Power tonneau cover actuator
US6623062B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 20, 2002 |
| Grant date | Sep 23, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 20, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60J7/1621
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
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. The drive means advances the trolley along the linear track from a lower position to a higher position which raises the arm to push the cover open. Reversing the direction of travel…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.