Aerodynamic transformable truck cap assembly

a truck and truck bed technology, applied in the direction of roofs, load coverings, transportation and packaging, etc., can solve the problems of reducing fuel economy, increasing aerodynamic drag, and substantial loss of interior volume, so as to reduce vehicle wind resistance and drag, increase cargo space, and increase fuel efficiency

Inactive Publication Date: 2009-04-23
HERNDON BRETT STUART
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  • Summary
  • Abstract
  • Description
  • Claims
  • Application Information

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0013]The invention, an improved aerodynamic truck cap assembly, is user transformable between a streamlined, aerodynamic position and an ...

Problems solved by technology

Such accessories often increase aerodynamic drag, and reduced fuel economy is unfortunately typical.
The main drawback of the aerodynamic truck cap is that, with its slope, there is a substantial loss of interior volume over that provided by a truck cap with a roof flush with the cab of the pickup.
This diminishes the space for human habitation and cargo stowage in the aerodynamic truck cap over that space provided by a standard truck cap.
The small entrance through the tailgate opening does not facilitate easy access for human habita...

Method used

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  • Aerodynamic transformable truck cap assembly
  • Aerodynamic transformable truck cap assembly
  • Aerodynamic transformable truck cap assembly

Examples

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Embodiment Construction

[0033]With initial reference directed to FIGS. 1 and 2 of the appended drawings, a conventional pickup truck having a cab 11 includes a conventional, rear truck bed 12 behind the cab 11, over and upon which my new truck cap is to be installed. The conventional truck bed 12 is defined by upstanding front panel 13 opposite cab 11, side panels 14, and a tailgate 15. My new transformable truck cap cover assembly, constructed in accordance with the best mode of the invention, has been generally designated by the reference numeral 16. Assembly 16 preferably comprises an aerodynamically configured, removably mounted cover 17 operationally associated with a preferably fiberglass shell 18 that is fitted to the truck bed rear peripherally about the bed. During use, shell 18 remains on the truck bed, but cover 17 may be removed completely.

[0034]When installed, the substantially rigid, preferably fiberglass cover 17 is disposed upon shell 18 over bed 12, between truck side panels 14. The cover ...

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PUM

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Abstract

A transformable, aerodynamic cover assembly for pickup trucks which is user switchable between a closed aerodynamic configuration and a fully deployed truck cap configuration. The aerodynamic configuration reduces vehicle wind resistance and drag, thus increasing fuel efficiency. The cover assembly, constructed of rigid materials, comprises a fiberglass shell mounted within the truck bed supporting a rigid, fiberglass cover. Flexible fabric windows suspended from the cover are supported between sidewall hangers and pivoted sleeve tubes. A flexible rear hatch is supported by a transverse hanger. Internal stanchions pivoted to the cover underside foldably switch between deployed, cover-elevating positions an stowage positions. The cover sidewalls and hatch provide a space for human habitation and increased cargo hauling capacity. The cover is detachable from the body of the assembly for hauling oversized cargo.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This utility patent application is based upon, and claims the priority filing date of my previously-filed, U.S. Provisional patent application entitled “Aerodynamic Transformable Truck Cap Assembly,” filed Oct. 1, 2007, Ser. No. 60 / 997,085.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]This invention relates generally to truck caps and cover assemblies for pickup trucks. More particularly, this invention relates to an aerodynamic cover assembly for pickup truck beds that is user-transformable between selected configurations. Known prior art relevant to this invention can be found in U.S. Patent Class 296, subclasses 100 and 165.[0004]2. Description of Prior Art[0005]For several years, cover assemblies of various forms have been mounted on the beds of pickup trucks. The modern truck cap is a popular pickup truck accessory, providing a variety of functional and aesthetic advantages. Prior art cover assemblies provide a cover...

Claims

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Application Information

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IPC IPC(8): B60P7/02
CPCB62D35/007B62D35/001Y02T10/82
Inventor HERNDON, BRETT STUART
Owner HERNDON BRETT STUART
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