The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Nov. 21, 2006
Filed:
Nov. 08, 2004
Gary Johnson, Portland, OR (US);
Gary Johnson, Portland, OR (US);
Other;
Abstract
A configurable base is formed from a plurality of interlocking tiles that may fit within a frame. Anchoring tiles have receptacles for accepting anchors. Smooth panels support heavy items. Accessories are formed to either attach to the anchor or integrally with the anchor. Accessories include tie downs, sidewalls, cross frame and stanchions, and wheel-chocks. The anchor fits into the receptacles for placement anywhere desired on the base. An embodiment of the anchor has a lock for added security. A coupler provides at least one aperture for securing items, preferably positioned on the frame. An alternative configurable bed is formed by orthogonal cross members arranged within a frame. Open spaces between the orthogonal cross members accept anchors. Another alternative configurable bed is formed from a single tile having a plurality of receptacles. A method of configuring a cargo management system allows a dealer employee to compare customer needs to established footprints, alter the footprint design if needed, and generate a cost estimate for the configuration.