Multiple Sections Hinged Together Patents (Class 296/100.09)
  • Patent number: 6899372
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Inventor: William Bruce Keller
  • Patent number: 6883855
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: Diamondback Automotive Accessories, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew Chverchko, Ethan D. Wendle
  • Patent number: 6846032
    Abstract: A covering for the cargo area (3) of a motor vehicle (1), especially for the cargo area (3) of a pick-up truck, having a roll-up element (2) which is opened for loading the cargo area (3) and which can be partially or completely closed when it is desired that the cargo area (3) be covered. The roll-up element (2) has interconnected louvers (4) which are outwardly arched and can be guided at its lateral sides by guide elements (10, 11) with recesses (12) for receiving the roll-up element (2). Additionally, the guide elements (10, 11) can have contact elements (15) for applying outwardly directed pressure to the roll-up element (2), the contact elements having a low friction top surface (16) to facilitate sliding or rolling of the roll-up element over it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Assignee: Webasto Vehicle Systems International GmbH
    Inventors: Francois de Gaillard, Michael Kölbl, Peter Mitterbauer, Martin Pollak, Thomas Rudolph
  • Patent number: 6824190
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Inventor: Steven M. Rogers
  • Patent number: 6802553
    Abstract: The floral carrier for truck bed is a hollow truck bed cover having a front section and a rear section capable of rotating upward and towards the front section to provide access to the storage area formed by the cover. The rear section of the cover would angle rearward and slightly upward from the front section of the cover. A hand grasp extending from the rear section would facilitate its upwards rotation. The cover would feature multiple low profile bars along the tops of both sections and to which floral arrangements could be attached. The cover would be attached to the truck bed with a set of clips formed to interact with existing hardware in the bed of a pickup truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Inventor: Virgil L. Sanders
  • Publication number: 20040189039
    Abstract: In a hard top vehicle roof comprising front and rear roof parts movable by an operating mechanism between a closed position, in which the roof parts cover an interior vehicle space, and an open position, in which they are deposited in a rear vehicle storage compartment, the rear roof part includes a window supported on the rear roof part by a four link mechanism having two window links pivotally connected with one of their ends to the rear roof part and with their opposite ends to the rear window, and a control lever connected to the front roof part for controlling the movement of the rear window relative to the rear roof part during movement of the roof parts between the closed and the open positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2003
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Inventor: Tobias Wagner
  • Patent number: 6783169
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: Webasto Sunroofs, Inc.
    Inventors: Craig T. Marx, Thomas J. Apfel, II, Nicanor P. Cantu, III, Thomas J. Mack, Francois De Gaillard
  • Publication number: 20040160083
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Applicant: WEBASTO SUNROOFS, INC.
    Inventors: Craig T. Marx, Thomas J. Apfel, Nicanor P. Cantu, Thomas J. Mack, Francois De Gaillard
  • Patent number: 6769731
    Abstract: A cargo cover is provided for a cargo compartment of a vehicle. The cargo cover includes first and second panels configured to cover the cargo compartment. Each panel has a top surface. First and second rails are mounted to the top surface of the first panel, and third and fourth rails are mounted to the top surface of the second panel. The first rail is pivotally connected to the third rail by a first hinge, and the second rail is pivotally connected to the third rail by a second hinge. The first panel is pivotable to a folded position over the second panel. In the folded position, the first rail rests against the third rail and the second rail rests against the fourth rail so that the top surfaces do not touch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2004
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Matthew J. Myers, Paul L. Yetter
  • Patent number: 6623062
    Abstract: 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. A common truck bed cover includes, but is not limited to, a fiberglass panel that overlies the truck bed. The cover is typically 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 linear track upon which a trolley is guided. One end of an actuator arm is pivotally coupled to the trolley. The power assisted cover actuator is secured to the inside surface of a side wall of the truck bed proximal to the opening end of the cover and distal to the hinge coupling. The linear track is positioned at an angle to the horizontal extending in an upward direction towards the hinged coupling. The other end of the actuator arm is pivotally coupled to the inside of the cover. A drive means for translating the trolley along the linear track is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Inventor: Drew Hoffman
  • Patent number: 6588825
    Abstract: A diverter for diverting rain water and inhibiting it from leaking into a cargo box of an automotive vehicles, such as a pick-up truck. The diverter is positioned below a front rail of a tonneau cover frame and includes a horizontal portion extending along the length of the front rail of the tonneau cover frame. A plurality of ribs in a top of the horizontal portion define channels for diverting rain water. The diverter includes a vertical portion coupled to the horizontal portion and adapted to be positioned adjacent to a storage container. Preferably, a width of the horizontal portion is such to accommodate a range of different sized storage containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Inventor: Donald G. Wheatley
  • Patent number: 6582006
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a trunk lid cover for the bed of a pickup, pivotally attaching to the bed of the pickup bed near the cab with piston lifters attaching the cover to the sides of the pickup to apply force pushing the cover upwards when lifted, the cover extending to the tailgate section of the pickup bed, replacing the tailgate. The cover engages the tailgate attaching mechanismk of the pickup to form a secure closure, with the vertical portion of the cover including a hinged license plate attachment under which a keyed or coded security lock is located, with running lights and accent lights which integrate with the electrical system of the pickup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Inventor: Kelly Burch
  • Patent number: 6572174
    Abstract: The structure illustrates is an articulating cover for the bed of a vehicle which includes a hinge connecting a first portion and a second portion and which can articulate as the cover is raised. This configuration provides a stable isolation to area over and both in and above the truck bed area. A higher level of articles can be stored in the truck bed area and still remain partially covered with the first portion providing a vertical shield from wind and shade. The truck bed can also accommodate passengers while provide shade both from the front vertical portion and the second portion which remains horizontal. The second attribute enables the truck bed to be converted into a comfort area especially amenable to sitting, relaxing and enjoying a view, tailgating and other activities involving the truck bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Inventors: Javier Hernandez, Alfredo Dominguez
  • Patent number: 6565141
    Abstract: A cargo bay cover for a pickup truck including at least first and second parallel cargo bay panels hingedly mounted to a frame member spanning the cargo bay of the pickup. The cover includes a unique clamping bracket for attaching the frame member to the side rails of the pickup. A curved wind seal member is mounted on the top of the sides of the bed and includes a first seal mounted between the edge of the panels and the wind seal member, and a second seal mounted between the bottom surface of the panels and the wind seal member. The wind seal is mounted to a stake pocket of the truck with a universal stake-pocket mounting nut. The cover further includes lock mechanism recessed below the top surface of the cargo bay panel so that a key in the lock mechanism is below the top of the cover. The lock mechanism includes universal lock catch adjustable on two axes to hold the cover in a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Assignee: Steffens Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles J. Steffens, Scott P. Crossman
  • Publication number: 20030057725
    Abstract: The structure illustrates is an articulating cover for the bed of a vehicle which includes a hinge connecting a first portion and a second portion and which can articulate as the cover is raised. This configuration provides a stable isolation to area over and both in and above the truck bed area. A higher level of articles can be stored in the truck bed area and still remain partially covered with the first portion providing a vertical shield from wind and shade. The truck bed can also accommodate passengers while provide shade both from the front vertical portion and the second portion which remains horizontal. The second attribute enables the truck bed to be converted into a comfort area especially amenable to sitting, relaxing and enjoying a view, tailgating and other activities involving the truck bed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2001
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Inventors: Javier Hernandez, Alfredo Dominguez
  • Patent number: 6527326
    Abstract: A tonneau cover assembly is securable to a vehicle having a cargo bed defined by a pair of opposing sidewalls extending between a fixed forward wall and a movable rear tailgate. The tonneau cover assembly includes a plurality of rigid panels. The panels are securable to the sidewalls for covering the cargo bed. An attachment bracket couples one of the panels to the tailgate to provide a loading ramp that extends between the cargo bed and ground. The tonneau cover assembly includes at least one elongated stiffener bracket that is attachable to the plurality of panels. The elongated stiffener bracket locks the panels in the ramp position during use as a loading ramp to the cargo bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Inventor: Jack V. Henderson
  • Patent number: 6527330
    Abstract: A cargo bay cover for a pickup truck including at least first and second parallel cargo bay panels hingedly mounted to a frame member spanning the cargo bay of the pickup. The cover includes a unique clamping bracket for attaching the frame member to the side rails of the pickup. A curved wind seal member is mounted on the top of the sides of the bed and includes a first seal mounted between the edge of the panels and the wind seal member, and a second seal mounted between the bottom surface of the panels and the wind seal member. The wind seal is mounted to a stake pocket of the truck with a universal stake-pocket mounting nut. The cover further includes lock mechanism recessed below the top surface of the cargo bay panel so that a key in the lock mechanism is below the top of the cover. The lock mechanism includes universal lock catch adjustable on two axes to hold the cover in a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Steffens Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles J. Steffens, Scott P. Crossman
  • Patent number: 6520559
    Abstract: A cargo bay cover for a pickup truck including at least first and second parallel cargo bay panels hingedly mounted to a frame member spanning the cargo bay of the pickup. The cover includes a unique clamping bracket for attaching the frame member to the side rails of the pickup. A curved wind seal member is mounted on the top of the sides of the bed and includes a first seal mounted between the edge of the panels and the wind seal member, and a second seal mounted between the bottom surface of the panels and the wind seal member. The wind seal is mounted to a stake pocket of the truck with a universal stake-pocket mounting nut. The cover further includes lock mechanism recessed below the top surface of the cargo bay panel so that a key in the lock mechanism is below the top of the cover. The lock mechanism includes universal lock catch adjustable on two axes to hold the cover in a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Assignee: Steffens Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles J. Steffens, Scott P. Crossman
  • Patent number: 6439639
    Abstract: A trailer hitch enclosure device for providing an opening for a trailer hitch while covering a truck bed. The trailer hitch enclosure device includes a base support including a first elongate member and a second elongate member attached together. The first elongate member is positioned on top edges of and extending between side walls of the truck bed and the second elongate member abuts a top edge of a back wall of the truck bed. Four panels are hingedly coupled to the base support, such that a back pair is coupled to the second elongate member and a second pair is coupled to the first elongate member. The panels have a size adapted for collectively covering the truck bed. The panels attached to the first elongate member have a slot therein facing each other and defining an opening for receiving the hitch of a fifth wheel trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Inventor: Wayne V. Branting
  • Patent number: 6435594
    Abstract: A transformer cargo cover for a vehicle having an open cargo bed area includes a first and second lower panel each having an outside surface and a first and second upper panel each carried by and overlapping a predetermined portion of the outside surface of a corresponding lower panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert George Ekonen, Bruce Wohlfield
  • Patent number: 6428079
    Abstract: A foldable canopy that, when unfolded, encloses the rear section of a motor vehicle. The canopy comprises two folding, longitudinally aligned canopy members pivotally connected to the opposite sides of the motor vehicle. Each canopy member includes a lower planar member pivotally connected with hinges. The upper and lower planar members are selectively stowed in a stacked, vertical position along the outer sides of the motor vehicle. During use, the lower planar member is raised into a vertical orientation and the upper planar members are extended transversely over the center axis of the bed of the motor vehicle. Two rotating bracing members connect the two upper planar members to the rear surface of the motor vehicle's cab. A horizontally disposed support member also attaches to the rear surface of the motor vehicle's cab to support the front edges of the upper planar members. A water resistant seal is created between the adjoining edges of the upper planar members to prevent water leakage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Inventor: Bryce Van Dyke
  • Patent number: 6422635
    Abstract: A cargo bay cover for a pickup truck including at least first and second parallel cargo bay panels hingedly mounted to a frame member spanning the cargo bay of the pickup. The cover includes a unique clamping bracket for attaching the frame member to the side rails of the pickup. A curved wind seal member is mounted on the top of the sides of the bed and includes a first seal mounted between the edge of the panels and the wind seal member, and a second seal mounted between the bottom surface of the panels and the wind seal member. The wind seal is mounted to a stake pocket of the truck with a universal stake-pocket mounting nut. The cover further includes lock mechanism recessed below the top surface of the cargo bay panel so that a key in the lock mechanism is below the top of the cover. The lock mechanism includes universal lock catch adjustable on two axes to hold the cover in a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: Steffens Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles J. Steffens, Scott P. Crossman
  • Patent number: 6412847
    Abstract: A motor vehicle, particularly a pickup truck type vehicle, having a rear-side cargo area which is provided with a separate cargo space module displaceably supported on the vehicle body such that it can be moved between a rear position which adjoins the rear of the cargo area and a forward position near the motor vehicle cab. The cargo space module can be supported to swing by means of a lever arrangement attached to the motor vehicle body. Preferably, the cargo space module has a fixed bottom, a fixed right-side wall, and a fixed left-side wall and is further provided with a front wall, a rear wall, and a cover, each of which is movable from an open to a closed position adjacent the cargo space module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Assignee: Webasto Vehicle Systems International GmbH
    Inventor: Francois De Gaillard
  • Patent number: 6382699
    Abstract: A bumper for a motor vehicle having a tonneau cover moveable from an opened position to a closed position includes an annular body having an inner surface and an outer surface where the inner surface defines a bore. The bumper also includes a rib extending from a first position on the inner surface to a second position on the inner surface within the bore. The bumper is adapted to be mounted to the vehicle and positioned between the tonneau cover and the vehicle when the tonneau cover is in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: The Budd Company
    Inventor: Mark D. Hanson
  • Patent number: 6352296
    Abstract: A folding cover for a pickup truck bed comprises at least two panels pivotally connected together. An attachment mechanism for the cover restrains the cover from sliding on the pickup truck bed while permitting both panels to be opened. The attachment mechanism comprises a track and follower mechanism interconnecting one panel with the bed, the track and follower mechanism defining an arcuate path that generally follows the arc of a circle having the panel hinge axis as a central axis. One of a track and follower is attached to the pickup truck bed and the other of the track and follower comprises either one element attached to one of the panels or separate elements attached to each of the panels, the track and follower fitting together such that the follower is constrained to follow the arcuate path between open and closed positions of the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2002
    Assignee: Advance Cover Company
    Inventor: John D. Kooiker
  • Patent number: 6338520
    Abstract: A clamp assembly for mounting a tonneau cover on a motor vehicle having a cargo area defined by first and second side walls, an end wall and a tailgate, the side walls having an inner panel and an outer panel includes a fastener, a first coupler plate and a bracket. The first coupler plate has a first end and a second end. The first coupler plate is articulable from an operable position to a disengaged position. The bracket has a generally horizontal rail and a vertical rail. The bracket is adapted for contacting the outer panel of the first side wall and further has a seat pivotally retaining the first end of the first coupler plate. The second end of the first coupler plate is adapted for engaging the inner panel of the first side wall defining a first restraining area between the horizontal rail and the second end of the first coupler plate. A second restraining area between the vertical rail and the second end of the first coupler plate is also defined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2002
    Assignee: The Budd Company
    Inventors: William D. Rusu, Timothy J. Miller, Samuel A. Hochstetler, Robert G. Prince
  • Patent number: 6325439
    Abstract: A storage unit for a truck bed includes a container sized to fit between the truck bed sidewalls. Support portions extend leftward and rightward from the upper corners of the container. The support portions are adapted to rest on the top of the truck bed sidewalls to suspend the container within the truck bed. The container is suspended at or below the plane defined by the support portions. The support portions have a relatively low profile height so that the storage unit is useful in conjunction with a low profile or low silhouette truck bed cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: Steffens Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott P. Crossman
  • Patent number: 6321819
    Abstract: A retractable cover system that folds into a compact storage position which can also be easily removed from the pickup truck box. The inventive device includes a pair of opposing rails attachable to the upper portions of a box of a pickup truck, a front member extending between the pair of rails, a mounting bracket attached to each of the rails for securing the rails within the box, and a cover structure movably positioned between the rails. The cover structure is comprised of a plurality of panels pivotally attached to one another having a set of first rollers and a set of second rollers on opposing sides of the panels that rotatably travel within the rails. A pair of opposing ramp structures are attached to the opposing rails for allowing the set of first rollers to travel downwardly from the rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Inventors: Heath R. Copp, Matthew A. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20010035664
    Abstract: A cargo bay cover for a pickup truck including at least first and second parallel cargo bay panels hingedly mounted to a frame member spanning the cargo bay of the pickup. The cover includes a unique clamping bracket for attaching the frame member to the side rails of the pickup. A curved wind seal member is mounted on the top of the sides of the bed and includes a first seal mounted between the edge of the panels and the wind seal member, and a second seal mounted between the bottom surface of the panels and the wind seal member. The wind seal is mounted to a stake pocket of the truck with a universal stake-pocket mounting nut. The cover further includes lock mechanism recessed below the top surface of the cargo bay panel so that a key in the lock mechanism is below the top of the cover. The lock mechanism includes universal lock catch adjustable on two axes to hold the cover in a closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2001
    Publication date: November 1, 2001
    Applicant: Steffens Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles J. Steffens, Scott P. Crossman
  • Patent number: 6302468
    Abstract: Apparatus 10 to cover the load area of a pick-up truck. The apparatus 10 comprising a number of pivotally interconnected panels 28 extending between a pair of tracks 14. The panels 28 are moveable between a closed position with the panels 28 extending in a generally co-planar manner, and an open position where the panels 28 are folded to lie substantially against each other extending upwardly away from the tracks 14.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Inventor: William David Steadman
  • Patent number: 6299232
    Abstract: According to yet another embodiment, the present invention provides a pickup truck bed cover including a truck bed having side walls, a front end, and an end gate defining the interior of the truck bed; a stationery cover portion shaped to partially cover the truck bed; a moveable portion shaped to cover a remaining part of the truck bed; and a piano hinge extending across the width of the truck bed and connecting the stationary cover and the moveable cover portion. The stationary cover portion includes first quick release toggle clamps arranged around the edges of the stationary cover portion that are configured to releasably engage the side walls of the truck bed from the interior of the truck bed. The moveable portion includes a second quick release toggle clamps arranged around the edges of the moveable cover portion that are configured to releasably engage the side walls of the truck bed from the interior of the truck bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Inventor: Edgar Davis
  • Patent number: 6276735
    Abstract: A toolbox with a built-in-roll-top tonneau cover for installation within an open cargo bed of a pickup truck. The toolbox in one configuration is a rectangular shaped tool-box having in combination a cigarette lighter adaptor and a roll top tonneau cover. The roll-top cover is rotatably mounted and secured within a concealed rear portion of the tool box. A special lock mechanism secures the cover to the tailgate in an extended state which protects concealed items from theft and weather. The roll top tonneau is uniquely formed by a plurality of successive and interconnected slats via a reinforced rubber connecter assembly. Each of the plurality of slats is attached to a first and second, respective adjoining edge by a successive or adjacent slat. The adjoining edges are formed of a first and second tapered channel for fictionally securing the reinforced rubber connector assembly therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Inventor: Jedd Champion
  • Patent number: 6227602
    Abstract: A cargo cover for covering an open cargo box of a pick-up truck comprising a pair of similar pivotally connected panels extending from a forward portion of the cargo box to a rearward portion of the cargo box. Each of said panels is formed from a pair of thin spaced apart metal sheets joined together by folding an outer portion of one of the sheets over an outer portion of the other of the sheets. The panels are pivotally connected with a linear hinge which substantially extends across the full width of the cover. Several embodiments for locking the panels to the pick-up truck are disclosed. In one embodiment, the cover is locked by engaging thin transverse rods with strikers which are attached to opposite sides of the pick-up truck. In a second embodiment, a “pull” type solenoid mounted on a panel engages a plunger with a striker mounted on the pick-up truck. In a third embodiment, a single key lock unlocks the front and rear panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventor: Donald E. Bogard
  • Patent number: 6217103
    Abstract: A pickup truck cargo bed tonneau cover (30) includes cover panels (32, 34) and a cargo bed partition (50) mounted on a common hinge to suspend the partition (50) beneath the tonneau cover and divide the cargo bed (14) into individual compartments (14a, 14b). The cargo bed/partition includes fasteners (60) to releasably secure the partition (50) in an upright position beneath the tonneau cover and to permit swinging movement of the partition, when released, about the hinge out of the way to accommodate large loads in the cargo bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephanie Stella Schultz, Bert Theodore Swanson, Colleen Marie Hoffman, Jack V. Giles
  • Patent number: 6176541
    Abstract: A truck bed cover includes a pair of channels, each channel having an inwardly directed and outwardly directed receiving channel there along, slidably engaged on inwardly directed flanges of the side panels of the truck bed. At least one cover panel is then slid forwardly between the inwardly directed receiving channels of the channels on the flanges to cover the truck bed. A connector member which extends between the channels is utilized to interconnect cover panels on the truck bed. In trucks having a trapezoidal shaped bed, the channels have openings formed in upper portions of the forward ends thereof, and trapezoidal shaped cover panels are dropped through the opening and then slid rearwardly into engagement with a connector on the rearward most panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Inventor: Stuart D. Hoff
  • Patent number: 6176540
    Abstract: The present invention relates primarily to a removable modular tool and accessories carrier for use on a pickup truck load bed. Each enclosed storage compartment module provides for the organizational arrangement of the contents, having centrally oriented bins suitable for the storage of larger tools and trays for carrying items, such as, replacement parts and materials. A pass-thru provides access to larger items stored on the existing load bed of the pickup truck. Each module is comprised of centrally hinged doors, opening upwardly for ease of access, mating with drop-down hinged doors. The upwardly opening doors are maintained in the open position using frictional snap-spring hold-opens. When both doors are in a closed position, a mechanical locking means provides the secure integrity of the contents being transported. Each module has a cascaded centrally located drip channel to direct the flow rainwater off the top of the cap and to prevent it from collecting by diverting it downwardly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Inventor: John Whittaker