Load bearing tonneau structure
US9925853B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 30, 2016 |
| Grant date | Mar 27, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 30, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60R5/045
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A system and method for providing a folding load bearing hard tonneau cover which includes a hinge/connection element using a novel friction stir welding method to weatherproof the bed contents, wherein each folding section is constructed using friction stir welds for strength, stiffness and visual appeal, wherein the system does not rely on attached bed rails to support and lock the cover because loads are reacted on the bed caps, wherein a spring loaded latching system has the strength to react the moments generated by heavy loads on top of the cover, wherein installation does not require modification to the bed, and wherein the tonneau cover may carry heavy loads on top that are easy to secure, while still allowing a cover that folds open.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.