Abstract: An apparatus for covering a top of an open container is provided that includes a cover, an arm assembly, and a lock mechanism. The arm assembly can move between a stowed position in which the container top is substantially open to an extended position in which the container top is substantially covered. The lock mechanism can easily and automatically lock the arm assembly in the extended position as part of the container covering operation. The lock mechanism may include a latch and a latch block that cooperate to automatically and mechanically engage and retain a hook mechanism. The lock mechanism may also include an actuator that, when energized, permits the latch to release the hook mechanism.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for covering a top of an open container is provided that includes a cover and an actuator assembly. The actuator assembly may contain rigid linkages the can be pivotally connected and can move a lid assembly and cover over the open container. Movement of the lid assembly over the open container may cause covering and/or uncovering of the open container.

Abstract: An apparatus for covering a top of an open container is provided that includes a cover, an arm assembly, and a lock mechanism. The arm assembly can move between a stowed position in which the container top is substantially open to an extended position in which the container top is substantially covered. The lock mechanism can easily and automatically lock the arm assembly in the extended position as part of the container covering operation. The lock mechanism may include a latch and a latch block that cooperate to automatically and mechanically engage and retain a hook mechanism. The lock mechanism may also include an actuator that, when energized, permits the latch to release the hook mechanism.

Abstract: An apparatus for covering an open container of a vehicle includes a pair of arm assemblies. Each arm assembly has a first arm, a second arm, and a linking assembly coupling the first and second rotatable members to one another. A first actuator is attached to the first arm, and a cover is connected to the second arm. The first arm is driven by the first actuator, which causes the linking assembly to passively drive the second arm and to thereby to substantially vertically raise the cover. The apparatus may include a second actuator for rotating the second arm relative to the first arm for moving the cover across an open top of the open container. A method is also provided for covering an open top container supported by a vehicle.

Abstract: An apparatus for covering an open container of a vehicle includes a pair of arm assemblies. Each arm assembly has a first arm, a second arm, and a linking assembly coupling the first and second rotatable members to one another. A first actuator is attached to the first arm, and a cover is connected to the second arm. The first arm is driven by the first actuator, which causes the linking assembly to passively drive the second arm and to thereby to substantially vertically raise the cover. The apparatus may include a second actuator for rotating the second arm relative to the first arm for moving the cover across an open top of the open container. A method is also provided for covering an open top container supported by a vehicle.

Abstract: An apparatus for covering an open container of a vehicle includes a pair of arms. Each arm has a first aim member and a second arm member. A first rotatable member is pivotally secured to the first arm member. A second rotatable member is pivotally secured to the first arm member and rigidly secured to the second arm member. A linking member couples the first and second rotatable members to one another. A first actuator is secured to the first arm member, a second actuator is secured to the first rotatable member, and a cover is connected to the second arm members.

Abstract: An apparatus for covering an open container of a vehicle includes a pair of arms. Each arm has a first arm member and a second arm member. A first rotatable member is pivotally secured to the first arm member. A second rotatable member is pivotally secured to the first arm member and rigidly secured to the second arm member. A linking member couples the first and second rotatable members to one another. A first actuator is secured to the first arm member, a second actuator is secured to the first rotatable member, and a cover is connected to the second arm members.

Abstract: A container covering system for open truck containers provides enhanced control and maneuverability of a tarp for covering containers of different sizes. A tarp can be extended and retracted under rotary movements of elements of the system to adapt for different lengths of containers. A tarp device includes the tarp, which can move between a stowed position and an extended position to cover the top of an open container. A pair of forward arms are pivotable with respect to a first pivot axis defined on the device. A pair of rear arms are pivotable respect to second pivot axis that is defined on the rear ends of the forward arms. A cross member extends between the end of the rear arms which are opposed to the second pivot axis. The cross member retains the leading end of the tarp and is movable with the rear arms. The rear arms are biased to rotate towards the rear end of the container. A biasing member is configured to rotate the rear arms around the second pivot axis.

Abstract: A container covering system for open truck containers provides enhanced control and maneuverability of a tarp for covering containers of different sizes. A tarp can be extended and retracted under rotary movements of elements of the system to adapt for different lengths of containers. A tarp device includes the tarp, which can move between a stowed position and an extended position to cover the top of an open container. A pair of forward arms are pivotable with respect to a first pivot axis defined on the device. A pair of rear arms are pivotable respect to second pivot axis that is defined on the rear ends of the forward arms. A cross member extends between the end of the rear arms which are opposed to the second pivot axis. The cross member retains the leading end of the tarp and is movable with the rear arms. The rear arms are biased to rotate towards the rear end of the container. A biasing member is configured to rotate the rear arms around the second pivot axis.