Abstract: A truck bed storage system provides multiple different use configurations, including a cap, a rack, and a bed cover. Elements of the system are reconfigurable to assemble the different use configurations. The system is easily assembled, reconfigured, or disassembled. The system includes a modular frame which connects to the truck bed and is used in the rack and cap configurations. A bed cover is removably attached to the top of the frame in the cap configuration, and connects to the top of the bed in the bed cover configuration. Removable panels attach to the frame in the cap configuration.

Abstract: A truck bed cover may include a top panel and a plurality of side panels. The top panel may be slidably and pivotably connected to each of the side panels. Each side panel may be connected to a truck bed rail. The side panels may be pivotably connected to the truck bed rail, in particular. Each of the top panel and the side panels are configured to selectively move between a tonneau cover configuration and a cap configuration.

Abstract: A railing assembly includes at least one ratcheting post and at least one connection post. The at least one ratcheting post includes at least one ratcheting assembly attached to the at least one ratcheting post for selectively engaging a strap and the at least one connecting post including at least one attachment point for engaging an attachment member on the strap.

Abstract: A rolling tarp deployment system includes a trailer, a bulkhead fixed to the trailer, first and second bows movable along the trailer, first and second tensioning assemblies, and a cover. The first tensioning assembly has a first member secured to the first bow, a second member secured to the bulkhead, and a first actuator configured to engage the first and second members to restrain the first bow to the bulkhead. The second tensioning assembly has a third member secured to the second bow, a fourth member fixed to the trailer, and a second actuator configured to engage the third and fourth members and move the second bow away from the bulkhead. The cover is tensioned when both the first and second members and the third and fourth members are engaged.

Abstract: A container tarping assembly comprises a frame structure. A left spreader assembly and a right spreader assembly adapted to carry a tarp are also provided. The left spreader assembly includes first and second left travelers. The right spreader assembly includes first and second right travelers. The travelers are each movable in reciprocating fashion along a predetermined path between a first limit and a second limit. A plurality of drive mechanisms are respectively associated with the travelers to move the traveler in the reciprocating fashion, each of the drive mechanisms having a bidirectional motor.

Abstract: A vehicle assembly includes, among other things, a cargo bed of a vehicle, a first crossbar spanning the cargo bed, and a second crossbar spanning the cargo bed. The first and second crossbars are slidable relative to the cargo bed. The first and second crossbars are slidable relative to each other.

Abstract: A cargo box (10) reinforcement system (20) includes an upper front panel reinforcement (22) securable to a cargo box front panel (18) and side wall panels (14, 16). The system (20) including a pair of side reinforcements (24, 26). Each side reinforcement (24, 26) is securable to one side of the pair of side panels (14, 16) of the cargo box (10). Each side reinforcement (24, 26) is secured with an end (40) of the upper front panel reinforcement (22). Also, the system (20) includes a pair of gussets (28, 30). Each gusset (28, 30) is coupled with the upper front panel reinforcement (22) and one of the pair of side reinforcements (24, 26).

Abstract: A safety rail system for a flatbed. The system is portable, installs and dismantles in minutes, and is adaptable to any flatbed trailer or truck having post mounting side pockets. The system collapses into a compact package for stowing and transport. The system utilizes existing post mounting side pockets to establish a fence line that supports one or more cable rails. The cable(s) of the cable rails are drawn taut to provide a firm barrier to protect equipment and personnel from falling off the edge of the flatbed.

Abstract: An air dam assembly includes, among other things, an air dam and at least one quick-release pin that secures the air dam to a vehicle structure. An air dam positioning method includes, among other things, when an air dam is in a first position, the step of coupling the air dam to a vehicle structure using at least one quick-release pin in an engaged position. The method further includes transitioning the at least one quick-release pin to a disengaged position, and then, when the quick-release pin is in the disengaged position, moving the air dam to a second position that is different than the first position. The method then, when the air dam is in the second position, includes coupling the air dam to the vehicle structure using the at least one quick-release pin.

Abstract: An interchangeable convertible roof apparatus is provided. In another aspect, a lower roof bow pivot is interchangeable between multiple locations depending on which roof cover configuration is desired during top stack mechanism assembly. A further aspect employs identically same side rails, roof bows and linkages between a fastback convertible roof configuration and a squareback convertible roof configuration, except for a roof bow located above and adjacent to a back window (when in a closed position), such as a four-bow, and optionally a mounting bracket. Still another aspect employs a fastener to allow the same fabric roof cover to be interchanged between differently sized configurations when in its closed position. Moreover, a brace stationarily secures a vehicular roll bar to a top stack mechanism of a convertible roof in a rigidly attached manner.

Abstract: Improvements in a pivoting device for a camper shell on a truck, flat bed or utility bed that including a pair of support posts selectively coupled with respect to the forward and rearward ends of one of the opposed sides of the camper shell. The support posts each have a short lower section and a long upper section. The short lower sections have lower ends dimensioned for being received within the forward and rearward post holes of the bed. The long upper sections, extend upwardly at an inward angle from the short lower sections. The long upper sections each have an upper end securable to the camper shell for elevating the side of the camper shell above the bed. A pivot rod assembly is secured to each of the opposed side walls of the bed for selectively holding the camper shell to the side walls of the bed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a tarpaulin structure for a substructure, such as a lorry, trailer, semi-trailer, railway car, dump truck or container, comprising a covering frame and a tarpaulin consisting of weather-resistant material, wherein the covering frame has a plurality of struts (34) which each have on the end sides thereof a carriage (32) that is displaceable along a guide (20), wherein at least one bow (36) is pivotally connected at each pair of opposed carriages (32; 32?), said bow forming with a bow (36) of an adjacent carriage pair (32) a tarpaulin folding aid, the bows (36) of the tarpaulin folding aid being connected to each other. A tarpaulin structure that allows a reliable covering of a substructure while having a low intrinsic weight is achieved according to the invention in that the connected bows (36) comprise a pivot angle limiter (38) that allows only a limited pivoting of the bows (36).

Abstract: The invention relates to a tarpaulin structure for an understructure, such as a truck, trailer, semi-trailer, railway car, dump truck or container, comprising a folding-top frame (16) and a tarpaulin (12) made of weather-resistant material, the folding-top frame (16) includes a plurality of struts (34); at the end, each of the struts has a carriage (32) that is movable along a guide (20), at least one bracket (36) is selectively pivotally connected to a pair of opposite carriages (32; 32?) of the strut or to the strut (34); said bracket (36) forming a tarpaulin folding aid along with a bracket (26; 36) of an adjacent strut (34), of a pair of opposite carriages (32; 32?) or of a stationary part (24) of the folding-top frame (16).

Abstract: A convertible top, having a linkage for displacing the top, a roof tip fixed to a front vehicle cowl in a closed position, a top lock which displacable between a locked and released position and secures the roof tip to the front cowl when the top is in the closed position and has a locking support having a pivotable locking hook and a locking counterpart which can be engaged with the locking hook, and a position detector which detects a relative position between the roof tip and the front cowl. The position detector has a sensor unit having at least two Hall-effect sensor elements, one of which switches at a first distance between the sensor unit and a magnetic element and the other one of which switches at a second distance between the sensor unit and the magnetic element, the second distance being different from the first distance.

Abstract: A deployable cap assembly for a pickup truck bed includes a collapsible frame assembly, at least one motor operatively connected to the collapsible frame assembly, and a frame guide system. A flexible cover is attached to the collapsible frame assembly. The frame guide system may include a pair of guide channels disposed at opposed bed sides of the pickup truck bed and a pulley system operatively connected to the at least one motor and to a portion of the collapsible frame assembly. A controller operatively connected to the at least one motor is configured to at least partially translate the collapsible frame assembly between a fully stowed position and a fully deployed position. An actuator is operatively connected to the at least one motor and/or to the controller. One or more actuable light sources may be disposed on the collapsible frame assembly and/or the flexible cover.

Abstract: A clamping device for sliding roofs is provided in the region of the guidance and runner rail. An actuation lever is pivotable between locking and release positions. A clamping element is modifiable in its position by means of the actuation lever, which coacts with a countermember of the end carriage and moves the end carriage to the end of the guidance and runner rail. The clamping element is aligned with the guidance and runner rail, and is shiftable in a longitudinal direction, between a locking position retaining the end carriage, and a release position. The guide comprises in a subregion on the underside an open space such that upon shifting of the actuation lever into the release position, the clamping element is at least partly lowerable sufficiently that the end carriage can be displaced away from the end of the guidance and runner rail.

Abstract: A cover assembly for enclosing a flatbed which generally comprises a support structure including a plurality of support assemblies. Each of the support assemblies has a pair of opposed support legs and a medial portion connected to and extending between each of the support legs. The length of the medial portion of each support assembly can be adjusted to allow the support structure to accommodate the widths of any number of industry-standard sized flatbeds. Each of the support legs can be secured to the flatbed, and at least one cross-member is connected to and extends between a first support assembly and a second support assembly from the plurality of support assemblies. A covering is also positioned over and secured to the support structure.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a roll bar for a cab-less construction machine, in particular a vibration roller, which is implemented so it is adjustable in height between an operating position and a transport position. The roll bar includes a pivotable tube bow, which comprises two vertical pivot tubes; two stand tubes, which are fixedly connected to the frame of the construction machine; two connection elements, via which the pivot tubes are connected to the stand tubes, the connection elements each comprising a stop surface, against which the pivot tube can be moved to, in particular pressed, in the operating position; a lock for clamping the pivot tube against the connection element in the operating position; a welding surface, to which the stand tube is materially bonded; and a pivot joint having a pivot axis, around which the pivot tubes are pivotable.

Abstract: The invention consists of an automatic lock and tension of a tarpaulin system in a safe manner and does not require the intervention of the operator when the system is being engaged, disengaged, opened or closed. This invented automatic mechanism tensions the tarpaulin system exerting always a parallel force with the direction of opening and closing of the tarpaulin system eliminating the internal stresses exerted to the tarpaulin system components. Any misalignment produced due to tolerances is removed from the guide wheels or an edge established under the track of the sliding tarpaulin system.

Abstract: The invention relates generally to an apparatus for use with curtain side trailers, including a pillar with a hydraulic dampening device and two members, and providing a way for the pillar to be locked and released from lateral movement along a railing or framework. The invention is generally used as an intermediary support for the curtain and the roof, and extends from the trailer bed to the roof. Since the pillars can move laterally along the railing or framework once released and opened, the width for loading and unloading is increased. The dampening device of present invention helps with safety issues of prior inventions by decreasing the velocity of the opening pillar.

Abstract: A device for manipulating a tarpaulin so as to selectively cover and uncover a top aperture of a container. The top aperture defines an aperture peripheral edge, the aperture peripheral edge including two substantially opposed substantially longitudinal segments. The tarpaulin is configurable between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration. In the extended configuration, the tarpaulin substantially covers the top aperture. In the retracted configuration, the tarpaulin is substantially retracted from the top aperture. The device includes an elongated guiding component defining a guiding component longitudinal axis. The guiding component is securable to the container so as to extend at least partially along at least one of the longitudinal segments. A tarpaulin mounting component is usable for attaching the tarpaulin thereto. A link, mechanically coupled to the guiding component, is longitudinally movable therealong between a link proximal position and a link distal position.

Abstract: A removable top assembly for a vehicle and method of providing a removable top cover for a vehicle is provided. The removable top assembly includes a fabric cover over a frame. The frame includes a rear bow that is pivotally connected on opposite sides to side rails and a C-pillar. A one bow is latched to a fixed transverse beam. A two bow is detachably secured to right and left side rails that are in turn attached to right and left fixed side beams of the vehicle.

Abstract: A tarpaulin system that turns a flatbed trailer into a fully covered trailer and closes to provide an open flatbed trailer. The system is comprised of a plurality of inverted U-shaped support bows extending laterally across the trailer and secured to sections of the tarpaulin. Each support bow has rollers secured thereto for sliding movement along rails on each side of the trailer. A plurality of pairs of inverted U-shaped uplifting bows also extend laterally across the trailer and are pivotally secured to the support bows on opposite sides to spread apart during opening of the system. Intermediate support rods are secured between adjacent pairs of uplifting bows and extend laterally across the trailer between the uplifting bows beneath the tarpaulin sections to restrict the tarpaulin sections from falling between the uplifting bows when the system is closed.

Abstract: A vehicle and method for transporting poultry. The vehicle comprises a coop trailer having a trailer section which can carry a number of tiers of poultry cages on its bed and having a vertically oriented tarpaulin system mounted thereon. The tarpaulin system includes tarpaulins which are suspended from a cable that extends between the front and rear ends of the trailer section. The tarpaulins can rapidly and easily be drawn back and forth along the sides of the trailer section to cover and uncover the cages. When the tarpaulins are fully extended along the sides of the trailer section, the tarpaulins effectively aid in preventing the birds from being buffeted about by excessive wind as the coop trailer travels along the roads. The tarpaulins also aid in maintaining a more constant temperature within the trailer section.

Abstract: A camper and trailer combination includes an open-topped, wheeled enclosure, a plurality of spars which span the open top of the enclosure, a canopy which is positionable over the spars to cover the open top of the enclosure. The spars are connected to the open-topped enclosure to permit a movement of the spars between an upright condition at which the canopy can be spread over and cover the spars and a collapsed, out-of-the-way condition.

Abstract: Locking systems are provided for a retractable cover system mounted on the bed of a flat bed trailer or similar structure. The cover system includes a bow arrangement for supporting a flexible cover or tarpaulin with a front and a rear bow structure. A front locking mechanism includes a plurality of self-latching latch mechanism mounted within a hollow beam of a bulkhead mounted on the bed. Hasps are mounted to the front bow structure and aligned to activate and engage the latch mechanisms. A rear locking mechanism includes a telescoping mechanism mounted with the rear bow structure. The telescoping mechanism includes a pressure foot that engages a reaction plate mounted to the bed. The pressure foot and reaction plate define complementary features that allow the foot to engage the reaction plate at multiple positions prior to extension of the telescoping mechanism.

Abstract: A convertible protective top for a vehicle. The top including a retractable canopy and at least two mounting brackets. The canopy includes at least two spaced-apart side members; at least two spaced-apart cross-members, and a cover attached to the cross-members. The cross-members are positioned between and slidably engaged with the side members, wherein the cross-members and cover are moved along the side members to retract the cover. The mounting brackets are attached to a front end and a rear end of the vehicle. Each of the mounting brackets include at least two vertical tubular members for receiving respective ones of the side members for securing the canopy to the vehicle.

Abstract: A convertible roof system uses composite roof rail(s). The composite roof rail can have portions that are made of differing materials. The composite roof rail can use universal connecting pieces for the ends of the roof rail. Adjacent composite roof rails can be formed about a connector that couples the adjacent roof rails together.

Abstract: A modular bulkhead assembly is provided for a convertible roof system for an automobile. The convertible roof system is mounted to the bulkhead or wall member including left and right linkage assemblies, an electronic control unit, and a hydraulic control system. The bulkhead module can then be assembled into a vehicle as a modular unit. The electronic control unit can then be connected to the vehicle power supply by connection of wire harnesses from the electrical control unit.

Abstract: A convertible protective top for a vehicle. The top including a retractable canopy and at least two mounting brackets. The canopy includes at least two spaced-apart side members; at least two spaced-apart cross-members, and a cover attached to the cross-members. The cross-members are positioned between and slidably engaged with the side members, wherein the cross-members and cover are moved along the side members to retract the cover. The mounting brackets are attached to a front end and a rear end of the vehicle. Each of the mounting brackets include at least two vertical tubular members for receiving respective ones of the side members for securing the canopy to the vehicle.

Abstract: A cover system for covering a cargo area of a vehicle. The cover system includes an elongate track assembly and a cover assembly. The track assembly is mountable to an upper surface of a pair of sidewalls of a vehicle and the cover assembly is retractably mounted to the track assembly. At least one drive assembly is mounted to the cover assembly for retractably moving the cover assembly between first and second positions.

Abstract: A support and guidance unit for a sliding door of a motor vehicle includes a support adapted to be fitted onto a first structure element of a motor vehicle. A roller assembly is rotationally mounted around a first axis X—X on the support and is adapted to roll on a support and guidance rail. The support and guidance rail is adapted to be fitted onto a second structure element of the motor vehicle and devised to slide with respect to the said first structure element. The roller assembly has two running surfaces extending on both sides of a plane of symmetry M—M, that extends perpendicularly to the said first axis X—X in that the normals to the running surfaces have axial components C1, C2 parallel to the first axis and oriented towards opposite directions.

Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicle structure, especially a vehicle structure for utility vehicles such as motor vehicles and rail vehicles, wherein a covering frame is supported on a loading platform, covering a loading area. A roof skin can be placed on displaceable cross members of the covering frame, whereby at least one flexible reinforcing member (14, 14′) is arranged in an upper area of the covering frame in order to reinforce the roof. The inventive vehicle structure has low deflexion as a result of the fact that at least one flexible reinforcing member (14, 14′) is fixed to a front corner area of the covering frame and to a rear displaceable cross member in the region of the longitudinal side thereof, at least one flexible reinforcing member (14, 14′) being maintained in at least one point of traction in an area of the other longitudinal side.

Abstract: A dual side tarp (10) is disclosed which allows the operator to shift the fixed tube of the tarp from one side of the trailer (12) to the other very quickly and efficiently to allow one side or the other of the trailer to be unencumbered to facilitate side dumping, for example. Use of pivoting tarp roll stops allows the shifting to be accomplished.

Abstract: The present invention 10 discloses a plurality of movable transparent arcuate sections 12 that can roll on their own designated tracks 14 to enclose or expose a sun room or pool area 18. Thus, the present invention 10 is comprised of a plurality of overlapping transparent arcuate arches or sections 12 positioned on parallel tracks 14. The arches 12 can be selectively moved to any position on the parallel tracks 14. The two distal end arches have removable end closure panels 20. Each of the transparent panel members 22 or arch 12 are positioned within a frame member 16 having a plurality of wheels 36 engaging the spaced apart track members 14. Track members 14 are fixedly positioned to the ground or foundation structures 58 in a spaced-apart parallel configuration. Each side of an arch 12 consists of a plurality of wheels 36 fixedly positioned between spaced apart track elements 14 having hook-like terminations 53 to prevent dislocation of the frame member 16 from the track member 14.

Abstract: A tarpaulin support for a tarpaulin system that turns a flat bed trailer into a fully covered van and back again into an open flat bed trailer. The support is comprised of an upper tubular bow of inverted U-shape to extend laterally across a trailer and, each side of the bow having a lateral, downwardly extending tubular arm. A structural member is secured to the tubular bow along its outer periphery and extends below the free ends of the arms of the tubular bow, the structural member provided with structure to secure thereto peripheral portions of tarpaulin sections for covering the trailer. A pair of planar bases are associated with the bow, one on each side and, each base having a roller arrangement secured thereto for sliding movement on a corresponding rail mounted on a corresponding side of the flat bed. Corrugated plate having vertically formed corrugations is secured to each structural member below the corresponding arm and its associated base.

Abstract: A tarpaulin tensioning arrangement includes a lever or leg mounted at one end to a framework extension. A crank having a threaded end is threadably engaged to the lever. The framework is moved to a tightened condition by rotating the crank until the lever or leg is engaged with a catch to hold one end of the lever or leg in a fixed position. Continued rotation of the crank causes the framework extension to move in a tensioning direction.

Abstract: A convertible top for covering part of a passenger compartment of a land vehicle. The convertible top includes a retractable frame that retracts forwardly toward a permanent top section. The retractable frame is covered by a flexible cover and a rigid rear member moves longitudinally as the convertible top is moved between an extended and retracted position. The rigid rear member includes track followers that are moved in longitudinally extending tracks on the rear portion of the vehicle body. The retractable frame may be either a parallel bar expanding linkage, or telescoping slide supports.

Abstract: An endless cable tarp extension/retraction system spooled around front and rear pulleys includes drive components that are self-contained and encapsulated within an elongated housing that can be removably mounted to the container body using multiple clamp assemblies or mounting bolts disposed within a T-slot in the housing. A front idler pulley is provided that is sized and oriented relative to the drive pulley to maintain the upper and lower runs of the cable to travel essentially parallel along the length of the container. A self-tensioning rear idler pulley is provided that utilizes a spring to exert an adjustable force against the rear idler pulley. In another aspect of the invention, an anti-sail bracket extends downward from the bow ends of the tarp system and includes an inwardly projecting pin that is restrained from upward movement by a rail mounted to the side of the container.

Abstract: A tarpaulin tensioning arrangement includes a lever or leg mounted at one end to a framework extension. A crank having a threaded end is threadably engaged to the lever. The framework is moved to a tightened condition by rotating the crank until the lever or leg is engaged with a catch to hold one end of the lever or leg in a fixed position. Continued rotation of the crank causes the framework extension to move in a tensioning direction.

Abstract: The invention relates to a side-rail coupling for tarpaulin covers of vehicle superstructures, notably a coupling for the upper side-rails of cover frames which can be assembled and comprise separable longitudinal sections of running or guide rails for a telescopic tarpaulin cover. The side-rails (3) have at least one hollow profile chamber and running or guide rails connected to same and serve to support and guide rollers or roller bogies (4) on which hoops (5) carrying the tarpaulin are supported laterally against the cover frame. Adjacent longitudinal sections of the side rails (3) can be removably coupled using coupling elements which engage the hollow profile chamber in a positive fit.

Abstract: An endless cable tarp extension/retraction system spooled around front and rear pulleys includes drive components that are self-contained and encapsulated within an elongated housing that can be removably mounted to the container body using multiple clamp assemblies or mounting bolts disposed within a T-slot in the housing. A front idler pulley is provided that is sized and oriented relative to the drive pulley to maintain the upper and lower runs of the cable to travel essentially parallel along the length of the container. A self-tensioning rear idler pulley is provided that utilizes a spring to exert an adjustable force against the rear idler pulley. In another aspect of the invention, an anti-sail bracket extends downward from the bow ends of the tarp system and includes an inwardly projecting pin that is restrained from upward movement by a rail mounted to the side of the container.

Abstract: The invention relates to a tarpaulin bow cover system for vehicles such as lorries or trailers, comprising a number of U-shaped bow members (4) which cover the width of a loading platform (1) of the vehicle and for opening or closing the cover by means of rollers or roller trolleys (2) can be displaced in the longitudinal direction of the loading platform (1) along running or guide rails (3) positioned along the two lateral sides of said loading platform (1). When the cover system is closed said bow members (4) on their bow elements (11), which define an upper limit, support a tarpaulin which covers the loading platform (1) or the loading area of the vehicle.

Abstract: A reliable retractable and extendable protective cover assembly for covering the bed of a pick-up truck includes a pair of elongated guide tracks and rollers on each of the sides of the bed. The guide tracks are positioned in parallel formation on either side of the bed, and the rollers are located within the tracks. Furthermore, the guide tracks are located within the area on the bed that is to be covered. This positioning of the guide tracks and rollers reduces the risk of damage to the track-roller assembly in case of a hazard in the surrounding environment. A plurality of frame members are in guided engagement with the rollers. Expansion brackets are secured at the top and bottom of each of the frame members. Preferably the top bracket is fixedly secured to the frame member, whereas the bottom bracket moves along the length of the frame member. The frame members communicate with each other through linkages, the linkages being attached to the expansion brackets on two sides thereof.

Abstract: A reliable retractable and extendable protective cover assembly for covering the bed of a pick-up truck includes a pair of elongated guide tracks and rollers on each of the sides of the bed. The guide tracks are positioned in parallel formation on either side of the bed, and the rollers are located within the tracks. Furthermore, the guide tracks are located within the area on the bed that is to be covered. This positioning of the guide tracks and rollers reduces the risk of damage to the track-roller assembly in case of a hazard in the surrounding environment. A plurality of frame members are in guided engagement with the rollers. Expansion brackets are secured at the top and bottom of each of the frame members. Preferably the top bracket is fixedly secured to the frame member, whereas the bottom bracket moves along the length of the frame member. The frame members communicate with each other through linkages, the linkages being attached to the expansion brackets on two sides thereof.

Abstract: A collapsible top (13) fits over a child's pull wagon (10), may be taken apart easily, and flatly packaged for store display or mail order shipment. It has a light weight, flexible frame (15) universally adjustable to fit the various sizes of wagon beds (12). In principle, however, the top may be scaled up as a tent for adults, or as a canopy for outdoor recreation. The top includes a cover material (14) stretched between a pair of spaced hoop members (16). They are bowed into an arch above their lower ends which are fitted into mounting brackets (20) secured to the corners of the wagon. A spreader rod (22) forces apart the arched portions of the hoop members sufficiently at the top to develop an overhang beyond the ends of the wagon, thereby allowing the lower legs adjustment to any wagon size, and creating internal mutual stresses between the frame and the cover in a modular, unitary structure strengthened thereby enough to avoid having to use intermediate ribs or other support parts.

Abstract: A soft shell camper top for use on pickup truck cargo compartments is disclosed. The invention consists of a space frame and a flexible outer covering. The frame is removably attachable to the pickup truck bed and includes provisions for the attachment of a roof rack. The outer covering includes front and rear curtains and side curtains. The curtains may be securely fixed to attachments on the frame to protect cargo from the elements or may be rolled up to facilitate easy access to the truck bed.

Abstract: A collapsible truck shell assembly for use with a truck bed having a first bed wall and a second bed wall. The shell assembly is movable between an extended position and a collapsed position, and includes a pair of elongate tracks mounted to the sides of the truck bed and configured to support a plurality of generally U-shaped frame members. A covering is attachable to and extensible between the frame members and substantially encloses the truck bed when the truck shell assembly is in the extended position. The frame members may be of progressively decreasing sizes so as to be nestable within each other and assume a generally planar configuration when the truck shell assembly is in the collapsed position. The frame members may be mounted to the elongate tracks in a manner which allows the frame members to be adjusted horizontally. Additionally, a storage box and storage rack are configured to be slidably engageable to the tracks mounted to the sides of the truck bed.

Abstract: A collapsible truck shell assembly for use with a truck bed having a first bed wall and a second bed wall. The shell assembly is movable between an extended position and a collapsed position, and includes a pair of elongate tracks mounted to the sides of the truck bed and configured to support a plurality of generally U-shaped frame members. A covering is attachable to and extensible between the frame members and substantially encloses the truck bed when the truck shell assembly is in the extended position. The frame members may be of progressively decreasing sizes so as to be nestable within each other and assume a generally planar configuration when the truck shell assembly is in the collapsed position. The frame members may be mounted to the elongate tracks in a manner which allows the frame members to be adjusted horizontally. Additionally, a storage box and storage rack are configured to be slidably engageable to the tracks mounted to the sides of the truck bed.

Abstract: A convertible top for covering part of a passenger compartment of a land vehicle. The convertible top includes a retractable frame that retracts forwardly toward a permanent top section. The retractable frame is covered by a flexible cover and a rigid rear member moves longitudinally as the convertible top is moved between an extended and retracted position. The rigid rear member includes track followers that are moved in longitudinally extending tracks on the rear portion of the vehicle body. The retractable frame may be either a parallel bar expanding linkage, or telescoping slide supports.