Abstract: An improved construction for intermediate bows used in movable tarpaulin systems for open-top truck bodies wherein the ends of the bows are provided with elongated sleeves of a uniform transverse cross-section comprising spaced parallel upper and lower sides joined by semi-circular ends to provide a somewhat elongated oval appearance in cross-section.

Abstract: An improved tarpaulin cover system for truck bodies wherein intermediate portions of the tarpaulin between its ends are slidably secured for longitudinal movement with respect to the truck body on a pair of semi-rigid, non-movable linear fixed support members, the semi-rigid support members being separate and distinct from the movable drive cable by which the lead bow and tarpaulin are moved. The system is adaptable to both truck box and flat deck trailer type bodies. The system according to the present invention makes the tarpaulin system more wind resistant than conventional movable tarpaulin cover systems and provides more safety by maintaining the tarpaulin in position even if the drive cable breaks.

Abstract: An improved tarpaulin cover system for truck bodies wherein intermediate portions of the tarpaulin between its ends are slidably secured for longitudinal movement with respect to the truck body on a pair of semi-rigid, non-movable linear fixed support members, the semi-rigid support members being separate and distinct from the movable drive cable by which the lead bow and tarpaulin are moved. The system is adaptable to both truck box and flat deck trailer type bodies. The system according to the present invention makes the tarpaulin system more wind resistant than conventional movable tarpaulin cover systems and provides more safety by maintaining the tarpaulin in position even if the drive cable breaks.

Abstract: A connector device for the ends of bows used in collapsible tarpaulin cover systems for truck bodies, truck trailers and the like. The connector comprises a plug portion to releasably fit inside the end of a bow, securing means to releasably lock that plug portion in position therein, and a body portion secured to the plug portion to be seated outside the end of the bow and provided with a linear aperture for slidably receiving the semi-rigid linear support means on which the bow is mounted. The connector device permits easy replacement of damaged bows without the need to remove the semi-rigid linear support means from the connector.

Abstract: A cover system according to one aspect of the invention includes a tarpaulin and a series of support rods attached to a longitudinal medial section thereof in spaced parallel relation and arranged to extend transversely of the truck box in the installed condition. A cable system is provided adapted to be installed such that each one of a pair of horizontal reaches of the cable extend along parallel to and above respective ones of the upper edges of the box. The support rods are adapted to be connected at their opposing ends to the respective horizontal reaches of the cable. These rods, save for a final or terminal one of the rods, are arranged to be connected to said reaches of the cable for relative movement therealong. The final rod is adapted to be connected to the tarpaulin and to said reaches of the cable so that movement of the latter can carry the tarpaulin along the upper edges of the box in either direction.

Abstract: Method of operating a quarry area comprises the steps of advancement of excavation such that a central trench is first provided for receiving overburden from adjacent strips to both sides of such trench. When the operation in the quarry is completed, a plurality of elongated spoil ridges are left with the valleys between the ridges providing solid ground for access roads to a further quarry area subsequently opened to one end of the depleted area. The method also facilitates the handling of overburden and transportation of the excavated rock in the existing quarry.