Retractable spare tire mount device and related methods

Abstract

The retractable spare tire mount device is designed to attach to the underside of a vehicle using an existing spare tire attachment, point. It features a retractable mount bracket that can move between lowered and raised positions, allowing for easy placement and securement of a spare tire. The device includes a locking mechanism to ensure the spare tire remains securely attached when the bracket is in the raised position. Additionally, the mounting apparatus may include an anchoring bar for added stability and security. This innovative design simplifies the process of mounting and securing a spare tire, enhancing convenience and safety for vehicle owners.

Description

IN THE UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICENon-Provisional Patent Application forRetractable Spare Tire Mpunt Device and Related MethodsInventor(s): Terry BurrusTheresa OsborneDocket Number: BAK-pct-001’Prepared By: Baker St Company, Patent Law Consultants, LLC11877 Douglas Road, Suite 102191 johns Creek, Georgia 30005Phone: (404) 300.3515Email: rb@bakercolaw.comRETRACTABLE SPARE TIRE MOUNT DEVICE AND RELATED METHODSThe present application claims priority to the earlier filed provisional application having serial #63563559, and hereby incorporates subject matter of the provisional application in Its entirety,TECHNICAL FIELD[6001 | The technical field relates to automotive accessories, specifically devices for mounting and storing spare tires on vehicles.BACKGROUND[00021 Vehicles, particularly those designed for off-road or long-distance travel, often come equipped with a spare tire to ensure that drivers can quickly replace a flat tire and continue their journey. Traditionally, spare tires are mounted on the tear of the vehicle or stored in the trunk, which can take up valuable space or affect the vehicle’s aerodynamics. In some designs, spare tires are mounted underneath the vehicle, which can help save space and maintain the vehicle's design aesthetics. However, accessing these spare tires can be cumbersome and physically demanding, especially in adverse weather conditions or on uneven terrain.[0OO3| The challenge with undercarriage-mounted spare tires is the difficulty in accessing and securely mounting the lire. This often involves awkward maneuvers and the use of tools, which can be inconvenient and time-consuming. Additionally, ensuring that the spare tire is securely fastened to prevent it from becoming loose during travel is crucial for safety. As such, there is a need for a more efficient and user-friendly solution that allows tor easy access and secure mounting of spare tires, particularly for those mounted under the vehicle.SUMMARY

[0004] In accordance with embodiments, a retractable spare tire mount device is provided, comprising a mounting apparatus configured to adjustably attach to the underside of a vehicle using an existing spare tire attachment point. The mounting apparatus includes a retractable mount bracket that can move between a lowered position and a raised position, and a locking mechanism to secure the bracket in the raised position. The retractable mount bracket is designed to receive a spare tire when in the lowered position and secure it to the vehicle’s underside when in the raised position.

[0005] In accordance with other embodiments, the retractable spare tire mount device further includes a top mounting plate as part of the mounting apparatus. The mounting apparatus can be raised and tightened to the mounting plate to secure it to the vehicle's underside.

[0006] In yet other embodiments, the retractable mount bracket is specifically configured to be lowered to 'facilitate placing the spare tire onto it.

[0007] The retractable mount bracket is designed to be raised and closed to lock the spare tire securely.

[0008] In. additional embodiments, the locking mechanism comprises a lock that engages when the retractable mount bracket is in the raised position, ensuring the spare tire is secured.

[0009] hi some embodiments, the device includes a spare tire handling apparatus that allows for lowering the spare tire to remove it from an anchoring bar and raising it to secure it back to the anchoring bar.

[0010] In accordance with other embodiments, a method is provided for mounting a spare tire to the underside of a vehicle. This method involves attaching a mounting apparatus to the vehicle using an existing spare tire attachment, point, lowering the retractable mount bracket, placing a spare tire on it, raising the bracket, and securing it in the raised position with a locking mechanism.

[0011] In further embodiments of the method, the mounting apparatus is raised and tightened to a top mounting plate to secure it to the vehicle's underside.(00121 In additional embodiments of the method, securing the retractable mount bracket in the raised position involves closing the bracket to lock the spare tire.

[0013] In yet other embodiments of the method, securing the bracket involves engaging a lock when the bracket is in the raised position to secure the spare tire.

[0014] In some embodiments of the method, the process includes lowering the spare tire to remove it from an anchoring bar and raising it to secure it back to the anchoring bar.(0015] In accordance with other embodiments, a. vehicle is provided, comprising an underside and a retractable spare tire mount device attached to it. The device includes a mounting apparatus adjustably attached using an existing spare tire attachment point, with a retractable mount bracket and a locking mechanism as described.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a retractable spare tire mount with a tire installed, in accordance with at least one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the retractable spare tire mount, in accordance with at least one embodiment,

[0018] FIG. 3 is a side-view of the retractable spare tire mount, in accordance with at least one embodiment.

[0019] FIG, 4A is an ISO view of the retractable spare tire mount with a spare tire, in accordance with at least one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 4B is an ISO view of the retractable spare tire mount in the open position, in accordance with at least one embodiment

[0021] FIG. 4C is an enlarged view of die retractable spate tire mount in toe open position, in accordance with at least one embodiment

[0022] FIG. 5A is an ISO view of the retractable spare tire mount in a fully open position to allow a user to retrieve a tire, in accordance with at least one embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 5B is an ISO view of the retractable spare tire mount in a fully elevated open position to allow a user to retrieve a tire, in accordance with at least one embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the retractable spare tire mount depicting various components, in accordance with at least one embodiment(0025] FIG. 7 is a side-view of the retractable spare tire mount, in accordance with at least one embodiment,

[0026] FIG. 8 illustrates a method for securely attaching and storing a spare tire under a vehicle, in accordance with at least one embodiment,DETAILED DESCRIPTION[00271 The present disclosure may be best understood with reference to the detailed figures and description set forth herein. Various embodiments are discussed below with reference to the figures. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed descriptions given herein with respect to the figures are simply for explanatory purposes as the apparatuses, methods, and systems may extend beyond the described embodiments. For example, the teachings presented and the needs of a particular applicationmay yield multiple alternative and suitable approaches to implement the functionality of any detail described herein. Therefore, any approach may extend beyond the particular implementation choices in the following embodiments described and shown.

[0028] References to “one embodiment,” “at least one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “one example,” “an example, ” “for example,” and so on indicate that the embodiment(s) or example(s) may include a particular feature, structure, characteristic, property, element, or limitation but that not every embodiment or example necessarily includes that particular feature, structure, characteristic, property, element, or limitation. Further, repeated use of the phrase “in an embodiment” does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment.

[0029] Materials described or referenced herein will sometimes be described in singular form for clarity. However, it should be appreciated that particular embodiments may include multiple instantiations of a material unless noted otherwise. Surfaces.in some embodiments can be understood as representing segments or portions of those embodiments. Alternate implementations are included within the scope of embodiments of the present invention and would be understood by those having ordinary skill in the art, \ [M)30| According to an embodiment, the mounting apparatus may be configured to adjustably attach to the underside of a vehicle using an existing spare tire attachment point. This attachment may be facilitated by utilizing the spare tire hitch, which can be part of the vehicle's undercarriage. The retractable spare tire mount device may be attached to the undercarriage, allowing for secure connection and support. The mounting apparatus may be designed to ensure that the spare tire mount device is securely connected to the vehicle, providing stability and reliability. The spare tire hitch may serve as a component in this attachment process, enabling the mounting apparatus to be effectively integrated with the vehicle’s existing structure. The mounting apparatus may be configured to utilize the existing spare tire attachment point, whichmay include a spare tire hitch, to achieve a secure and adjustable attachment to the vehicle's underside. This configuration may allow for the retractable spare tire mount device to be effectively connected to the vehicle, ensuring that the spare tire is securely held in place. The mounting apparatus may be designed to provide a reliable and adjustable attachment, allowing for the spare tire mount device to be securely connected to the vehicle’s undercarriage. The use of the existing spare tire attachment point, including the spare tire hitch, may facilitate this process, ensuring that the mounting apparatus is effectively integrated with the vehicle’s structure.According to an embodiment, the retractable mount bracket may be configured to receive a spare tire when in the lowered position and secure the spare tire to the underside of the vehicle when in the raised position. The retractable mount bracket may be configured to move between a lowered position and a raised position, allowing for the placement of the spare tire on the mount bracket. The process may involve raising and closing the mount bracket until a lock is engaged, which may secure the spare tire in place. The lock may be an integral part of the locking mechanism, which may be configured to secure the retractable mount bracket in the raised position. The spare tire may be positioned on the mount bracket, and the retractable mount bracket may be lowered to facilitate this placement. The locking mechanism may ensurethat the spare tire is held securely once foe mount bracket is raised and closed. The enti re process may be designed to facilitate the handling of the spare tire, allowing It to be positioned and secured efficiently. The retractable spare tire mount bracket may be a component in this system, providing the necessary movement and support for the spare tire. In a non-limiting example, the lock may engage automatically as the mount bracket is raised and closed, providing a secure hold for the spare tire. The system may be designed to accommodate various vehicle configurations, ensuring compatibility and ease of use. The retractable mount bracket is constructed to withstand the weight and size of the spare tire, providing a reliable and secure mounting solution. The locking mechanism is designed to engage smoothly, ensuring that the spare tire is held firmly in place. The entire system may be engineered to provide a seamless and efficient method for handling and securing a spare tire under a vehicle.

[0032] The locking mechanism may be configured to secure the retractable mount bracket in the raised position. This action may be achieved by raising and closing the mount bracket until a lock is engaged, The locking mechanism may include a lock that can engage when the retractablemount bracket is in the raised position, thereby securing the spare tire. The mount bracket may be raised and closed to lock the spare tire, ensuring that the spare tire is held securely in place. The locking mechanism may be integral to the operation of the retractable spare tire mount device, providing a means to secure die spare tire to the underside of the vehicle. The lock may be configured to engage automatically or manually, depending on the design of the system. The locking mechanism may be designed to work in conjunction with other components of the retractable spare tire mount device, such as the mounting apparatus and the anchoring bar. to provide a comprehensive solution for spare tire storage and security. The system may be designed toallow for easy access to the spare tire when needed, while also ensuring that the tire is securely stored when not in use. The locking mechanism may be a component of the overall system, providing the necessary security to prevent the spare tire from becoming dislodged during vehicle operation.

[0033] In an embodiment, the mounting apparatus is configured to be raised and tightened to the top mounting plate, which secures the mounting apparatus to the underside of the vehicle. This action involves the retractable spare tire mount device and the mounting plate, which may be integral to the process of anchoring. The top mounting plate serves as a component in this process, potentially providing stability and security to the mounting apparatus. The retractable spare tire mount device is designed to work in conjunction with the anchoring bar, which may enhance the overall functionality and reliability of the system. The anchoring process may be for maintaining die spare tire’s position and preventing any unwanted movement during vehicle operation. The mounting apparatus, in conjunction with the mounting plate offers a robust, solution for securing the spare tire to the vehicle’s underside, which may be beneficial for ensuring the spare tire’s readiness and accessibility when needed.[0034 According to an embodiment, the spare tire handling apparatus is configured to lower the spare tire to remove it from an anchoring handle and subsequently raise the spare tire to secure it back to the anchoring handle. This action may involve the spare tire being lowered, which can facilitate access to die spare tire for removal. The removal of the spare tire from the anchoring bar may be achieved through a mechanism that allows for detachment. The apparatus will then be utilized to raise the spare tire. The process may be designed to handle the spare tire efficiently, allowing for both access and securement. The spare tire handling apparatus may be integral to the overall functionality of the system, providing a means to manage the spare tire’sposition relative to the vehicle’s underside. The actions associated with the spare tire handling apparatus may be coordinated to ensure the spare tire is both accessible when needed and securely attached when not in use.[003.5] Turning to FIG, I as depicted is a perspective view of the retractable spare tire mount to include a spare tire 3. The apparatus includes at least two lateral top bars (2a, 2b) with a top mounting plate 6 to include at least one aperture 7 along the top mounting plate 6 for secure installation. The depiction further illustrates at least two vertical bars (8a, 8b) attached to the top lateral bars (2a, 2b) extending to a spare tire handling apparatus 9. The front portion of the apparatus shows a locking mechanism 10 removably attached to an elongated horizontally positioned bar 11 that is adjacent to a spare lire handling apparatus 9 at a distal end of the elongated bar. The at least two vertical bars include at least two sliding provisions (4a, 4b) that interconnects within grooves (5a, 5b) that extends along the sides of the at least two lateral top bars (2a, 2b) that allows the top bars to slide rearward while in operation to remove the spare tire 3, The locking mechanism 10 is interconnected to a support bar 1 that extends vertically to connect with the spare tire handling apparatus 9.

[0036] Turning now to FIG. 2 as depicted is a perspective view of the retractable spare tire mount, without an installed spare tire depicts various portions of the apparatus. In particular the depiction shows the outer structure of the apparatus to include a spare tire handling apparatus 9 and at least one anchoring bar 12 extending vertically to receive a spare tire.[00371 Turning now to FIG, 3 as depicted is a side view of the retractable spare tire mount. The depiction further shows attachment provisions (13a, 13b) along the bottom portion of the vertical bars (8a, 8b) extending from the spare tire handling apparatus 9. The attachment provisions ( 13a, 13b) can be assembled from material known in the art such as stainless-steel bolts, nuts, lock washers and such. The illustration further depicts the anchoring bar 12 that is centrally positioned along the spare tire handling apparatus 9. The remaining features were described in Figures 1 and 2.

[0038] Turning now to FIG. 4A as depicted is an ISO view of the retractable spare tire mount with a spare tire securely installed. The image further shows how the apparatus appears as it secures the spare tire.

[0039] Turning now to FIG.4B as depicted is an ISO view of" the retractable spare tire mount in a partially open position. The depiction is key to demonstrate how the top portion of theapparatus can be disengaged from the lower portion by decoupling the locking apparatus 10 along the front portion of the apparatus in a method to remove a spare tire,

[0040] Turning now to FIG. 4C as depicted is an enlarged ISO view of the retractable spare tire mount. The depiction shows how the top portion of the apparatus can be moved horizontally by engaging sliding provisions (4a, 4b) as they slide along the grooves (5a, 5b) to allow for clearance during removal of the spate tire.

[0041] Turning now to FIG. 5A as depicted is an ISO view of the retractable spare tire mount where the top portion has been fully positioned to clear the spare tire. The top portion as it is positioned to clear the spare tire includes grooves (5a, 5b) along both sides to engage with the sliding provisions (4a, 4b) along the vertical bars. 'This allows the user to easily shift the top portion away from the spare tire to easily remove when necessary.

[0042] Turning now to FIG. SB as depicted is a ISO-view of the retractable spare tire mount with the top portion in a fully elevated disengaged position to remove the spare tire, The vertical bars (8a, 8b) is critical to position the spare tire as depicted in that the vertical bars (8a, 8b) can be juxtaposed to position the spare tire for easy removal,

[0043] Turning now to FIG.6 as depicted is an exploded view of the retractable spare tire mount The image shows the anchoring bar 12 extending vertically coupled to the spare tire handling apparatus 9. The depiction further illustrates a support bar 1 for engaging the top portion of the apparatus when necessary to secure or remove a spare tire from the apparatus. The depiction further shows the grooves (5a, 5b) located along the side of the upper bar portion. [< H44| Turning now to FIG. 7 as depicted is a side- view of the retractable spare tire mount. As described in FIG. 6, the apparatus depicts the vertical bars (4a, 4b) and the upper and lower portion of the apparatus. The illustration shows the spare tire 3 fully positioned.

[0045] Referring now to FIG.8 is a flowchart illustrating a method in step 100 for attaching a mounting apparatus to the underside of a vehicle using an existing spare tire atachment point, according to an embodiment. At step 100, the mounting apparatus may be configured to adjustably attach to the undersi de of a vehicle by utilizing the existing spare tire attachment point, which may comprise a spare tire hitch. This attachment may involve the retractable spare tire mount device being secured to die undercarriage of the vehicle, potentially using the spare tire hitch as a connection point. The mounting apparatus may be designed to ensure that the retractable spare tire mount device is properly aligned and securely fastened to the vehicle’sundercarriage, providing a stable base for further operations involving the spare tire. Hie process may involve ali going the mounting apparatus with the existing atachment point and ensuring that it is securely fastened, potentially using bolts or other fastening mechanisms. This step may be in ensuring that the retractable spare tire mount device is properly installed and ready for subsequent operations, such as lowering die retractable mount bracket to receive a spare tire. The attachment process maybe designed to be straightforward and efficient, allowing for quick installation and removal of the spare tire mount device as needed.

[0046] In the context of the retractable spare tire mount device, the process may involve lowering the retractable mount bracket to a lowered position. This action may be facilitated by the retractable mount bracket, which is designed to move between a lowered and a raised position. The lowering of the bracket may allow for the placement of a spare tire onto the bracket. The retractable mount bracket may be configured to receive foe spare tire when in this lowered position, ensuring that the tire is properly positioned for subsequent actions. This step may be for the overall functionality of the spare tire mount device, as it sets the stagefor securing the spare tire to the underside of the vehicle. The lowering mechanism may be integral to the design, allowing for ease of access and handling of the spare tire. The retractable mount bracket’s ability to transition between positions may be a feature, enabling the secure attachment and detachment of the spare tire as needed. This process may be part of a broader method of mounting a spare ti re to the underside of a vehicle, which includes various steps to ensure the tire is securely fastened and easily accessible when required,(00471 In step 104, the process of placing a spare tire on the retractable mount bracketmay be initiated. The retractable mount bracket, which is a component of the mounting apparatus, may be configured to receive the spare tire when it is in a lowered position. This action may involve aligning the spare tire with the mount bracket to ensure proper placement. The spare tire, once positioned on the mount bracket, may be held securely by foe bracket's design, which is intended to accommodate the tire’s dimensions and weight The mount bracket's ability to move between lowered and raised positions may facilitate the handling of the spare tire, allowing it to be positioned correctly before being secured. This step may be in ensuring that the spare tire is ready for subsequent actions, such as raising the bracket to secure the tire to the vehicle's underside. The process.may involve careful handling to prevent any misalignment or damage to the tire or the bracket. The design of theretractable mount bracket may include features thatKiassist in guiding the tire into place, potentially using guides or stops to ensure accurate placement This step may be part of a larger sequence of actions aimed at securing the spare tire to the vehicle, highlighting the importance of each component’s role in the overall functionality of the retractable spare tire mount device.[IHM8] At step 106, the retractable mount bracket may be raised to a raised position. This action may involve the movement of the retractable mount bracket, which is configured to transition between a lowered and a raised position. The raising of the retractable moun t bracket may be for positioning the spare tire securely against the underside of the vehicle. The retractable mount bracket, as part of the retractable spare tire mount device, may be designed to facilitate the handling of the spare tire by allowing it to be placed on the bracket when in a lowered position and subsequently raised to secure it. The raising action may be complemented by the potential engagement of a locking mechanism, which may ensure that the spare tire remains securely fastened in the raised position. This process may be for maintaining the spare tire’s stability and security during vehicle operation. The locking mechanism, which may be configured to secure the retractable mount bracket, may engage automatically or manually once the bracket reaches the raised position, thereby preventing any unintended movement of the spare tire. The integration of these components and actions may provide a reliable method for managing the spare tire's position and security, contributing to the overall, functionality and safety of the vehicle.

[0049] In step I (18, the process may involve securing the retractable mount bracket in the raised position using a locking mechanism to secure the spare tire to the underside of the vehicle. This action may be facilitated by raising and tightening the mounting apparatus to a top mounting plate, which can ensure the mounting apparatus Is firmly secured to the vehicle’s underside. The retractable mount bracket may then be closed to lock the spare tire, potentially engaging a lock when the bracket is in the raised position. This sequence of actions may ensure that the spare tire is securely fastened to the vehicle, preventing any movement during transit. This handling of the spare tire may be for both accessing and securing the tire as needed. The locking mechanism, in conjunction with the retractable mount bracket, may provide a reliable means of securing the spare tire, ensuring it remains in place during vehicle operation. The integration of these components and actions may highlight the potential for a secure and efficient method of managing spare tire storage and accessibility.1.1INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (RULE 20.6)

Claims

CLAIMSW hat is claimed is:

1. A retractable spare tire mount device comprising:a mounting apparatus configured to adjustably attach to an underside of a vehicle rising an existing spare tire atachment point via a top mounting plate, at least two vertical bars, the mounting apparatus comprising a retractable mount bracket configured to move between a lowered position and a raised position; wherein the top mounting plate Is coupled to at least two lateral top bars, anda locking mechanism configured to secure the.retractable mount bracket in the raised position; wherein the lowerretractable mount bracket is configured to receive a spare tire when in the lowered position and secure the spare tire to the underside of the vehicle when in the raised position; wherein the locking mechanism is attached a support bar that is atached to a spare tire handling apparatus at a distal end; wherein the a least two lateral top bars includes grooves on both outer sides of the top bars to movement by sliding via at least two sliding provisions, 2. The retractable spare tire mount device of claim 1, wherein the mounting apparatus further comprises an anchoring bar, and wherein the mounting apparatus is configured to be raised and tightened to the anchoring bar to secure the mounting apparatus to the underside of the vehicle; the top mounting plate further has an aperture centrally located within the top mounting plate.

3. The retractable spare tire mount device of claim 1, wherein the retractable mount bracket is configured to be lowered to place the spare tire on the retractable mount bracket.

4. The retractable spare tire mount device of claim 1, wherein the retractable mount bracket is configured to be raised and closed to lock the spare tire,5. The retractable spare tire mount device of claim 1, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a lock configured to engage when the retractable mount bracket is in the raised position to secure ths spare tire,6. The retractable spare tire mount device of claim 1, farther comprising a spare tire handling apparatus configured to lower the spare tire to remove the spare tire from an anchoring bar and raise the spare tire to secure the spare tire to the anchoring bar,7. A method of mounting a spare tire to an underside of a vehicle, the method comprising; attaching a mounting apparatus to the underside of the vehicle using an existing spare tireINCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (RULE 20.6)atachment point, the mounting apparatus comprising a retractable mount bracket; lowering the retractable mount bracket to a lowered position;placing a spare tire on the retractable mount bracket;raising the retractable mount bracket to a raised position andsecuring the retractable mount bracket in the raised position rising a locking mechanism to secure the spare tire to the underside of the vehicle.

8. The method of claim 7, further comprising raising and tightening the mounting apparatus to an anchoring bar to secure the mounting apparatus to the underside of the vehicle.

9. The method of claim 7, wherein securing the retractable mount bracket in the raised position comprises closing the retractable mount bracket to lock the spare tire.

10. The method of claim 7, wherein securing the retractable mount bracket in the raised position comprises engaging a look when the retractable mount bracket is in the raised position to secure the spare tire,IL The method of claim 7, farther comprising:lowering the spare tire to remove the spare tire from an anchoring bar; andraising the spare tire to secure the spare tire to the anchoring bar,12. The retractable spare tire mount device of claim 1, wherein the mounting apparatus is, configured to utilize the existing spare tire atachment point comprising a spare tire hitch..

13. The method of claim 7, wherein attaching the mounting apparatus to the underside of the vehicle using. the existing spare tire attachment point comprises utilizing a spare tire hitch.

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