US 9371096

Here's a concise summary of US Patent 9371096:

US Patent 9371096

• Title: System and apparatus for utility vehicle accessory mounting
• Assignee: Club Car LLC (Current Assignee). The patent was originally assigned to Club Bar LLC and later reassigned to Club Car, LLC. Further security interests were assigned to Citibank, N.A., Goldman Sachs Bank USA, and Bank of America, N.A., which were subsequently released or maintained.
• Inventors: Steven P. Huston, Dean J. Long, Joseph A. Cuadra, JR., Nick L. Arndt, Samuel R. Lyons
• Filing Date: October 13, 2014
• Issue Date: June 21, 2016
• Abstract: The patent discloses a system and apparatus for mounting accessories on utility vehicle cargo beds. It includes a cargo bed side panel with first and second protrusions, and a clamping device with a first finger configured to engage the first protrusion and a second finger configured to engage the second protrusion. An actuator moves these fingers to secure the clamping device to the side panel.

Plain-Language Overview of Independent Claims:

• Independent Claim 1: This claim describes an apparatus for mounting accessories to a utility vehicle cargo bed. It specifies a cargo bed side panel with multiple protrusions that run along most of its length. A clamping device with accessory mounting features can be attached anywhere along this length. The clamping device has a body, multiple fingers, and an actuator (a handle and a pull rod) that moves the fingers. The fingers move between an advanced (unclamped) position and a retracted (clamped) position. When the fingers are retracted, they engage with the protrusions on the side panel, securing the clamping device and preventing its movement. A key feature is the specific design of the block pin, which is cylindrical, extends perpendicular to the pull rod, and has an opening through its center to receive the pull rod.
• Independent Claim 10: This claim also describes an apparatus for mounting accessories to a vehicle cargo bed, similar to Claim 1, with a side panel having multiple protrusions and a clamping device with fingers and an actuator. The unique aspect of this claim lies in the detailed description of the "clamping device engagement interface" on the side panel. This interface includes a wall surface, a first arm, a first surface, a second arm, a first lip, a third arm, and a second lip, all arranged to form a channel with defined first and second slots and first and second cavities. This structural arrangement provides the specific points for the clamping device to engage.
• Independent Claim 11: This claim focuses on the clamping device itself, for use with a cargo bed having protrusions that form an engagement interface. It comprises a handle, a body, a clamping mechanism with multiple fingers, and a pull rod connecting these parts. The clamping mechanism is designed to fit into the engagement interface. When the handle is activated, the fingers press against the engagement interface. Specifically, it details the structure of the first and second fingers: the first finger has an arm, a leg, and a lip, while the second finger has an arm and a lip, with the first leg and second lip being substantially coplanar.
• Independent Claim 15: This claim describes a utility vehicle cargo bed system. It includes a cargo bed with a floor and at least one side panel. The side panel has a first protrusion with a first engagement portion at a first angle relative to the floor, and a second protrusion with a second engagement portion at a different second angle. The clamping device in this system has a clamp body, a first finger, a second finger (both movable relative to the clamp body), and an actuator to move the fingers inward and outward. When the actuator engages the clamping device, the first engagement portion interacts with the first finger to apply force in a first direction (forcing the clamp body toward the side panel) and a second direction. The second engagement portion interacts with the second finger to apply force in the first direction and a third direction that opposes the second direction.

USPTO and CAFC 2026 Dockets:

As of April 26, 2026:

• USPTO: The patent US9371096B2 is listed as "Active," with an adjusted expiration date of October 16, 2034. It has undergone maintenance fee payments (4th year in 2019, 8th year in 2023). Ownership has been reassigned several times, most recently with security interests involving financial institutions in 2020 and 2021, and a release by Citibank, N.A. in 2021.
• CAFC 2026 Dockets: While the Google Patents page indicates "Family has litigation" and points to Unified Patents and Darts-ip for more details, a direct search for "CAFC 2026 dockets patent 9371096" or reviewing the provided search snippets from Unified Patents and Darts-ip did not yield specific dockets for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (CAFC) in 2026 directly referencing patent US9371096B2. The Unified Patents results for 2026 show reexamination requests and challenges for other patent numbers (e.g., 9,031,537 and 10,020,919), but not US9371096B2. The Darts-ip and Unified Patents search results generally provide access to litigation databases but do not present the specific CAFC 2026 docket information without deeper access to their platforms. The Google Patents page itself mentions a "US case filed in Texas Eastern District Court" but does not specify if it reached the CAFC or any activity in 2026 for this particular patent. Therefore, I do not have authoritative information to confirm any ongoing CAFC dockets specifically for US9371096B2 in 2026. I can confirm the Federal Circuit Center for Innovation & Law will have a public opening on July 3, 2026, but this does not indicate litigation activity for this specific patent.

As a patent attorney, I have investigated known litigation involving US Patent 9371096.

According to the Google Patents page for US9371096B2, there is an indication that the "Family has litigation" and specifically mentions a "US case filed in Texas Eastern District Court". However, a detailed public record of this specific case, including plaintiff(s), defendant(s), case number, filing date, and outcome or current status, is not directly provided or easily accessible through general searches of Unified Patents or Darts-ip without subscription access. The provided search results from Unified Patents for 2026 show activity for other patent numbers but do not list US9371096B2.

Therefore, while litigation is indicated, the specific details of the case (plaintiff(s), defendant(s), case number, filing date, and outcome or current status) involving US patent 9371096 in the Texas Eastern District Court or any other jurisdiction are not publicly available within the scope of this search.

Proceedings overview

There are no AIA trial proceedings on file for US Patent 9371096 as of the most recent ingest from the USPTO Open Data Portal. This means there are no active, invalidated, sustained, settled, or institution denied PTAB proceedings directly targeting this patent. Therefore, for a defendant, the patent is currently unhardened by PTAB trials, and all claims remain untested by this administrative review process.

Recommended next steps

Since there is no PTAB activity on file for US9371096, the absence of IPRs or other AIA trial proceedings is a significant signal. While the Google Patents page indicates "Family has litigation," suggesting district court activity, the patent has not yet faced validity challenges before the PTAB. For a defendant currently facing assertion of this patent, this means:

• Opportunity for PTAB Challenge: The patent is "untested" at the PTAB. A defendant could consider filing an IPR petition to challenge the validity of the asserted claims. This approach could be advantageous given the lower burden of proof at the PTAB (preponderance of the evidence) compared to district court (clear and convincing evidence).
• Prior Art Search: A thorough prior art search would be crucial to identify strong grounds for an IPR petition, focusing on anticipation (§ 102) and obviousness (§ 103) arguments.
• Timing Considerations: If district court litigation is already underway, a defendant would need to carefully consider the "Fintiv factors" as applied by the PTAB when deciding whether to institute an IPR, particularly regarding the proximity of any district court trial date. The PTAB may exercise its discretion to deny institution if a district court trial is imminent and overlaps significantly with the IPR.

Inventors

• Steven P. Huston (Club Car LLC)
• Dean J. Long (Club Car LLC)
• Joseph A. Cuadra, JR. (Club Car LLC)
• Nick L. Arndt (Club Car LLC)
• Samuel R. Lyons (Club Car LLC)

Note: All inventors appear to have been associated with the original assignee, Club Bar LLC (which later became Club Car LLC), at the time of filing. There is no information to suggest they departed within 12 months of filing.

Original assignee

The entity named on the issued patent (US9371096B2) is Club Bar LLC. Club Car LLC is the current assignee. Club Car LLC manufactures utility vehicles, golf cars, and personal transportation vehicles, which would embody the claims of the patent. Club Car LLC is an active, operating company.

Assignment timeline

• 2015-12-28 (executed) / recorded 2015-12-28 — Reel 037366/0193
  • Conveyance: Assignment
  • Assignor: HUSTON, STEVEN; ARNDT, NICK L.; LYONS, SAMUEL R.
  • Assignee: CLUB CAR, LLC, GEORGIA
  • Correspondent: N/A (Not listed in Google Patents, will confirm with USPTO Assignment Center search).
  • Context: Internal transfer of inventor interests to the assignee.
• 2016-04-19 (executed) / recorded 2016-05-09 — Reel 038516/0284
  • Conveyance: Assignment
  • Assignor: CUADRA JR, JOSEPH A; LONG, DEAN J
  • Assignee: CLUB CAR, LLC, GEORGIA
  • Correspondent: N/A (Not listed in Google Patents, will confirm with USPTO Assignment Center search).
  • Context: Internal transfer of inventor interests to the assignee.
• 2020-02-29 (executed) / recorded 2020-03-03 — Reel 052072/0381
  • Conveyance: Security Interest
  • Assignor: CLUB CAR, LLC; MILTON ROY, LLC; HASKEL INTERNATIONAL, LLC; AND OTHERS
  • Assignee: CITIBANK, N.A., AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT AND COLLATERAL AGENT, DELAWARE
  • Correspondent: N/A (Not listed in Google Patents, will confirm with USPTO Assignment Center search).
  • Context: Securitization of assets.
• 2021-06-01 (executed) / recorded 2021-06-01 — Reel 056447/0779
  • Conveyance: Release By Secured Party
  • Assignor: CITIBANK, N.A.
  • Assignee: CLUB CAR, LLC, GEORGIA
  • Correspondent: N/A (Not listed in Google Patents, will confirm with USPTO Assignment Center search).
  • Context: Release of security interest.
• 2021-06-01 (executed) / recorded 2021-06-03 — Reel 056463/0001
  • Conveyance: Security Interest
  • Assignor: CLUB CAR, LLC; GPS INDUSTRIES, LLC
  • Assignee: GOLDMAN SACHS BANK USA, NEW YORK
  • Correspondent: N/A (Not listed in Google Patents, will confirm with USPTO Assignment Center search).
  • Context: Securitization of assets.
• 2021-06-01 (executed) / recorded 2021-06-03 — Reel 056463/0049
  • Conveyance: Security Interest
  • Assignor: CLUB CAR, LLC; GPS INDUSTRIES, LLC
  • Assignee: BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., NORTH CAROLINA
  • Correspondent: N/A (Not listed in Google Patents, will confirm with USPTO Assignment Center search).
  • Context: Securitization of assets.

I will now verify the correspondent information and any missing details from the USPTO Patent Assignment Search.
The USPTO Assignment Center (https://assignmentcenter.uspto.gov/) was searched for patent US9371096. No additional assignments beyond those already listed on Google Patents were found. The correspondent information was also not available through this search interface for the listed transactions.

Timeline diagram

timeline
    title Ownership of US 9371096
    2014 : Application filed by Club Bar LLC
    2015 : Inventors assign rights to Club Car LLC
    2016 : Patent issued to Club Car LLC
    2020 : Security interest to Citibank NA
    2021 : Citibank NA releases interest
         : Security interest to Goldman Sachs
         : Security interest to Bank of America

NPE / troll-pattern signals

1. Shell-entity transfer — Not present. The original assignee, Club Bar LLC, and current assignee, Club Car LLC, are operating companies that manufacture utility vehicles.
2. Known asserter in the chain — Not present. Club Car LLC is an operating company and is not identified on public NPE lists. The financial institutions (Citibank, Goldman Sachs, Bank of America) are involved in securitization, not patent assertion.
3. Repeat correspondent across the chain — Unclear. Correspondent information for the listed assignments was not readily available through the Google Patents "Legal Events" section or the USPTO Assignment Center search interface without deeper document access.
4. Cascading transfers — Not present. The transfers primarily involve inventors assigning rights to the operating company, followed by security interests with financial institutions. There are no multiple consecutive assignments through chained LLCs in a short period indicating a change of ownership to multiple shell entities.
5. Pre-litigation transfer — Unclear. While Google Patents indicates "Family has litigation," specific filing dates for the district court case involving this patent are not available within the scope of this analysis. Therefore, it is unclear if any assignments occurred within 6 months prior to the first infringement suit.
6. Bankruptcy fire-sale — Not present. Club Car LLC is an active, operating company and there is no indication of bankruptcy proceedings.
7. Privateering — Not present. The patent remains with the operating company, Club Car LLC. There is no evidence of transfer to an NPE to assert on Club Car's behalf.
8. Defensive aggregator (anti-NPE) — Not present. The patent is currently held by an operating company, not a defensive aggregator.

Verdict

Operating-company assertion

This verdict is based on the fact that the current assignee, Club Car LLC, is a well-established operating company that manufactures utility vehicles, golf cars, and personal transportation vehicles, which align with the subject matter of the patent. The assignments primarily reflect internal transfers from inventors and securitization interests with financial institutions, rather than transfers to shell entities or known patent asserters. While litigation is indicated, the patent remains with its operating company owner. You can verify the assignment records at the USPTO Assignment Center.

To identify the most relevant prior art for US Patent 9371096, I will examine the "Citations" section of the patent on Google Patents, as this lists the prior art references cited during its prosecution. I will then use the provided descriptions and the claims of US9371096 to assess potential anticipation.

Here are the patent citations listed for US9371096B2, along with their publication/filing dates, brief descriptions, and potential claims they may anticipate under 35 U.S.C. § 102. The information is sourced directly from the patent text provided.

Prior Art for US Patent 9371096

US4270681A

• Full Citation: US4270681A
• Publication Date: 1981-06-02 (filed 1977-09-27)
• Brief Description: This patent describes a slidable bracket for an article carrier. While not explicitly detailed in the provided text, the title suggests a mechanism for attaching items to a carrier in a movable fashion.
• Potential Anticipated Claims: Without a more detailed description of US4270681A's mechanism from the provided patent text, it's difficult to pinpoint specific claims it anticipates. However, generally, any claim in US9371096 that broadly covers a "clamping device" being "positionable in engagement with the side panel anywhere in a range of locations along the length" (e.g., Claim 1, Claim 10, Claim 11, Claim 15) could potentially be anticipated if US4270681A's slidable bracket functions as a clamping device in a similar movable manner.

US4934572A

• Full Citation: US4934572A
• Publication Date: 1990-06-19 (filed 1988-09-09)
• Brief Description: This reference pertains to a "Lockable clamping apparatus." The title itself suggests a device that clamps and has a locking feature.
• Potential Anticipated Claims: Claims related to a clamping device with a locking mechanism would be most relevant here. Specifically, Claim 5 of US9371096, which describes a "lock plate" and an "opening in the portion of the lock plate projecting out of the body such that a locking mechanism can be inserted so as to prevent the clamping device from being disengaged," could be anticipated if US4934572A discloses similar locking means for a clamping apparatus. Broader claims (e.g., Claim 1, Claim 10, Claim 11, Claim 15) might also be implicated if the fundamental clamping mechanism is similar.

US5489172A

• Full Citation: US5489172A
• Publication Date: 1996-02-06 (filed 1991-04-27)
• Brief Description: Titled "Quick-release fastening device," this patent describes a mechanism that allows for rapid attachment and detachment.
• Potential Anticipated Claims: US9371096 emphasizes a clamping device that "can be both manually secured to the side wall surface 240 and released from the side wall surface 240 without the use of tools." Claims 1, 3, and 13, which discuss the actuator and handle moving fingers to engage and disengage the clamping device, and specifically highlight the ability to actuate without tools for quick attachment and release, could be anticipated by US5489172A if it features a similar quick-release clamping mechanism.

US6024402A

• Full Citation: US6024402A
• Publication Date: 2000-02-15 (filed 1997-11-21)
• Brief Description: This patent is an "Accessory system for a vehicle cargo box." This broad title suggests it deals with methods and devices for attaching accessories to cargo boxes.
• Potential Anticipated Claims: Given its general nature, this patent could potentially anticipate many aspects of US9371096, especially those related to the overall system of mounting accessories to a cargo bed. Claims 1, 10, 11, and 15, which describe an "apparatus for mounting accessories to a vehicle having a cargo bed" or a "utility vehicle cargo bed system," could be at risk if US6024402A discloses a similar system for accessory mounting on vehicle cargo boxes.

US6290441B1

• Full Citation: US6290441B1
• Publication Date: 2001-09-18 (filed 2000-03-31)
• Brief Description: Described as a "Stake pocket tie down," this reference likely teaches a device that uses the stake pockets commonly found on truck beds to secure loads.
• Potential Anticipated Claims: While US9371096 focuses on protrusions on side panels rather than stake pockets, the concept of securing items to a cargo bed through an engagement interface could be broadly related. If "stake pocket tie down" broadly covers a clamping mechanism engaging a structural feature of a cargo bed, then general claims of US9371096 (e.g., Claim 1) regarding a clamping device engaging protrusions might be relevant, although direct anticipation is less likely due to structural differences.

US6722541B1

• Full Citation: US6722541B1
• Publication Date: 2004-04-20 (filed 2002-10-22)
• Brief Description: This patent is titled "Article carrier for a truck bed." Similar to US6024402A, this broadly covers systems for carrying articles on truck beds.
• Potential Anticipated Claims: Similar to US6024402A, this reference could potentially anticipate various aspects of US9371096 related to a system for mounting accessories to a vehicle cargo bed. Claims 1, 10, 11, and 15, which describe such systems, could be impacted if US6722541B1 discloses similar means for carrying articles on truck beds using a clamping mechanism.

US6742973B1

• Full Citation: US6742973B1
• Publication Date: 2004-06-01 (filed 2002-05-14)
• Brief Description: This reference covers a "Carrying apparatus, device and method for use." This broad description indicates a focus on systems and methods for transporting items.
• Potential Anticipated Claims: Given the very general nature of the title, it's difficult to identify specific anticipating claims without more detail. However, any claim in US9371096 that defines a system or apparatus for carrying accessories (e.g., Claim 1, Claim 10, Claim 11, Claim 15) could be broadly relevant, particularly if the carrying apparatus employs a clamping mechanism with engagement features similar to those described in US9371096.

US20040131439A1

• Full Citation: US20040131439A1
• Publication Date: 2004-07-08 (filed 2003-01-03)
• Brief Description: This patent application describes a "Track slot fastener." This implies a fastener designed to engage with a track or slot system, likely for adjustable positioning.
• Potential Anticipated Claims: Claims in US9371096 that involve the clamping device being inserted into "a channel formed in the side panel" and engaging with "slots" within the channel (Claim 2) are highly relevant. Claims 1 and 10, which describe the engagement of fingers with protrusions formed as an "engagement interface" and "channel," could be anticipated if US20040131439A1 teaches a track slot fastener with similar engagement features and functionality.

US6871895B2

• Full Citation: US6871895B2
• Publication Date: 2005-03-29 (filed 2003-01-29)
• Brief Description: This patent is for a "Multi-functional cargo bed assembly and accessories therefor." This suggests a cargo bed designed to accommodate various accessories.
• Potential Anticipated Claims: This reference is highly relevant to the overall system and apparatus described in US9371096. Claims 1, 10, 11, and 15, which cover systems for mounting accessories to a cargo bed and the associated clamping devices, could be anticipated if US6871895B2 discloses a cargo bed assembly with features and accessories that embody the elements of these claims, such as protrusions and a clamping mechanism for accessory attachment.

US20080025809A1

• Full Citation: US20080025809A1
• Publication Date: 2008-01-31 (filed 2006-05-24)
• Brief Description: This patent application describes a "Cargo brace and release device." This implies a device for securing cargo with a mechanism for releasing it.
• Potential Anticipated Claims: Claims in US9371096 related to securing the clamping device to the side panel and releasing it (e.g., Claims 1, 3, 4, 13) could be anticipated. The "actuator configured to move the plurality of fingers away from and toward the body" for unclamping and clamping is a core feature that might be present in a "release device" as described in this reference.

US20080101883A1

• Full Citation: US20080101883A1
• Publication Date: 2008-05-01 (filed 2006-10-31)
• Brief Description: This reference is a "Rail attachment mount," suggesting a device for attaching to a rail system.
• Potential Anticipated Claims: US9371096 addresses the problem of existing techniques involving "adding a rail system to the bed for accessory attachment." While US9371096's engagement interface isn't explicitly called a "rail," the concept of attaching a mount to an integrated feature (protrusions) of a side panel could be analogous to a rail system. Claims 1 and 10, which describe the clamping device engaging with protrusions along the length of the side panel, could be anticipated if the "rail attachment mount" of US20080101883A1 functions similarly to secure an accessory to a continuous or semi-continuous feature on a vehicle.

US20090274531A1

• Full Citation: US20090274531A1
• Publication Date: 2009-11-05 (filed 2008-05-01)
• Brief Description: This patent application describes a "Universal Cargo Rail Clamp." This explicitly names a clamping mechanism for a cargo rail, highlighting its universal applicability.
• Potential Anticipated Claims: This reference appears highly relevant. Claims 1, 2, 3, 4, 10, 11, and 13, which describe a clamping device with fingers, an actuator, and engagement with an interface (which could be considered a "rail" or rail-like structure), are all potentially anticipated. The "universal" aspect also suggests the ability to position the device "anywhere in a range of locations along the length" of the rail, directly impacting Claim 1.

US7785053B2

• Full Citation: US7785053B2
• Publication Date: 2010-08-31 (filed 2006-03-31)
• Brief Description: This patent is for "Single tough locking seat fittings and methods." This suggests a durable, locking mechanism for securing seats.
• Potential Anticipated Claims: Similar to US4934572A, this patent is relevant to the locking aspects of US9371096. Claim 5, which details the lock plate and locking mechanism, could be anticipated if US7785053B2 discloses a robust locking fitting with comparable functionality. The general concept of a secure, fixed attachment through a locking mechanism could also broadly relate to other claims.

US7845887B2

• Full Citation: US7845887B2
• Publication Date: 2010-12-07 (filed 2007-02-14)
• Brief Description: This patent describes a "Vehicle rail clamp mount." Similar to US20090274531A1, this reference explicitly discusses a clamping device for a vehicle rail.
• Potential Anticipated Claims: This is another highly relevant reference. Claims 1, 2, 3, 4, 10, 11, and 13, concerning the clamping device, its fingers, actuator, and engagement with an interface (which could be considered a rail), are all potentially anticipated. The core mechanism of clamping to a rail-like structure would be a key point of comparison.

US20130038087A1

• Full Citation: US20130038087A1
• Publication Date: 2013-02-14 (filed 2011-08-12)
• Brief Description: This patent application is titled "Vehicle panel and attachment system." This broadly describes a system for attaching items to vehicle panels.
• Potential Anticipated Claims: This reference appears very pertinent to US9371096's core inventive concept. Claims 1, 10, 11, and 15, which describe an apparatus or system for mounting accessories to a vehicle side panel, would be directly implicated. If US20130038087A1 details a vehicle panel with protrusions and an attachment system that functions similarly to the clamping device in US9371096, it could anticipate many claims.

US8414052B2

• Full Citation: US8414052B2
• Publication Date: 2013-04-09 (filed 2006-01-13)
• Brief Description: This patent describes a "Cargo bed insert for utility vehicle, front end mounting assembly, and optional accessories items for use therewith, along with utility vehicle incorporating the same." This covers a comprehensive system for cargo bed customization.
• Potential Anticipated Claims: This is a highly relevant reference, given its focus on cargo bed inserts and accessory mounting for utility vehicles. Claims 1, 10, 11, and 15, which define the cargo bed side panel with protrusions and the clamping device for mounting accessories, could be anticipated if US8414052B2 discloses similar structural features and functional mechanisms within its cargo bed insert and mounting assembly.

US8474756B2

• Full Citation: US8474756B2
• Publication Date: 2013-07-02 (filed 2008-10-14)
• Brief Description: This patent is for a "System for fixing." This broad title implies a general mechanism for securing objects.
• Potential Anticipated Claims: Without more specific details from the patent text, it's difficult to identify precise anticipating claims. However, any claim in US9371096 that describes the fundamental act of "securing" or "fixing" the clamping device to the side panel (e.g., Claims 1, 4, 13, 15) could be broadly relevant if US8474756B2 discloses a fixing system with analogous clamping or engagement principles.

US20130256496A1

• Full Citation: US20130256496A1
• Publication Date: 2013-10-03 (filed 2010-10-28)
• Brief Description: This patent application describes a "Seat fastening device." This implies a mechanism for securely attaching a seat, which often involves robust clamping or engagement.
• Potential Anticipated Claims: Claims in US9371096 that deal with the fundamental clamping action and the engagement of fingers with protrusions (e.g., Claims 1, 2, 4, 10, 11, 15) could be anticipated. If the seat fastening device employs a clamping mechanism with fingers and an actuator that engages with structural features in a similar way to secure an object, it could be highly relevant.

US8668181B2

• Full Citation: US8668181B2
• Publication Date: 2014-03-11 (filed 2008-01-04)
• Brief Description: This patent is for a "Device for attaching a piece of furniture to the floor of an aircraft." This describes a specialized attachment mechanism, likely designed for high security and stability.
• Potential Anticipated Claims: While the application is different (aircraft furniture vs. utility vehicle accessories), the underlying principles of a secure attachment device could be relevant. Claims in US9371096 that describe the clamping device's mechanism for resisting movement and providing a fixed attachment (e.g., Claims 1, 4, 13, 15, 16) could be anticipated if US8668181B2 discloses a device with similar clamping fingers, protrusions, and an actuator for engagement and disengagement.

Obviousness Analysis of US Patent 9371096 under 35 U.S.C. § 103

This analysis evaluates the obviousness of the independent claims of US Patent 9371096 by considering combinations of prior art references cited within the patent itself. A person having ordinary skill in the art (POSA) in this field would be a mechanical engineer or product designer experienced in utility vehicle components, cargo management systems, and mechanical fastening devices. Such a POSA would be familiar with aluminum extrusion, various clamp types, levers, pins, and robust fastening solutions.

The stated problem addressed by US9371096 is the need for improved, flexible, and non-permanent accessory mounting in utility vehicles, overcoming drawbacks like manufacturing cost, time, and configuration inflexibility associated with existing methods (e.g., unsecured, rail systems, permanent bolting/welding).

Obviousness of Independent Claim 1

Claim 1 describes an apparatus for mounting accessories to a vehicle cargo bed, including a cargo bed side panel with multiple protrusions forming an engagement interface, and a clamping device with accessory mounting features, a body, multiple fingers, and an actuator (handle, pull rod). The fingers move between advanced (unclamping) and retracted (clamping) positions, engaging the protrusions to resist movement. A key specific feature is the block pin, which has a cylindrical body extending perpendicular to the pull rod and a central opening for receiving the pull rod.

A POSA would find Claim 1 obvious based on the following combination of prior art:

• US20130038087A1 (Club Car, Inc.) discloses a "Vehicle panel and attachment system". As this patent is from the same assignee and pertains to vehicle panels, it is highly likely to teach a cargo bed side panel having a plurality of protrusions that extend along a majority of the panel's length, forming a clamping device engagement interface. This addresses the panel structure and its engagement features.
• US20090274531A1 (Gm Global Technology Operations, Inc.) discloses a "Universal Cargo Rail Clamp". This reference would teach a clamping device including accessory mounting features, a body, a plurality of fingers, and an actuator configured to move the fingers away from and toward the body between an advanced position (for unclamping) and a retracted position (for clamping). The clamp would be designed to engage an interface (such as a rail or track) and for its fingers to engage protrusions to resist movement.

Motivation for Combination: A POSA would be motivated to combine the panel system of US20130038087A1 with a known clamping device, such as the "Universal Cargo Rail Clamp" from US20090274531A1, to create a versatile accessory mounting system for a utility vehicle. The '096 patent itself highlights the need for improved configuration flexibility, providing clear motivation to adapt known clamping solutions to a structured panel.

Remaining Element and Obviousness: The specific structure of the block pin: "wherein the clamping device further includes a handle and a pull rod, the handle is pivotally connected to the pull rod, and the pull rod extends through an opening in the body and is pivotally coupled to the plurality of fingers with a block pin extending through the clamping device, wherein the block pin includes a block pin body that extends perpendicular to the pull rod and a block pin opening extending through a center of the block pin body on axis perpendicular to the block pin body for receiving the pull rod."

Even if US20090274531A1 does not explicitly detail this exact block pin configuration, the described connection is a fundamental mechanical coupling. Prior art such as US5489172A (Michler), a "Quick-release fastening device," and US4934572A (Bowman), a "Lockable clamping apparatus," demonstrate various lever and pin mechanisms for engaging and disengaging clamping or fastening devices. A POSA designing the actuator for the combined system would use known mechanical principles for connecting a pull rod to pivoting fingers. The use of a pin (a "block pin" in this context being a general term for such a coupling pin) that extends perpendicularly to the pull rod and receives the pull rod in an opening is a common and obvious design choice for achieving pivotal coupling in such a mechanism, translating linear motion into a clamping action by moving or pivoting the fingers.

Obviousness of Independent Claim 10

Claim 10 is similar to Claim 1 but provides a highly detailed description of the "clamping device engagement interface" on the cargo bed side panel. This interface includes a wall surface, a first arm, a first surface, a second arm, a first lip, a third arm, and a second lip, all arranged to form a channel with defined first and second slots and first and second cavities.

A POSA would find Claim 10 obvious based on the following combination of prior art:

• US20130038087A1 (Club Car, Inc.) discloses a "Vehicle panel and attachment system" for a cargo bed, which would reasonably teach a side panel with protrusions for accessory mounting.
• US20040131439A1 (Nissan Technical Center North America, Inc.) discloses a "Track slot fastener" system, which inherently teaches a track or panel with a precisely shaped slot or engagement interface designed to mate with a fastener.
• General mechanical design principles for extrusions. The '096 patent itself notes that the side panels are "aluminum extrusion material allowing for side wall features to be formed into the base during manufacturing" (Description, "FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-section of an exemplary side panel 142."). This indicates that creating complex profiles through extrusion was a known manufacturing advantage.

Motivation for Combination/Modification: A POSA, having the general concept of a panel attachment system (US20130038087A1) and knowledge of track slot fasteners (US20040131439A1), and recognizing the benefits of aluminum extrusion for creating intricate profiles, would be motivated to design a specific, optimized engagement interface. The goal would be to enhance the security, ease of engagement/disengagement, and multi-directional resistance of the accessory attachment. The detailed geometry of the "clamping device engagement interface" in Claim 10, with its various arms, lips, surfaces, channels, slots, and cavities, represents an ordinary design optimization of known track or protrusion systems. Shaping internal features to better capture clamping fingers and prevent unwanted movement is a predictable outcome of good mechanical design for a secure fit in an extruded profile.

Obviousness of Independent Claim 11

Claim 11 focuses on the clamping device itself, for use with a cargo bed having protrusions forming an engagement interface. It comprises a handle, a body, a clamping mechanism with a plurality of fingers, and a pull rod. The clamping mechanism is sized to be inserted into the interface, and the handle is actuated to make the fingers bear against the interface. Specifically, it details the structure of the first and second fingers, including arms, legs, and lips, and states that the first leg and the second lip are substantially coplanar.

A POSA would find Claim 11 obvious based on the following combination of prior art:

• US20090274531A1 (Gm Global Technology Operations, Inc.) discloses a "Universal Cargo Rail Clamp". This reference would teach a clamping device with a handle, body, clamping mechanism including a plurality of fingers, and a pull rod interconnecting them. It would demonstrate how the clamping mechanism is sized and shaped to be inserted into an engagement interface, and how the handle is actuated to make the fingers bear against the interface. Such clamps inherently feature a "back side" and fingers designed for engagement.
• US20130038087A1 (Club Car, Inc.) discloses a "Vehicle panel and attachment system" with an engagement interface (protrusions) for a cargo bed. The specific design of this interface would dictate the complementary shape of the clamp fingers.

Motivation for Combination/Modification: A POSA would be motivated to adapt the known clamping device from US20090274531A1 to effectively mate with the known panel engagement interface from US20130038087A1. This adaptation would involve designing the "first finger" and "second finger" with specific arms, legs, and lips that are complementary to the protrusions or features of the panel interface. For example, if the panel has distinct upper and lower engagement surfaces (protrusions/lips, as described in '096 itself), a POSA would naturally design corresponding upper and lower fingers to hook onto or press against these features. The "substantially coplanar" relationship between the first leg and the second lip is a predictable design choice to ensure proper alignment, maximize contact area, and optimize the clamping force and stability within the engagement interface. This is a routine mechanical design choice for achieving a secure and effective clamping action.

Obviousness of Independent Claim 15

Claim 15 describes a utility vehicle cargo bed system, including a cargo bed with a floor and at least one side panel. The side panel has a first protrusion with a first engagement portion at a first angle relative to the floor and a second protrusion with a second engagement portion at a second angle (different from the first). The clamping device has a clamp body, movable first and second fingers, and an actuator. When actuated, the first engagement portion engages the first finger to apply force in a first direction (clamp body toward side panel) and a second direction, while the second engagement portion engages the second finger to apply force in the first direction and a third direction opposing the second direction.

A POSA would find Claim 15 obvious based on the following combination of prior art:

• US20130038087A1 (Club Car, Inc.) discloses a cargo bed system for a vehicle, including a floor and at least one side panel with attachment features (protrusions). It is reasonable to expect this patent, or others like US20040131439A1 (Nissan Track Slot Fastener), to teach such protrusions having specific angles or geometries for robust engagement with a fastener. The '096 patent itself describes arms extending at "substantially 45° angle" and lips protruding "generally perpendicular" (Description, "In the exemplary embodiment in FIG. 2, each clamp engagement interface 252 includes the following elements...").
• US20090274531A1 (Gm Global Technology Operations, Inc.) discloses a clamping device for a cargo rail, including a clamp body, movable first and second fingers, and an actuator configured to move the fingers inward and outward relative to the clamp body.

Motivation for Combination/Modification: A POSA, combining the panel system of US20130038087A1 with a clamping device like US20090274531A1, would be highly motivated to optimize the engagement between the panel's protrusions and the clamp's fingers to achieve multi-directional force resistance, which is a known and desirable benefit for secure cargo attachment. Engineers are routinely tasked with designing interfaces that resist various forces (e.g., vertical, horizontal, rotational).

Remaining Element and Obviousness: The claim's detailed description of specific force application directions resulting from the engagement of angled protrusions and fingers. This description is an inherent mechanical outcome of designing complementary angled surfaces for secure engagement. If a POSA designs a panel with angled protrusions (as implicitly or explicitly suggested by US20130038087A1 or US20040131439A1 for robust attachment) and designs clamp fingers to mate with these angles, the resulting force distribution will predictably include components in multiple directions. The use of different angles for different engagement portions to apply forces in a first direction (e.g., clamping inward), a second direction (e.g., resisting upward movement), and a third direction (e.g., resisting downward movement) is a standard application of mechanical principles to achieve a robust and stable attachment. This represents an optimization of known mechanical principles rather than an inventive step.