Hinged Patents (Class 296/100.06)
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Patent number: 7642665Abstract: A portable genset with an engine driving a generator mounted to a frame and positioned within an enclosure. The enclosure includes front and rear hoods that are hingedly mounted adjacent opposite ends of the genset. The hoods may be hinged open to permit access to either of the engine or the generator. The genset may also include a tongue with a hitch mounted an outer end permitting the genset to be towed. The tongue may be movable between an extended position and a generally vertical position.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2007Date of Patent: January 5, 2010Inventors: Chad O. Konop, Daniel J. Petrazak
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Patent number: 7537264Abstract: A cover assembly for a pick-up truck cargo box includes first and second rails attachable at the sides of the box. A cover has a first resilient hinge strip connecting a first panel to a second panel and allowing the first panel to pivot relative to the second panel. A third panel is attached to the second panel by a second resilient hinge strip, which allows the second panel to pivot relative to the third panel. The panels are supported on the rails. Latches on the panels hold the panels onto the rails. The cover may be opened by sequentially releasing the latches and folding the panels over onto each other.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2006Date of Patent: May 26, 2009Inventors: Israel Maimin, Julian Maimin
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Patent number: 7527318Abstract: A shelter attachment for a pickup truck includes a lid that is rotatably attached to one side of the pickup truck bed. As the lid is rotated in an opened direction, two wire ropes pull a shelter mast in an upward direction so that the mast is in its fully upright position when the lid is in its fully opened position adjacent to the exterior of the truck bed sidewall. An additional two wire ropes connecting the mast to the opposite truck bed sidewall provide support for the mast and the lid. When in its opened position, the interior surface of the lid forms a sleeping bed for a user. The mast and the wire ropes provide the structure for supporting the canvas or nylon sheeting material for the walls of the shelter.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2006Date of Patent: May 5, 2009Inventor: David W. Geise
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Publication number: 20090102227Abstract: A transformable, aerodynamic cover assembly for pickup trucks which is user switchable between a closed aerodynamic configuration and a fully deployed truck cap configuration. The aerodynamic configuration reduces vehicle wind resistance and drag, thus increasing fuel efficiency. The cover assembly, constructed of rigid materials, comprises a fiberglass shell mounted within the truck bed supporting a rigid, fiberglass cover. Flexible fabric windows suspended from the cover are supported between sidewall hangers and pivoted sleeve tubes. A flexible rear hatch is supported by a transverse hanger. Internal stanchions pivoted to the cover underside foldably switch between deployed, cover-elevating positions an stowage positions. The cover sidewalls and hatch provide a space for human habitation and increased cargo hauling capacity. The cover is detachable from the body of the assembly for hauling oversized cargo.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 29, 2008Publication date: April 23, 2009Inventor: Brett Stuart Herndon
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Patent number: 7513562Abstract: An improved mechanism and method to attach a hard tonneau cover to a vehicle and to raise either just the rear of the cover or raise both the rear and front of the cover. The cover is supported in the raised position by two extending arms in the rear and by two rigid arms in the front. In operation, the rear of the cover is manually raised first and then the front of the cover can be manually raised. One embodiment has clamping telescoping arms for greater strength and to lock the cover in any position. Another embodiment has linear actuators to assist raising the front of the cover. The mechanism is comprised of inexpensively manufactured or off-the-shelf components. It is easily tailored to the numerous vehicle bed sizes, it can handle popular heavy body-colored fiberglass covers and it can be sold and shipped separately from the cover.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2006Date of Patent: April 7, 2009Assignee: Tech-Craft, Inc.Inventors: Stephen C. Hardy, Richard W. Mahoney
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Patent number: 7506913Abstract: A vehicle has a bed and a tailgate openably and closably formed at the rear end of the vehicle. The exterior of the bed is surrounded by side panels. Elongated support members are provided on the inner wall of the side panel. A cover member which covers the bed is placed on the support members. The cover member has lock means for fixing the cover member to the bed. The lock means comprises a first fixation member which fixes the cover member to the bed in a disengageable manner, and a second fixation member which fixes the tailgate to the cover member in a disengageable manner.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2006Date of Patent: March 24, 2009Assignee: Honda Access CorporationInventors: Ryuji Sugimoto, Takashi Iwasaki
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Patent number: 7488027Abstract: A vehicle trunk lid is provided with a lid which can cover on the vehicle trunk. Hinges are provided below the trunk lid for connecting to the side boards of the trunk, while respective hydraulic bars are provided below the two sides of the trunk, including side bars and several horizontal bars, such that the trunk may have a private space for storage purposes, and can be locked up. The support frame can bear and hold large freight.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2006Date of Patent: February 10, 2009Assignee: Yi-Ting Enterprise Ltd.Inventor: Ming-Te Liao
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Publication number: 20090032325Abstract: A motor vehicle with a cargo compartment lid, such as a hinged trunk lid or tailgate, which can be moved between an open position and a closed position around a pivot axis includes, at least one lid position sensor is integrated into the cargo compartment lid in such a way that the arrangement or position of the cargo compartment lid in space can be detected.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2008Publication date: February 5, 2009Applicant: Stabilus GmbHInventors: Timo Frieb-Preis, Andreas Ritter, Christian Schindlatz
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Patent number: 7484788Abstract: A tonneau system for a cargo box of a pickup truck having panels and hinge assemblies pivotally coupling the panels is provided. The hinge assemblies can define gutters to collect fluid and guide the fluid away from the cargo box. The hinge assemblies can include covers between pivoting components which can be configured to reduce friction during pivoting. The panels and hinge assemblies can include features to receive excess adhesive material during assembly.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2006Date of Patent: February 3, 2009Assignee: Extang CorporationInventors: Dylan Calder, Donald G. Wheatley, Donald Edward Wheatley
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Patent number: 7481480Abstract: The truck bed cover which utilizes legs swivelly mounted to the bed of the truck. In an open position, the cover is raised and extends over the rear tailgate of the bed; in a closed position, the cover encloses the bed. The invention utilizes a closing mechanism that enables the user to easily lower the cover from the raised position. The closing mechanism, in one embodiment, serves as a locking mechanism to hold the cover in the raised position.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2006Date of Patent: January 27, 2009Inventor: Gary Thacker
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Publication number: 20080211257Abstract: A support structure for an upper cover of an automobile rear loading platform, which is installed on two sides between a rear end portion of an automobile rear loading platform and an upper cover of the rear loading platform, wherein a base mount is fixed to a bottom plate of the rear loading platform, and a supporting arm is pin connected to the base mount. Another end of the supporting arm is pin connected to a suspension arm, and another end of the suspension arm is pin connected to a fixing mount that enables fixing to a bottom portion of the upper cover. An oil pressure rod is pin configured between the aforementioned supporting arm and the base mount, thereby providing support therebetween. Accordingly, good support and buffering effectiveness is achieved when opening and closing the upper cover.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2007Publication date: September 4, 2008Inventor: Ming-Te Liao
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Patent number: 7419207Abstract: A tonneau cover is arranged to mount on the truck box of a conventional pick up truck for enclosing the box. The cover comprises a pair of panels which are pivotally mounted on respective sides of the box. The panels extend laterally inward such that free ends of the panels engage each other in a closed position. The panels may be pivoted upward and secured in an upward orientation by a pair of rails connected between the free ends of the respective panels in an extended position of the panels. The panels form a pair of side walls in the extended position for supporting large cargo in the box. The rails form a rack in the extended position for supporting additional cargo thereon. A locking device secures the panels in the closed position while a plurality of struts provides additional support to the panels when pivoting the panels between the closed and extended positions.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2006Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: KBS Industries Inc.Inventor: Peter Klein
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Publication number: 20080150317Abstract: A trailer for a motorcycle is provided. In one embodiment, the trailer comprises an aerodynamic body with an undercarriage and hitch arm with a mount for a spare tire under the body, and a mounting rack in front of the body for mounting a removable container. The body comprises an openable top hatch extending from one side of the body to the other to enable access to the storage interior of the body.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 20, 2006Publication date: June 26, 2008Inventor: Richard Kilcrease
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Publication number: 20080093877Abstract: A vehicle trunk lid is provided with a lid which can cover on the vehicle trunk. Hinges are provided below the trunk lid for connecting to the side boards of the trunk, while respective hydraulic bars are provided below the two sides of the trunk, including side bars and several horizontal bars, such that the trunk may have a private space for storage purposes, and can be locked up. The support frame can bear and hold large freight.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 8, 2006Publication date: April 24, 2008Inventor: Ming-Te Liao
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Patent number: 7322633Abstract: A releasable hinge for attaching tonneau covers to the cargo compartment of pickup trucks. The hinge has a hinge mechanism fastened to the bottom or underside of the tonneau cover. A complementary locking tab is mounted to the cab end of the cargo compartment. The hinge mechanism has a plate with a locking tongue that is received in a locking channel in the locking tab to latch the tonneau cover to the cargo compartment. To remove the tonneau cover from the cargo compartment, the tonneau cover is raised above a predetermined angle which disengages the locking tongue from the locking channel. This allows the hinge to separate from the locking tab. Any gas struts are released from their mounting brackets and the tonneau cover can be removed from the cargo compartment.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2006Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Penda CorporationInventors: Jason Zajicek, Kevin Last, Scott Burmeister
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Patent number: 7318618Abstract: A tonneau cover for use on a vehicle bed can have a multilayer construction. The multilayer tonneau cover can include an upper layer and a reinforcing layer. The tonneau cover can also have a lower layer. The reinforcing layer can include a reinforcing beam to reduce the potential for cracking of the upper layer. The reinforcing beam can be elongate and non-intersecting along its path.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2006Date of Patent: January 15, 2008Assignee: CYC EngineeringInventor: Shiawdar Yue
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Publication number: 20070296240Abstract: A shelter attachment for a pickup truck includes a lid that is rotatably attached to one side of the pickup truck bed. As the lid is rotated in an opened direction, two wire ropes pull a shelter mast in an upward direction so that the mast is in its fully upright position when the lid is in its fully opened position adjacent to the exterior of the truck bed sidewall. An additional two wire ropes connecting the mast to the opposite truck bed sidewall provide support for the mast and the lid. When in its opened position, the interior surface of the lid forms a sleeping bed for a user. The mast and the wire ropes provide the structure for supporting the canvas or nylon sheeting material for the walls of the shelter.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2006Publication date: December 27, 2007Inventor: David W. Geise
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Publication number: 20070284907Abstract: A tonneau cover for use on a vehicle bed can have a multilayer construction. The multilayer tonneau cover can include an upper layer and a reinforcing layer. The tonneau cover can also have a lower layer. The reinforcing layer can include a reinforcing beam to reduce the potential for cracking of the upper layer. The reinforcing beam can be elongate and non-intersecting along its path.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 9, 2006Publication date: December 13, 2007Inventor: Shiawdar Yue
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Patent number: 7278674Abstract: A cover for enclosing a cargo box of a pick-up truck which is manufactured from an inventory of common parts. The cover is a pair of rectangular panels pivotally connected with a hinge for rotation about a transverse axis on the cargo box. Each of said panels is bounded by a pair of slender spaced apart side members, a slender inner transverse member and a slender spaced apart outer transverse member. The transverse and side members are cut from unspecified lengths of extruded stock to conform to the length and width of the cargo box. End portions of the transverse and side members are joined with molded plastic elbows to form outer corners. The hinge is covered with a thin rubber seal to prevent water from entering the cargo box. A plurality of slender longitudinal support members between the side members are joined to the inner and outer transverse members with S-clip fasteners. A safety latch limits the opening of an improperly latched cover.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2006Date of Patent: October 9, 2007Inventor: Donald E. Bogard
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Patent number: 7246839Abstract: A hard tonneau cover with a carrying rack (10) for enclosing a pick-up truck bed (24) consists of a roadside frame (20) and a curbside frame (22) with each frame hinged to a side wall of the pick-up truck bed. Each frame includes a top panel (26) and the frames pivot upwardly and outwardly in a clam shell manner for opening. The carrying rack is formed within the cover by utilizing cargo rack arms (42 and 44) that pivot forward above the truck cab and removable cross bars (52, 54 and 56), positioned between the opened roadside and curbside frames provide means for transporting elongated objects above the pick-up truck cab and bed. A gas spring strut (64) is attached between the roadside and curbside frame and the truck bed for maintaining the frames in an open vertical position. A second embodiment duplicates the forward carrying rack and is located at the rear for carrying extended length articles.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2005Date of Patent: July 24, 2007Inventor: Donald E. Nyberg
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Publication number: 20070152466Abstract: A cover for a mobile device (100) includes a main body (10) and a view panel (30). The main body has a view opening (113) formed thereon and a window frame portion (11). The window frame portion has an inner rim (110) defining the view opening. The view panel has an outer rim (31). The view panel is injection molded in the view opening and integrally formed with the main body. The inner rim is engaged with the outer rim.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 20, 2006Publication date: July 5, 2007Applicants: SHENZHEN FUTAIHONG PRECISION INDUSTRIAL CO,.LTD., SUTECH TRADING LIMITEDInventors: Qing Yang, Chia-Hua Chen
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Patent number: 7118159Abstract: A convertible tonneau cover is positionable between a covering configuration wherein the tonneau covers a pickup truck bed and a rack position wherein the tonneau forms a material handling rack. A base frame attaches to and outlines an upper periphery of the truck bed. A pair of door assemblies is pivotally attached to the frame on opposite sides of the longitudinal midline of the frame that runs from the head of the truck bed to the tailgate. Each door assembly pivots between a closed position, flush with the frame and covering the bed, and an open position extending diagonally upwardly from the frame. In the open position each door assembly has kickstands that pivot downward and secure within the frame while brackets connect between the two door assemblies in order to form a material carrying rack.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2006Date of Patent: October 10, 2006Inventor: Gary Randall Andrews
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Patent number: 7093881Abstract: A hard tonneau cover having one or more sections is constructed of a framework of extruded rails with one or more section panels held by molded plastic trim strips installed on perimeter rails included in the framework. The cover is mounted above the cargo box of a pick-up truck by a plurality of striker-latch assemblies on one side of the cargo box, and hinge assemblies on the other side, each having components mounted to the cargo box side walls with universal clamp brackets. The panels are constructed of reinforced corrugated plastic which is covered by a color integrated film. A simplified connector plate is used to connect abutting ends of the rails in the fiamework. A peripheral seal extends down from the perimeter rails in which it is mounted to engage the top of the cargo box side walls and tailgate. Water drainage paths including drainage channels in the rails are provided to eliminate water from the panel surfaces.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2004Date of Patent: August 22, 2006Inventor: William Rusu
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Patent number: 7083218Abstract: A hinge assembly pivotally attaching a tonneau cover panel to a cargo bed of a motor vehicle. The hinge assembly includes an attachment bracket fixedly secured to the cargo bed of the motor vehicle. The attachment bracket defines a slot extending between a closed end and an open end, and the slot includes a pocket disposed adjacent the open end. The hinge assembly also includes a panel bracket fixedly secured to the tonneau cover panel. The panel bracket includes a base and a distal end defining an end aperture. The end aperture is alignable with the slot. In addition, the hinge assembly includes an attachment pin extending through the end aperture and received within the slot for movably securing the panel bracket with the attachment bracket.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2005Date of Patent: August 1, 2006Assignee: Decoma International Inc.Inventor: Jack V. Henderson
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Patent number: 7066523Abstract: A tonneau cover employs a plurality of independently operable panels that extend across the truck bed and are arranged so that the tailgate can be moved between open and closed positions regardless of the positions of the panels. Latch assemblies employ an initiator such that when operated to unlatch the panel, the initiator encourages movement of the panel to an ajar position. The panels are connected by a hinge assembly that includes a biased prop that automatically engages to hold the panel in an open position. There are two different pairs of mounting assemblies wherein a first pair includes two latching surfaces and one mounting location and the other pair includes one latching surface and two mounting locations. A two-way operable seal is employed between adjacent panels to seal the panels regardless of the sequence in which the two adjacent panels are closed.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2004Date of Patent: June 27, 2006Assignee: ASC IncorporatedInventors: Anthony J. Verduci, Brian W. Staley, Abdullah Dagcevizi, Adrian N. Montanaro
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Patent number: 7052071Abstract: A latching and locking system for a cover for the cargo bed of a vehicle having a tailgate. The system includes a cover latch, a first manual operator for releasing the cover latch, and a second automatic operator for automatically releasing the cover latch if the tailgate is moved to its closed position when the cover is closed and locked. The system includes a single cable interconnecting the latch and the first and second operators. The second operator carries a movable tailgate latch. Finally, the system includes a single lock operatively connected to both the first operator and the tailgate latch.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2004Date of Patent: May 30, 2006Assignee: Steffens Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Craig C. Mulder, John M. Arend
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Patent number: 7036861Abstract: A storage box for a cargo bay of a vehicle including a conveyor on which items, e.g., tools and materials, are stored. The conveyor is actuatable to move the items in a pre-selected direction, preferably toward the side or rear of the vehicle cargo bay to provide easy access to the items. In another aspect, the storage box includes fold-out shelving. The shelving includes multiple panels hinged together. A first panel is hingedly connected to an intermediate panel, which is hingedly connected to a second panel, which is pivotally connected to the storage box. The panels are operable in (a) a collapsed mode, where the panels fold substantially vertically against one another, and (b) an extended mode, where the first panel moves outwardly to a substantially vertical position and the intermediate and pivot panel pivot downward to a substantially horizontal position.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2003Date of Patent: May 2, 2006Assignee: Steffens Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Charles J. Steffens, James P. Sheeran
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Patent number: 7021693Abstract: A cover for the bed of a pickup truck provides a front rigid panel fastened to the front wall of the pickup bed, at least one intermediate rigid panel attached to the front rigid panel by a first transverse hinge, and a rear rigid panel attached to the intermediate rigid panel by a second transverse hinge. The rear rigid panel has a tailgate locking lip flaring downwardly and outwardly to prevent the tailgate from opening. In the fully covering position, the pickup bed cover provides a water-resistant, locked cargo area. In the partially covering position, the rear rigid panel and, optionally, the intermediate rigid panel fold forward to permit access to the cargo bed. Another pickup bed cover according to the applicant's invention provides a frontmost rigid panel fastened to a toolbox mounted in the pickup bed, at least one intermediate rigid panel attached to the front rigid panel by a first transverse hinge, and a rearmost rigid panel attached to the intermediate rigid panel by a second transverse hinge.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2005Date of Patent: April 4, 2006Inventor: William Bruce Keller
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Patent number: 6994393Abstract: A trailer including an inner frame that is made of metal, an outer shell that is made of a non-metal and that at least partially surrounds the inner frame, and at least one wheel rotatably secured to the inner frame. In a preferred embodiment, the outer shell is made of a plastic. The inner frame includes a lower frame portion with which the at least one wheel is rotatably secured, and an upper frame portion that supports at least a portion of the weight of the outer shell. Preferably, the upper frame portion includes a middle support member that extends upwardly from the lower frame portion, and a first bar assembly that is hingedly connected to the middle support member. In another embodiment, a second bar assembly is hingedly connected to the middle support member.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2003Date of Patent: February 7, 2006Assignee: U-Haul International, Inc.Inventors: Edward J. Votruba, Patrick W. Breslin, Michael H. Dilgard, David L. Simpson, Thomas F. Bone
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Patent number: 6983975Abstract: A cover system for an open-topped container, such as a transfer trailer, includes a cover carried by a support frame pivotably mounted to the container. The support frame includes a triangular construct at the opposite ends of the container to improve the rigidity of the cover system. A continuous drive shaft extends along the length of the container and is connected to the support frame. A drive assembly rotates the continuous drive shaft to pivot the cover between retracted and deployed positions. The drive assembly is reversible to accommodate covers mounted on either side of the container.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2003Date of Patent: January 10, 2006Assignee: Aero Industries, Inc.Inventor: Michael J. Morrow
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Patent number: 6951363Abstract: The present invention provides a power assisted cover actuator for operating a tonneau cover for an open bed of a truck, such as a pickup truck. The cover is hingably coupled to a distal end of the truck bed adjacent the truck cab. The power assisted cover actuator in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention comprises a track upon which a trolley is guided by a linear actuator. An end of an arm is pivotally coupled to the trolley and the cover. The linear actuator comprises a motor driven drive rod coupled to the trolley that extends to advance the trolley along the track from a lower position to a higher position which raises the arm to push the cover open. Retracting the drive rod reverses the direction of travel of the trolley from a higher position to a lower position lowering the arm and closing the cover.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2004Date of Patent: October 4, 2005Assignee: The Hoffman Group, LLCInventor: Lawrence Andrew Hoffman
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Patent number: 6948758Abstract: A hinge assembly pivotally attaching a tonneau cover panel to a cargo bed of a motor vehicle. The hinge assembly includes a attachment bracket fixedly secured to the cargo bed of the motor vehicle. The attachment bracket defines a slot extending between a closed end and an open end, and the slot includes a pocket disposed adjacent the open end. The hinge assembly also includes a panel bracket fixedly secured to the tonneau cover panel. The panel bracket includes a base and a distal and defining an end aperture. The end aperture is alignable with the slot. In addition, the hinge assembly includes an attachment pin extending through the end aperture and received within the slot for movably securing the panel bracket with the attachment bracket.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2002Date of Patent: September 27, 2005Assignee: Decoma International Inc.Inventor: Jack V. Henderson
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Patent number: 6932412Abstract: A cover for a flatbed trailer comprises two symmetrical halves of an outer shell forming the cover which are secured to respective longitudinal sides of the deck of the trailer for pivoting into an open position in a sideways lateral direction. The front and rear ends of the deck of the trailer are thus unobstructed for loading with ramps as desired.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2004Date of Patent: August 23, 2005Inventor: Vern Paproski
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Patent number: 6929303Abstract: An article storage receptacle is mountable in a truck bed. A storage compartment is supported by a pivotal frame coupled to a moving unit for moving the frame and the storage compartment between a first position overlaying the truck bed to a variably selected second position elevated from the first position opening the interior of the storage compartment to access. A tonneau cover is pivotally mounted on the frame. An article carrier is carried by the tonneau cover.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2003Date of Patent: August 16, 2005Inventor: Thomas M. Sharples
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Patent number: 6899372Abstract: A cover for the bed of a pickup truck provides a front rigid panel fastened to the front wall of the pickup bed, at least one intermediate rigid panel attached to the front rigid panel by a first transverse hinge, and a rear rigid panel attached to the intermediate rigid panel by a second transverse hinge. The rear rigid panel has a tailgate locking lip flaring downwardly and outwardly to prevent the tailgate from opening. In the fully covering position, the pickup bed cover provides a water-resistant, locked cargo area. In the partially covering position, the rear rigid panel and, optionally, the intermediate rigid panel fold forward to permit access to the cargo bed.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2004Date of Patent: May 31, 2005Inventor: William Bruce Keller
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Patent number: 6896313Abstract: A convertible cargo bed cover can function as both a tonneau cover and a cargo bed cap. The cover is raised by motorized elements to be substantially aligned with a roof of a passenger cabin of the vehicle. Side and rear window panels stored inside the cover can be installed to transform the cover to a cap to enlarge available enclosed cargo space. Rear pillars are installed at the rear corners of the tonneau cover in its raised position to complete the installation.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2004Date of Patent: May 24, 2005Assignee: DaimlerChrysler CorporationInventors: Kenneth S Mack, Thomas S Moore, Russell C Fielding
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Patent number: 6883855Abstract: A cover for the rear storage compartment of a pickup truck or similar vehicle having an open top storage compartment, the cover comprised of at least two panels made of a rigid material casing attached to structural members specifically designed to support and transport a significant load placed on top of the cover. At least one panel is substantially and removably secured to the top of the sidewalls of the rear storage compartment by attachment means that does not require drilling into any portion of the vehicle. In addition, all the non-substantially secured panels are lockable, and are hingedly and removably attached to the at least one substantially secured panel, providing secure and easy access to the rear storage compartment. The hinge attachment further allows for each non-substantially secured panel to be removed individually, providing alternative panel configurations for carrying large items.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2003Date of Patent: April 26, 2005Assignee: Diamondback Automotive Accessories, Inc.Inventors: Matthew Chverchko, Ethan D. Wendle
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Patent number: 6857684Abstract: A hard-top convertible roof apparatus is provided. Another aspect of the present invention employs rigid hard-top front and/or rear roof sections. A further aspect of the present invention provides that the outside surfaces of retractable roof sections have a generally vertical orientation when in their open and retracted positions. In yet another aspect of the present invention, a roof structure has diverging peripheral flanges. A first roof flange retains a roof-to-roof weatherstrip and an adjacent second roof flange retains an interior trim panel, in still another aspect of the present invention.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2003Date of Patent: February 22, 2005Assignee: ASC IncorporatedInventor: Randall Worley
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Publication number: 20040245799Abstract: A hard tonneau cover having one or more sections is constructed of a framework of extruded rails with one or more section panels held by molded plastic trim strips installed on perimeter rails included in the framework. The cover is mounted above the cargo box of a pick-up truck by a plurality of striker-latch assemblies on one side of the cargo box, and hinge assemblies on the other side, each having components mounted to the cargo box side walls with universal clamp brackets. The panels are constructed of reinforced corrugated plastic which is covered by a color integrated film. A simplified connector plate is used to connect abutting ends of the rails in the framework. A peripheral seal extends down from the perimeter rails in which it is mounted to engage the top of the cargo box side walls and tailgate. Water drainage paths including drainage channels in the rails are provided to eliminate water from the panel surfaces.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 9, 2004Publication date: December 9, 2004Inventor: William Rusu
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Patent number: 6824190Abstract: A vault for securing the contents a truck bed, including a raised or elevated forward section and multiple, articulated panels arranged to cover the bed of a truck and lock into a closed position.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2003Date of Patent: November 30, 2004Inventor: Steven M. Rogers
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Patent number: 6820915Abstract: A convertible cargo bed cover can function as both a tonneau cover and a cargo bed cap. The cover is raised by motorized elements to be substantially aligned with a roof of a passenger cabin of the vehicle. Side and rear window panels stored inside the cover can be installed to transform the cover to a cap to enlarge available enclosed cargo space. Rear pillars are installed at the rear corners of the tonneau cover in its raised position to complete the installation.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2003Date of Patent: November 23, 2004Assignee: DaimlerChrysler CorporationInventors: Kenneth S Mack, Thomas S Moore, Russell C Fielding
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Patent number: 6814387Abstract: An attaching system for a lift-roof cover pivoting substantially about a fixed forward wall upper edge via application of rear hatch technology of the prior art for conventional cab high covers together with attachment means in the form of linkages. The attaching system for mounting to a load bed supports multiple functions providing convenience in distribution and installation processes; in particular facilitating unmodified use of processes employed for conventional caps with respect to shipping and storage. The system includes unique draw latches incorporating alternate methods for adding reliable function supporting levels of operating convenience demanded for lift-roof applications. Simplified manufacturing adaptation of a conventional cap is supported by pre-assembly of key subassemblies.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2003Date of Patent: November 9, 2004Assignee: Trail-R-Van Inc.Inventor: William Henry Russell Lake
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Publication number: 20040169393Abstract: A hinge assembly pivotally attaching a tonneau cover panel to a cargo bed of a motor vehicle. The hinge assembly includes a attachment bracket fixedly secured to the cargo bed of the motor vehicle. The attachment bracket defines a slot extending between a closed end and an open end, and the slot includes a pocket disposed adjacent the open end. The hinge assembly also includes a panel bracket fixedly secured to the tonneau cover panel. The panel bracket includes a base and a distal and defining an end aperture. The end aperture is alignable with the slot. In addition, the hinge assembly includes an attachment pin extending through the end aperture and received within the slot for movably securing the panel bracket with the attachment bracket.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 18, 2003Publication date: September 2, 2004Inventor: Jack V. Henderson
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Patent number: 6783169Abstract: A cover assembly for a vehicle bed includes first and second cover members and a pair of cover mounts constructed to mount the cover members to the vehicle bed. The cover mounts enable the cover members to be moved between (a) a closed position wherein the cover members extend between the side walls of the vehicle bed to close the upwardly facing opening of the vehicle bed, (b) an open position wherein the cover members extend upwardly from the side walls to uncover the upwardly facing opening of the vehicle bed, and (c) a storage position wherein the cover members are retracted downwardly from the open position into the vehicle bed. At least one motor is operatively connected to the cover members to move the cover members at least between the closed and open positions thereof.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2003Date of Patent: August 31, 2004Assignee: Webasto Sunroofs, Inc.Inventors: Craig T. Marx, Thomas J. Apfel, II, Nicanor P. Cantu, III, Thomas J. Mack, Francois De Gaillard
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Publication number: 20040140689Abstract: In a motor vehicle with an upright rear end, such as a station wagon, a van or an SUV, having a rear loading space with a roof extending over the rear loading space to the upright rear end of the vehicle and a loading opening at the rear end extending from the vehicle floor up to the vehicle roof, the roof includes a rear roof part with a pivotal support at the front end thereof so that it can be tilted upwardly to facilitate access to the loading space and a drive mechanism is provided for operating the rear roof part including releasable coupling means permitting uncoupling of the rear roof part from the pivotal support for transferring the rear roof part into an upright position in the interior of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 2, 2004Publication date: July 22, 2004Inventor: Tobias Wagner
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Patent number: 6764125Abstract: A prop assembly for vehicle bed covers and the like comprises an L-shaped lower arm and a straight upper arm, each of which have a spring mount disposed between opposite ends thereof. The upper and lower arms are pivotally interconnected at adjacent ends in a manner which positions the arms in a vertically aligned relationship. Brackets pivotally connect the lower end of the lower arm with the vehicle bed, and the upper end of the upper arm with the cover. A longitudinally extending spring is disposed in a vertically aligned relationship with the lower and upper arms, and has opposed ends thereof pivotally connected with the spring mounts, such that outwardly extending biasing force generated by the spring assists in lifting the cover from the closed position and retains the cover in the open position.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2002Date of Patent: July 20, 2004Assignee: Bauer Products, Inc.Inventor: Bruce C. Bacon
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Patent number: 6758509Abstract: A pick-up bed space divider includes a device for removably positioning in a pick-up bed. The pick-up bed has a bottom wall, a pair of side walls, and a tailgate. The bottom wall has a pair of wheel wells. The device has a first panel having an upper edge, a bottom edge and a pair of side edges. The bottom edge is selectively abutted against the bottom wall and positioned adjacent to the wheel wells. A second panel has a back edge, a front edge, and a pair of lateral edges. A hinge is attached to and pivotally couples the back edge to the upper edge. The second panel has a width between the lateral edges that is greater than a width between the side walls. The second panel abuts an upper edge of the side walls and the tailgate when the second panel is in a horizontal position.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2003Date of Patent: July 6, 2004Inventor: David C. Spencer
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Patent number: 6755456Abstract: The present invention provides an adjustable mounting assembly for use with a truck having a truck bed cover. Generally, the assembly includes hinge couplings that are detachedly fixed to a truck bed cover support frame. The hinge couplings hingedly attach to a lower hinge bar detachedly secured to the top edge of the truck bed cab wall. The lower hinge assembly provides a support channel for a base portion of first and second L-shaped hinge rails. The support channel allows the installer to adjust the hinge rails to the width of the track bed in which the assembly is being installed. Clamp assemblies are provided to fasten the elongated portions of the hinge rails to the side walls of the truck bed whereby the mounting assembly is secured to the truck bed without having to drill mounting holes. The hingedly attached truck bed cover moves pivotally about a pivot point along the top edge of the truck bed cab wall.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2003Date of Patent: June 29, 2004Inventor: Simon T. Addicott
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Publication number: 20040084928Abstract: A prop assembly for vehicle bed covers and the like comprises an L-shaped lower arm and a straight upper arm, each of which have a spring mount disposed between opposite ends thereof. The upper and lower arms are pivotally interconnected at adjacent ends in a manner which positions the arms in a vertically aligned relationship. Brackets pivotally connect the lower end of the lower arm with the vehicle bed, and the upper end of the upper arm with the cover. A longitudinally extending spring is disposed in a vertically aligned relationship with the lower and upper arms, and has opposed ends thereof pivotally connected with the spring mounts, such that outwardly extending biasing force generated by the spring assists in lifting the cover from the closed position and retains the cover in the open position.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 6, 2002Publication date: May 6, 2004Inventor: Bruce C. Bacon
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Patent number: 6712418Abstract: A tonneau cover system, for covering a pickup truck cargo bed, includes a center panel, two side panels, and accessory hardware for supporting the center panel on the truck bed such that the center panel may be vertically moved thereon, between open and closed positions. In an open position, the center panel is at least partially disposed above the side panels. The cover side panels preferably include seals on inner longitudinal sides thereof, for sealingly engaging the center panel in the closed position thereof. The center panel may be made removable to allow for installation of selected accessory structures, such as camping tents, spare fuel tanks, fifth-wheel trailer connection hardware, or other accessories. The system may, optionally, include a front panel for placement across the entire width of the truck bed forward of both the side and center panels. Where used, the front panel may be made up of a frame and a removable cover plate which fits in the frame.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2001Date of Patent: March 30, 2004Inventor: Michael W. Lathers