Vehicle utility deck and storage

Abstract

A vehicle utility deck and storage system provides improved storage for bedded vehicles. In one embodiment, the deck system (104a) is positioned within the bed (108) of a pickup (102). The system (104a) includes a deck (114a) that substantially matches the dimensions and contours of the bed (108) and support legs (122) for supporting the deck system (104a) on the surface of the bed (108). The system (104a) further includes a number of removable storage bins (124) that can be accessed via hinged hatches (116a).

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12 / 134,210, entitled “VEHICLE UTILITY DECK AND STORAGE,” filed on Jun. 6, 2008, which claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 942,253, entitled, “VEHICLE UTILITY DECK AND STORAGE,” filed on Jun. 6, 2007, the contents of both which are incorporated herein as if set forth in full.FIELD OF INVENTION[0002]The present invention is generally directed to improving storage capabilities for bedded vehicles, e.g., pickup trucks, vans, SUVs or other vehicles having a bed for hauling cargo or the like. In particular, the invention relates to a system and associated methodology for providing a second deck, above the base bed surface of the bedded vehicle, and multiple storage spaces between the base bed surface and second deck that can be accessed by hatches in the second deck.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]One of the principal attractions of bedded vehicles is th...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention is a vehicle utility deck and storage system that provides secure storage bins in the vehicle bed without sacrificing deck space for hauling or other large items. The system includes a secondary deck surface that is raised and separated from the primary bed surface, with hinged hatches and a tailgate hatch for easy access. The system can be used as an after-market product or as original equipment. The invention expands the utility of bedded vehicles for many applications."

Problems solved by technology

Indeed, employers may operate large fleets of such vehicles.

Bedded trucks as delivered by the manufacturer today are not necessarily well-suited to address all the needs of various users as noted above.

However, pickup trucks are less well-suited for other applications where it is desired to collect, organize and haul a variety of items.

A large, unitary bed makes it hard to organize and secure such items.

Moreover, an open bed may expose such items to the elements.

In addition, an open bed leaves such items visible to and accessible by passersby, thus raising a security concern.

Even if a cover is available, the cover is often inconvenient to use and may allow visibility to such items.

These tool boxes are effective in securing tools but generally have limited utility for organizing and storing a collection of items.

Moreover, installation may require penetration of deck surfaces or otherwise entail significant effort.

However, in some cases, these vehicles allow passersby to view inside, raising security concerns.

In addition, these vehicles may be inconvenient to use as a workman may be required to go into and out of the vehicle many times to retrieve needed items.

They can also be inconvenient for fleet managers who need to keep all of the vehicles stocked.

For example, if the vehicles are deployed for a series of jobs each day, the vehicles may not be available to be stocked for a day's jobs until the end of the previous work day.

Images