Spring Patents (Class 296/113)
  • Patent number: 8186740
    Abstract: The present invention is a cable tonneau system having at least one frame assembly selectively mounted to a vehicle, and at least one bow portion having a plurality of links pivotally connected to the frame assembly. Also included is a cover operatively connected to the frame assembly and the bow portion for concealing a storage area of the vehicle. The frame assembly and the plurality of links are operable to be pivoted between a stowed position and a deployed position. The cover is positioned to expose the storage area of the vehicle when the frame assembly and the plurality of links are in the stowed position. The cover conceals the storage area of the vehicle when the frame assembly and the plurality of links are in the deployed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Magna International, Inc.
    Inventors: Keijo J. Huotari, Eric Hanson, Stephen J. Lewis, Duane C. Junkin
  • Patent number: 8056957
    Abstract: A convertible top includes a linkage assembly that is movable between an extended position and a retracted position, with a mid position defined therebetween. A spring system assists movement of the linkage assembly from the extended position to the mid position and also from the retracted position to the mid position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Wilhelm Karmann GmbH
    Inventors: Frank Neubrand, Ryan Mitchell, Wolfgang Richter, Holger Schramm, Sven Hollenbeck
  • Patent number: 5556156
    Abstract: Disclosed is a utility truck bed cover which consists of a rigid frame section which supports a flexible tarpaulin section. The frame section comprises a plurality of bow-shaped members arranged in spaced parallel arrangement which pivot longitudinally to allow stretching of the tarpaulin. The frame members are segmented to allow detachment for storage and shipment. The frame members may also be mounted in the side wall apertures of the truck by means of a unique clamping arrangement. The frame members may also be mounted on wheels on a longitudinal track to facilitate collapsing the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1996
    Inventor: Alan J. E. Kirk