Integrated top rail tension roller system
US11345222B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 31, 2019 |
| Grant date | May 31, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 6, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60J7/085
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus for extending and retracting a cover over a bed of a vehicle transporting material therein. The apparatus comprises an arm assembly, a motor and a tarp reel for rolling and unrolling a tarp to uncover and cover the vehicle bed. To improve tarp tensioning, rollers are provided on a bracket in which the reel seats when the tarp is unrolled. Locations of sliding friction found in known designs are avoided and replaced with rolling friction. Rolling friction is significantly less than sliding friction and thus greater levels of motor output torque can be incorporated into stretching the tarp tighter before the motor is shut off. At this point of the covering operation, the vehicle bed is covered and the tarp held taut. The bracket may also be configured to provide a braking effect to the reel to assist in holding the tarp in tension.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.