depicted in FIG. 5, by
complimentary closure means 42b, 42c. Complimentary closure means
42a, 42b, 42c may include a wide variety of closure structures
including, but not limited to, hook and loop fasteners, zippers,
snaps, buttons, clasps, clips, or any other means known within the
art. The storage pouch 40 is preferably composed of the same
materials described in detail above regarding cover sheet 20.
Utilizing water resistant pouch material prevents liquid and other
matter from penetrating the pouch 40 and moistening or soiling the
flexible cover sheet 20 stored therein. As shown in FIG. 5,
protective cover sheet 20 is collapsible in a convenient and easily
transportable pouch 40 when not in use. In this manner, the
protective vehicle cover 10 can easily be stored in a bag, a user's
pocket, or conveniently carried by the user when the cover 10 is
not in use.
[0051] As depicted in FIGS. 1, 2, and 6-9, the present invention
may further comprise a cover module 50 for protecting vehicle
components disposed forward of the handlebars. Such a cover module
50 may overlay the instrument panel (IP), headlight (H) and other
forward vehicle components, depending on the design and styling of
the vehicle. Preferably, the cover module 50 may be of a
substantially rectangular configuration having a front edge 51, a
rear edge 52, and two side edges 53, 54. Depending on the contours
of the vehicle, the cover module 50 may be relatively flat,
dome-shaped, or similarly adapted to fit the specific contours of
the vehicle forward of the handlebars. A cover module 50
constructed of stretchable material may fully conform to a wide
variety of vehicle components and contours. Cover module 50 may be
comprised of the same materials as described for the cover sheet 20
above including, but not limited to, nylon, ripstop nylon, vinyl
materials, polyester fabrics and other materials known within the
art. Similarly, cover module 50 may further incorporate the same
manner of a reinforced peripheral edge (i.e. stitching, etc.) as
described above.
[0052] As depicted in FIGS. 6 and 7, the rear edge 52 of the cover
module 50 may be releasably attached 55 to the front edge 25 of the
cover sheet 20. Releasable attachment 55 comprises complimentary
structures disposed on the aforementioned rear edge 52 and front
edge 25 which may include a wide variety of structures including,
but not limited to, hook and loop fasteners, zippers,
snap-fastening means, buttons, various types of clips, clasps,
latches, belt means, buckles, hooks, hooks and D-rings, and the
like. Alternatively, attachment 55 may be of a fixed nature such
as, but not limited to, using stitching, adhesive, or the like.
Depending on the design of the vehicle, mirror stems (MS) or other
protruding vehicle structures may project through the point of
releasable attachment 55. When a cover module 50 is to be used in
conjunction with a cover sheet 20, the dimensions of the integrated
storage pouch 40 may be increased accordingly to accommodate the
storage of both the cover module 50 and the cover sheet 20 within
the pouch 40 (see FIG. 5). Alternatively, an integrated pouch 40
may be disposed on any available surface of cover module 50 in
instances including, but not limited to, desired independent use
and/or storage of cover sheet 20 and cover module 50.
[0053] In use, as depicted in FIGS. 7-9, the protective vehicle
cover 10 may be installed on a vehicle by slipping the two front
mounting points 31 attached to the bottom surface 22 of cover sheet
20 over the hand grips of the vehicle. Alternatively, two front
mounting points 31 can be attached to the handle bars or any other
convenient forward vehicle structures. The cover sheet 20 may then
be pulled or stretched rearward along the central axis of the
vehicle (e.g. over the fuel tank (FT) and seat (S) of a
motorcycle). Next the rear mounting point 32 may be attached about
the rear taillight assembly (TA). Alternatively, the rear mounting
point 32 may be attached to the vehicle by passing around, under,
or through any other convenient rear structure of the vehicle
including, but not limited to, the fender (F), the tire (T), the
rear border of the seat (S), the frame, and the like. As described
above, the rear mounting point 32 may be either a static structure
or an adjustable element that allows further tightening of the rear
mounting point 32 to the vehicle. Rear mounting point 32 may
include a variety of embodiments, with a preferred embodiment being
a strap and complimentary buckle configuration as depicted in FIGS.
7-9.
[0054] Optional secondary attachment members 36 may be employed and
preferably do not distort cover sheet 20 causing significant
vertical surfaces. Secondary attachment members 36 may attach to
available vehicle structures including, but not limited to, the
frame, seat (S), fuel tank (FT), foot pegs, cleat, or any other
convenient point of attachment. Such attachment members 36 may
include, but are not limited to, loops, straps, lines or elastic
cords which may further utilize hook and loop fasteners,
snap-fastening means, buttons, various types of clips, clasps,
latches, belt means, buckles, hooks, hooks and D-rings, and the
like to provide attachment to structures of the vehicle.
[0055] The protective vehicle cover 10 is shown in the functional
state in FIGS. 7-9. As disclosed above, an optional cover module 50
may be utilized either in conjunction with cover sheet 20 or
independent of cover sheet 20 as desired. Cover module 50 may be
constructed in a variety of shapes to accommodate the wide variety
of vehicle designs in the marketplace. Cover module 50 may comprise
stretchable material, wherein the module 50 may thereafter stretch
and conform to an unlimited number of vehicle designs. When used in
conjunction with a cover sheet 20, the rear edge 52 of the cover
module 50 and the front edge 25 of the cover sheet 20 may each
incorporate respective complimentary releasable attachments 55. In
this manner, the abutting edges 25, 52 of the cover sheet 20 and
module 50, respectively, may be joined. Releasable attachments 55
may allow for the passage of vehicle structures including, but not
limited to, mirrors (M) and mirror stems (MS), windshield sections,
and the like (see FIGS. 8 and 9). Further, the cover module 50 may
utilize attachment members 56 about the edges of the module 50 to
provide additional points of attachment to the vehicle. Attachment
members 56 may be disposed on any edge of the cover module 50, with
attachment members 56 preferably being disposed along the front
edge 51 as depicted in FIGS. 7-9. Attachment members 56 may
include, but are not limited to, loops, straps, lines or elastic
cords which may further utilize hook and loop fasteners,
snap-fastening means, buttons, various types of clips, clasps,
latches, belt means, buckles, hooks, hooks and D-rings, and the
like to provide attachment to structures of the vehicle. If the
cover module 50 is to be used independent of the cover sheet 20,
the rear edge 52 of the cover module 50 may incorporate attachment
members 56 instead of a releasable attachment 55. Alternatively,
both releasable attachment 55 and attachment members 56 may be
simultaneously disposed upon the rear edge 52 of the cover module
50 to allow for cover module 50 use both in conjunction with and
independent of the cover sheet 20.
[0056] The protective vehicle cover 10 is quickly and easily
installed or removed from a vehicle using the described three point
attachment system. It is important to appreciate that the vehicle
cover 10 is not permanently attached to the vehicle and that the
cover 10 can be entirely removed and carried away from the vehicle
itself. The protective cover 10 readily folds into a small size for
easy storage and transport. Removal of the cover 10 from a vehicle
is preferably accomplished via the release of the rear mounting
point 32 followed by the release of the front mounting points 31,
respectively. With the cover 10 disengaged from the vehicle,
closure means 42a, 42b may be spread apart to reveal the interior
of the integrated pouch 40. The user may then fold, compact or
otherwise insert the cover sheet 20 and/or the cover module 50 into
the integrated pouch 40. As depicted in FIG. 5, closure means 42b,
42c may then be placed in communication to fully enclose cover 10
within the integrated pouch 40.
[0057] For deployment of the cover 10, closure means 42b, 42c are
disengaged and the integrated storage pouch 40 is opened to allow
the user access to the cover sheet 20 and/or cover module 50
therein. Once the storage pouch 40 has been opened, the protective
vehicle cover 10 may be unfolded and positioned on the vehicle, as
described above and depicted in FIGS. 7-9.
[0058] It will be appreciated that no attempt has been made to
cover the entire vehicle. Rather, the parts which are most
desirably sheltered from the elements, namely the seat (S) and fuel
tank (FT) areas are protected. In this manner, a cover 10 having
less material can be constructed. Additionally, the cover 10 of the
invention is provided with the above-described attachment means
which may be simple to use, rust proof and adapted to be securely
engaged to the vehicle in such a manner that the cover 10 cannot be
readily blown from the vehicle. In this manner, less bulk is
required while covering the critical features of a vehicle. Also,
one can readily foresee the advantage of having a cover 10 that can
be compacted or folded into a size and shape roughly equivalent to
the palm of one's hand. It is within the scope of the present
invention to further provide an integrated storage pouch 40 for the
folded cover 10 such that the entire package may be placed in one's
pocket. While FIGS. 7-9 depict a cover sheet 20 in use with a cover
module 50, each of these separable components may be independently
deployed without requiring the use of the complimenting component.
In such a manner, vehicle structures disposed forward of the
handlebars and vehicle structures disposed rearward of the
handlebars may be independently or conjunctively protected.
[0059] It is important to appreciate, however, that the present
invention is not permanently attached to the vehicle and can be
entirely removed and carried away from the vehicle itself. The
present disclosure will afford significant protection for a wide
variety of vehicle, as well as accomplish the other aspects of the
invention set forth above.
[0060] While the above description contains much specificity, this
should not be construed as limitations on the scope of any
embodiment, but as exemplifications of the presently preferred
embodiments thereof. Many other ramifications and variations are
possible within the teachings of the various embodiments.
[0061] Thus the scope of the invention should be determined by the
appended claims and their legal equivalents, and not by the
examples given.
* * * * *