Tailbox cover

Abstract

Aspects of the subject disclosure relate to a trunk cover that includes features that interact with each other to facilitate loading and unloading of panels linearly and with high stability. Such features may provide for smooth deployment and retraction of the trunk cover. The trunk cover may include separate panels that interlock with each other when deployed and disconnect from each other when retracted to controllably cover a truck bed or other area of a vehicle, such as a truck. Tailbox covers described herein may include panels that provide a reliable seal therebetween. Tailbox covers described herein may include panels that provide smooth sliding across each other and along one or more guide rails. The trunk covers described herein may perform such operations with minimal noise generation.

Description

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 426,705, filed on November 18, 2022, entitled "TONNEAU COVER", the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical field

[0003] This specification generally relates to vehicles, including, for example, tonneau covers for vehicles.

[0004] A tonneau cover may generally include a system that can provide shelter and protection for cargo that may be stored in the cargo area of certain adventure vehicles such as pickup trucks. It will be appreciated that the driver or owner of such adventure vehicles can typically utilize their vehicles, for example, for camping, off - roading, or other similar recreational outdoor activities. Thus, it may be useful to provide a tonneau cover that can be adapted for multiple purposes. Summary of the invention

[0005] This disclosure generally relates to a tonneau cover that includes features that interact with each other to facilitate linearly and with high stability the loading and unloading of panels. Such features can provide for smooth deployment and retraction of the tonneau cover. The tonneau cover may include separate panels that interlock with each other when deployed and disengage from each other when retracted to be able to controllably cover the truck bed or other area of a vehicle such as a truck. The tonneau cover described herein may include panels that provide a reliable seal therebetween. The tonneau cover described herein may include panels that provide smooth sliding across each other and along one or more rails. The tonneau cover described herein may perform such operations with minimal noise generation.

[0006] In some embodiments, a seal for a panel of a vehicle tonneau cover may include: a rod having a first end and a second end; a first branch extending away from an intermediate portion between the first end and the second end; and a second branch extending from the first end of the rod and across an end of the first branch. The seal may further include an anchoring portion extending from the first end of the rod in a direction away from the second branch. The second branch may define a bend extending from the first end of the rod and across the end of the first branch. The inner seal may include: an inner seal rod having an inner seal first end and an inner seal second end; an inner seal branch extending away from the first end and towards an outer seal, wherein the inner seal rod and the inner seal branch form a notch, the size of which is greater than the size of the opening of the notch.

[0007] In some embodiments, a panel for a vehicle trunk cover may include: a slat that defines teeth configured to engage sockets of an adjacent panel; and sliders located on opposite lateral sides of the slat, wherein each of the sliders defines a flat surface on an upper side of the panel and a ridge protruding from the flat surface, and wherein the ridge extends transversely across the flat surface from a lateral side of a corresponding one of the sliders. The width of the ridge may be substantially equal to the width of the flat surface. Each of the sliders may also define an additional flat surface at a lower side of the panel opposite the upper side of the panel, wherein the width of the ridge is substantially equal to the width of the additional flat surface.

[0008] In some embodiments, a panel for a vehicle trunk cover may include: a slat that defines teeth extending from an upper side of the panel, the teeth defining longitudinal ends of the slat and being configured to engage sockets of an adjacent panel; a first slider located on a first lateral side of the slat; and a second slider located on a second lateral side of the slat, wherein the slat defines a slat recess between the teeth and the first slider, wherein the first slider defines a slider recess adjacent to the slat recess, and wherein the slat recess and the slider recess are configured to receive a portion of a cover actuator when the panel moves longitudinally. The panel may define a ramp extending from a lower side of the panel toward the upper side of the panel, wherein the ramp faces the slat recess and the slider recess. The portion of the cover actuator may include a pinion configured to engage a portion of the first slider. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Certain features of the subject technology are set forth in the appended claims. However, for explanatory purposes, several embodiments of the subject technology are set forth in the following drawings.

[0010] Figure 1A A perspective view of a vehicle cargo area illustrating a particular implementation in accordance with the subject technology.

[0011] Figure 1B A perspective view of a rear portion of a vehicle including a trunk cover in a partially deployed configuration, illustrating a particular implementation in accordance with the subject technology.

[0012] Figure 1C Illustrating a particular implementation in accordance with the subject technology of a Figure 1B rear portion of a vehicle including a trunk cover in a fully deployed configuration.

[0013] Figure 1D A side view of a cover system for controlling deployment of a trunk cover, illustrating a particular implementation in accordance with the subject technology.

[0014] Figure 2 Perspective view of a cover system having a rear hatch cover in a retracted configuration, illustrating a specific implementation according to the present subject matter technology.

[0015] Figure 3 Perspective view of a cover system having a rear hatch cover in an deployed configuration, illustrating a specific implementation according to the present subject matter technology. Figure 2 of the cover system.

[0016] Figure 4 Exploded perspective view of a cover system, illustrating a specific implementation according to the present subject matter technology.

[0017] Figure 5 Side cross-sectional view of a portion of a rear hatch cover having interlocking panels, illustrating a specific implementation according to the present subject matter technology.

[0018] Figure 6 Side cross-sectional view of a portion of a rear hatch cover having interlocking panels, illustrating a specific implementation according to the present subject matter technology.

[0019] Figure 7 Side view of a seal of a rear hatch cover, illustrating a specific implementation according to the present subject matter technology.

[0020] Figure 8 Perspective view of a panel of a rear hatch cover, illustrating a specific implementation according to the present subject matter technology.

[0021] Figure 9 Perspective view of a panel of a rear hatch cover, illustrating a specific implementation according to the present subject matter technology.

[0022] Figure 10 Perspective view of a panel of a rear hatch cover, illustrating a specific implementation according to the present subject matter technology. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] The following detailed description is intended to describe various configurations of the subject matter technology and is not intended to represent the only configurations in which the subject matter technology may be practiced. The drawings are incorporated herein and constitute a part of the detailed description. The detailed description includes specific details for providing a thorough understanding of the subject matter technology. However, the subject matter technology is not limited to the specific details set forth herein and may be practiced using one or more other specific implementations. In one or more specific implementations, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form to avoid obscuring the concepts of the subject matter technology.

[0024] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a multi-purpose cover (e.g., a bed cover) for adventure vehicles such as pickup trucks, crossover utility vehicles (CUVs), or sport utility vehicles (SUVs). In some embodiments, the multi-purpose cover may be adaptively disposed on the vehicle in each of an extended configuration and a retracted configuration. For example, in some embodiments, in the extended configuration, the multi-purpose cover may overlap the cargo area of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the multi-purpose cover may be attached to the perimeter of the cargo area via an attachment mechanism. In some embodiments, a motion control mechanism may be utilized to extend the multi-purpose cover in a first direction to cover the cargo area and retract it in a second direction to expose the cargo area.

[0025] In this way, the multi-purpose cover may be adaptively operated as a bed cover in the extended configuration to extend and protect the cargo area of the vehicle and the driver's or owner's cargo from environmental elements (e.g., precipitation, sunlight, wind, debris, etc.). The multi-purpose cover may also be operated in the retracted configuration in a storage area and away from the cargo area. The bed cover may be operated by powered extension and retraction capabilities. It may be desirable to perform such operations with minimal noise. Additionally, it may be desirable to provide a bed cover having individual components (e.g., panels) that can be connected and disconnected from each other in a manner that avoids sticking or jamming.

[0026] Specific implementations of the subject technology described herein provide a bed cover that includes features that interact with each other to facilitate loading and unloading of the panels linearly and with high stability. Such features may provide smooth extension and retraction of the bed cover. The bed cover may include individual panels that interlock with each other when extended and disengage from each other when retracted to controllably cover a truck bed or other area of a vehicle such as a truck. The bed cover described herein may include panels that provide a reliable seal therebetween. The bed cover described herein may include panels that provide smooth sliding across each other and along one or more rails. The bed cover described herein may perform such operations with minimal noise generation.

[0027] Figure 1A An example embodiment of a vehicle 100 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated. As depicted, the vehicle 100 may include any passenger vehicle (e.g., sedan, truck, pickup truck, sport utility vehicle (SUV), minivan, crossover utility vehicle (CUV), van, tractor) that can be used to transport and navigate one or more rural environments, urban environments, and / or off-road and mountainous environments. In some embodiments, the vehicle 100 may include, for example, a gasoline-powered vehicle that can be propelled by an internal combustion engine (ICE) or other fuel injection engine.

[0028] In some embodiments, vehicle 100 can include, for example, an electric vehicle (EV), a battery electric vehicle (BEV), a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), or other vehicles 100 that can be propelled in part or in whole by one or more electric motors (e.g., synchronous motor, permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM), induction motor (IM), line-start synchronous motor (LSSM), line-start permanent magnet motor (LSPMM), synchronous reluctance motor (SynRM)) using electrical power stored in one or more batteries included in vehicle 100.

[0029] In some embodiments, vehicle 100 can include a cargo area 104, such as at the rear or other part of vehicle 100. The cargo area 104 can define a space that can be covered by a multi-purpose cover (e.g., a trunk cover).

[0030] Figure 1B and Figure 1C An example of vehicle 100 including a multi-purpose cover is illustrated, and the multi-purpose cover is configured to be adjusted to be in one of a plurality of selectable configurations. In some embodiments, the multi-purpose cover can be a trunk cover 120. In some embodiments, the driver or owner of vehicle 100 may desire to couple the trunk cover 120 to vehicle 100. For example, as will be further understood, the trunk cover 120 can include any cover (e.g., a textile cover, a rigid cover) that can be adapted to be set on vehicle 100 in one of a plurality of configurations (e.g., a trunk cover configuration to extend and retract to protect the cargo area of vehicle 100 and the driver's or owner's cargo from environmental elements).

[0031] As Figure 1B and Figure 1C Further depicted, in some embodiments, in the deployed configuration, the trunk cover 120 can be configured to overlap the cargo area 104 of vehicle 100 by controlling the deployment and retraction of the trunk cover 120 using, for example, one or more cover drivers 112. In some embodiments, one or more cover drivers 112 can include one or more motion control mechanisms, such as motors, actuators, gear drives, etc. One or more cover drivers 112 can also include one or more support features, such as gears, tracks, chains, belts, linkages, rack and pinion mechanisms, etc., to convert the movement of one or more cover drivers 112 into a controlled movement of the trunk cover 120.

[0032] For example, in some embodiments, in the deployed configuration, the rear hatch cover 120 may include an electromechanical rear hatch cover that may be configured to overlap the cargo area 104 of the vehicle 100 controllably (e.g., electrically). For example, in some embodiments, the rear hatch cover 120 may be attached to the perimeter of the cargo area 104 via one or more cover actuators 112 (e.g., a rack and pinion mechanism). For example, in some embodiments, one or more cover actuators 112 may be utilized to extend the rear hatch cover 120 in a first direction to cover the cargo area 104 and retract in a second direction (e.g., opposite the first direction) to expose the cargo area 104.

[0033] In some embodiments, one or more cover actuators 112 may include a rack and pinion mechanism that is operable to: in response to receiving one or more command signals, extend the rear hatch cover 120 in a first direction to cover the cargo area 104 and retract in a second direction (e.g., in a direction opposite the first direction) to expose the cargo area 104. For example, in some embodiments, one or more cover actuators 112 may include a user input device 114 (e.g., one or more buttons) that may be utilized by a driver or owner of the vehicle 100 to interact with the control system of the vehicle 100 for operating the rear hatch cover 120. For example, in some embodiments, in response to the driver or owner interacting with the user input device 114 (e.g., one or more buttons), the control system (e.g., control circuitry, controller, and / or processor) may provide one or more command signals to one or more cover actuators 112 to extend the rear hatch cover 120 in a first direction to cover the cargo area 104 and retract in (e.g., in a horizontal direction opposite the first direction) to expose the cargo area 104.

[0034] In some embodiments, the vehicle 100 may further include a cassette 170 for receiving the rear hatch cover 120 when in the retracted configuration. The rear hatch cover 120 may be deployed from the cassette 170, e.g., by operation of the cover actuator 112. The cassette 170 may be located on a first side of the cargo area 104, e.g., near the cab or other area of the vehicle 100.

[0035] In some embodiments, the vehicle may further include a tailgate 102 that may transition between an open configuration for providing access to the cargo area and a closed configuration for enclosing a portion of the cargo area. The tailgate 102 may be located on a second side of the cargo area 104, e.g., opposite the box 170. When in the closed configuration, the trunk lid 120 may extend in the direction of the tailgate 102. When fully extended, the trunk lid 120 may optionally abut the tailgate 102, e.g., to form a seal therewith.

[0036] Figure 1D Illustrated is a lid system 110 including a lid driver 112 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The trunk lid 120 may include a plurality of panels 130 that may be stored within the box 170 in a retracted configuration, as Figure 1D shown. When in the retracted configuration, the panels 130 may be stored within the box 170 in a stacked arrangement. For example, when located within the box 170, the ends of the panels 130 may be decoupled from each other.

[0037] By deploying the panels 130 from the box 170, the trunk lid 120 may transition from the retracted configuration to the deployed configuration. For example, the lid driver 112 may be operated to move a topmost one of the panels 130 within the box 170 (e.g., in the stack) out of an opening 174 in the box. The trunk lid 120 may interact with the lid driver 112 (e.g., a rack and pinion system). For example, the lid driver 112 may include a pinion portion (e.g., a powered wheel) that interlocks with a rack portion (e.g., at a topmost one of the panels 130) and makes one or more circular movements to move each of the plurality of panels 130 of the trunk lid 120 in either of two directions (e.g., through the opening 174). Specifically, according to this embodiment, moving the rack (e.g., formed by a panel engaged by one of the panels 130) in either of the two directions may be accomplished by extending, causing the trunk lid 120 to extend in a first direction (e.g., out of the box 170) and retract in a second direction (e.g., back into the box 170).

[0038] In Figure 1DIn the example, the end panel 130A is at the top of the stack and is in the process of being moved through the opening 174. The end panel 130A can optionally include an end seal 122 to engage the vehicle's tailgate. When each panel in the panel 130 unfolds from the cassette 170 and / or unfolds through the opening 174 (e.g., unfolded by the cover driver 112), each panel 130 engages the panel 130 below it to achieve a secure connection therebetween. For example, one or more of the panels 130 can include a first engaging member on the first longitudinal side 125 of the panel 130 and a second engaging member on the second longitudinal side 127 of the panel 130 opposite the first longitudinal side. As Figure 1D shown, the first engaging member can be implemented as teeth 124, and the second engaging member can be implemented as sockets 126. When an upper panel in the panel 130 is moved out of the opening 174, its teeth 124 can engage the sockets 126 of an adjacent and lower panel in the panel 130. The teeth 124 and the socket can engage each other such that the coupled pair of panels 130 thus move together consistently. For example, the panel 130 having the teeth 124 can pull the panel 130 having the sockets 126 out of the opening. When any given panel 130 is moved out of the cassette, the follower assembly 180 can bias the panel 130 still in the cassette toward the opening 174 to align with it and present the corresponding socket 126 for engagement by the teeth 124 of the panel 130 leaving through the opening 174. This process can be repeated for each panel in the panel 130 until a last and / or lowermost panel in the panel 130 is engaged to form the rear trunk cover 120 in the unfolded configuration.

[0039] It will be understood that the processes described herein may be reversed to retract the trunk lid cover 120 and its panels 130 into the cassette 170. As each panel in the panel 130 retracts into the cassette 170 and / or retracts through the opening 174 (e.g., retracted by the cover driver 112), each panel 130 disengages from the underlying panel 130 to release the connection therebetween. For example, when the outer panel 130 is driven (e.g., by the cover driver 112) against an adjacent and inner panel 130 that is already fully within the cassette 170, the tooth 124 may push the inner panel 130 downward into the cassette 170 (e.g., against the bias of the follower assembly 180). Such an action may be provided by the shape, geometry, size, and / or other features of the tooth 124 and / or the socket 126. By further example, each panel 130 may include a ramp 128 that is also configured to push an adjacent and inner panel 130 downward into the cassette 170 (e.g., against the bias of the follower assembly 180) when the outer panel 130 is driven (e.g., by the cover driver 112) into the cassette 170 and / or through the opening 174. This process may be repeated for each panel in the panel 130 until one of the last and / or uppermost panels in the panel 130 (e.g., the end panel 130A) is within the cassette 170. Thus, the panels 130 may be arranged within the cassette 170 in a stacked configuration.

[0040] As described herein, the follower assembly 180 may provide a biasing force to push each panel in the stack of panels 130 within the cassette 170 upward and / or toward the opening 174. Thus, until all of the panels in the panel 130 are deployed, one of the panels in the panel 130 may remain at the top region of the cassette 170 and / or aligned with the opening 174 to be engaged by another panel in the panel 130 that exits the cassette 170 through the opening 174. When the panel 130 retracts into the cassette 170, the follower assembly 180 may move downward to sequentially accommodate the reception of each panel 130 until a stack is formed.

[0041] Now referring to Figures 2 to 4 , the cover system may include features that facilitate the deployment and retraction of a trunk lid cover having multiple panels.

[0042] As Figure 2As shown, the cover system 110 can include one or more guide rails 160, such as a pair of guide rails 160 located on opposite sides of the cargo area. In some embodiments, each of the guide rails 160 can define a channel 166, such as a recess, a concave portion, a convex portion, a protrusion, etc., to allow one or more panels 130 of the rear box cover 120 to slide along the guide rails 160. Each of the guide rails 160 on opposite sides of the cargo area can include channels 166 that are directly opposite and / or face each other. In some embodiments, the guide rails 160 can include one or more features to facilitate sliding, such as a coating with a low coefficient of friction. This can help reduce friction when the panel 130 slides within the channel 166. In some embodiments, the deployment and / or retraction of the panel 130 and the slider 150 can be further assisted by inserts (e.g., nylon or other low-friction materials) within the channel 166, such as including extruded polyoxymethylene.

[0043] In a fully retracted configuration, as Figure 2 shown, the panels 130 of the rear box cover 120 can be positioned within the box 170. For example, the panels 130 can be stored in a stacked configuration. In the retracted configuration, the panels 130 can be disengaged from each other. In this way, the panels 130 can be initially deployed from the box 170 one at a time. When the panels 130 are deployed, they can engage with each other to facilitate the deployment of the rear box cover 120.

[0044] In a fully deployed configuration, as Figure 3 shown, when the panels 130 are connected to each other, the panels 130 can extend along the guide rails 160. For example, when the rear box cover 120 is in the deployed configuration, the panels 130 can be coupled end to end. Such engagement can be achieved when the panels 130 are deployed from the box 170 and / or through the opening 174. The panels 130 can form a continuous and sealed (e.g., waterproof) barrier covering the cargo area. As further shown, the panels 130 of the rear box cover 120 can extend from a first end 162 of the guide rail 160 (e.g., at the box 170) to a second end 164 of the guide rail 160 (e.g., at the tailgate).

[0045] As Figure 4 shown, the cover driver 112 can be arranged to engage one or more panels 130 and push the panels 130 into or pull them out of the box 170 and / or along the guide rails 160. Although only one cover driver 112 is shown, it will be understood that any number of cover drivers can be provided and engage the panels 130 at any one or more of their parts. It will be further understood that a single driver component (e.g., a motor) can be operated to control a plurality of engagement features (e.g., pinions 116), each of which engages a corresponding structure (e.g., a rack) among a plurality of structures located on each of the panels 130. In this way, the force can be distributed across the panels 130 and evenly balanced.

[0046] As Figure 4 Figure 4 As further shown, each panel 130 may include slats 140 and one or more sliders 150. The slats 140 may extend across a portion of the space between the guide rails 160. The sliders 150 may be positioned at each of the opposite ends of the slats 140 to facilitate movement along the corresponding guide rails 160. For example, the sliders 150 may provide a shape, size, and / or geometry (e.g., at its channels) that is complementary to the shape, size, and / or geometry of the guide rails 160. In this way, the sliders 150 may facilitate smooth movement of the panel 130 along the guide rails 160.

[0047] In some embodiments, the slats 140 may include a structural support and wear-resistant material. For example, materials such as polyamide 66, polyoxymethylene (POM), combinations thereof, etc. may be selected.

[0048] In some embodiments, the sliders 150 may include materials that facilitate the sliders crossing over each other. For example, materials with a low or reduced coefficient of friction may be selected. In some embodiments, the sliders 150 may include polytetrafluoroethylene, nylon 6, NVH rubber, etc. By further example, the sliders 150 may include additional materials for support, such as metal or other rigid structural inserts within another material, which are optimized for friction reduction.

[0049] In some embodiments, the slats 140 may provide or otherwise define teeth 124 of the panel 130 for engaging sockets of another panel (e.g., an adjacent and underlying panel). For example, the teeth 124 may be a consistent shape that extends across the edge of the slats 140 (e.g., transversely) between the sliders 150, optionally not extending to the sliders 150 of a given panel 130. In this way, the teeth 124 defined by the slats 140 may interact with the sockets of another (e.g., longitudinally adjacent) panel at its slats. In some embodiments, the slats 140 may provide or otherwise define sockets 126 of the panel 130 for engaging teeth of another panel (e.g., an adjacent and overlapping panel). For example, the sockets 126 may be a consistent shape that extends across the edge of the slats 140 (e.g., transversely) between the sliders 150, optionally not extending to the sliders 150 of a given panel 130. In this way, the sockets 126 defined by both slats 140 may interact with the teeth of another (e.g., longitudinally adjacent) panel at its slats.

[0050] In some embodiments, both the slats 140 and the slider 150 may provide or otherwise define the teeth 124 of the panel 130 for engaging the sockets of another panel (e.g., an adjacent and underlying panel). For example, the teeth 124 may be of a consistent shape that extends continuously (e.g., transversely) across the corresponding edges of both the slats 140 and the slider 150 of a given panel 130. Thus, the teeth 124 defined by both the slats 140 and the slider 150 may interact with the sockets of another (e.g., longitudinally adjacent) panel at its slats and its slider. In some embodiments, both the slats 140 and the slider 150 may provide or otherwise define the sockets 126 of the panel 130 for engaging the teeth of another panel (e.g., an adjacent and overlapping panel). For example, the sockets 126 may be of a consistent shape that extends continuously (e.g., transversely) across the corresponding edges of both the slats 140 and the slider 150 of a given panel 130. Thus, the sockets 126 defined by both the slats 140 and the slider 150 may interact with the teeth of another (e.g., longitudinally adjacent) panel at its slats and its slider.

[0051] The cassette 170 may include one or more end caps 172. The end caps 172 may cover opposite ends of the cassette 170 to hold them in place when the panel 130 is in the retracted configuration. In some embodiments, the end caps 172 may be removed to access the panel 130 within the cassette 170.

[0052] Now referring Figures 5 to 7 , the panels of the rear case cover may be interlocked with seals to prevent debris and fluid from entering.

[0053] In some embodiments, as Figure 5 shown, the teeth 124 of one panel 130 may be received within the sockets 126 of another panel such that further movement of the first panel 130 causes corresponding movement of the second panel 130. The teeth 124 may extend or project from the upper side 121 of the panel 130 (e.g., at its slats). When the panels 130 are joined together, the sockets may include a space that longitudinally overlaps the teeth 124. During connection, the teeth 124 may advance over a portion of another panel 130 to align within the sockets 126. The teeth 124 may be received into the sockets 126 to facilitate the transfer of forces (e.g., longitudinal forces) between the panels 130.

[0054] As Figure 5Further shown, at least one panel in panel 130 can provide one or more seals within socket 126. In some embodiments, an outer seal 240 can be disposed at or near the outer periphery of socket 126. In some embodiments, an inner seal 260 can be disposed at or near the inner side of socket 126, e.g., opposite the outer seal 240. In this way, the teeth 124 can be engaged by one or both of the outer seal 240 and the inner seal 260 on opposite sides of the teeth 124. One or more seals can be arranged to abut one or more sides of the teeth 124 to prevent debris and fluid from penetrating panel 130, including the connection interfaces therebetween. For example, the outer seal 240 and / or the inner seal 260 can form a barrier to prevent debris and fluid from entering or leaving through it.

[0055] is shown in a side cross-sectional view Figure 5 of the outer seal 240 and the inner seal 260. It will be understood that the outer seal 240 and / or the inner seal 260 can extend laterally across a portion of the width of panel 130. As further described herein, the structure, dimensions, shape, geometry, and / or profile of each seal can be consistent across its entire width. For example, each of the outer seal 240 and the inner seal 260 can define a cross-sectional shape that extends across its entire width. By further example, each of the outer seal 240 and the inner seal 260 can be extruded to form a structure having a consistent cross-sectional shape. Each of the outer seal 240 and the inner seal 260 can extend within the slats 140 of the corresponding panel 130. The outer seal 240 and / or the inner seal 260 can extend between sliders (not shown) of the corresponding panel 130. In some embodiments, the outer seal 240 and / or the inner seal 260 can extend into and / or through the sliders. In some embodiments, the outer seal 240 and / or the inner seal 260 can extend within the slats 140 without contacting or extending into the sliders.

[0056] In some embodiments, the outer seal 240 can include one or more branches that form a closed loop for engaging the teeth 124 of another panel 130. For example, as Figure 6As shown, the outer seal 240 may include a stem 242 having a first end 243 and a second end 245. The outer seal 240 may further include a first branch 244 that extends away from an intermediate portion of the stem 242 between the first end 243 and the second end 245. The first branch 244 may extend toward the interior of the socket 126. The outer seal 240 may further include a second branch 246 that extends from the first end 243 of the stem 242. The second branch 246 may extend toward the interior of the socket 126 and form a bend that turns to extend across the end of the first branch 244. For example, at least a portion of the second branch 246 may extend across the entire terminal of the first branch 244, and / or cover the entire terminal of the first branch. In this way, the first branch 244 and the second branch 246 may intersect and / or overlap. The first branch 244 (e.g., the following structure) may press against the second branch 246 (e.g., the overlapping structure) to push it against the teeth 124 of the panel 130 or another structure. The second branch 246 may extend far enough beyond the first branch 244 such that it remains above the first branch 244 and firmly engages against the teeth 124 of the panel 130 or other structure. As Figure 6 Further shown, the first branch 244 may extend directly toward the teeth 124 (e.g., when present within the socket 126) such that the first branch 244 provides a biasing force against the second branch 246 using its column strength. The second branch 246 may extend across the inner surface 134 of the teeth 124, e.g., tangent to the inner surface 134 at the region of contact with the teeth 124. The position of the outer seal 240 and the features described herein provide an effective seal to prevent debris and fluid from entering with minimal force applied. In this way, an effective seal against the teeth 124 may be provided with minimal force from the outer seal 240. By providing a smaller force, the panel 130 is easily separable when retracted into the cassette in a stacked configuration. This arrangement helps the retraction and deployment operations of the panel 130 to be sufficiently quiet and smooth, with less likelihood of sticking.

[0057] As Figure 6Further shown, the outer seal 240 may also include one or more anchoring portions to secure the outer seal 240 to a portion of the panel 130 (e.g., within the socket 126). For example, the first anchoring portion 248 may extend from the first end 243 of the stem 242 in a direction away from (e.g., opposite) the second branch 246. By further example, the second anchoring portion 250 may extend from the second end 245 of the stem 242 in a direction away from (e.g., opposite) the socket 126. The first anchoring portion 248 and / or the second anchoring portion 250 may secure the outer seal 240 to a portion of the panel 130. For example, the first anchoring portion 248 and / or the second anchoring portion 250 may extend at or near the second longitudinal side 127 of the panel 130 and at least partially around the anchoring end 131 of the panel 130. Additionally or alternatively, the first anchoring portion 248 and / or the second anchoring portion 250 may extend within a recess of the anchoring end 131 of the panel 130 at or near the second longitudinal side 127 of the panel 130. It will be understood that the outer seal 240 and / or the anchoring end 131 of the panel 130 may have a uniform cross-sectional shape across its width such that the outer seal 240 may slide onto and / or into the anchoring end 131 from the lateral side of the slat 140.

[0058] Thus, the outer seal 240 may sealingly engage against the inner surface 134 of the teeth 124 of another panel 130. When the panels 130 interact with each other, such as by a force applied by a cover driver, the outer seal 240 and the teeth 124 may remain in contact and sealing engagement such that the panels 130 move in unison when assembled together in the deployed configuration of the rear trunk cover 120.

[0059] In some embodiments, the inner seal 260 may include one or more branches that form a flexible extension for engaging the teeth 124 of another panel 130. For example, as Figure 7 shown, the inner seal 260 may include a stem 262 having a first end 263 and a second end 265. The inner seal 260 may also include a branch 266 that extends from the first end 263 of the stem 262. The branch 264 may extend towards the interior of the socket 126 (see also Figure 5 ). The branch 266 may form a bend that turns somewhat towards the second end 265 of the stem 262. In this way, the branch 266 may form an angled ramp that engages the outer surface 132 of the teeth 124 of another panel 130 (see also Figure 5 ). As Figure 7Further shown, the branch 264 may extend directly towards the tooth 124 initially (e.g., when present within the socket 126), such that the branch 266 provides a biasing force against the tooth 124. The branch 266 may extend across the outer surface 132 of the tooth 124, e.g., tangent to the outer surface 132 at the region of contact with the tooth 124. The position of the inner seal 260 and the features described herein provide an effective seal to prevent debris and fluid from entering with minimal force applied. Thus, an effective seal against the tooth 124 can be provided with minimal force from the inner seal 260. By providing a smaller force, the panel 130 is easily separable when retracted into the cartridge in a stacked configuration. This arrangement helps the retraction and deployment operations of the panel 130 to be sufficiently quiet and smooth, with less likelihood of sticking.

[0060] As Figure 7 Further shown, the inner seal 260 may include hinge features to facilitate movement and / or rotation of the branch 266. The hinge may be provided as a notch 268 (e.g., recess, cavity, etc.). The notch 268 may extend into the structure of the inner seal 260 at an internal corner formed at the intersection of the rod 262 and the branch 266 at the first end 263 of the rod 262. For example, the notch 268 may be defined as an internal space or void having an opening 267 thereto. In some embodiments, the maximum cross-sectional dimension of the notch 268 may be greater than the maximum cross-sectional dimension of the opening 267 to the notch 268. The size and shape of the notch 268 may be selected to determine the load on the panel 130 (e.g., tooth 124) that engages the branch 266. For example, the size and / or shape of the notch 268 may be selected to determine the biasing force to be applied to the tooth 124 when the branch 266 deflects by applying a force from the tooth 124. A load may be selected to be sufficiently low (e.g., large notch 268) such that the panels 130 may lie flat relative to each other (e.g., flush outer surfaces), while also providing an effective seal to prevent fluid and / or debris from entering.

[0061] As Figure 7Further shown, the inner seal 260 may also include one or more anchoring portions to secure the inner seal 260 to a portion of the panel 130 (e.g., within the socket 126). For example, the anchoring portion 270 may extend from the first end 263 of the stem 262 in a direction away from (e.g., opposite) the branch 266 and / or the socket 126. The anchoring portion 270 may secure the inner seal 260 to a portion of the panel 130. For example, the anchoring portion 270 may extend within a recess of the anchoring end 129 of the panel 130 at or near the longitudinal end of the socket 126 that is opposite the outer seal 240. Additionally or alternatively, the anchoring portion 270 may extend at least partially around the anchoring end 129 of the panel 130. It will be understood that the inner seal 260 and / or the anchoring end 129 of the panel 130 may have a uniform cross-sectional shape across its width such that the inner seal 260 may slide onto and / or into the anchoring end 129 from the lateral side of the slat 140.

[0062] Accordingly, the inner seal 260 may sealingly engage against the outer surface 132 of the teeth 124 of another panel 130. When the panels 130 interact with one another, such as by a force applied by a cover driver, the inner seal 260 and the teeth 124 may remain in contact and sealing engagement such that the panels 130 move in unison when assembled together in the deployed configuration of the rear trunk cover 120.

[0063] Now referring Figure 8 , one or more features of the slider may facilitate the travel of the panels across one another and the lateral alignment of the panels. In some embodiments, as Figure 8 shown, each slider 150 in the slider may include a flat surface 151 at the upper side 121 of the corresponding panel 130. A ridge 152 may project from the flat surface 151 of the slider 150. The ridge 152 may extend transversely across the slider 150 near the first longitudinal side 125 of the panel 130. For example, the ridge 152 may be on the upper side 121 of the panel 130 and opposite (e.g., projecting away from) the ramp 128 of the panel 130. In this way, when an overlapping panel 130 stacked above a given panel 130 is placed on the upper side 121 of the given panel 130, the ridge 152 may be positioned to interact with such overlapping panel 130 and with the ramp 128 of its overlapping panel 130.

[0064] As Figure 8Further shown, the raised member 152 may form a uniform and / or consistent cross-sectional shape across its width. In some embodiments, the raised member 152 may define a convex or otherwise curved shape that facilitates sliding thereon. In some embodiments, the raised member 152 may define the uppermost extent of the slider 150 and / or the panel 130 such that the overlapping slider 150 and / or panel 130 applied thereto contacts the raised member 152 rather than the entire flat surface 151. The raised member 152 may be provided with features to facilitate sliding, such as a coating having a low coefficient of friction. This may help reduce friction when the panels 130 slide over one another.

[0065] As Figure 8 Further shown, the raised member 152 may extend to the lateral sides 153 of the slider 150 and / or the panel 130. Additionally or alternatively, the raised member 152 may extend laterally across the entire width of the flat surface 151.

[0066] For example, the width of the raised member 152 may be substantially equal to the width of the flat surface 151. By further example, each slider in the slider 150 may define an additional flat surface 156 at the lower side 123 of the panel 130 (e.g., at the slider 150) that is opposite the upper side 121 of the panel 130. The width of the raised member 152 may be substantially equal to the width of the additional flat surface 156 such that the additional flat surface 156 of the overlapping panel 130 may match the raised member 152 of the underlying panel 130. Thus, when the sliders 150 slide over one another, the panels 130 may remain in a desired lateral alignment relative to one another. Specifically, the extension of the raised member 152 to the corresponding lateral sides 153 facilitates stacking the panels 130 in a uniform lateral alignment. This may help facilitate precise engagement of the panels 130 with one another upon subsequent deployment.

[0067] In some embodiments, the slider 150 may include one or more other features to facilitate sliding. For example, the slider may include rollers at the upper side 151 and / or the lower side 123, such as wheels or other structures configured to rotate for the slider 150. Such rollers may include bearings, shafts, or other structures to facilitate rotation. The rollers may roll across the opposing surface of another (e.g., overlapping and / or underlying) panel 130.

[0068] In some embodiments, the deployment and / or retraction of the panel 130 and the slider 150 may be further assisted by a lubricating material located on or incorporated into the raised member 152, the flat surface 151, the upper side 151 of the panel 130, and / or the lower side 123 of the panel 130. The lubricating material may include, for example, polytetrafluoroethylene.

[0069] Now refer to Figure 9, one or more panels may include transition features at or near their longitudinal ends. Such transition features may facilitate transitioning into and out of the cover system's cassette (e.g., through its opening). For example, an interface may be formed between the cassette and the guide rail. At such locations, it may be desirable to facilitate the passage of the panel without interference.

[0070] In some embodiments, as Figure 9 shown, the end panel 130A may include a slider 150 that forms a transition shape 154 at the second longitudinal side 127 of the panel 130. In some embodiments, the transition shape 154 may provide a transition from the transverse side 153 of the panel 130 (e.g., at the slider 150) to the second longitudinal side 127. In some embodiments, the transition shape 154 may provide a transition from the upper side 121 of the panel 130 (e.g., the flat surface 151) to the second longitudinal side 127. In some embodiments, the transition shape 154 may provide a transition from the lower side 123 of the panel 130 (e.g., opposite the upper side 121) to the second longitudinal side 127. For example, the transition shape 154 may include one or more of a chamfer, a bend, a spline curve, an s-curve, a bevel, a fillet, a radius, a taper, a step, a right angle, and / or another angle. It should be understood that Figure 9 the edge geometries shown are by way of example and should not be construed as limiting. The widths and thicknesses depicted in the drawings are not drawn to scale and are for illustrative purposes only. The second longitudinal side 127 may define a guiding portion of the rear box cover 120 when deployed from the cassette. Thus, by providing the transition shape 154 for the slider, the initial deployment of the end panel 130A can be smoothly performed with minimal resistance.

[0071] As Figure 9 further shown, the end panel 130A may also include an end seal 122 at the second longitudinal side 127 of the panel 130. The end seal 122 may project beyond the transition shape 154. The cargo area and / or the tailgate may include features complementary to the shape of the transition shape 154 and / or the end seal 122 for providing a sealed engagement therewith.

[0072] While Figure 9 only one transverse side of the panel 130 is illustrated, it will be understood that the panel 130 may include the same or similar features on each of its opposite transverse sides. For example, the sliders 150 on the opposite transverse sides of the slat 140 may have symmetric features, including the transition shape 154.

[0073] While Figure 9Illustrated is an end panel 130 having a slider 150 with a transition shape 154, but it will be understood that any one or more of the panels 130 of the rear box cover 120 may include or omit the transition shape 154. The other panels 130 and their longitudinal ends may include one or more features and / or shapes that facilitate a sealed engagement at the opposing longitudinal ends of adjacent panels 130.

[0074] Now referring Figure 10 , the panel may include one or more cutouts to facilitate traveling over the cover drive. In some embodiments, as Figure 10 shown, each of the panels 130 may include a slat 140 and sliders 150 located on opposing lateral sides of the slat 140. The sliders 150 may each define a lateral side 153 of the corresponding panel 130.

[0075] As Figure 10 shown, the slat 140 may define teeth 124 at a first longitudinal side 125 of the panel 130, the teeth 124 being configured to engage another panel 130. The slat 140 may also define a slat recess 148 that extends between the teeth 124 and an adjacent slider 150 located on the corresponding lateral side of the slat 140. For example, while the teeth 124 may extend from an upper side 121 of the panel 130 at 140, the slat recess 148 may provide a greater clearance by extending a lesser distance from the upper side 121 of the panel 130 at the slat 140.

[0076] As Figure 10 further shown, the slider 150 may define one or more structures at a first longitudinal side 125 of the panel 130. The slider 150 may also define a slider recess 158 that extends between the lateral side 153 defined by the slider 150 and the slat 140. For example, one or more portions of the slider may extend from an upper side 121 of the panel 130 at the slider 150, and the slider recess 158 may provide a greater clearance by extending a lesser distance from the upper side 121 of the panel 130 at the slider 150.

[0077] The slat recess 148 and the slider recess 158 may form a void or space defined by the peripheral edges of the corresponding structures. For example, the slat recess 148 may be defined by an edge of the slat 140, and the slider recess 158 may be defined by an edge of the slider 150. In some embodiments, the slat recess 148 and the slider recess 158 may be flush with each other to define a continuous edge and / or boundary. The panel 130 may include a ramp 128 that faces the slat recess 148 and the slider recess 158.

[0078] The slat recess 148 and the slider recess 158 are configured to receive a portion of a cover drive (not shown) as the panel 130 longitudinally moves past the cover drive. For example, when the panel 130 is engaged by the cover drive (e.g., at the slider 150), the panel 130 can move longitudinally. When sufficiently moved, the ramp 128 will allow the underlying panel 130 to move upward toward the overlapping panel 130 and / or the overlapping panel 130 to move downward toward the underlying panel 130. Such adjustments facilitated by the ramp 128 can promote engagement between the panels 130 but can also change the height of one or more of the panels 130. Accordingly, it may be desirable to provide sufficient clearance such that the structure at the first longitudinal side 125 of the panel 130 does not interfere with the cover drive. For example, in the case where the gearing includes a pinion, the corresponding rack of the slider 150 can be aligned with the slat recess 148 and the slider recess 158 such that the panel 130 and the slider 150 can travel over the cover drive without getting caught on the pinion. Additional clearance can be provided by the slat recess 148 and the slider recess 158 to exceed the maximum dimensions of the pinion and / or other parts of the cover drive. Although the cover drive can be configured to engage the slider 150, the cutout can optionally extend into the slat 140 of the panel 130 having the slat recess 148 such that sufficient clearance is provided even when the panel 130 is not laterally aligned.

[0079] While Figure 10 only one lateral side of the panel 130 is illustrated, it will be understood that the panel 130 can include the same or similar features on each of its opposite lateral sides. For example, the sides of the slat 140 and the sliders 150 on opposite lateral sides of the slat 140 can have symmetric features, including the slat recess 148 and the slider recess 158.

[0080] Accordingly, aspects of the present disclosure provide a cover system that includes features that interact with each other to facilitate linearly and with high stability loading and unloading of panels. Such features can provide smooth deployment and retraction of a tailgate cover. The tailgate cover can include separate panels that interlock with each other when deployed and disengage from each other when retracted to controllably cover a truck bed or other area of a vehicle such as a truck. The tailgate cover described herein can include panels that provide a reliable seal therebetween. The tailgate cover described herein can include panels that provide smooth sliding across each other and along one or more rails. The tailgate cover described herein can perform such operations with minimal noise generation.

[0081] The entire contents of the following patents and applications are incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forth herein: U.S. Patent No. 11,318,826; U.S. Patent No. 10,525,804; U.S. Patent No. 11,091,013; and U.S. Patent Publication 2022 / 0048435.

[0082] Unless specifically stated otherwise, an element recited in the singular is not intended to mean one and only one, but rather one or more. For example, a "module" can refer to one or more modules. Without further limitation, an element preceded by "a," "an," "the," or "said" does not preclude the presence of additional identical elements.

[0083] The headings and subheadings (if any) are used for convenience only and do not limit the invention. The use of the word "exemplary" is meant to be illustrative or an example. As to the scope of use of terms such as "comprising" or "having," such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "including" as understood when "including" is used as a transitional word in a claim. Relational terms such as first and second may be used to distinguish one entity or action from another, without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions.

[0084] Phrases such as an aspect, the aspect, another aspect, some aspects, one or more aspects, a particular implementation, the particular implementation, another particular implementation, some particular implementations, one or more particular implementations, an embodiment, the embodiment, another embodiment, some embodiments, one or more embodiments, a configuration, the configuration, another configuration, some configurations, one or more configurations, the subject technology, the disclosure, the present disclosure, other variations thereof, etc. are for convenience only and do not imply that the disclosure related to such phrases is necessary for the subject technology or that such disclosure applies to all configurations of the subject technology. The disclosure related to such phrases may apply to all configurations or one or more configurations. The disclosure related to such phrases may provide one or more examples. Phrases such as an aspect or some aspects may refer to one or more aspects and vice versa, and this similarly applies to other foregoing phrases.

[0085] The phrase "at least one of" following a series of items, together with the terms "and" or "or" used to separate any of these items, modifies the list as a whole, rather than each individual component of the list. The phrase "at least one of" does not require the selection of at least one item; rather, this phrase allows for the meaning to include at least one of any one of these items, and / or at least one of any combination of these items, and / or at least one of each of these items. As an example, each of the phrases "at least one of A, B, and C" or "at least one of A, B, or C" refers to only A, only B, or only C; any combination of A, B, and C; and / or at least one of each of A, B, and C.

[0086] It should be understood that the particular order or hierarchy of the disclosed steps, operations, or processes are examples of exemplary methods. Unless otherwise expressly stated, it should be understood that the particular order or hierarchy of steps, operations, or processes may be performed in a different order. Some of the steps, operations, or processes may be performed simultaneously. The appended method claims (if any) present the elements of the various steps, operations, or processes in a sample order and are not meant to be limited to the particular order or hierarchy presented. These may be performed sequentially, linearly, in parallel, or in a different order. It should be understood that the described instructions, operations, and systems can generally be integrated together in a single software / hardware product or packaged into multiple software / hardware products.

[0087] In one aspect, terms such as "coupled" can refer to direct coupling. In another aspect, terms such as "coupled" can refer to indirect coupling.

[0088] Terms such as top, bottom, front, rear, side, horizontal, vertical, etc. refer to any reference frame, rather than the ordinary gravity reference frame. Thus, such terms can extend upward, downward, diagonally, or horizontally in a gravity reference frame.

[0089] The present disclosure is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. In some instances, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring the concepts of the subject technology. The present disclosure provides various examples of the subject technology, and the subject technology is not limited to these examples. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate various modifications to these aspects, and the principles described herein can be applied to other aspects.

[0090] All structural and functional equivalents of the elements of the various aspects described throughout this disclosure are known or will become known to those of ordinary skill in the art, and these equivalents are hereby expressly incorporated by reference and are intended to be covered by the claims. In addition, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public, whether or not such disclosure is explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element should be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase "means for" or, in the case of a method claim, using the phrase "step for".

[0091] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the various illustrative blocks, modules, elements, components, methods, and algorithms described herein can be implemented as hardware, electronic hardware, computer software, or combinations thereof. To illustrate this interchangeability of hardware and software, the various illustrative blocks, modules, elements, components, methods, and algorithms have been described generally in terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system. Those skilled in the art may implement the described functionality in varying ways for each particular application. The various components and blocks may be arranged differently (e.g., arranged in a different order or partitioned in a different manner), all of which are within the scope of the subject technology.

[0092] The invention name, background art, brief description of the drawings, abstract of the specification, and the drawings are hereby incorporated into this disclosure and provided as illustrative examples of the disclosure rather than as limiting descriptions. It is understood at the time of filing this document that they will not be used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the detailed description, it can be seen that, for the purpose of simplifying the disclosure, illustrative examples are provided and various features are grouped together in various specific implementations. The methods of this disclosure should not be construed as reflecting an intention that the claimed subject matter requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the claims, the inventive subject matter lies in less than all the features of a single disclosed configuration or operation. The claims are hereby incorporated into the detailed description, where each claim stands on its own as a separately claimed subject matter.

[0093] The claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects described herein but should be accorded the full scope consistent with the claim language and cover all legal equivalents. Nevertheless, none of the claims is intended to embrace subject matter that fails to satisfy the requirements of applicable patent law, nor should they be construed in such a way.

Claims

1. A seal for a panel of a vehicle trunk lid covering, the seal comprising: a rod having a first end and a second end; a first branch extending away from an intermediate portion between the first end and the second end; and a second branch extending from the first end of the rod and across an end of the first branch.

2. The seal according to claim 1, the seal further comprising an anchoring portion extending from the first end of the rod in a direction away from the second branch.

3. The seal according to claim 2, wherein: the anchoring portion is a first anchoring portion; and the seal further comprises a second anchoring portion extending from the second end of the rod, wherein the first anchoring portion and the second anchoring portion are configured to partially surround a spherical member of the panel.

4. The seal according to claim 1, wherein the second branch defines a bend extending from the first end of the rod and across the end of the first branch.

5. The seal according to claim 1, wherein the rod, the first branch, and the second branch define a cross-sectional shape extending in a direction across the entire width of the seal.

6. A panel of a trunk lid covering, the panel comprising: a slat defining a socket at a longitudinal side of the trunk lid covering; a pair of sliders located at opposite lateral sides of the slat; and the seal according to claim 1, the seal being fixed within the socket and extending between the pair of sliders.

7. The panel according to claim 6, wherein: the seal is an outer seal; and the panel further comprises an inner seal fixed within the socket and extending between the pair of sliders, the inner seal comprising: an inner seal rod having an inner seal first end and an inner seal second end; an inner seal branch extending away from the first end and toward the outer seal, wherein the inner seal rod and the inner seal branch form a notch having a size greater than a size of an opening of the notch; and an inner seal anchoring portion extending from the first end of the inner seal rod in a direction away from the second branch.

8. The panel according to claim 7, wherein the inner seal rod, the inner seal branch, and the inner seal anchoring portion define an inner seal cross-sectional shape extending across the entire width of the inner seal.

9. The panel according to claim 7, wherein: the notch is a first notch; and the inner seal branch forms a second notch between the first notch and a terminal end of the inner seal branch, the first notch facing the inner seal rod.

10. The panel according to claim 7, wherein, When teeth of another panel are received within the socket, the first branch of the outer seal is configured to engage an inner side of the teeth, and the inner seal branch of the inner seal is configured to engage an outer side of the teeth.

11. A panel for a vehicle trunk cover, the panel comprising: A slat that defines teeth configured to engage sockets of an adjacent panel; And Sliders located on opposite lateral sides of the slat, each of the sliders defining a flat surface on an upper side of the panel and a raised member protruding from the flat surface, the raised member extending transversely across the flat surface from a lateral side of the corresponding slider.

12. The panel according to claim 11, wherein a width of the raised member is substantially equal to a width of the flat surface.

13. The panel according to claim 11, wherein each of the sliders further defines an additional flat surface at a lower side of the panel opposite the upper side of the panel, and a width of the raised member is substantially equal to a width of the additional flat surface.

14. The panel according to claim 11, wherein the panel defines a ramp extending from a lower side of the panel toward the upper side of the panel, the panel facing away from the raised member.

15. The panel according to claim 11, wherein the raised member on each of the sliders extends toward the other slider.

16. The panel according to claim 11, wherein each of the sliders includes a longitudinal end opposite the raised member, the longitudinal end forming a shape including a chamfer, a bend, an oblique angle, a fillet, a radius, or a taper.

17. A panel for a vehicle trunk cover, the panel comprising: A slat that defines teeth extending from an upper side of the panel, the teeth defining a longitudinal end of the slat and being configured to engage sockets of an adjacent panel; A first slider located on a first lateral side of the slat; And A second slider located on a second lateral side of the slat, wherein the slat defines a slat recess between the teeth and the first slider, wherein the first slider defines a slider recess adjacent to the slat recess, and the slat recess and the slider recess are configured to receive a portion of a cover actuator when the panel moves longitudinally.

18. The panel according to claim 17, wherein the panel defines a ramp extending from a lower side of the panel toward the upper side of the panel, the ramp facing the slat recess and the slider recess.

19. The panel according to claim 17, wherein the portion of the cover actuator is a pinion configured to engage a portion of the first slider.

20. The panel according to claim 17, wherein: The slat recess is a first slat recess; The slider recess is a first slider recess; The slat further defines a second slat recess between the teeth and the second slider; and The second slider defines a second slider recess adjacent to the recess in the second slat, wherein the recess in the second slat and the second slider recess are configured to receive an additional portion of the cover driver when the panel moves longitudinally.

Images