Roll-up Covers Patents (Class 296/98)
  • Patent number: 6659530
    Abstract: A retractable cover for recreational vehicle to provide retractable sunshade comprises a support frame connectable to a recreational vehicle roof. A cover spindle is connected to the support frame. A cover first end is windably connected to the cover spindle. A cover arm is rotatably connected to the support frame. The cover arm is connected to the cover second end. Multiple arched truss arms are rotatably connected to the support frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Inventor: Herbert R. Jones
  • Patent number: 6641199
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Inventor: W. Glen Hicks
  • Patent number: 6637800
    Abstract: An improved tarp cover system for covering the open-topped container body of a vehicle is characterized by the provision of a generally U-shaped inverted hold-down arm that is pivotally connected with the front wall of the container body and that is spring biased to apply a downward force on the front portion of the cover when the container is in the completely closed condition, thereby to reduce flapping of the cover during transport. The flexible tarp cover is wound on a roll that is rotatably supported adjacent the front wail of the container. In a first embodiment, to cover the container, the free end of the cover is displaced rearwardly of the container by a cover arm that is pivotally connected with the side walls of the container. The cover arm is biased toward its rearmost container covering position by a pair of side mounted spring arrangements that include compression springs that are concealed within the hollow leg portions of the cover arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Inventor: Steven A. Henning
  • Publication number: 20030193208
    Abstract: A container covering system for open truck containers provides enhanced control and maneuverability of a tarp for covering containers of different sizes. A tarp can be extended and retracted under rotary movements of elements of the system to adapt for different lengths of containers. A tarp device includes the tarp, which can move between a stowed position and an extended position to cover the top of an open container. A pair of forward arms are pivotable with respect to a first pivot axis defined on the device. A pair of rear arms are pivotable respect to second pivot axis that is defined on the rear ends of the forward arms. A cross member extends between the end of the rear arms which are opposed to the second pivot axis. The cross member retains the leading end of the tarp and is movable with the rear arms. The rear arms are biased to rotate towards the rear end of the container. A biasing member is configured to rotate the rear arms around the second pivot axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2002
    Publication date: October 16, 2003
    Applicant: John Donovan Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael F. Ciferri, Scot A. Fuhrman, Richard J. Coughtry, Steven L. Growcock, Thomas J. Ahlstrom
  • Publication number: 20030173795
    Abstract: A retractable cover system for open top end containers, such as tractor trailers, is described. A tarp is wound on a drum and stored in a forward top end of the container. Opposed side seam portions of the tarp are secured to nylon pull cables and extend in guide channels secured adjacent top edges of opposed side walls of the container. The cables are secured together at a predetermined location and wound on a pulley whereby to pull the tarp from the drum in unison across the open top end. The drum is also secured to a pulley which is driven by a drive train assembly which also drives the cable pulley. The drive train assembly has a driven shaft and an idle shaft disposed in parallel and interconnected by a pair of sprockets which are secured on clutches.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventor: Maurice Dumas
  • Patent number: 6619719
    Abstract: A tonneau cover apparatus comprises a frame structure having a pair of laterally spaced apart side rails, an end rail, and a pair of connector assemblies. The connector assemblies are coupled to the end rail, and are movably mounted to an associated side rail to thereby movably interconnect the end rail to the side rails. A pair of springs bias the connector assemblies in a direction outwardly from the side rails such that the end rail applies a force to the flexible cover to maintain the flexible cover in a taut state. Each connector assembly includes a fixed component and a rotatable component. The fixed component includes an aperture and a first plug end secured to an associated side rail. The rotatable component includes a post end and a third plug end removably secured to the end rail. The post end is thus removably secured to the aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Inventor: Donald G. Wheatley
  • Patent number: 6609743
    Abstract: A cover and extender unit for the bed of a motor vehicle bounded by a forward wall, opposing side walls and a pivoted rear tailgate comprising a pivoting frame having opposing and laterally spaced sides that in a stowed position lie along the opposing interior surfaces of the side walls of the vehicle bed. Additionally, the frame has a transversely extending closure panel operatively interconnected between the sides at predetermined points adjacent to the forward ends thereof so that it may be used as a swingable tailgate when the unit is in an extended position. The frame has a flexible, sheet—like top cover that rolls up on a cylindrical spring powered roller operatively mounted in cover housing. The cover unrolls on frame deployment to shelter the truck bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Robin Stevenson
  • Publication number: 20030151271
    Abstract: A resilient torque absorber is placed between a roll bar and a U-joint of roll bar mechanism such as that used in roll-tarp covers for truck trailers. The absorber allows more precise adjustment of tightness and helps prevent accidents caused by over-tightening of tarps or by tarps loosening during load settling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: Henry G. Leischner, Patrick R. Cagle
  • Patent number: 6601898
    Abstract: A cover device for a gap behind a rear seat unit and a vertical partition of a motor vehicle extending in the transverse direction of the vehicle as well as a side paneling consists of plate-shaped elements arranged on each side of a cartridge for a blind. These plate-shaped elements comprise a finger-shaped tongue as well as a rectangular plate, which are constructed in one piece. The plate-shaped elements are deflectable with respect to the cartridge by way of swivelling axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche AG
    Inventors: Klaus Luik, Paul-Dieter Fengel, Margret Metzger, Hans-Juergen Rehberger
  • Patent number: 6598612
    Abstract: An easily deployed ridge pole is used, in combination with standard awning deployment hardware, to change the shape of the canopy fabric of an extended retractable awning. The ridge pole engages the underside of the awning fabric to impart a Mansard shape to the canopy. This shape incorporates first and second planes of canopy fabric wherein the plane closest to the RV has a less steep pitch than the plane furthest from the RV. The shape has airfoil qualities which stabilize the effects of high wind velocities on the awning. The shape also provides room under the relatively flat plane for doors under the awning to open without engaging the awning fabric. The ridge pole is supported by struts which in some embodiments provide foundations for fabric stabilizing clamps that are affixed to loose edges of canopy fabric.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Inventor: James R. Crowe
  • Patent number: 6592165
    Abstract: A covering device for the load space of a motor vehicle, having a flexible surface structure, is held, in a rollable or extendable manner, on a winding shaft supported solidly with the loading space. A coiled spring apparatus for exerting the force for rolling up onto the surface structure is provided on the winding shaft. A form-stable extending element is positioned on one frontal end area of the surface structure. The surface structure is guided over its path of extension within the load space by a guiding device, in that at least one locking device for blocking the surface structure relative to the guiding device is provided in at least one partially-extended working position, and in that a manually-triggerable releasing device, by which the locking of the surface structure can be ended, is provided for the locking device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: BOS GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Eduard Ament, Herbert Walter, Beate Krause, Hans-Joachim Winkler
  • Publication number: 20030116992
    Abstract: A cover system for an open-topped container, such as a dump truck body, includes a flexible tarpaulin sized to extend across the length of the container. A weighted element is carried by the tarp adjacent to but offset from the front end of the tarp. The weighted element is “gravity-biased” so that it pulls the tarp down and holds it down against the load within the container when the tarp is in its deployed position. In a preferred embodiment, the weighted element includes one or more metal bars that are contained within pockets spanning the width of the tarp.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Applicant: Aero Industries
    Inventor: Steven A. Henning
  • Patent number: 6578897
    Abstract: A deployment mechanism for a stowable tarping system includes a hydraulic rotary actuator that is connected to the ends of the bail member of the tarping system. The rotary actuator is generally centrally mounted on the underside of the vehicle body with a pair of half shafts projecting outward toward the sides of the vehicle body. The half shafts are rotationally connected to the bail member so that torque and rotational force generated by the actuator is translated to a pivoting movement of the bail member. The actuator can be integrated into the vehicle hydraulics and can include a control valve system capable of controlling speed and direction of actuation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Assignee: Aero Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeff White
  • Patent number: 6575518
    Abstract: A cover system for an open-topped container, such as a dump truck body, includes a flexible tarpaulin sized to extend across the length of the container. A weighted element is carried by the tarp adjacent to but offset from the front end of the tarp. The weighted element is “gravity-biased” so that it pulls the tarp down and holds it down against the load within the container when the tarp is in its deployed position. In a preferred embodiment, the weighted element includes one or more metal bars that are contained within pockets spanning the width of the tarp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Assignee: Aero Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven A. Henning
  • Patent number: 6575519
    Abstract: An open-topped vehicle body, such as a dump body, includes a tarping system that is deployed over the body by a pivoting bail member. An actuation mechanism applies a torque to the bail member to automatically pivot the member and deploy the tarp cover. The actuation mechanism includes a number of double coil spiral torsion springs anchored on a shaft attached to the dump body. The springs each include a right and a left coil portion concentrically wound about an integral center anchor portion. The shaft includes an elongated slot to receive and support the center anchor portion of each spring within the mechanism. The actuation mechanism includes a housing attached to the bail member. The housing contains the double coil springs and supports a pair of reaction posts extending therethrough. The coil portions of each spring include a left and right reaction end configured to contact and provide a torsional force against a corresponding reaction post within the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Assignee: Aero Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven A. Henning
  • Patent number: 6568732
    Abstract: A device for covering the cargo space of a passenger vehicle is provides which includes a cover shade, including flexurally stiff louvers, which is movably guided on lateral guide rails. To open the cargo space, the cover shade can be transferred into a storage position behind a seat arrangement. To facilitate handling, a drive device is connected to the cover shade for opening and closing the cover shade. The drive device may include a drive motor with two synchronously drivable drive cables which drive the cover shade on its two lengthwise sides to allow the cover shade to be easily removed from its storage position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Assignee: Webasto Vehicle Systems International GmbH
    Inventor: Francois De Gaillard
  • Patent number: 6568740
    Abstract: A fastening system for a flexible cover system for a truck box includes a first fastening material on the side edges of the flexible cover and a second fastening material that releasably engages with the first fastening material. The second fastening material comprises a fastening surface bonded to a substantially rigid elongated slat, and is slidingly received in channel portions of side rails mounted on the sides of the truck box. The first fastening material can be one member of a hook and loop type fastener and the second fastening material can be the mating member of the hook and loop type fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Assignee: Shur Company
    Inventor: Jerry R. Dimmer
  • Publication number: 20030090124
    Abstract: A one-piece molded end cap is provided for use with a container tarping system. The end cap is in the form of an aerodynamically shaped shell and includes a trough and ridge configuration at the rear edge to provide a sealing surface for the side edge of the flexible cover of the tarping system. A deflection barrier is formed at the underside of the end cap shell and is configured to deflect material loaded into the container away from the end cap. In a further embodiment, the end cap can include a tensioning mechanism integral with a front edge of the end cap. The tensioning mechanism includes an elongated body having a bore within which a tensioning element is disposed. The tensioning element applies tension to a drive mechanism of the tarping system through a cable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventors: Robert L. Nolan, James R. Tuerk
  • Patent number: 6547309
    Abstract: A securing device for contents of a wheelbarrow for preventing the content of a wheelbarrow from falling out of the wheelbarrow. The securing device for contents of a wheelbarrow includes a generally flexible panel having a first end edge and a second end edge. A first hook is attached to the first end edge. A tubular member has a first end and a second end. A slot extends through a peripheral wall of the tubular member. A spindle is rotatably mounted in the tubular member. The second end edge extends through the slot and is attached to the spindle. A second hook is attached to the tubular member. The first and second hooks are attached to the upper edge of a wheelbarrow such that the panel is extended over the wheelbarrow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Inventors: Omar C. Franklin, Pamela R. Ellman
  • Patent number: 6536836
    Abstract: A wind deflector assembly for a roll tarping system mounted on a vehicle includes a pair of side mounting plates, each associated with a corresponding opposite end of the roll tarping system. Each of the mounting plates includes a first edge and at least one flange projecting from a notch formed in the first edge of the mounting plate. An elongated deflector plate includes at least one variable location mounting element defined on an inner surface thereof. Each mounting element is arranged to be aligned with a corresponding flange when the deflector plate is mounted to the side mounting plates. The flange includes a fastener opening, while the mounting element includes a T-slot and channel. At least two fasteners are provided for connecting the deflector plate to each side mounting plate. The fastener can include a bolt sized to slide within the T-slot and channel, and a nut that is threaded onto the bolt when it extends from the mounting element through the opening in the flanges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: Aero Industries
    Inventor: Steven A. Henning
  • Publication number: 20030052505
    Abstract: An arm assembly for a cover of a truck comprises a base, an intermediate segment, and an extension. The base is pivotably connected to the truck proximate a top of a cab of the truck. The intermediate segment is pivotably connected to the base, and the extension is connected to the cover and pivotably connected to the intermediate segment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: Timothy K. Searfoss
  • Publication number: 20030052506
    Abstract: An assembly for selectively rolling and unrolling a tarpaulin so as to correspondingly uncover and tautly cover a top opening of an open-topped container. The assembly includes a rolling rod secured to the tarpaulin adjacent 5 an edge thereof. The rolling rod is operatively mounted over the top opening to roll up the tarpaulin therearound so as to uncover the top opening when rotated about the rod longitudinal axis towards a first container side wall in a first rod rotational direction. The rolling rod being also operatively mounted over the top opening to unroll the tarpaulin so as to cover the top opening when rotated about the rod longitudinal axis towards the second container side wall in a second rod rotational direction. The assembly also includes a winch drum attached to the rolling rod adjacent one of the rod longitudinal ends so as to rotate solidarly therewith.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: Real Royer
  • Patent number: 6527331
    Abstract: A bow system is disclosed for an open top of a truck bed. A pair of brackets are fastened to the truck bed proximate a side wall, and have an extension extending generally inwardly and upwardly. A bow having a width greater than its height spans the open top of the truck bed, and is fastened to the extensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Inventor: Timothy K. Searfoss
  • Publication number: 20030034666
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a truck cover. In particular, it relates to a cover for a truck having a material carrying container, such as a tipper truck. A first embodiment includes a cover assembly for the container of a vehicle; the container having first and second ends and the cover assembly comprising a retractable cover having a first end attached to a roller assembly and a second end attached to a cover support element, the cover assembly comprising rolling means adapted to roll the cover upon the roller assembly. The cover element is supported by at least one pivot arm at an upper end thereof, said pivot arm being pivotable about a lower end thereof at a point intermediate the two ends of the container and adjacent the bottom of the container, between a first position in which the cover support element is adjacent the first end of the container and a second position in which the cover support element is adjacent the second end of the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: Robert Arthur Wood
  • Patent number: 6513856
    Abstract: In a tarp system used to cover an open container such as a truck, the tarp being connected on one longitudinal edge to a roll bar, an improved mechanism for assisting movement of the roll bar comprises one or more constant force springs, each spring attached at one end to a longitudinal side of the container and at the other end to a reel mounted on the roll bar. When the roll bar is at one side of the container, the tarp is rolled around the roll bar and the constant force springs are extended. As the bar rolls across to the opposite side, the tarp is unrolled to cover the container opening, and the constant force springs wind into a coil around the reel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: Shur Company
    Inventors: Bradford P. Swanson, Christopher J. McCallum
  • Patent number: 6511117
    Abstract: An automatic tarp tensioning device operable to remove slack from a tarp cover due to stretching and wear includes an extension mechanism attached to a tarp cover and an adjusting element attached to the tarp cover and movable relative to the extension mechanism to apply tension to the tarp cover. A biasing mechanism is disposed between the extension mechanism and the adjusting element to bias the adjusting element away from the extension mechanism to thereby tension the tarp cover. The biasing mechanism includes a plurality of springs under compression between the extension mechanism and the adjusting element and a limiting element to limit the maximum extension of the spring. The limiting element includes a bolt and nut assembly interconnecting the extension mechanism and the adjusting member and is adjustable to control the expansion of the spring. The device operates to automatically tension the tarp cover when the cover is deployed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Assignee: Aero Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven A. Henning
  • Patent number: 6502709
    Abstract: A drive-through work station with power operated tarping equipment is provided to efficiently and safely apply tarpaulin covers to payloads on flatbed highway trailers. The work station may include a work platform at one or both sides of the trailer being tarped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: Aluminum Ladder Company
    Inventor: Mitchell B. Parker
  • Patent number: 6502889
    Abstract: A general-purpose trunk storing type body cover device for car includes a main device body formed so that a body cover for car can be delivered and wound up and a stand part on which the main device body is installed, disposed separately from the main device body, wherein an elastically supporting member is installed extensibly on the stand part so that the cover device can be stored in the state of being resiliently supported between the inner walls of a trunk room by the elastically supporting member. The body cover device prevents a car body from being damaged and eliminates the need for modification of the trunk room for installation of the body cover device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Inventor: Yoshiharu Fukagawa
  • Patent number: 6499790
    Abstract: A system and method for covering or uncovering a trailer comprising supports adapted to be operatively connected to the ends of a trailer to position a roller, with a cover attached thereto, from one side of the trailer to the other side to thereby cover the trailer and any cargo loaded thereon. The system and method may be performed by a single person anywhere along the transportation route, and the apparatus may be located at a terminal and moved from trailer to trailer. The system and method may also be used to selectively position straps over the top of cargo loaded on a trailer for securing cargo onto the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Inventor: J. Ben Johnston
  • Patent number: 6478361
    Abstract: A tarpaulin tightening device includes a bar extension member which can be attached to the end of a bar upon which the tarpaulin is rolled. A ratchet engaging pawl is movable from a detached position free from engagement with the ratchet wheel to an engaged position engaging the ratchet teeth of the ratchet member. At the same time a hook member is pivoted from a disengaged position to an engaged position engaging a bearing surface on the bar extension and holding the ratchet teeth in engagement with the ratchet pawl. This permits rotation of the bar extension and the bar to tighten the roll and thus tighten the tarpaulin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Inventor: Ronald L. Wood
  • Patent number: 6474719
    Abstract: An improved tarp cover system for covering the open-topped container body of a vehicle is characterized by the provision of generally U-shaped inverted hold-down arm that is pivotally connected with the front wall of the container body and that is spring biased to apply a downward force on the front portion of the cover when the container is in the completely closed condition, thereby to reduce flapping of the cover during transport. The flexible tarp cover is wound on a roll that is rotatably supported adjacent the front wall of the container. In a first embodiment, to cover the container, the free end of the cover is displaced rearwardly of the container by a cover arm that is pivotally connected with the side walls of the container. The cover arm is biased toward its rearmost container covering position by a pair of side mounted spring arrangements that include compression springs that are concealed within the hollow leg portions of the cover arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Assignee: Aero Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven A. Henning
  • Patent number: 6474718
    Abstract: A cover system for an open top container, such as a dump truck bed, includes a pair of pivoting load arm assemblies, one mounted on each side of the bed, configured to jointly convey a cover tarpaulin over a heaped load within the bed. In one embodiment, the load arm assembly includes a pair of telescoping arms, with a lower arm pivotably mounted to an upper rail of the dump bed. The free end of the upper arm of each assembly includes a yoke, formed by a pair of arms diverging to form a notch. The notch is configured to catch or receive a pull bar connected to a retractable tarp. The notch opening is maintained at the level of the edge of the dump bed side boards by a catch projecting generally perpendicular to the yoke. The retractable tarp is unwound from a roller at one end of the dump bed, preferably using a pull rope attached to the pull bar. As the tarp is initially unfurled, the pull bar rides on the side boards of the dump bed until it reaches the position of the load arm yokes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Assignee: Aero Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Steve Henning
  • Patent number: 6464283
    Abstract: A covering system for a container body of a dump truck or roll-off dumpster with a rollable cover uses a pair of pivot arms attached to a leading edge of the cover. A shaft is transversely disposed and rotatably supported by an underside of the container body. Each pivot arm has a lower end fixedly attached to ends of the shaft for rotation with the shaft. A hydraulic or pneumatic rotation actuation mechanism operative to rotate the shaft is mounted to the underside of the container body, where it is not likely to be damaged during loading operations. The pivot arms are also readily kept in synchronization by operation of a single rotation actuation mechanism. A hydraulically or pneumatically actuated cover hold-down tensioning device is also provided, which may be operative in cooperative sequence with the covering system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Assignee: Pioneer Consolidated Corporation
    Inventor: Edward N. Haddad, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20020145304
    Abstract: An open-topped vehicle body, such as a dump body, includes a tarping system that is deployed over the body by a pivoting bail member. An actuation mechanism applies a torque to the bail member to automatically pivot the member and deploy the tarp. The actuation mechanism includes a number of double coil spiral torsion springs anchored on a shaft attached to the dump body. The springs each include a right hand and a left hand coil portion concentrically wound about an integral center anchor portion. The shaft includes an elongated slot to receive and support the center anchor portion of each spring within the mechanism. The actuation mechanism includes a housing attached to the bail member. The housing contains the double coil springs and supports a pair of reaction posts extending therethrough. The coil portions of each spring include a left and right reaction end configured to contact and provide a torsional force against a corresponding reaction post within the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2002
    Publication date: October 10, 2002
    Inventor: Steven A. Henning
  • Publication number: 20020140249
    Abstract: An improved tarp cover system for covering the open-topped container body of a vehicle, characterized by the provision of generally U-shaped inverted hold-down arm that is pivotally connected with the front wall of the container body and that is spring biased to apply a downward force on the front portion of the cover when the container is in the completely closed condition, thereby to reduce flapping of the cover during transport. The flexible tarp cover is wound on a roll that is rotatably supported adjacent the front wall of the container. In a first embodiment, to cover the container, the free end of the cover is displaced rearwadly of the container by a cover arm that is pivotally connected with the side walls of the container. The cover arm is biased toward its rearmost container covering position by a pair of side mounted spring arrangements that include compression springs that are concealed within the hollow leg portions of the cover arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2002
    Publication date: October 3, 2002
    Inventor: Steven A. Henning
  • Publication number: 20020140248
    Abstract: A deployment mechanism for a stowable tarping system includes a hydraulic rotary actuator that is connected to the ends of the bail member of the tarping system. The rotary actuator is generally centrally mounted on the underside of the vehicle body with a pair of half shafts projecting outward toward the sides of the vehicle body. The half shafts are rotationally connected to the bail member so that torque and rotational force generated by the actuator is translated to a pivoting movement of the bail member. The actuator can be integrated into the vehicle hydraulics and can include a control valve system capable of controlling speed and direction of actuation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2001
    Publication date: October 3, 2002
    Inventor: Jeff White
  • Publication number: 20020125730
    Abstract: A retractable cover for protecting small vehicles from the weather elements which substantially covers the top and side surfaces of the vehicle. The cover is affixed to a winding mechanism and is encased in a housing when in a fully retracted position. The housing is attached to the exterior of the vehicle with brackets. In the extended position, the cover overlays the top and sides of the vehicle and is secured in place with retention members to the exterior of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2002
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventors: Jay Burks, Kayce Burks
  • Patent number: 6435599
    Abstract: A device for tensioning a side tarpaulin on a mounting structure, such as a vehicle superstructure, includes an abutment element attachable to the mounting structure, at least one side tarpaulin tightener separate from the abutment element being attachable to the side tarpaulin and swivelable into the abutment element to a closed position therein so as to apply a desired tension to the side tarpaulin, and a latch mechanism pivotally attached to the side tarpaulin tightener and engageable with the abutment element upon swiveling of the side tarpaulin tightener to the closed position for releasably securing the side tarpaulin tightener to the abutment element at the closed position and for retaining the side tarpaulin tightener at the closed position independent of the tension exerted on the side tarpaulin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Assignee: Franz Miederhoff OHG
    Inventor: Johannes Than
  • Patent number: 6425623
    Abstract: A visor which is installed over an automobile windshield and a visor housing which can house the visor on a roof of an automobile is disclosed. A pair of visor holders connected to a front end of the visor protects the visor from air pressure created when the automoble is in motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2002
    Assignee: Senfuji Auto Company, Incorporated
    Inventor: Shoichi Nakayama
  • Patent number: 6423655
    Abstract: The liner is formed by a “support” structure and an outer or decorative liner layer. The “support” structure consists of three superimposed layers made of polyester fibers, where the middle layer (1) is considerably thicker than the outer layers (2), while the decorative layer (3) is of a polyester liner or of another suitable material, allowing recycling of the entire set. The different layers are attached to each other by pre-heating layers (1) and (2) and the corresponding molding of the “support” formed by these, including the outer or decorative layer (3), without requiring any further adhesive to keep said layers joined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: Grupo Antolin-Ingenieria, S.A.
    Inventor: Pablo Soto Losada
  • Publication number: 20020084671
    Abstract: A general-purpose trunk storing type body cover device for car includes a main device body formed so that a body cover for car can be delivered and wound up and a stand part on which the main device body is installed, disposed separately from the main device body, wherein an elastically supporting member is installed extensibly on the stand part so that the cover device can be stored in the state of being resiliently supported between the inner walls of a trunk room by the elastically supporting member. The body cover device prevents a car body from being damaged and eliminates the need for modification of the trunk room for installation of the body cover device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2002
    Publication date: July 4, 2002
    Inventor: Yoshiharu Fukagawa
  • Patent number: 6412851
    Abstract: A retractable cover for protecting small vehicles from the weather elements which substantially covers the top and side surfaces of the vehicle. The cover is affixed to a winding mechanism and is encased in a housing when in a fully retracted position. The housing is attached to the exterior of the vehicle with brackets. In the extended position, the cover overlays the top and sides of the vehicle and is secured in place with retention members to the exterior of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Inventors: Jay Burks, Kayce Burks
  • Publication number: 20020067048
    Abstract: A covering system for a container body of a dump truck or roll-off dumpster with a rollable cover uses a pair of pivot arms attached to a leading edge of the cover. A shaft is transversely disposed and rotatably supported by an underside of the container body. Each pivot arm has a lower end fixedly attached to ends of the shaft for rotation with the shaft. A hydraulic or pneumatic rotation actuation mechanism operative to rotate the shaft is mounted to the underside of the container body, where it is not likely to be damaged during loading operations. The pivot arms are also readily kept in synchronization by operation of a single rotation actuation mechanism. A hydraulically or pneumatically actuated cover hold-down tensioning device is also provided, which may be operative in cooperative sequence with the covering system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2000
    Publication date: June 6, 2002
    Inventor: Edward N. Haddad
  • Publication number: 20020043816
    Abstract: Trailer mounted and terminal installation embodiments of an apparatus by which a single operator may easily and safely cover or uncover cargo loaded on a flatbed trailer before or during transit or after it has arrived at its destination, without materially interfering with the loading of the cargo from either side or the rear of the trailer, or from above. A single fixed installation may be used for plural flatbeds or the apparatus may itself be trailer mounted and sequentially positioned with respect to a plurality of parked flatbeds.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2001
    Publication date: April 18, 2002
    Inventor: J. Ben Johnston
  • Patent number: 6367862
    Abstract: A wind-actuated hold-down mechanism is provided for restricting movement of a deployment component of a flexible cover deployment system associated with an open-topped container. In certain embodiments, the mechanism includes a vane member pivotably mounted to either the container or the deployment component. The vane member can include one locking element that engages another locking element mounted on the other of the container or the deployment component. The hold-down locking mechanism in certain embodiments is configured to restrict movement of a bail member for a cover deployment system. Other embodiments are configured to engage the end of a transverse bow. A hold-down mechanism can be biased to a neutral position clear of engagement between the container and the deployment component, using either a mechanical biasing component or a gravity biasing feature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: Aero Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven A. Henning
  • Publication number: 20020033615
    Abstract: An improved tarp cover system for covering the open-topped container body of a vehicle, characterized by the provision of generally U-shaped inverted hold-down arm that is pivotally connected with the front wall of the container body and that is spring biased to apply a downward force on the front portion of the cover when the container is in the completely closed condition, thereby to reduce flapping of the cover during transport. The flexible tarp cover is wound on a roll that is rotatably supported adjacent the front wall of the container. In a first embodiment, to cover the container, the free end of the cover is displaced rearwardly of the container by a cover arm that is pivotally connected with the side walls of the container. The cover arm is biased toward its rearmost container covering position by a pair of side mounted spring arrangements that include compression springs that are concealed within the hollow leg portions of the cover arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2001
    Publication date: March 21, 2002
    Inventor: Steven A. Henning
  • Publication number: 20020021018
    Abstract: An assembly for selectively rolling and unrolling a tarpaulin so as to correspondingly uncover and tautly cover a top opening of an open-topped container. The assembly includes a rolling rod secured to the tarpaulin adjacent an edge thereof. The rolling rod is operatively mounted over the top opening to roll up the tarpaulin therearound so as to uncover the top opening when rotated about the rod longitudinal axis towards a first container side wall in a first rod rotational direction. The rolling rod being also operatively mounted over the top opening to unroll the tarpaulin so as to cover the top opening when rotated about the rod longitudinal axis towards the second container side wall in a second rod rotational direction. The assembly also includes a winch drum attached to the rolling rod adjacent one of the rod longitudinal ends so as to rotate solidarly therewith.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2001
    Publication date: February 21, 2002
    Inventor: Real Royer
  • Patent number: 6347826
    Abstract: A covering system for covering an open top container supported on a frame of a truck which includes a tarp device and a lifting device. The lifting device vertically moves the tarp device between a raised position at least ten feet above the frame to position tarp device high above the container and a lowered position below the top edge of the container. When the tarp device is raised, a tarp is extended from the tarp device to cover the container. The lifting device is then lowered to cover the open top of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Assignee: John Donovan Enterprises-FL., Inc.
    Inventors: John F. Horner, Robert A. Wood, Jr., Richard J. Coughtry
  • Publication number: 20020014780
    Abstract: A hydraulic circuit comprises first and second cylinders, and a piston disposed in each of the cylinders. A pump communicates with one side of one of the pistons, and a pressure relief valve has a position wherein the pump communicates with another side of the one piston and with the other piston.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2001
    Publication date: February 7, 2002
    Inventor: Timothy K. Searfoss
  • Publication number: 20020014779
    Abstract: An open-topped vehicle body, such as a dump body, includes a tarping system that is deployed over the body by a pivoting bail member. An actuation mechanism applies a torque to the bail member to automatically pivot the member and deploy the tarp. The actuation mechanism includes a number of double coil spiral torsion springs anchored on a shaft attached to the dump body. The springs each include a right hand and a left hand coil portion concentrically wound about an integral center anchor portion. The shaft includes an elongated slot to receive and support the center anchor portion of each spring within the mechanism. The actuation mechanism includes a housing attached to the bail member. The housing contains the double coil springs and supports a pair of reaction posts extending therethrough. The coil portions of each spring include a left and right reaction end configured to contact and provide a torsional force against a corresponding reaction post within the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2001
    Publication date: February 7, 2002
    Applicant: Aero Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven A. Henning