COVERING ARRANGEMENT FOR A VEHICLE AND VEHICLE WITH SUCH A COVERING ARRANGEMENT

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a cover assembly configured to equip a vehicle.

[0002] The present invention further relates to a vehicle, in particular of the truck trailer type, comprising such a covering assembly. STATE OF THE ART

[0003] There are trucks equipped with a trailer which is surmounted by a covering structure comprising a tarpaulin that is at least partially flexible and a mechanism configured to drive this tarpaulin.

[0004] Such a tarpaulin can be mounted on the top, i.e. on the roof, of the trailer, or on the sides of the trailer, and can have an unfolded configuration in which it totally closes the top and / or the side of the trailer, and a folded or partially folded configuration in which it allows full or partial access to an access opening formed on the top and / or the side of the trailer, for example for loading and / or unloading.

[0005] Such trucks can be equipped with a drive mechanism configured to move the cover structure from its unfolded configuration to its folded or partially folded configuration, and vice versa.

[0006] For example, international application WO 2009 / 027285 describes a drive mechanism consisting of cables running along the trailer and clamped in jaws attached to the cover structure, and an electric motor configured to drive the cables and thus move the cover structure.

[0007] In application WO 2009 / 027285, the jaws can be opened to release the cables to work on the cover structure.

[0008] Application DE 10 2012 216 151 A1 also discloses a cover assembly for a truck with a drive mechanism. DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The invention aims to provide a configured cover assembly for equipping a vehicle that is particularly simple and convenient to manufacture, assemble, and use.

[0010] The invention thus relates, in a first aspect, to a cover assembly configured to equip a vehicle, comprising a movable cover structure sliding relative to the vehicle and a drive mechanism configured to move the cover structure from an unfolded configuration to a folded or partially folded configuration, and vice versa, the cover structure comprising at a first end a locking flap which is articulated and configured to admit a folded position and a raised position;the drive mechanism comprising a drive cable and a drive device having a clamping element configured to allow a clamping position of the drive cable and a loosening position of the drive cable, as well as an actuating device mechanically attached on one side to the clamping element and on the other side to the locking flap, and which is configured to press the clamping element against the drive cable when the locking flap is articulated from its folded position to its raised position and to move the clamping element away from the drive cable when the locking flap is articulated from its raised position to its folded position.;

[0011] The cover assembly according to the invention allows the cover structure and the drive cable to be selectively attached or unattached to each other, so as to drive or not the cover structure in sliding to cover and uncover the vehicle.

[0012] Overall, according to the invention, the locking flap serves not only to lock the cover structure in an unfolded configuration in which it covers the vehicle, but also to actuate the drive device.

[0013] In particular, depending on the direction of articulation of the locking flap, the latter allows the drive cable and the cover structure to be untied when the latter is locked in its unfolded configuration, or to be tied to the drive cable and the cover structure when the cover structure is not locked, in its unfolded configuration or in a folded or partially folded configuration.

[0014] This results in a particularly fast, reliable and easy handling of the entire cover assembly, via the locking flap.

[0015] Other particularly simple and convenient features of the cover assembly according to the invention are described below.

[0016] The clamping element is rotationally mobile between the clamping position of the drive cable and the loosening position of the drive cable.

[0017] The drive device includes a return element configured to return the clamping element to its loosening position.

[0018] The clamping element includes a movable rotating cam to which the actuation device is attached, the cam being configured to be progressively pressed against the drive cable when the locking flap is articulated from its folded position to its raised position, and to be progressively moved away from the drive cable when the locking flap is articulated from its raised position to its folded position.

[0019] The drive mechanism comprises a mounting plate mechanically attached to the cover structure, and a support lug mechanically attached to the mounting plate and supporting the clamping element, with the drive cable which is disposed between the clamping element and the mounting plate.

[0020] The actuation device is configured to transform an articulation movement of the locking flap into a rotational movement of the clamping element.

[0021] The actuation device is configured to transform an articulation movement of the locking flap into an intermediate translational movement, and to transform the intermediate translational movement into a rotational movement of the clamping element.

[0022] The actuation device includes at least one connecting rod mechanically attached to the clamping element and an attachment body mechanically attached on one side to the locking flap and on the other side to at least one connecting rod.

[0023] The attachment body includes a guide window in which at least one connecting rod can slide.

[0024] The at least one connecting rod comprises a first connecting rod part and a second connecting rod part, and an adjustment mechanism connecting the first connecting rod part and the second connecting rod part and configured to vary in length said at least one connecting rod.

[0025] The actuation device comprises a first connecting rod mechanically attached to the attachment body, a second connecting rod mechanically attached to the clamping element, and a linking rod movable in translation and mechanically connecting the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod.

[0026] The locking flap has a return mechanism configured to return the locking flap respectively to its raised position and to its lowered position.

[0027] The invention also relates, in a second aspect, to a vehicle, in particular of the trailer type for trucks, comprising a covering assembly as described above.

[0028] Other particularly simple and convenient features of the vehicle according to the invention are described below.

[0029] The vehicle includes a roof and a chassis facing the roof and defining with the roof, sides of the vehicle and in the covering assembly, the covering structure is formed by a tarpaulin at least partially flexible and mounted on the roof of the vehicle or on at least one of the sides of the vehicle.

[0030] The vehicle includes at least one pair of longitudinal members on which the cover structure is mounted to slide movablely, and a panel arranged projecting from the chassis towards the roof of the vehicle and on which the locking flap is configured to be folded down in a configuration in which the cover structure is unfolded and covers the roof or one of the sides of the vehicle.

[0031] The vehicle includes a motorized system configured to drive the cover structure in a sliding motion and which is arranged on the vehicle panel or on or under the chassis. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0032] The invention, according to an exemplary embodiment, will be better understood and its advantages will become clearer upon reading the following detailed description, given by way of example and in no way limiting, with reference to the attached drawings in which: there figure 1 schematically illustrates a truck-type vehicle, equipped with a trailer fitted with a covering assembly according to the invention; the figure 2 illustrates in perspective the cover assembly according to the invention as well as a front panel of the vehicle from which the cover assembly extends; the figure 3 partially represents in perspective a drive mechanism and a locking flap of the cover assembly of the figure 2, the shutter being here in the raised position; the figure 4 is a view similar to the figure 3 , in which the locking flap is shown in the folded position; the figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of the drive mechanism and locking flap of the cover assembly shown on the figures 2 to 4 ; there figure 6 and the figure 7 are views similar to the figure 3 , taken from below and from two different angles; the figure 8 and the figure 9 are views similar to the figure 4 , taken from below and from two different angles; the Figure 10 , there figure 11 and the figure 12 are also views similar to the figure 3 , taken from side and top views; the figure 13 , there figure 14 and the figure 15 are also views similar to the figure 4 , taken from side and top views. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0033] There figure 1 schematically illustrates a truck-type vehicle 100 with a trailer, equipped with a cover assembly 1 according to the invention, while the figure 2 illustrates in more detail the entire cover set 1.

[0034] Vehicle 100 includes a tractor 101, and a trailer or semi-trailer 102 attached to it.

[0035] The tractor 101 includes in particular a cab 103 and a fifth wheel 104 used for coupling the trailer 102.

[0036] The trailer 102 here includes a box 105 intended to receive a load to be transported, such as goods.

[0037] The trailer 102 here includes a chassis 111, on which is arranged the body 105 which thus extends between the chassis 111 and the roof of the trailer 102.

[0038] The body 105 includes longitudinal members 106 extending at the roof level of the trailer 102 in a general longitudinal direction of the trailer 102, at least one cross member (not shown) extending in a general transverse direction of the vehicle 100, as well as guide rails 108, called upper rails, which are mechanically fixed and slidingly movable on the longitudinal members 106 located at the roof level.

[0039] The 106 longitudinal members located at the roof level and the cross member together define a top access opening.

[0040] The body 105 may also include other longitudinal members 106 extending at the level of the chassis 111 in a general longitudinal direction of the trailer 102, and other guide rails, called lateral, which are mechanically fixed and sliding movable on the so-called lateral longitudinal members 106.

[0041] If necessary, the side members located at the chassis level together with the side members at the roof level can define one or more side access openings.

[0042] The trailer 102 includes a front panel 109 arranged on the chassis 111, which closes one face of the body 105 facing the front of the vehicle.

[0043] The cover assembly 1 is here mounted at the level of the body 105 of the trailer 102.

[0044] The cover assembly 1 includes a cover structure 2 which can admit an unfolded configuration, in which it covers the trailer 102, and a folded or partially folded configuration, in which it at least partially uncovers the trailer 102.

[0045] In the illustrated example, the cover structure 2 is configured to cover the roof of trailer 102, i.e. the top of trailer 102.

[0046] Alternatively, the trailer may include one or more cover assemblies comprising a cover structure configured to cover at least one side of the trailer rather than the roof or in addition to the roof.

[0047] The cover structure 2 can be formed by a tarpaulin, which can, for example, be reinforced or not, in particular with reinforcement elements welded and / or integrated into the tarpaulin.

[0048] In particular, the cover structure 2 may include a hinge mechanism 52 having a plurality of hoops 4 configured to support the cover structure 2. The hoops 4 extend globally transversely in a general longitudinal direction of the trailer 102 and the cover structure 2.

[0049] The articulation mechanism 52 may further comprise a plurality of trolley bodies 5 configured to be mounted sliding on the guide rails 108, on either side of the trailer support 102.

[0050] Each of the trolley bodies 5 is configured to be mechanically attached to a hoop 4, so as to make the cover structure 2 mobile in translation on the guide rails 108.

[0051] The articulation mechanism 52 further comprises a plurality of articulation devices which are separate from the carriage bodies 5 and which are configured to be mechanically attached to the latter.

[0052] Each hoop 4 is further configured here to be mechanically attached to both a trolley body 5 and an articulation device.

[0053] The articulation mechanism 52 further comprises a plurality of compasses 53 which are foldable and configured to be mechanically secured by one end to one articulation device and by an opposite end to another articulation device.

[0054] The compasses 53 are designed to also support the covering structure.

[0055] The cover structure 2 is configured to be subject to the hoops 4, so that it is driven in movement with them.

[0056] In particular, the sliding of the trolley bodies 5 on the guide rails 108 causes the movement of the hoops 4 along the trailer support as well as the articulation of the compasses 53 which move from a deployed configuration substantially flat to an erected configuration, thus allowing the trolley bodies 5, the articulation devices and the hoops 4 to move closer together respectively.

[0057] The cover structure 2 is thus configured to be mechanically secured to slide on the guide rails 108 and to be moved from one to the other of the unfolded configuration in which it totally or almost totally closes the access opening, whether it is located at the roof level or on one side of the trailer 102, and the folded or partially folded configuration in which it totally or partially allows access to the access opening, for example for loading and / or unloading the trailer 102.

[0058] The cover structure 2 includes a locking flap 6 at a first end 7 of the cover structure 2.

[0059] The locking flap 6 is configured to allow the cover structure 2 to be locked / unlocked in its unfolded configuration, here in particular by mechanically locking / unlocking onto the front panel 109 of the trailer 102.

[0060] In other words, when the locking flap 6 is stuck on the front panel 109 (as on the figure 2 ), the cover structure 2 is fixed; whereas when the locking flap 6 is unlocked from the front panel 109, the cover structure 2 can be sliding mobile.

[0061] The locking flap 6 is hinged on the first end 7, i.e. it can pivot relative to the first end 7.

[0062] Here, the locking flap 6 can pivot around an axis of rotation which extends in a general direction transverse to the trailer 102.

[0063] In addition, the trailer 102 may include a motorized system 110 configured to drive the cover structure 2 in translation along the guide rails 108.

[0064] In particular, when the cover structure 2 is configured to cover the roof of the trailer 102, the motorized system 110 can, for example, be mounted in whole or in part on the front panel 109 of the vehicle, as shown in the figure 2 .

[0065] Alternatively, when the cover structure is configured to cover one side of the trailer, the motorized system can, for example, be mounted on or under the vehicle chassis.

[0066] THE figures 3 And 4 They show in more detail the locking flap 6 in two different positions it can adopt. In particular, the articulation mechanism 52 is not shown in full, and specifically the compasses 54 are not visible in these figures.

[0067] On the one hand, the locking flap 6 can admit a so-called folded position, as shown on the figure 3 in particular, in which it is located substantially in the same plane as the rest of the covering structure 2.

[0068] On the other hand, the locking flap 6 can also admit a so-called raised position, as shown on the figure 4 in particular, in which it protrudes out of the main plane in which the rest of the covering structure extends 2.

[0069] The raised position of the locking flap 6 may refer to a vertically raised position in the case of a cover structure 2 configured to cover the roof of the vehicle.

[0070] Alternatively, the raised position can refer to a laterally raised position, i.e. protruding from the side of the vehicle, in the case of a cover structure configured to cover one side of the vehicle.

[0071] For example, the angle formed between the folded-down position and the raised position of the locking flap 6 is approximately 100°.

[0072] In its folded position, the locking flap 6 allows the cover structure 2 to be locked, i.e. held, in its deployed position, by mechanically locking onto the front panel 109.

[0073] When the locking flap 6 is raised, the mechanical lock on the front panel 109 is lifted, and the cover structure 2 can move into a folded or partially folded configuration.

[0074] The cover assembly 1 includes a drive mechanism 8 which is configured to move the cover structure 2 from the unfolded configuration to the folded or partially folded configuration, and vice versa.

[0075] By referring to figures 3 And 4 , as well as to the figure 5 which illustrates, according to an exploded view, in particular the drive mechanism 8, the drive mechanism 8 and the locking flap 6 will now be described in more detail.

[0076] The drive mechanism 8 includes a drive cable 9 which is configured to drive the cover structure 2 into motion.

[0077] Cable 9 extends here globally in the general longitudinal direction of the trailer.

[0078] The drive mechanism 8 also includes a drive device 10 which is configured to selectively attach and detach the drive cable 9 and the cover structure 2, which respectively permits and prevents movement of the cover structure 2 when the drive cable 9 is set in motion.

[0079] The locking flap 6 here comprises a cross member 11, and two hinge portions 12 extending each from one end of the cross member 11, in a direction generally orthogonal to the cross member 11.

[0080] In addition, the locking flap 6 can be provided with a lateral fin 13 at each end of the cross member 11, and which here extends generally at an angle towards the rear of the trailer 102.

[0081] The locking flap 6 may include a locking tab 14 at at least one end of the cross member 11, and which extends generally orthogonally from the latter.

[0082] The locking tab 14 may include a locking finger 15 configured to cooperate with a locking member (not shown) presented on the front panel 109 of the vehicle, so as to keep the locking flap 6 in the folded position.

[0083] At its first end 7, the cover structure 2 here includes a pair of hinge plates 16 mechanically secured to an end portion of a trolley body 5 assembled on an extremal hoop 4, with the hinge portions 12 which are mounted articulated on the hinge plates 16 by means of a hinge pivot 17 of the locking flap 6.

[0084] The locking flap 6 can also be provided with one or more return elements 18 configured to hold the locking flap 6 respectively in the raised position and in the folded position.

[0085] For example, a return member 18 is formed by a tension spring extending between a hinge plate 16 and a corresponding hinge portion 12, and arranged so as to return the locking flap 6 to the raised position.

[0086] The cover structure 2 includes at least one mounting plate 20 which extends between the extreme hoop 4 and the hoop 4 adjacent to it, and which is mechanically fixed to the latter.

[0087] In other words, here the last two hoops 4 of the cover structure 2 are not mobile relative to each other, but are mechanically connected in a rigid manner by the mounting plate 20.

[0088] Each of the articulation plates 16 can be made in one piece with a mounting plate 20, or can be added and mechanically secured to the latter.

[0089] The mounting plate 20 here includes a mounting plate 19, which allows the drive device 10 to be mechanically attached to the cover structure 2.

[0090] The mounting plate 19 is fixed, for example by bolting, to the mounting plate 20.

[0091] The mounting plate 19 has a cross-section that is generally step-shaped or cap-shaped.

[0092] In particular, in the illustrated example, the mounting plate 19 comprises a first portion 21 (visible in figure 5in particular) and a second portion 22 extending in two distinct parallel planes, and a third portion 23 connecting the first portion 21 and the second portion 22 and extending in a plane substantially orthogonal to the two distinct parallel planes.

[0093] The first portion 21 is attached to the mounting plate 20, for example by bolting or screwing, while the second portion 22 protrudes laterally outwards from the cover structure 2, so as to be opposite the drive cable 9.

[0094] In particular, the drive device 10 includes a plurality of guide wheels which serve to guide the drive cable 9 opposite the second portion 22 to and from the motorized system 110.

[0095] A first guide wheel 24 and a second guide wheel 25 are arranged so as to guide the drive cable 9 close to the third portion 23, i.e. the drive cable 9 runs between the first guide wheels 24 and the third portion 23.

[0096] A third guide wheel 26 is arranged so as to guide the drive cable 9 away from the third portion 23, that is to say that the drive cable 9 runs outside the third guide wheel 26 with respect to the third portion 23.

[0097] The third guide wheel 26 is arranged on the second portion 22 on a side opposite to the side facing the locking flap 6.

[0098] Thus, the first, second and third guide wheels 24 to 26 allow, from the side facing the locking flap 6 towards the opposite side, to guide the drive cable 9 first approaching the third portion 23, then away from the third portion 23 until it leaves the mounting plate 19 towards the rear of the vehicle.

[0099] The first, second and third guide wheels 24 to 26 can each be fixed for rotation on the mounting plate 19, for example by bolting, with their axes of rotation which are globally orthogonal with respect to the second portion 22.

[0100] As can be seen on the figures 3 And 4, the motorized system 110 may include a guide plate 50 intended to be attached to the front panel 109, as well as rollers 51 to guide the drive cable 9, here from a substantially transverse direction of the trailer 102 to a substantially longitudinal direction of the trailer 102, so as to guide the cable to the first guide wheel 24.

[0101] The drive device 10 further includes a clamping element, allowing the drive cable 9 to be tightened.

[0102] In the illustrated example, the mounting plate 19 has a support tab 27 protruding from the second portion 22, which serves to support the clamping element.

[0103] The clamping element includes a cam 29, which is here mounted for rotation on the support lug 27.

[0104] Cam 29 has a cam portion that is configured to make contact with drive cable 9.

[0105] The cam 29 is positioned on the support bracket 27 opposite the drive cable 9, which is located between the cam 29 and the second portion 22.

[0106] The cam 29 can admit a clamping position, in which it is pressed against the drive cable 9 so as to clamp it between the cam 29 and the second portion 22, and a loosening position, in which the drive cable 9 is free between the cam 29 and the second portion 22.

[0107] When the cam 29 is in the clamping position, a fastening by force connection and in particular by friction is achieved between the drive cable 9 on the one hand and the cam 29 and the mounting plate 19 on the other hand.

[0108] Thus, when the drive cable 9 is set in motion, it takes with it the mounting plate 19 and therefore the cover structure 2 which is attached to it.

[0109] When the cam 29 is in the loose position, the drive cable 9, and the cam 29 and the mounting plate 19 are no longer secured to each other, and the cover structure 2 is not driven, even if the drive cable 9 moves.

[0110] The drive device 10 may include a return element 49, which allows the cam 29 to be returned to the loosened position, and which may, for example, be formed by a pin spring.

[0111] The drive mechanism 8 further includes an actuating device 28, which is configured to drive the clamping member in motion when the locking flap 6 is moved in rotation between its folded position and its raised position, and vice versa.

[0112] More specifically, the drive mechanism 8 allows the cam 29 to be moved into its clamping position when the locking flap 6 is moved into its raised position, and the cam 29 to be moved into its loosening position when the locking flap 6 is moved into its lowered position.

[0113] The actuation device 28 is designed to transform the articulation movement, i.e. rotation, of the locking flap 6 into a rotational movement of the cam 29.

[0114] The actuation device 28 comprises several connecting rods, including a first connecting rod 30 and a second connecting rod 31, as well as a connecting rod 32 linking them, and together forming a motion transmission chain enabling this transformation to be carried out.

[0115] The first connecting rod 30 is mechanically fixed to rotation to the locking flap 6, while the second connecting rod 31 is mechanically fixed to rotation to the cam 29.

[0116] The mounting plate 19 has, on the third portion 23, a first opening 33 in which the connecting rod 32 can slide.

[0117] The first light 33 is here rectilinear, in other words, the connecting rod 32 slides in translation in the first light 33.

[0118] The motion transmission chain thus formed performs an intermediate transformation of the rotational movement of the locking flap 6 into a translational movement of the connecting rod 32, then a transformation of this translational movement into a rotational movement of the cam 29.

[0119] For example, the connecting rod 32 includes a spacer 34 and a bolt 35 inserted into the spacer 34.

[0120] The second connecting rod 31 is provided with a first fixing eyelet at one of its ends, and a second fixing eyelet at a second end opposite to the first end.

[0121] On the one hand, the second connecting rod 31 is subjected to rotation by its first fixing eyelet to the cam 29, for example by screwing or bolting.

[0122] The attachment of the second connecting rod 31 to the cam 29 is made at a point of attachment which is distinct from the point of attachment of the cam 29 to the support lug 27, so that when the second connecting rod 31 is put into motion, it exerts a moment of force on the cam 29 to cause it to rotate.

[0123] On the other hand, the second connecting rod 31 is subjected to rotation by its second fixing eyelet to the connecting rod 32, here by being taken between a nut of the bolt 35 and the spacer 34.

[0124] In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting plate 19 has a positioning tab 36 extending from the second portion 22 substantially at the level of the support tab 27 and connecting to the third portion 23.

[0125] The positioning tab 36 is equipped with a second slot 37 which is configured here to allow the passage of the second connecting rod 31, and which allows it to be held in a transverse position.

[0126] The positioning tab 36 also features a third light 38 which is configured to allow passage of the drive cable 9.

[0127] The first connecting rod 30 is similarly provided with a first fixing eyelet at one of its ends, and a second fixing eyelet at a second end opposite the first end (visible in more detail on the figure 5 ).

[0128] The first connecting rod 30 is fixed on one side rotationally to the connecting rod 32 by its first fixing eyelet, for example by being taken between the head of a screw of the bolt 35 and the spacer 34.

[0129] Thus, while the first connecting rod 30 is located on one side of the third portion 23 of the mounting plate 19, oriented towards the inside of the cover structure 2, the second connecting rod 31 is located on the other side of the third portion 3, oriented towards the outside of the cover structure 2.

[0130] The first connecting rod 30 is fixed on the other hand to rotation to the locking flap 6.

[0131] Here, the first connecting rod 30 has one degree of freedom in translation relative to the locking flap 6.

[0132] The actuation device 28 includes an attachment body 39, which is subject to the locking flap 6.

[0133] The attachment body 39 has a fixing plate 40 which is fixed, for example by screwing or bolting, to the locking flap 6, and a portion of a circular arc 41 which extends at a right angle from the fixing plate 40, towards the mounting plate 19.

[0134] The arc portion 41 has a guide window 42, or buttonhole, which extends here from a free end of the arc portion 41 towards the opposite end attached to the fixing plate 40. The buttonhole has a curved shape.

[0135] The first connecting rod 30 has, at its second end, a sliding finger 43 which protrudes laterally and which is here formed by a bolt.

[0136] The buttonhole 42 is configured so that the sliding finger 43 can slide within it, between a first buttonhole base 44 and a second buttonhole base 45 opposite the first buttonhole base 44 (visible in more detail on the figure 5 ), which includes buttonhole 42.

[0137] Thus, the buttonhole 42 defines a buffer angular range in which the cam 29 is not driven in rotation when the locking flap 6 is driven in rotation.

[0138] When the locking flap 6 is in the raised position, the sliding finger 43 is against the first buttonhole bottom 44, while when the locking flap 6 is in the lowered position, the sliding finger 43 is against the second buttonhole bottom 45.

[0139] Furthermore, as can be seen in more detail on the figure 5, the first connecting rod 30 can be made in two parts, including a first part of connecting rod 46 and a second part of connecting rod 47, each corresponding overall to half a connecting rod and which are mechanically connected to each other.

[0140] The first connecting rod 30 may include an adjustment mechanism 48 between the first connecting rod part 46 and the second connecting rod part 47, which allows the two parts to be mechanically connected while allowing the length of the connecting rod 30 to be varied.

[0141] For example, the adjustment mechanism 48 is formed by a threaded rod which passes through a first assembly and a second assembly each formed by a nut and a sleeve, with the sleeve of each of the assemblies being respectively mechanically secured to a part of a connecting rod.

[0142] It should be noted that in the preceding description, all the elements of the drive system can be duplicated and arranged in a substantially symmetrical way on each side of the vehicle.

[0143] We will now describe the operation of the cover assembly 1 when it is handled, first when the trailer is covered by the cover structure 2, and then when the trailer is uncovered, particularly with reference to the figures 3 And 4 And 6 à 9 which show the entire cover with the locking flap raised or lowered depending on the views.

[0144] In an initial configuration not shown, the cover structure 2 is folded and is generally located at the rear of the vehicle.

[0145] In this configuration, the cover structure 2 is not locked in the unfolded position and the locking flap 6 is therefore in the raised position.

[0146] As described above, the cam 29 is then in the clamping position, in which it is pressed against the drive cable 9 which is clamped between the cam 29 and the second portion 22.

[0147] In other words, the drive cable 9 and the cover structure 2 are secured, via the drive device.

[0148] The drive cable 9 can be set in motion by means of the motorized system, i.e. it moves here towards the front of the vehicle.

[0149] When the first end 7 of the cover structure 2 is substantially opposite the front panel of the vehicle, the cover structure 2 is unfolded and the locking flap 6 is pivoted into its folded position.

[0150] As described above, the locking flap 6 in the folded position can be mechanically locked to the front panel of the vehicle, for example by means of the locking finger 15 cooperating with a locking element of the front panel.

[0151] This prevents any untimely unlocking of the locking flap 6, particularly when it includes the return mechanism 18 which is configured to keep it in the raised position.

[0152] When the locking flap 6 is rotated from the raised position to the lowered position, the cam 29 is rotated from its clamping position to its loosening position.

[0153] In the raised position of the locking flap 6, the sliding finger 43 is against the first buttonhole bottom 44.

[0154] The first connecting rod 30 is in an advanced position towards the locking flap 6, the connecting rod 32 is in an advanced position in the first slot 33, and the second connecting rod 31 is also in an advanced position in which it pulls on the cam 29.

[0155] Thus, the cam 29, subjected to a moment of force, is pivoted towards the locking flap 6, in the clockwise direction in the views shown, and is placed against the drive cable 9, in its clamping position.

[0156] The locking flap 6 is then pivoted from its raised position to a first intermediate position, distinct from its raised position and its folded position, and then from its first intermediate position to the folded position.

[0157] During its movement from the raised position to the first intermediate position, the locking flap 6 travels through a buffer angular range, over which the sliding finger 43 of the first connecting rod 30 slides relative to the buttonhole 42, until it is butted against the second buttonhole bottom 45.

[0158] Thus, during this movement, the first connecting rod 30, and consequently the entire actuation device 28 and the cam 29 remain substantially immobile, while the locking flap 6 is pivoted.

[0159] In the first intermediate position of the locking flap 6, the cam 29 is therefore always in the clamping position.

[0160] Then, when the locking flap 6 is pivoted from the first intermediate position to the folded position, the sliding finger 43 against the second buttonhole bottom 45 is moved with the locking flap 6.

[0161] The first connecting rod 30 is driven into a rearward position away from the locking flap 6, driving the connecting rod 32 into a rearward position in the first slot 33, which in turn drives the second connecting rod 31 into a rearward position in which it presses on the cam 29.

[0162] The cam 29 is thus progressively pivoted away from the locking flap 6, in the counter-clockwise direction in the views shown, and its support against the drive cable 9 is lifted, i.e. it is in its loosening position.

[0163] The rotational movement of the cam 29 from the clamping position to the loosening position can be accompanied by the return element 49 when the drive device includes it.

[0164] In a configuration of the cover assembly 1 in which the cover structure 2 is in the unfolded position and the locking flap 6 is in the folded position, the drive cable 9 and the cover structure 2 are unattached and the latter cannot be driven into motion even if the drive cable 9 is driven into motion.

[0165] Starting from such a configuration, when the locking flap 6 is moved into its raised position, a kinematic inverse to that described above takes place.

[0166] The sliding finger 43, which is initially against the second buttonhole bottom 45, slides relative to the buttonhole 42 on the angular buffer range until it is against the first buttonhole bottom 44, the locking flap 6 being in a second intermediate position.

[0167] During this first phase of movement, the first connecting rod 30, the second connecting rod 31 and the connecting rod 32 remain substantially immobile, the cam 29 still being in the loosening position at the end of this first phase of movement.

[0168] Then, when the locking flap 6 is pivoted from the second intermediate position to the raised position, it drives with it the first connecting rod 30 from the rearward position to the forward position, itself driving the connecting rod 32 and the second connecting rod 31 from their rearward position to their forward position.

[0169] The cam 29 then gradually tilts towards the locking flap 6, from its loosening position to its tightening position, under the effect of the second connecting rod 31 which pulls on the cam 29.

[0170] When the locking flap 6 is in its raised position, the drive cable 9 is secured by clamping to the cover structure 2, which can be moved from its unfolded position to a folded or partially folded position.

[0171] It is noted that the tightness of the drive cable 9 can be adjusted by varying the length of the first connecting rod 30, when it has an adjustment mechanism 48.

[0172] When the drive cable 9 is not tight enough between the cam 29 and the second portion 22 of the mounting plate 19, which represents a risk of slippage between the cable 9 and the cover structure 2, the first connecting rod 30 can be shortened, and conversely, when the drive cable 9 is too tight, which represents a risk of damage to the cable 9, especially if it is braided from wires, the first connecting rod 30 can be lengthened.

[0173] The cover assembly 1 described above is particularly convenient in that it allows the drive cable 9 and the cover structure 2 to be unfastened when the latter is unfolded and locked onto the vehicle, and the drive cable 9 and the cover structure 2 to be fastened when the latter is unlocked for movement to or from a folded or partially folded position.

[0174] This is done concurrently with the manipulation of the locking flap 6, and does not involve any additional manipulation steps.

[0175] In unillustrated variants: The actuation device may have one or more connecting rods. The actuation device operates by pushing to move the cam from its loosening position to its tightening position, rather than by pulling. The first connecting rod is rotationally fixed to the mounting body without being able to translate relative to it; in particular, the mounting body may then be without a slot. The cam may be of any shape other than that shown in the figures, and is adapted to be progressively brought into contact with the drive cable to tighten it. The first and second intermediate positions of the locking flap may be identical. The cover structure can be configured to cover one side of the vehicle, i.e., a side panel or the rear panel. The motorized system may be optional.The cover assembly may, for example, include a manual system for activating the drive cable. The cover assembly may include several cover structures and covering mechanisms, for example, a cover structure for the vehicle's roof, and one or more cover structures for the vehicle's sides and / or rear. The cover structures may be configured to be driven in motion simultaneously, or not. All or part of the cover structures may be driven in motion by a motorized system, or not. The cover structure may be different from a tarpaulin, for example, a semi-rigid panel structure. The vehicle may be different from a truck trailer, for example, an agricultural trailer, or a caravan or a pickup truck body.

[0176] It is generally recalled that the invention is not limited to the examples described and shown.

Claims

1. A covering assembly (1) configured to equip a vehicle, comprising a covering structure (2) slidably movable relative to the vehicle and a drive mechanism (8) configured to make the covering structure (2) switch from an unfolded configuration into a folded or partially folded configuration, and vice versa, the covering structure (2) comprising at a first end (7) a locking flap (6) which is articulated and configured to take on a folded back position and a raised position; the drive mechanism (8) comprising a drive cable (9) and characterised in that the drive mechanism comprises a drive device (10) provided with a clamping member (29) configured to take on a position of clamping the drive cable (9) and a position of unclamping the drive cable (9), as well as an actuating device (28) mechanically attached, on the one hand, to the clamping member (29) and, on the other hand, to the locking flap (6), and which is configured to press the clamping member (29) against the drive cable (9) when the locking flap (6) is articulated from its folded back position into its raised position and to move the clamping member (29) away from the drive cable (9) when the locking flap (6) is articulated from its raised position into its folded back position.

2. The covering assembly (1) according to claim 1, characterised in that the clamping member (29) is rotatably movable between the position of clamping the drive cable (9) and the position of unclamping the drive cable (9).

3. The covering assembly (1) according to one of claims 1 and 2, characterised in that the drive device (10) comprises a return element (49) configured to return the clamping member (29) to its unclamping position.

4. The covering assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the clamping member (29) comprises a rotatably movable cam to which the actuating device (28) is attached, the cam being configured to be progressively pressed against the drive cable (9) when the locking flap (6) is articulated from its folded back position into its raised position, and to be progressively moved away from the drive cable (9) when the locking flap (6) is articulated from its raised position into its folded back position.

5. The covering assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the drive mechanism (8) comprises a mounting plate (19) mechanically attached to the covering structure (2), and a support tab (27) mechanically attached to the mounting plate and supporting the clamping member (29), with the drive cable (9) which is disposed between the clamping member (29) and the mounting plate (19).

6. The covering assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that the actuating device (28) is configured to transform an articulation movement of the locking flap (6) into a rotational movement of the clamping member (29).

7. The covering assembly (1) according to claim 6, characterised in that the actuating device (28) is configured to transform an articulation movement of the locking flap (6) into an intermediate translational movement, and to transform the intermediate translational movement into a rotational movement of the clamping member (29).

8. The covering assembly (1) according to one of claims 6 and 7, characterised in that the actuating device (28) comprises at least one link mechanically attached to the clamping member (29) and a fastening body (39) mechanically attached on the one hand to the locking flap (6) and on the other hand to the at least one link.

9. The covering assembly (1) according to claim 8, characterised in that the fastening body (39) comprises a guide window (42) in which the at least one link can slide.

10. The covering assembly (1) according to one of claims 8 and 9, characterised in that the at least one link comprises a first link part and a second link part, and an adjustment mechanism connecting the first link part and the second link part and configured to vary said at least one link in length.

11. The covering assembly (1) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterised in that the actuating device (28) comprises a first link (30) mechanically attached to the fastening body (39), a second link (31) mechanically attached to the clamping member (29), and a connecting rod (32) translationally movable and mechanically connecting the first link (30) and the second link (31).

12. The covering assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterised in that the locking flap (6) comprises a return member (18) configured to return the locking flap respectively in its raised position and in its folded back position.

13. A vehicle (102), in particular of the truck trailer type, comprising a covering assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. The vehicle (102) according to claim 13, characterised in that the vehicle comprises a roof and a chassis facing the roof and defining with the roof, sides of the vehicle and in that in the covering assembly (1), the covering structure (2) is formed by an at least partially flexible tarpaulin and mounted to the roof of the vehicle or to at least one side of the vehicle.

15. The vehicle (102) according to one of claims 13 and 14, characterised in that it comprises at least one pair of stringers (106) on which the covering structure (2) is slidably movably mounted, and a panel (109) arranged as a projection from the chassis towards the roof of the vehicle and on which the locking flap (6) is configured to be folded back in a configuration in which the covering structure (2) is unfolded and covers the roof or one of the sides of the vehicle.

16. The vehicle (102) according to claim 15, characterised in that it comprises a motor-drive system (110) configured to slidably drive the covering structure (2) and which is arranged on the panel (109) of the vehicle (102) or on or under the chassis (111).