Truck bed extension device

a technology for extension devices and trucks, which is applied in the direction of roofs, transportation items, loading/unloading vehicle arrangments, etc., can solve the problems that other types of items, including snowmobiles, all terrain vehicles, motorcycles, etc., cannot be safely or securely allowed to overhang the existing bed structur

Inactive Publication Date: 2003-10-30
WHITEFORD BARRY +1
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  • Summary
  • Abstract
  • Description
  • Claims
  • Application Information

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Unfortunately, the item is sometimes longer than the truck is able to safely and securely accommodate.
Other types of items, however, including, for example, snowmobiles, all terrain vehicles, and motorcycles, cannot safely or securely be allowed to overhang the existing bed structure.
Tailgates, however, are typically not designed to support significant amounts of weight, and may bend or be otherwise damaged under heavy loads.
Unfortunately, these prior art devices suffer from a number of disadvantages, including, for example, that they provide only a substantially one-dimensional linear support structure which is not suitable for resting and supporting wheels or legs upon.
Furthermore, horizontal positioning of the prior art devices is typically not adjustable relative to the existing bed structure, and the support structure is typi

Method used

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Examples

Experimental program
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Effect test

first embodiment

[0017] FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of a preferred first embodiment of the device of the present invention, wherein the device is mounted upon a conventional truck;

[0018] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the device of FIG. 1;

[0019] FIG. 3 is a rear elevation view of the device of FIG. 1; and

second embodiment

[0020] FIG. 4 is an elevational view of a preferred second embodiment of the device of the present invention, wherein the device includes a hitch structure.

[0021] Referring to the figures, a truck bed extension device 10 is shown constructed in accordance with a preferred first embodiment of the present invention. The device 10 is operable to enhance the cargo hauling or carrying ability of a truck 12 such that a hauled item which would have otherwise unsafely extended beyond or overhung an existing cargo bed structure of the truck 12 is instead safely and securely supported for transport. The truck 12 may be, for example, a conventional pickup truck including the existing bed structure having a hinged and lowerable tailgate 16; a bumper 18; and a Reese-type trailer receiver 20. Alternatively, the truck 12 may be, for example, a conventional flatbed truck, with or without a hinged and lowerable tailgate.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, the device 10 broadly comprises a deck 24; a s...

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PUM

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Abstract

A truck bed extension device (10) for use with a truck (12) having a cargo bed structure, wherein the device (10) allows for carrying items which extend beyond or overhang the bed structure. The device (10) comprises a deck (24); a support structure (26); and a signaling system (28). The deck (24) is horizontally adjustable relative to the bed structure so as to allow for achieving a desired spacing therebetween. The deck (24) is also vertically offset when unloaded so as to be substantially flush when loaded. Because the device (10) or the load carried thereon may obstruct viewing of the truck's existing brake and turn signals, the signaling system (28) repeats these signals where they are more visible. A second embodiment of the device (110) provides a hitch structure (170) for coupling the truck with a trailer via the device (110).

Description

[0001] 1. Field of the Invention[0002] The present invention relates broadly to devices for enhancing the cargo carrying or hauling ability of a conventional truck. More particularly, the present invention concerns a truck bed extension device comprising a supported deck positionable substantially adjacent to and substantially flush with an end of an existing cargo bed structure of a conventional flatbed or pickup truck so as to allow for safely and securely carrying or hauling cargo items which extend beyond or overhang the existing bed structure.[0003] 2. Description of the Prior Art[0004] It is often desirable to transport an item using the existing cargo bed structure of a conventional flatbed or pickup truck. Unfortunately, the item is sometimes longer than the truck is able to safely and securely accommodate. Certain types of items, including, for example lumber or piping, may simply be allowed to extend beyond or overhang the existing bed structure. Other types of items, howe...

Claims

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Application Information

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IPC IPC(8): B60P3/40
CPCB60P3/40
Inventor WHITEFORD, BARRYWILLIAMS, DANE
Owner WHITEFORD BARRY
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