Abstract
Universal brackets comprising universal yokes that are compatible with a variety of yoke caps are disclosed. Selection of a particular yoke cap determines the size of an opening formed when the yoke and yoke cap are joined to form the bracket, which can be used, for example, in mudflap mounting systems that optionally include additional safety features, such as cylindrical clamps, bent support arms, flared rods, and reinforced mudflaps.
Claims
1. A universal bracket comprising: a yoke, the yoke comprising: a top member, a first side member, and a second side member, the yoke having a substantially u-shape; the first side member having a first pocket and a first hole extending from the first pocket through the first side member; and the second side member having a second pocket and a second hole extending from the second pocket through the second side member; and a first yoke cap having a substantially u-shape configured to attach to the yoke, the first yoke cap comprising: a bottom member having a third hole through a proximal end thereof and a fourth hole through a distal end thereof; wherein the yoke and the first yoke cap are configured to attach together through an alignment of the first hole with the third hole and an alignment of the second hole with the fourth hole and forming a substantially square opening between the yoke and the first yoke cap.
2. The universal bracket according to claim 1 further comprising: a square vehicle hitch wherein the yoke is placed on a top of the vehicle hitch and the first yoke cap is placed on a bottom of the vehicle hitch so that the vehicle hitch is within the square opening; a first bolt passed through the third hole and the first hole and tightened to a first nut within the first pocket; and a second bolt passed through the fourth hole and the second hole and tightened to a second nut within the second pocket; wherein only a four corners of the vehicle hitch are in contact with the yoke and the first yoke cap when the first and second bolts are tightened to the first and second nuts.
3. The universal bracket according to claim 2 further comprising: a second yoke cap substituted for the first yoke cap wherein the second yoke cap has a first pair of fins that extend from a bottom member that fit inside of the first side member and the second side member forming a substantially rectangular opening between the yoke and the second yoke cap to accommodate a rectangular vehicle hitch.
4. The universal bracket according to claim 1 further comprising: a first boss extending from the first side member; a second boss extending from the second side member; a first bent arm attached to the first boss at a proximal end of the first bent arm; and a second bent arm attached to the second boss at a proximal end of the second bent arm; wherein a distal end of the first bent arm and a distal end of the second bent arm extend upward from the yoke and at a desired angle with respect to the yoke.
5. The universal bracket according to claim 4 further comprising: a distal end of the first bent arm and a distal end of the second bent arm extend downward from the yoke and at a desired angle with respect to the yoke.
6. The universal bracket according to claim 5 further comprising: a first cylindrical clamp located at the proximal end of the first bent arm, the first cylindrical clamp having at least one fastener hole; at least one screw that passes through the at least one fastener hole and engages with a first groove in the first boss to laterally constrain movement of the first bent arm about the first boss but allow for rotation of the first bent arm about the first boss; a second cylindrical clamp located at the proximal end of the second bent arm, the second cylindrical clamp having at least one fastener hole; and at least one screw that passes through the at least one fastener hole wherein the at least one screw engages with a second groove in the second boss to laterally constrain movement of the second bent arm about the second boss but allow for rotation of the second bent arm about the second boss.
7. The universal bracket according to claim 6 further comprising: a first rod attached to a third cylindrical clamp located at a distal end of the first bent arm; a first mudflap holder attached to the first rod; a first mudflap attached to the first mudflap holder; a second rod attached to a fourth cylindrical clamp located at a distal end of the second bent arm; a second mudflap holder attached to the second rod; and a second mudflap attached to the second mudflap holder.
8. The universal bracket according to claim 7 wherein the first and second rods each have a flared end to prevent the first and second rods from slipping through the third and fourth second cylindrical clamps during use and can only be inserted through the third and fourth second cylindrical clamps in one direction from the bracket side.
9. The universal bracket according to claim 7 further comprising: a center line of the first cylindrical clamp and the second cylindrical clamp and a center line of the third cylindrical clamp and the fourth cylindrical clamp are offset from one another in all three dimensions.
10. A method for mounting a universal bracket to a vehicle hitch, the method comprising the steps of: (a) positioning a yoke having a substantially u-shape on a top side of the vehicle hitch; (b) positioning a first yoke cap having a substantially u-shape on a bottom side of the vehicle hitch forming a square opening between the yoke and the first yoke cap wherein only a four corners of the vehicle hitch are in contact with the yoke and the first yoke cap; (c) passing a first bolt through the first yoke cap and into a first pocket of the yoke; (d) placing a first nut within the first pocket and tightening the first nut to the first bolt; (e) passing a second bolt through the first yoke cap and into a second pocket of the yoke; and (f) placing a second nut within the second pocket and tightening the second nut to the second bolt.
11. The method according to claim 10 wherein step (c) further comprises the steps of: passing the first bolt through a first hole through a proximal end of the first yoke cap; passing the first bolt through a second hole in a first side member of the yoke, wherein the second hole extends from the first pocket through the first side member.
12. The method according to claim 11 wherein step (e) further comprises the steps of: passing the second bolt through a third hole through a distal end of the first yoke cap; and passing the second bolt through a fourth hole in a second side member of the yoke, wherein the fourth hole extends from the second pocket through the second side member.
13. The method according to claim 12 further comprising the steps of: substituting a second yoke cap for the first yoke cap; and inserting a first pair of fins that extend from a bottom member of the second yoke cap inside of the first side member and the second side member forming a substantially rectangular opening between the yoke and the second yoke cap to accommodate a rectangular vehicle hitch.
14. The method according to claim 13 further comprising the steps of: attaching a proximal end of a first bent arm to a first boss extending from the first side member; and attaching a proximal end of a second bent arm to a second boss extending from the second side member; wherein a distal end of the first bent arm and a distal end of the second bent arm extend upward from the yoke and at a desired angle with respect to the yoke.
15. The method according to claim 13 further comprising the steps of: attaching a proximal end of a first bent arm to a first boss extending from the first side member; and attaching a proximal end of a second bent arm to a second boss extending from the second side member; wherein the distal end of the first bent arm and the distal end of the second bent arm extend downward from the yoke and at a desired angle with respect to the yoke.
16. The method according to claim 14 further comprising the steps of: screwing at least one screw that passes through at least one fastener hole in a first cylindrical clamp located at the proximal end of the first bent arm and engaging the at least one screw with a first groove in the first boss thereby laterally constraining movement of the first bent arm about the first boss but allowing for rotation of the first bent arm about the first boss; and screwing at least one screw that passes through at least one fastener hole in a second cylindrical clamp located at the proximal end of the second bent arm and engaging the at least one screw with a second groove in the second boss thereby laterally constraining movement of the second bent arm about second boss but allowing for rotation of the second bent arm about second boss.
17. The method according to claim 16 further comprising the steps of: attaching a first rod to a third cylindrical clamp located at a distal end of the first bent arm; attaching a first mudflap holder to the first rod; attaching a first mudflap to the first mudflap holder; attaching a second rod to a fourth cylindrical clamp located at a distal end of the second bent arm; attaching a second mudflap holder to the second rod; and attaching a second mudflap to the second mudflap holder.
18. The method according to claim 17 further comprising the steps of: inserting the first rod through the third cylindrical clamp from a bracket side until a flared end of the first rod abuts against the third cylindrical clamp; and inserting the second rod through the fourth cylindrical clamp from a bracket side until a flared end of the second rod abuts against the fourth cylindrical clamp.
19. A universal bracket comprising: a yoke having a substantially u-shape configured to attach to a first yoke cap having a substantially u-shape forming a substantially square opening between the yoke and the first yoke cap; a square opening formed between the yoke and the first yoke cap; and a vehicle hitch within the square opening where only a four corners of the vehicle hitch are in contact with the yoke and the first yoke cap.
20. The universal bracket according to claim 19 further comprising: a second yoke cap substituted for the first yoke cap wherein the second yoke cap has a first pair of fins that extend from a bottom member that fit inside of the first side member and the second side member forming a substantially rectangular opening between the yoke and the second yoke cap to accommodate a rectangular vehicle hitch; wherein only the four corners of the vehicle hitch are in contact with the yoke and the second yoke cap.
21. The universal bracket according to claim 19 further comprising: a first boss extending from a first side member of the yoke; a second boss extending from a second side member of the yoke; a first bent arm attached to the first boss at a proximal end of the first bent arm; and a second bent arm attached to the second boss at a proximal end of the second bent arm; wherein a distal end of the first bent arm and a distal end of the second bent arm extend upward from the yoke and at a desired angle with respect to the yoke.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0050] FIG. 1 shows a front perspective view of a yoke, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0051] FIG. 2A shows a back plan view of the yoke of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0052] FIG. 2B shows a back perspective view of the yoke of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0053] FIG. 3A shows a top plan view of the yoke of FIGS. 1, 2A, and 2B, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0054] FIG. 3B shows a bottom plan view of the yoke of FIGS. 1, 2A, and 2B, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0055] FIG. 4A shows a right-side plan view of the yoke of FIGS. 1, 2A, and 2B, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0056] FIG. 4B shows a left side plan view of the yoke of FIGS. 1, 2A, and 2B, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0057] FIG. 5 shows a front plan partial cutaway view of the yoke of FIGS. 1-4B, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0058] FIG. 6A1 shows a front perspective view and 6A2 shows a back perspective view of a yoke cap, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0059] FIG. 6B1 shows a front perspective view and 6B2 shows a back perspective view of a yoke cap, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0060] FIG. 6C1 shows a front perspective view and 6C2 shows a back perspective view of a yoke cap, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0061] FIG. 7A shows a front plan view of the yoke cap of FIGS. 6A1 and 6A2 mated with the yoke of FIGS. 1-5, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0062] FIG. 7B shows a front plan view of the yoke cap of FIGS. 6B1 and 6B2 mated with the yoke of FIGS. 1-5, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0063] FIG. 7C shows a front plan view of the yoke cap of FIGS. 6C1 and 6C2 mated with the yoke of FIGS. 1-5, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0064] FIG. 8A shows a back plan view of the yoke cap of FIGS. 6A1 and 6A2 mated with the yoke of FIGS. 1-5, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0065] FIG. 8B shows a back plan view of the yoke cap of FIGS. 6B1 and 6B2 mated with the yoke of FIGS. 1-5, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0066] FIG. 8C shows a back plan view of the yoke cap of FIGS. 6C1 and 6C2 mated with the yoke of FIGS. 1-5, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0067] FIG. 9A1 shows a right-side plan view of the yoke cap of FIGS. 6A1 and 6A2 mated with the yoke of FIGS. 1-5, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0068] FIG. 9A2 shows a left side plan view of the yoke cap of FIGS. 6A1 and 6A2 mated with the yoke of FIGS. 1-5, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0069] FIG. 9B1 shows a right-side plan view of the yoke cap of FIGS. 6B1 and 6B2 mated with the yoke of FIGS. 1-5, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0070] FIG. 9B2 shows a left side plan view of the yoke cap of FIGS. 6B1 and 6B2 mated with the yoke of FIGS. 1-5, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0071] FIG. 9C1 shows a right-side plan view of the yoke cap of FIGS. 6C1 and 6C2 mated with the yoke of FIGS. 1-5, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0072] FIG. 9C2 shows a left side plan view of the yoke cap of FIGS. 6C1 and 6C2 mated with the yoke of FIGS. 1-5, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0073] FIG. 10A shows a back plan view of the yoke of FIGS. 1-5 having support arms mounted on bosses of the yoke, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0074] FIG. 10B shows a back plan view of the yoke of FIGS. 1-5 having support arms mounted in a reverse position on bosses of the yoke, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0075] FIG. 11 shows a top plan view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 10A mounted on a ball mount, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0076] FIG. 12A shows a right-side plan view of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10 A and 11, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0077] FIG. 12B shows a left side plan view of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10A and 11, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0078] FIG. 13 shows a left side partial cutaway plan view of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10A and 11, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0079] FIG. 14A shows a front perspective view of a mudflap mounting system, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0080] FIG. 14B shows a back perspective view of a mudflap mounting system shown in FIG. 14A, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0081] FIG. 15A shows a front perspective view of a mudflap holder, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0082] FIG. 15B shows a side plan view of a mudflap holder, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0083] FIG. 16A shows a front plan view of a mudflap comprising a corrugated form factor, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0084] FIG. 16B shows a side plan view of a mudflap comprising a corrugated form factor, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0085] FIG. 16C shows a back side plan view of a mudflap comprising a corrugated form factor, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0086] FIG. 16D shows a cross section side view detail of a portion of FIG. 16B of a mudflap comprising a corrugated form factor, according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0087] FIG. 17A shows a bolt used with a nut to connect a yoke with a yoke cap according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0088] FIG. 17B shows a nut used with a bolt to connect a yoke with a yoke cap according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0089] To assist in the understanding of the present disclosure the following list of components and associated numbering found in the drawings is provided herein:
TABLE-US-00001 Table of Components Component # yoke 100 top member 102 first side member 104A second side member 104B first boss 106A second boss 106B first hole 108A second hole 108B first pocket 200A second pocket 200B front surface 300 first groove 302A second groove 302B axis 500 axis 502 first conical void 504A second conical void 504B first opening 506A second opening 506B yoke cap 600A yoke cap 600B yoke cap 600C bottom member 602A bottom member 602B bottom member 602C first hole 604A1 second hole 604A2 first hole 604B1 second hole 604B2 first hole 604C1 second hole 604C2 first indentation 608A first indentation 608B first indentation 608C second indentation 610A second indentation 610B second indentation 610C fins 612B fins 612C axis 614B axis 616C bolt 618 nut 620 bracket 700A bracket 700B bracket 700C opening 702A opening 702B opening 702C gap 703 corners 704 marking 800A marking 800B marking 800C support arm 1000 first cylindrical clamp 1002 center line 1003 second cylindrical clamp 1004 center line 1005 bent arm 1006 screw 1008 vehicle hitch 1010 ball mount 1012 slit 1200 rounded body 1300 inner bore 1302 tab 1304 fastener hole 1306 axis 1308 axis 1310 mudflap mounting system 1400 rod 1404 mudflap holder 1406 mudflap 1408 flared end 1410 slit tubular body 1500 label 1502 fastener hole 1504 flange 1506 slit 1508 foot 1510 front surface 1602 back surface 1604 ridges 1608 partial hole 1610 reinforcing section 1612 horizontal rib 1614 vertical rib 1616
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0090] Referring now to the Figures, like reference numerals and names refer to structurally and/or functionally similar elements thereof, and if objects depicted in the figures that are covered by another object, as well as the tag line for the element number thereto, may be shown in dashed lines. FIG. 1 shows a front perspective view of a yoke, according to an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 2A shows a back plan view of the yoke of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the invention, and FIG. 2B shows a back perspective view of the yoke of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the invention. Referring now to FIGS. 1, 2A, and 2B, yoke 100 comprises a top member 102 and a first side member 104A and a second side member 104B, which together form a substantially u-shaped object. First boss 106A protrudes from an external surface of first side member 104A and second boss 106B protrudes from an external surface of second side member 104B. As shown, bosses 106A and 106B are substantially cylindrical. FIGS. 2A and 2B show a first pocket 200A formed in a back surface of first side member 104A, and a second pocket 200B formed in a back surface of second side member 104B. Generally, first and second pockets 200A and 200B are contiguous with the first hole 108A and second hole 108B within side members 104A and 104B respectively such that a nut 620 within first and second pockets 200A and 200B may be threaded onto a bolt 618 (see FIGS. 17A and 17B) inserted through the first and second holes 108A and 108B, which may or may not be threaded. This configuration allows nuts and bolts to be easily replaced and avoids any requirement to thread the hole, which decreases manufacturing costs while maintaining strength through the nut-and-bolt interaction.
[0091] FIG. 3A shows a top plan view of the yoke of FIGS. 1, 2A, and 2B, according to an embodiment of the invention, and FIG. 3B shows a bottom plan view of the yoke of FIGS. 1, 2A, and 2B, according to an embodiment of the invention. Referring now to FIGS. 3A and 3B, top member 102 of yoke 100 has a substantially concave front surface 300. When yoke 100 is used on a vehicle hitch 1010, this feature helps to limit contact between yoke 100 and a ball mount 1012 of the vehicle hitch 1010 (see FIGS. 11 and 14A). In the embodiment shown, each of the first and second bosses 106A and 106B comprises at least one first groove 302A within an outer surface of first boss 106A and at least one second groove 302B within an outer surface of second boss 106B. First and second grooves 302A and 302B may partially or completely encircle first and second bosses 106A and 106B. First and second grooves 302A and 302B may be used to retain the lateral position of a screw 1008 on first and second bosses 106A and 106B. The screw 1008, for example, may be used in conjunction with cylindrical clamps 1002, 1004 and fastener hole 1306 (see FIG. 13). This prevents lateral movement of the support arms 1000 but allows for rotation of the support arms 1000 about the first and second bosses 106A and 106B.
[0092] FIG. 4A shows a right-side plan view of the yoke of FIGS. 1, 2A, and 2B, according to an embodiment of the invention, and FIG. 4B shows a left side plan view of the yoke of FIGS. 1, 2A, and 2B, according to an embodiment of the invention. Referring now to FIGS. 4A and 4B, when yoke 100 is viewed from the front, first side member 104A is the right side and second side member 104B is the left side.
[0093] FIG. 5 shows a front plan partial cutaway view of the yoke of FIGS. 1-4B, according to an embodiment of the invention. Referring now to FIG. 5, in the embodiment shown, longitudinal axis 500 of first and second bosses 106A and 106B is substantially parallel with a longitudinal axis 502 of top member 102. The partial cutaway section of second boss 106B shows a substantially second conical void 504B extending along longitudinal axis 500 from a taper beginning proximally from second side member 104B to a distal second opening 506B at the exterior surface of second boss 106B. A corresponding first conical void 504A extending along longitudinal axis 500 from a taper beginning proximally from first side member 104A to a distal second opening 506A at the exterior surface of first boss 106A. Also shown in the partial cutaway section is second pocket 200B formed in the back surface of second side member 104B.
[0094] FIG. 6A1 shows a front perspective view and 6A2 shows a back perspective view of a yoke cap, according to an embodiment of the invention, FIG. 6B1 shows a front perspective view and 6B2 shows a back perspective view of a yoke cap, according to an embodiment of the invention, and FIG. 6C1 shows a front perspective view and 6C2 shows a back perspective view of a yoke cap, according to an embodiment of the invention. Referring now to FIGS. 6A1 and 6A2, 6B1 and 6B2, and 6C1 and 6C2, front left (6A1, 6B1, and 6C1) and back right (6A2, 6B2, and 6C2) perspective views of various yoke caps 600A, 600B, and 600C are shown. Each yoke cap 600A, 600B, and 600C are substantially u-shaped and comprises a bottom member 602A, 602B, and 602C having first hole 604A1 and second hole 604A2, first hole 604B1 and second hole 604B2, and first hole 604C1 and second hole 604C2 respectively that are configured to align with each of the two side members 104A and 104B and holes 108A and 108B of yoke 100. A nut 620 is placed in first pocket 200A and a bolt 618 (see FIGS. 17A and 17B) is passed through first holes 604A1, 604B1, or 604C1 and then through first hole 108A and tightened into nut 620. Likewise, A nut 620 is placed in second pocket 200B and a bolt 618 is passed through second holes 604A2, 604B2, or 604C2 and then through second hole 108B and tightened into nut 620. Thus, yoke 100 and yoke cap 600A, 600B, or 600C attached together clamp tight onto vehicle hitch 1010. Optionally, corners of bottom members 602A, 602B, and 602C are chamfered. In the embodiments shown, front and back surfaces of yoke caps 600A, 600B, and 600C are substantially planar with a first indentations 608A, 608B, and 608C in the central front-top portion of bottom members 602A, 602B, and 602C respectively, and second indentations 610A, 610B, and 610C in the central back-bottom portion of bottom members 602A, 602B, and 602C. First indentations 608A, 608B, and 608C may, for example, accommodate a ball mount 1012 of a ball mount 1012 (see FIGS. 11, 14A, and 14B), whereas second indentations 610A, 610B, and 610C may, for example, accommodate an edge of a receiver tube.
[0095] Yoke caps 600B and 600C further comprise a pair of fins 612b and 612C respectively extending from bottom members 602B and 602C, respectively. In the embodiments shown, fins 612b and 612C are positioned between a center of bottom members 602B and 602C and holes 604B1 and 604B2, and 604C1 and 604C2, respectively. Also, in the embodiments shown, longitudinal axes 614b and 614C of fins 612B and 612C are oriented substantially parallel with longitudinal axes 616B and 616C of holes 604B1/604B2 and 604C1/604C2 respectively. As described in greater detail hereinafter, fins 612B and 612C are sized and configured to accommodate objects of assorted sizes.
[0096] FIG. 7A shows a front plan view of the yoke cap of FIGS. 6A1 and 6A2 mated with the yoke of FIGS. 1-5, and FIG. 7B shows a front plan view of the yoke cap of FIGS. 6B1 and 6B2 mated with the yoke of FIGS. 1-5, and FIG. 7C shows a front plan view of the yoke cap of FIGS. 6C1 and 6C2 mated with the yoke of FIGS. 1-5, according to an embodiment of the invention. Referring now to FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C, front plan views of yoke caps 600A, 600B, and 600C are shown mated with yoke 100 to form bracket 700A, bracket 700B, and bracket 700C. Also shown in FIG. 7A in cross section is vehicle hitch 1010 (see also FIGS. 11, 14A and 14B). Brackets 700A, 700B, and 700C clamp onto a rectangular or square shape vehicle hitch 1010 in such a way that only the corners 704 of the rectangular or square shape vehicle hitch 1010 are in contact with the yoke 100 and the yoke caps 600A, 600B, and 600C and not the left or right sides or top or bottom sides of yoke 100 and the yoke caps 600A, 600B, and 600C. as shown by gaps 703 between the exterior walls of the rectangular or square shape vehicle hitch 1010 and the interior walls of the yoke 100 and the interior walls of yoke cap 600A.
[0097] FIG. 8A shows a back plan view of the yoke cap of FIGS. 6A1 and 6A2 mated with the yoke of FIGS. 1-5, FIG. 8B shows a back plan view of the yoke cap of FIGS. 6B1 and 6B2 mated with the yoke of FIGS. 1-5, FIG. 8C shows a back plan views of the yoke cap of FIGS. 6C1 and 6C2 mated with the yoke of FIGS. 1-5, according to an embodiment of the invention. Referring now to FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C, back plan views of yoke caps 600A, 600B, and 600C are shown mated with yoke 100 to form bracket 700A, bracket 700B, and bracket 700C.
[0098] As shown in FIGS. 7A to 8C inclusively, fins 612B and 612C are configured to abut an internal surfaces of two side members 104A and 104B of yoke 100 when yoke 100 and yoke cap 600B and 600C are joined to form brackets 700B and 700C, respectively. Fins 612B and 612C help to align brackets 700B and 700C with a component such as a ball mount 1012 of a vehicle hitch 1010. In the embodiments shown, openings 702A, 702B and 702C formed by brackets 700A, 700B, and 700C have substantially square or substantially rectangular cross sections of 2, 2.5, and 3 inches, as indicated by the markings 800A, 800B, and 800C respectively on the back surfaces of 600A, 600B, and 600C. Generally speaking, the size of openings 702A, 702B and 702C is reduced as the width of fins 612A and 612B increases.
[0099] FIG. 9A1 shows a right-side plan view of the yoke cap of FIGS. 6A1 and 6A2 mated with the yoke of FIGS. 1-5, and FIG. 9A2 shows a left side plan view of the yoke cap of FIGS. 6A1 and 6A2 mated with the yoke of FIGS. 1-5, according to an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 9B1 shows a right-side plan view of the yoke cap of FIGS. 6B1 and 6B2 mated with the yoke of FIGS. 1-5, and FIG. 9B2 shows a left side plan view of the yoke cap of FIGS. 6B1 and 6B2 mated with the yoke of FIGS. 1-5, according to an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 9C1 shows a right-side plan view of the yoke cap of FIGS. 6C1 and 6C2 mated with the yoke of FIGS. 1-5, and according to an embodiment of the invention. Referring now to FIGS. 9A1 and 9A2, FIGS. 9B1 and 9B2, and FIGS. 9C1 and 9C2, side plan views of the yoke caps 600A, 600B, and 600C are shown mated with yoke 100 to form bracket 700A, bracket 700B, and bracket 700C. In the embodiments shown, corners of the yoke caps 600A, 600B, and 600C are chamfered.
[0100] FIG. 10A shows a back plan view of the yoke of FIGS. 1-5 having support arms mounted on bosses of the yoke, FIG. 10B shows a back plan view of the yoke of FIGS. 1-5 having support arms mounted in a reverse position on bosses of the yoke, and FIG. 11 shows a top plan view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 10A mounted on a ball mount 1012, according to an embodiment of the invention. Referring now to FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 11, a back plan view of yoke 100 is shown having support arms 1000 mounted on bosses 106A and 106B of yoke 100. Each of support arms 1000 comprises a first cylindrical clamp 1002 and a second cylindrical clamp 1004 joined by a bent arm 1006. As shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 10A and 10B, first and second cylindrical clamps 1002, 1004 are offset relative to one another both vertically (y) and laterally (x). The top plan view of FIG. 11, showing the embodiment of FIG. 10A, further illustrates that the first and second cylindrical clamps 1002, 1004 are offset relative to one another horizontally (z), as shown by the pair of dashed arrows. Thus, the center lines 1003, 1005 of first and second cylindrical clamps 1002, 1004 are offset from one another in all three dimensions. Bent arms 1006 and offset first and second cylindrical clamps 1002, 1004 may be beneficially used to accommodate a vehicle body or bumper. Further, although support arms 1000 are right-handed and left-handed, they can be switched paired with like-handed arms to provide alternative configurations, such as a configuration where the support arms are tucked underneath a vehicle bumper. In addition, support arms 1000 may be rotated in various desired angles with respect to yoke 100 by way of the first cylindrical clamps 1002 to accommodate various vehicle configurations.
[0101] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 11, screws 1008 passing through fastener hole 1306 (see FIG. 13) of first and second cylindrical clamps 1002, 1004 engages with grooves 302A and 302B (see FIG. 3) on bosses 106A and 106B 1000. This security feature inhibits movement of support arms 1000 during use.
[0102] FIG. 12A shows a right-side plan view of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10A and 11, according to an embodiment of the invention, and FIG. 12B shows a left side plan view of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10A and 11, according to an embodiment of the invention. Referring now to FIGS. 12A and 12B, the horizontally (z) offset positions of the first and second cylindrical clamps 1002, 1004 is evident, and slits 1200 within first and second cylindrical clamps 1002, 1004 are also visible.
[0103] FIG. 13 shows a left side partial cutaway plan view of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10A and 11, according to an embodiment of the invention. Referring now to FIG. 13, first cylindrical clamp 1002 comprises a rounded body 1300 forming an inner bore 1302. As shown in the cutaway portion, rounded body 1300 comprises a slit 1200, a pair of tabs 1304 extending outwardly from edges of slit 1200 and a fastener hole 1306 extending through the pair of tabs 1304. Areas defined by inner bore 1302 and fastener hole 1306 partially overlap, which allows a fastener (e.g., screw 1008) within fastener hole 1306 to seat in first groove 302 of first boss 106A. In the embodiment shown, a central vertical axis 1308 of the inner bore 1302 and a central horizontal axis 1310 of the fastener hole 1306 are substantially perpendicular to one another. When a fastener such as screw 1008 is seated in first groove 302 of an object held by first cylindrical clamp 1002, sliding of the first cylindrical clamp 1002 on the object is minimized or prevented. It is contemplated that one or more fastener holes 1306 of the first cylindrical clamp 1002 may be configured to allow access to a curved, rounded, square, rectangular, triangular, or irregularly shaped first groove 302 of an object to be clamped. It is further contemplated that the first cylindrical clamp 1002 disclosed herein with reference to a support arm 1000 may be fabricated on both ends of the support arm 1000, as a stand-alone clamp, or as a portion of a completely different system.
[0104] FIG. 14A shows a front perspective view of a mudflap mounting system, according to an embodiment of the invention, and FIG. 14B shows a back perspective view of a mudflap mounting system shown in FIG. 14A, according to an embodiment of the invention. Referring now to FIGS. 14A and 14B, shown is a mudflap mounting system 1400 mounted on a ball mount 1012 of a vehicle hitch 1010. Mudflap mounting system 1400 comprises yoke 100, yoke caps 600A, 600B, or 600C, support arms 1000, rods 1404 for insertion into the second cylindrical clamps 1004 of support arms 1000, mudflap holders 1406 and mudflaps 1408.
[0105] In an embodiment, rods 1404 comprises a flared end 1410 to prevent the rods 1404 from slipping through second cylindrical clamps 1004 during use. Thus, during assembly, rods 1404 can only be inserted through second cylindrical clamps 1004 in one direction until the flared end abuts against the second cylindrical clamps 1004 which is from the bracket side in the configuration shown in FIGS. 14A/14B. This safety feature prevents slippage of the rods 1404 through the second cylindrical clamps 1004, simplifies manufacturing, and encourages proper assembly of mudflap mounting system 1400.
[0106] FIG. 15A shows a front perspective view of a mudflap holder, according to an embodiment of the invention, and FIG. 15B shows a side plan view of a mudflap holder, according to an embodiment of the invention. Referring now to FIGS. 15A and 15B, mudflap holder 1406 comprises a slit tubular body 1500 having an inner diameter substantially equal to or slightly larger than an outer diameter of rods 1404. Further, an external surface of mudflap holder 1406 may include a label 1502, such as a safety label reading Not A Step, and a fastener hole 1504 for passing a fastener through mudflap holder 1406 and into rod 1404, thereby securing the mudflap holder 1406 and rod 1404 together. A pair of flanges 1506 extends outwardly from edges of the slit 1508 and traverses the length of slit tubular body 1500. In the embodiment shown, each of flanges 1506 comprises a foot 1510 extending away from the opening created by the flanges 1506, which avoids abrasion of mudflaps 1408. Each of the flanges 1506 comprises a plurality of fastener holes 1512 for securing mudflaps 1408 to mudflap holders 1406.
[0107] FIG. 16A shows a front plan view of a mudflap comprising a corrugated form factor, according to an embodiment of the invention, and FIG. 16B shows a side plan view of a mudflap comprising a corrugated form factor, according to an embodiment of the invention, and FIG. 16C shows a back side plan view of a mudflap comprising a corrugated form factor, according to an embodiment of the invention, and FIG. 16D shows a side view detail of a first portion of FIG. 16B of a mudflap comprising a corrugated form factor, according to an embodiment of the invention. Referring now to FIGS. 16A-16D, mudflap 1408 is a substantially rectangular sheet comprising a smooth, rubberized front surface 1602 and a back surface 1604 comprising a series of horizontally reinforced ridges 1608 configured to align with fastener holes 1512 of mudflap holder 1406. The detailed illustration shown in FIG. 16D of horizontally reinforced ridge 1608 shows a plurality of partial holes 1610 aligned vertically with a plurality of reinforcing sections 1612. During assembly, a user selects a desired height (ground clearance) for mudflap 1408 and punches the partial holes 1610 located at the vertical position that will provide the desired mudflap height. For example, partial holes 1610 may be punched with a hole punch tool or by driving a screw through the rubberized mudflap 1408. A tight fit between the rubberized mudflap 1408 and screw may help to secure the screw in place and keep it from extracting due to road and wind vibrations. Mudflap 1408 is then cut horizontally across the partial holes 1610 just above the punched holes 1610 leaving the reinforcing section 1612 above the punched holes. Generally, upon mounting, horizontal ribs 1608 above and below the punched holes are compressed between flanges 1506, which spreads the load of mudflap 1408 across the mudflap 1408 and mudflap holder 1406 rather than localizing the load to the fasteners, as in traditional systems.
[0108] FIGS. 17A and 17B show the bolt 618 and nut 620 used to connect the yoke 100 with the yoke cap 600A, 600B, or 600C.
[0109] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that many changes in construction and widely differing embodiments and applications will suggest themselves without departing from the scope of the disclosed subject matter.
