Prop panel and tonneau cover assembly comprising the prop panel

Abstract

A prop panel for supporting a tonneau cover, the prop panel comprising a first edge, a hinge on or proximate to the first edge, and a second edge that meets with the first edge. The prop panel is pivotally translatable relative to the tonneau cover.

Description

PROP PANEL AND TONNEAU COVER ASSEMBLY COMPRISING THE PROP PANELFIELD

[0001] The present teachings generally relate to a prop panel for supporting a tonneau cover in an open configuration, a tonneau cover assembly including the prop panel, and a vehicle including the tonneau cover assembly.BACKGROUND

[0002] Tonneau covers are used to selectively cover cargo areas. To provide access to cargo areas, tonneau covers are typically folded or rolled. With respect to folding tonneau covers, one or more panels can be pivotally translated, and in some circumstances, folded upon each other. There are various configurations in which these tonneau covers can be positioned, including an upright position. Some tonneau covers are equipped with prop rods that maintain desired configurations of these tonneau covers. For example, U.S. Patent Nos. 9,487,070 B2; 9,815,357 B2; 10,399,420 B2; 11,299,021 B2; and 11,718,166 B2.

[0003] Prop rods can be difficult to handle whereby users typically hold the tonneau cover in an upright position while they remove the prop rods from retaining clips and snap the prop rods onto a ball stud and then tighten the prop rods against the tonneau cover. Conventional prop rods also require a number of individual pieces for assembly, such as a bracket for attachment to the tonneau cover, a connector for attachment to a frame rail, tire prop rod itself, and a retaining element (e.g., a clip) for storing the prop rod. These pieces can also be assembled from a number of sub-components, such as ball joints, locks (e.g., cam locks), brackets, and fasteners. Thus, initial installation of the prop rods can be relatively complex.

[0004] In some configurations, such as in an upright position, at least a portion of the tonneau cover may block lights (e.g., center high mounted stop lights), cameras, sensors, and the like. Additionally, there generally remains a need for aerodynamic improvements to vehicles such as pickup tracks.

[0005] It would be desirable to provide an improved device for supporting tonneau covers in various open configurations.

[0006] It would be desirable to provide a device, for supporting tonneau covers, that is easier to use. easier to install, and involves fewer individual pieces for assembly relative to conventional prop rods.

[0007] It would be desirable to provide a device for supporting tonneau covers, that is sturdier relative to conventional prop rods.

[0008] It would be desirable to leverage prop panels for the location of lights, cameras, sensors, and the like to function in place of any lights, cameras, sensors, and the like on the vehicle blocked by a tonneau cover.

[0009] It would be desirable to leverage prop panels for the location of aerodynamic features to improve the aerodynamic performance, improve gas milage, or the like.SUMMARY

[0010] The present disclosure relates to a prop panel, which may address at least some of the needs identified above. The prop panel may support a tonneau cover. The prop panel may comprise: a first edge, a hinge on or proximate to tire first edge, and a second edge that meets with the first edge. The prop panel may be pivotally translatable relative to a tonneau cover.

[0011] Tire second edge may be oriented from about 45° to 135°, more preferably from about 50° to 130°, more preferably from about 55° to 125°, or even more preferably from about 60° to 120°, relative to the first edge.

[0012] The at least one hinge may include a mechanical hinge, a living hinge, or both. The prop panel may have one degree of freedom in pivotal translation relative to the tonneau cover. The prop panel may have no more than one degree of freedom in pivotal translation relative to the tonneau cover.

[0013] A profile of tire prop panel may be generally in the shape of a circular sector, in the shape of an elliptical sector, triangular, L-shaped, or V-shaped.

[0014] The prop panel may further comprise a first side and a second side opposing the first side. The first side may be adapted to orient toward the tonneau cover when the prop panel is in a stored configuration. The second side may be adapted to orient away from the tonneau cover when the prop panel is in a stored configuration.

[0015] Tire prop panel may further comprise a body portion extending between the first edge and the second edge. The body portion may be at least partially continuous between the first edge and the second edge.

[0016] The body portion may be planar, include one or more curvatures, include one or more angles, or any combination thereof. The one or more curvatures and / or the one or more angles may extend out-of- plane of the first and second edges.

[0017] Tire body portion may comprise an edge that extends from the first edge to the second edge. The edge may be straight, include one or more curvatures, include one or more angles, or any combination thereof. The edge of the body portion may be in-plane with the first and second edges.

[0018] The prop panel may further comprise one or more aerodynamic features. The one or more aerodynamic features may include ridges, fins, scoops, vents, wings, or any combination thereof.

[0019] The one or more aerodynamic features may be integrally formed in or on, or connected to the body portion, or any combination thereof.

[0020] The prop panel may further comprise one or more lights including a taillight, a turn signal, or both. The one or more lights may be located along or proximate to the edge of the body portion.

[0021] Tire present disclosure relates to a tonneau cover assembly, which may address at least some of the needs identified above. Tire tonneau cover assembly may comprise the prop panel according to any one of the above paragraphs.

[0022] The tonneau cover assembly may further comprise at least one panel, preferably at least two panels, or even more preferably at least three panels. The prop panel may be located on a bottom surface of tire at least one panel.

[0023] Tire at least one panel may comprise a frame portion and a cover portion extending over and / or between the frame portion. The prop panel may be connected to the frame portion and / or the cover portion. The prop panel may locate within a storage space defined by the frame portion and the cover portion.

[0024] The tonneau cover assembly may further comprise at least one frame rail upon which the at least one panel is supported and relative thereto the at least one panel pivotally translates. The prop panel may be supported and optionally removably connected to the at least one frame rail or an element (e.g., a bracket) extending from the frame rail.

[0025] The prop panel may be pivotal between the stored configuration and a deployed configuration. In the stored configuration, the first side of the prop panel may face the at least one panel of the tonneau cover. In the stored configuration the prop panel may locate within the space of the at least one panel. In the stored configuration, the second side of the prop panel may face away from the at least one panel of the tonneau cover.

[0026] In the deployed configuration, the first side of the prop panel may face toward a center of the at least one panel. In the deployed configuration, the second side of the prop panel may face away from the center of the at least one panel.

[0027] The tonneau cover assembly may further comprise an additional prop panel. The prop panel and the additional prop panel may locate on or proximate to opposing sides of the at least one panel.

[0028] The present disclosure relates to a vehicle comprising the tonneau cover assembly according to any one of the paragraphs above.

[0029] The vehicle may further comprise a bed comprising: a sidewall having a top surface upon which the at least one frame rail is supported and / or attaches to; and a cargo area selectively protected by the tonneau cover. The prop panel may pivotally translate relative to a centerline of the vehicle.BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a vehicle with a tonneau cover having tire prop panels according to the present teachings.

[0031] FIG. IB is a close-up perspective view of one of the prop panels shown in FIG. 1A.

[0032] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a vehicle with a tonneau cover having the prop panels according to the present teachings.

[0033] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a vehicle with a tonneau cover having tire prop panels according to the present teachings.

[0034] FIG. 3B is a close-up perspective view of the tonneau cover shown in FIG. 3A.

[0035] FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a prop panel according to the present teachings.

[0036] FIG. 4B is a perspective view of a prop panel according to the present teachings.

[0037] FIG. 5 is a close-up perspective view of a prop panel according to the present teachings.

[0038] FIG. 6 is a close-up perspective view of a prop panel according to the present teachings.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] The present teachings meet one or more of the above needs by the improved prop panel, tonneau cover assembly including the prop panel, and vehicle including the tonneau cover assembly described herein.

[0040] The prop panel may be located on a tonneau cover. The tonneau cover may function to selectively cover a cargo area of a vehicle (e.g., a truck). The cargo area may be defined by a front wall, a tailgate, and two sidewalls. The front wall and the tailgate may be in opposing relation to each other. Hie two sidewalls may be in opposing relation to each other. The two sidewalls may extend from the front wall to the tailgate. The cargo area may include a floor. In opposition to the floor, top surfaces may be defined by the front wall, the tailgate, the two sidewalls, or any combination thereof. The top surfaces may circumscribe an opening of the cargo area, which may be selectively covered and uncovered with the tonneau cover.

[0041] The tonneau cover may be a hard-top tonneau cover or a soft-top tonneau cover. Hard-top tonneau covers may comprise cover portions fabricated from a rigid material, such as aluminum. Soft-top tonneau covers may comprise cover portions fabricated from a soft and / or pliable material, such as fabricated from vinyl fabric.

[0042] Tire tonneau cover may comprise one, two, three, four, or even five or more panels. The panels may pivotally translate relative to each other. The pivot axis of the panels may extend along or proximate to adjacent edges of immediately adjacent panels. Hie panels may be hingedly engaged to each other. The panels may fold upon each other. The panels may comprise a bottom surface that orients toward a floor of the cargo area when the tonneau cover is in a closed configuration. The panels may comprise a top surface in opposing relationship to the bottom surface. It is understood that the orientation of the bottom and top surfaces may differ when the tonneau cover is in various other configurations. Although, the top and bottom surfaces may be referred to herein with respect to a tonneau cover in a closed configuration.

[0043] The panels may each comprise a frame portion and a cover portion. The frame portion may support the cover portion. The cover portion may extend over the frame portion. The cover portion may extend between opposing sides of tire frame portion. The cover portion may comprise a first panel, a second panel, a spacer layer between the first and second panels, or any combination thereof. As an example, a soft-top tonneau cover may comprise a first panel disposed over the frame portion. As another example, a hard-top tonneau cover may comprise a first panel, a second panel, and a spacer layer between the first and second panels.

[0044] The tonneau cover and / or prop panel may be supported by one or more frame rails. The frame rails may comprise a surface that supports the tonneau cover. The frame rails may be located on or proximate to top surfaces of the sidewalls. Preferably, each of tire of the two opposing sidewalls may include a frame rail. Hie frame rails may extend, at least partially, from the front wall to tire tailgate. The frame rails may locate on top surfaces of the sidewalls. The frame rails may locate inboard of tire sidewalls. The frame rails may fasten to a downwardly-extending lip of each of the sidewalls. The frame rails may be clamped to a downwardly-extending lip of each of the sidewalls.

[0045] Tire tonneau cover and the frame rails may be referred to herein as a tonneau cover assembly. That is, the tonneau cover and the frame rails may cooperate in operation to form an assembly.

[0046] The prop panel may be connected to the frame portion and / or the cover portion of a panel of a tonneau cover. The prop panel may be hingedly connected to the frame portion and / or the cover portion of a panel of a tonneau cover. The frame portion and / or the cover portion may define a storage space for the prop panel. In a stored configuration, the storage space may receive at least a portion of the prop panel. In a stored configuration, the prop panel may be generally flush with a panel of the tonneau cover. A surface of the prop panel may be generally flush with a bottom surface of a panel of the tonneau cover.

[0047] The prop panel may be located on a top surface and / or bottom surface of a panel of a tonneau cover. Preferably, the prop panel may be located on a bottom surface of a panel of a tonneau cover. The prop panel may be located on a first, second, third, fourth, or even fifth panel of a tonneau cover. The foregoing sequence may begin with the first panel being immediately adjacent to the cab of the vehicle. Preferably, the prop panel may be located on a second panel. Hie prop panel may be located on a bottom surface of a second panel of the tonneau cover.

[0048] The tonneau cover may comprise one or more prop panels. Hie tonneau cover may comprise two prop panels. The prop panels may be located on or proximate to opposing sides of a panel. One, two, three, four, or even five or more panels of a tonneau cover may comprise one or more prop panels. The present disclosure is not intended to be limiting of the location of the prop panel on any particular panel of a tonneau cover or to any particular open configuration of a tonneau cover. The prop panel may be located on anypanel of a tonneau cover. The prop panel may engage a frame rail of a tonneau cover assembly or a sidewall of a cargo bed at any location along the longitudinal extent thereof, between a cab and a tailgate.

[0049] Tire prop panel may function to support a tonneau cover in an open configuration. As described hereinbefore, the tonneau cover may comprise one or more panels that may be pivotally translated to selectively cover (i.e., closed configuration) or un-cover (i.e., open configuration) a cargo area. Where the tonneau cover comprises a plurality of panels, the plurality of panels may fold upon each other. Tire tonneau cover may provide for a variety of open configurations in which different portions of the cargo bed may be opened and accessible.

[0050] It may be advantageous to secure the tonneau cover in one or more open configurations. In some tonneau covers, a plurality of panels may be successively folded upon each other and ultimately folded in an upright position proximate to a cab of a vehicle. In this upright position, the tonneau cover may not be stabilized to prevent being accidentally bumped to close or prevent being closed during driving due to forces of wind upon the tonneau cover. The prop panel may stabilize the tonneau cover. The prop panel may retain the tonneau cover in said upright position, or in any other open configuration.

[0051] The prop panel may comprise at least a first edge and a second edge. The first edge may locate proximate to or engage with a tonneau cover. The first edge may be co-axial with or parallel to a pivot axis of the prop panel. The second edge may locate proximate to or engage with a frame rail of a tonneau cover assembly and / or a sidewall of a cargo bed. The second edge may rest upon a frame rail of a tonneau cover assembly and / or a sidewall of a cargo bed, or any structural element extending therefrom.

[0052] The first and second edges may form an acute or obtuse angle. The second edge may be oriented from about 45° to 135°, more preferably from about 50° to 130°, more preferably from about 55° to 125°, or even more preferably from about 60° to 120°, relative to the first edge.

[0053] The angle of the second edge relative to the first edge may be fixed. The angle of the second edge relative to the first edge may be adjustable. In this regard, the first and second edge may meet at a hinge, a radially indexed connection point, or a fastener (e.g., a screw, bolt, or the like).

[0054] The prop panel may support at least one panel of a tonneau cover with a tilt toward a cab of a vehicle, toward a tailgate of a vehicle, or orthogonal to a sidewall of a cargo bed.

[0055] The prop panel may comprise a first side and a second side. Tire first side may oppose the second side. The first side may orient toward a tonneau cover when the prop panel is in a stored configuration. The first side may orient toward a centerline of tire vehicle when the prop panel is in a deployed configuration. The second side may orient away from the tonneau cover when the prop panel is in a stored configuration. The second side may orient away from a centerline of the vehicle when the prop panel is in a deployed configuration.

[0056] The prop panel may comprise a body portion. The body portion may extend between the first edge and the second edge. The body portion may be at least partially continuous between the first and second edges. The body portion may define the first and second sides. That is, the first and second sides may be opposing surfaces of the body portion.

[0057] The body portion may be planar, include one or more curvatures, include one or more angles, or any combination thereof. The one or more curvatures and / or the one or more angles may extend out-of- plane of the first and second edges. The one or more curvatures and / or the one or more angles extend toward and / or away from a centerline of the vehicle when the prop panel is in a deployed configuration.

[0058] Tire body portion may comprise an edge (a ‘‘third edge”) that extends from the first edge to the second edge. The third edge of the body portion may be in-plane with the first and second edges. Tire third edge may be straight, include one or more curvatures, include one or more angles, or any combination thereof.

[0059] The planar, curved, and / or angled features of the body portion and / or third edge may define aerodynamic features, discussed below.

[0060] Tire prop panel may be characterized by a profile. The profile may be defined by the first, second, and third edges of the prop panel. The profile may be generally in tire shape of a circular sector, in the shape of an elliptical sector, triangular, L-shaped, or V-shaped.

[0061] The prop panel may comprise one or more hinges . The one or more hinges may function to pivotally translate the prop panel. The one or more hinges may be located on or proximate to the first edge of the prop panel.

[0062] Tire one or more hinges may include one or more mechanical hinges, one or more living hinges, or both. The mechanical hinges may include friction hinges, incremental angle hinges, position hinges, spring hinges, the like, or any combination thereof. The living hinges may leverage plastic and / or elastic deformation of a material for pivotal translation.

[0063] Friction hinges may require a force surpassing a frictional force to be pivotally translated. Incremental angle hinges may include a locking mechanism (e.g., lockable / unlockable via a button, lever, pin, or the like) to lock the hinge at incremental angles. Position hinges may include a locking mechanism (e.g., unlockable via a lever, or the like) to lock the hinge at any angle along a continuum angles. Spring hinges may include one or more springs that influence pivotal translation in one pivot direction.

[0064] The hinges may resist the force of gravity, road vibrations, tonneau cover closure (e.g.. slamming closed), or any combination thereof. In this regard, where the prop panel is in a stored configuration or a deployed configuration, as described herein, the prop panel may resist pivotally translating into the other configuration, or into any angular increment between the stored configuration and the deployed configuration.

[0065] In some aspects, a fastening mechanism may be used to fasten the prop panel to a tonneau cover, a frame rail, a sidewall, or any combination thereof. Tire fastening mechanism may include a clip, swivel, tie, pin, the like, or any combination thereof.

[0066] In some aspects, the prop panel may include a plurality of hinges. In this regard, at least one hinge may be capable of resisting the force of gravity, road vibrations, tonneau cover closure (e.g., slamming closed), or any combination thereof.

[0067] The prop panel may have one or more degrees of freedom in pivotal translation relative to the tonneau cover. The prop panel may have no more than one degree of freedom in pivotal translation relative to the tonneau cover.

[0068] Tire prop panel may pivotally translate toward or away from a centerline of the vehicle. Tire prop panel may pivotally translate relative to the tonneau cover.

[0069] The prop panel may be supported by a top surface of a sidewall, a frame rail, or any other suitable structure. The prop panel may rest upon a surface of the sidewall, the frame rail, or any other suitable structure. A bracket may extend from the side wall or the frame rail; the bracket providing a surface to support the prop panel.

[0070] The prop panel may be passively engaged with the surface and / or fastened to the surface. Passive engagement may mean resting upon the surface and bearing the weight of tire prop panel, the tonneau cover, or both. In some aspects, where the prop panel comprises aerodynamic features as described herein, a downforce may press the prop panel against the surface when the vehicle is at speed. In some aspects, elasticity of the tonneau cover may press the prop panel against the surface. That is, some tonneau covers include one or more elastic features (e.g., living hinges) whereby the tonneau cover can be pivoted to load the one or more elastic features and when the tonneau cover is released the one or more elastic features release the load and cause a return movement of the tonneau cover. This elasticity may press the prop panel upon the sidewall, frame rail, or both.

[0071] The prop panel may be fastened to a top surface of a sidewall, a frame rail, or any other suitable structure. The prop panel may be fastened by one or more clips, clamps, pins, screws, bolts, hooks, or the like. For example, an edge of the prop panel may clip into one or more clips. As another example, one or more pins (e.g., cotter pins) may extend through the prop panel and into a sidewall and / or frame rail. As another example, one or more hooks may hook over and / or through the prop panel.

[0072] An exemplary clamp may include a spring loaded clamp that is pivotally connected to the frame rail and pivots to locate onto the prop panel, or vice versa. The clamp may be pulled to cause a hook to locate onto a surface and the spring-load may maintain the hook onto the surface.

[0073] The prop panel may comprise a pin or tab that is received, respectively, by a hole or slot formed in the sidewall or the frame rail. In this regard, the pin or tab may drop into the hole or slot and pivotal translation of the prop panel to disengage the prop panel from the surface may be precluded.

[0074] Tire prop panel may comprise one or more aerodynamic features. The aerodynamic features may function to influence airflow, redirect airflow, improve gas milage, or any combination thereof. The prop panel described herein may offer advantages over conventional prop rods, which are typically of thin, minimalist profile and may not be suitable for hosting aerodynamic features.

[0075] The one or more aerodynamic features may include ridges, fins, scoops, vents, wings, or any combination thereof. The aerodynamic features, or at least portions, thereof, may be defined by the geometry of the body portion of tire prop panel. The one or more aerodynamic features may be integrally formed in or on, or connected to the body portion, or any combination thereof.

[0076] The aerodynamic features may redirect airflow away from the cargo area. The aerodynamic features may impart a downforce upon the prop panel. The downforce may function alone or in cooperation with a positive engagement mechanism to retain the prop panel in engagement with the sidewalls or frame rails.

[0077] The prop panel may comprise one or more lights, cameras, sensors, or any combination thereof.

[0078] The one or more lights may include a taillight, a turn signal, or both. The one or more lights, cameras, sensors, or any combination thereof may be located along or proximate to the third edge of the body portion. The one or more lights, cameras, sensors, or any combination thereof, may be located on the first side of the prop panel, the second side of the prop panel, or both. It may be advantageous for the one or more lights, cameras, sensors, or any combination thereof to be located on the third edge of the prop panel or even the second side of the prop panel in order to avoid interference of the prop panel folding against the tonneau cover (e.g., flush against a surface of tire tonneau cover).

[0079] The lights may include red lights, orange lights, white lights, or any combination thereof. With respect to combinations, the lights may function as brake lights, reversing lights, taillights, or any combination thereof. The lights may include lamp lights adapted for illuminating the cargo area. The lamp lights may activate when the prop panels are in a deployed configuration, a stored configuration, or both.

[0080] The lights, cameras, sensors, or any combination thereof may be in signal communication with a CAN bus of a vehicle. The signal communication may be wired, wireless, or both.

[0081] With respect to wired configurations, the lights, cameras, sensors, or any combination thereof may be wired to the CAN bus of a vehicle. The CAN bus may be accessed by any suitable means. Data connection points may be included in the cargo area of the vehicle. This is particularly true for more modem vehicles that arc typically provided with electronic accessory compatibility. In some aspects, vehicles maycomprise access panels that may be removed to access wiring (e.g., taillight wiring). In some aspects, a user may drill through the cargo area to access wiring.

[0082] With respect to wireless configurations, the prop panels may comprise a transceiver for signally communicating with a transceiver of a remote device that is in wired signal communication with the CAN bus. For example, the remote device may be connected to an OBD-II port.

[0083] The lights, cameras, sensors, or any combination thereof may be powered by a power system of a vehicle, a standalone power system, or both. The power system of the vehicle may be accessed similarly as the CAN bus as described above. The standalone power system may include one or more batteries on-board the prop panels, the tonneau cover, or the cargo bed. The one or more batteries may be rechargeable or replaceable. The one or more batteries may be recharged by one or more photovoltaic cells (solar panels), a wired connection to an outlet, or both.

[0084] The prop panel may be fabricated from polymer, metal, or both. The prop panel may be fabricated via casting, machining, injection molding, or any other suitable methods. The prop panel may comprise one or more ribs for imparting rigidity. The prop panel may comprise one or more inserts for imparting rigidity, such as metal inserts insert molded with polymer.

[0085] The prop panel may be deployed from a stored configuration as follows. Tire tonneau cover may be folded and pivotally translated into an upright position such that the prop panel is accessible. Hie tonneau cover may continue to be pivotally translated until the prop panel clears the frame rail and / or sidewall and can be positioned upon a surface. The prop panel may be pivotally translated outward and positioned upon the surface. The prop panel may be fastened in place.

[0086] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a vehicle 10. The vehicle 10 includes a cab 12 and a cargo area 14 posterior of the cab 12. The cargo area 14 is defined by a front wall proximate to tire cab 12, a tailgate opposing the front wall, and two opposing sidewalls extending from the front wall to the tailgate. A tonneau cover 16 is located above the cargo area 14 and functions to selectively cover and uncover the cargo area 14. As shown, the tonneau cover 16 is in an open configuration. The tonneau cover 16 is oriented generally upright and slightly tilted toward the cab.

[0087] The tonneau cover 16 is supported above the cargo area 14 by two frame rails 18. The frame rails 18 fasten to the opposing sidewalls. The frame rails 18 may fasten to top surfaces of the opposing sidewalls or proximate to the top surfaces of the opposing sidewalls. Each of the frame rails 18 comprise a surface upon which the tonneau cover 16 is supported. Tire surfaces of the frame rails 18 are offset from the top surfaces of the opposing sidewalls such that a top surface of the tonneau cover 16 is generally flush with the top surfaces of tire opposing sidewalls.

[0088] Tire tonneau cover 16 includes two prop panels 20. The prop panels 20 locate proximate to opposing sides of the tonneau cover 16. Hie prop panels 20 are pivotally engaged with the tonneau cover 16. In thisregard, the prop panels 20 pivot relative to the tonneau cover 16. As shown, the prop panels 20 are in a deployed configuration whereby the prop panels 20 support the tonneau cover 16 in an upright position.

[0089] Typically, in the configuration shown, the tonneau cover 16 is tilted toward the cab 12. However, the present teachings are not intended to be limited to this configuration. For example, the tonneau cover 16 may be tilted toward the tailgate of the vehicle 10 or even orthogonally oriented with respect to the top surfaces of the opposing sidewalls. As described herein, the geometry of the prop panels 20 detennine the position of the tonneau cover 16 when the prop panels 20 are in a deployed configuration.

[0090] The prop panels 20 support the tonneau cover 16 in the open configuration. In this regard, the tonneau cover 16 is prevented from being inadvertently closed, such as by being accidentally bumped or caused to close during driving. The tonneau cover 16 remains secured so the cargo area can be safely accessed. Damage to the tonneau cover 16 may also be avoided by preventing the tonneau cover 16 from slamming shut.

[0091] FIG. IB is a close-up perspective view of one of the prop panels 20 illustrated in FIG. 1A. The prop panels 20 are supported by the frame rails 18. Tire prop panels 20 are supported on the same surface that supports the tonneau cover 16 when in a closed configuration. Although, the present teachings are not intended to be limited to this configuration. For example, tire prop panels 20 may be supported by any other surface of the frame rails 18 or even the top surfaces of the opposing side walls.

[0092] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the vehicle 10 with the prop panels 20 in a stored configuration. The prop panels 20 are pivoted inward (e.g., toward a centerline of the vehicle 10) to fold against the tonneau cover 16 in the stored configuration. Thus, the tonneau cover 16 and prop panels 20 are free to unfold, as shown in FIG. 3A.

[0093] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the vehicle 10. The tonneau cover 16 comprises a first panel 22, a second panel 24. a third panel 26, and a fourth panel 28. The panels 22, 24, 26. 28 successively fold upon each other to expose the cargo area 14. As shown, the first panel 22 folds upon the second panel 24 and then the first and second panels 22, 24 are folded such that the first panel 22 folds upon the third panel 26. The first, second, and third panels 22, 24, 26 can be moved into an upright position such that they are supported by the fourth panel 28. Typically, the fourth panel 28 remains in its position.

[0094] FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the vehicle 10. The prop panel 20 is in the stored configuration and is attached to the third panel 26. Tire prop panel 20. once folded, provides a clearance between the tonneau cover 16 and the frame rails 18 such that the tonneau cover 16 can rest upon the frame rails 18 (e.g., directly on the frame rails 18). As described herein, one or more hinges, fastening mechanisms, or both may retain the prop panel 20 in the stored configuration. It is understood that the hinges, fastening mechanisms, or both may resist the force of gravity, forces of road vibrations, or the like.

[0095] FIG. 4 A and FIG. 4B are perspective views of the prop panel 20. FIG. 4A shows a first side 30 of the prop panel 20 and FIG. 4B shows a second side 32 of the prop panel 20. The first and second sides 30, 32 are in opposing relationship to each other. With reference to FIG. 2, tire first side 30 faces the tonneau cover 16 when the prop panel 20 is in a stored configuration.

[0096] The prop panel 20 comprises a first edge 34 and a second edge 36. The first and second edges 34, 36 meet at a comer. The first and second edges 34. 36 form an obtuse angle, although the present teachings are not intended to be limited to this configuration. As described herein, the first and second edges 34, 36 may form any suitable angle, which may determine an orientation of the tonneau cover when the prop panels 20 are deployed (e.g., a tilt toward the cab, a tilt toward the tailgate, or orthogonal relative to the top surfaces of the opposing sidewalls).

[0097] The prop panel 20 comprises a third edge 38. Tire third edge 38 extends between the first and second edges 34, 36. The third edge 38 includes a curvature. The prop panel 20 is in the shape of an elliptical sector.

[0098] FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 illustrate a prop panel 20 installed on a tonneau cover 16. The prop panel 20 comprises a hinge 40 located along the first edge 34 of the prop panel 20. As the prop panel 20 is swung out in a deployed configuration, the second edge 36 of the prop panel 20 rests upon the frame rail 18. Tire prop panel 20 may be fastened to the frame rail 18 such as by a spring -loaded clamp 42 that clamps onto the prop panel 20.

[0099] It is understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. The explanations and illustrations presented herein are intended to acquaint others skilled in tire art with the invention, its principles, and its practical application.

[0100] Those skilled in the art may adapt and apply the invention in its numerous forms, as may be best suited to the requirements of a particular use. Many embodiments as well as many applications besides the examples provided herein will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading the above description.

[0101] Accordingly, the specific embodiments of the invention set forth herein are not intended as being exhaustive or limiting of the teachings. The scope of the invention should, therefore, be determined not with reference to the above description, but should instead be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

[0102] The omission in the following claims of any aspect of subject matter that is disclosed herein is not a disclaimer of such subject matter, nor should it be regarded that the inventors did not consider such subject matter to be part of the disclosed inventive subject matter.

[0103] The disclosures of all articles and references, including patent applications and publications, are incorporated by reference for all purposes.

[0104] Plural elements or steps can be provided by a single integrated element or step. Alternatively, a single element or step might be divided into separate plural elements or steps.

[0105] Tire disclosure of “a” or “one” to describe an element or step is not intended to foreclose additional elements or steps.

[0106] The use of “about” or “approximately” in connection with a range applies to both ends of the range. Thus, “about 20 to 30” is intended to cover “about 20 to about 30”, inclusive of at least the specified endpoints.

[0107] Unless otherwise stated, all ranges include both endpoints and all numbers between the endpoints in increments of one unit provided that there is a separation of at least 2 units between any lower endpoint and any higher endpoint. As an example, if it is stated that the amount of a component or property is, e.g., from 1 to 90, from 20 to 80, or from 30 to 70, it is intended that intermediate range values such as, e.g., 15 to 85, 22 to 68, 43 to 51, 30 to 32. etc., are within the teachings of this specification. Likewise, individual intermediate values are also within the present teachings. For values which are less than one, one unit is considered to be 0.0001, 0.001, 0.01, or 0.1 as appropriate. These are only examples of what is specifically intended and all possible combinations of numerical values between the lowest endpoint and the highest endpoint enumerated are to be considered to be expressly stated in this application in a similar manner.

[0108] The tenn “consisting essentially of’ to describe a combination shall include the elements, components, or steps identified, and such other elements, components or steps that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the combination. The use of the terms “comprising” or “including” to describe combinations of elements, components, or steps herein also contemplates embodiments that consist essentially of the elements, components, or steps.

[0109] While the tenns first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, and / or section from another region, layer, and / or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Tirus, a first element, component, region, layer, and / or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer, and / or section without departing from the teachings.

[0110] Spatially relative terms, such as “inner,” “outer.” “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above.” “upper,” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the drawings. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the drawings. For example, if the device in the drawings is turned over, elements described as “below”, or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” tire other elements or features. Tirus,the example term "below" can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.[OHl] The tenns “generally” or “substantially” to describe angular measurements may mean about + / - 10° or less, about + / - 5° or less, or even about + / - 1° or less. Hie tenns “generally” or “substantially” to describe angular measurements may mean about + / - 0.01° or greater, about + / - 0.1° or greater, or even about + / - 0.5° or greater.

[0112] The terms “generally” or “substantially” to describe linear measurements, percentages, or ratios may mean about + / - 10% or less, about + / - 5% or less, or even about + / - 1% or less. The tenns “generally” or “substantially” to describe linear measurements, percentages, or ratios may mean about + / - 0.01% or greater, about + / - 0.1% or greater, or even about + / - 0.5% or greater.REFERENCE NUMERALS

[0113] 10 vehicle

[0114] 12 cab

[0115] 14 cargo area

[0116] 16 tonneau cover

[0117] 18 frame rails

[0118] 20 prop panel

[0119] 22 first panel

[0120] 24 second panel

[0121] 26 third panel

[0122] 28 fourth panel

[0123] 30 first side

[0124] 32 second side

[0125] 34 first edge

[0126] 36 second edge

[0127] 38 third edge

[0128] 40 hinge

[0129] 42 clamp

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:Claim 1 : A prop panel for supporting a tonneau cover, the prop panel comprising: a first edge, a hinge on or proximate to the first edge, and a second edge that meets with the first edge; wherein the prop panel is pivotally translatable relative to the tonneau cover.Claim 2: The prop panel according to Claim 1, wherein the second edge is oriented from about 45° to 135°, more preferably from about 50° to 130°. more preferably from about 55° to 125°. or even more preferably from about 60° to 120°, relative to the first edge.Claim 3: Tire prop panel according to Claim 1 or Claim 2, wherein tire at least one hinge includes a mechanical hinge, a living hinge, or both; and wherein the prop panel has one degree of freedom in pivotal translation relative to the tonneau cover.Claim 4: The prop panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a profile of the prop panel is generally in the shape of a circular sector, in the shape of an elliptical sector, triangular, L-shaped, or V-shaped.Claim 5 : The prop panel according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a first side and a second side opposing the first side; wherein the first side is adapted to orient toward the tonneau cover when the prop panel is in a stored configuration; and wherein the second side is adapted to orient away from the tonneau cover when the prop panel is in a stored configuration.Claim 6: The prop panel according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a body portion extending between the first edge and the second edge; optionally wherein the body portion is at least partially continuous between the first edge and the second edge.Claim 7 : Tire prop panel according to Claim 6, wherein the body portion is planar, includes one or more curvatures, includes one or more angles, or any combination thereof; and wherein the one or more curvatures and / or the one or more angles extend out-of-plane of the first and second edges.Claim 8: The prop panel according to Claim 6 or Claim 7, wherein the body portion comprises an edge that extends from the first edge to the second edge; wherein the edge is straight, includes one or more curvatures, includes one or more angles, or any combination thereof; and optionally wherein the edge of the body portion is in-plane with the first and second edges.Claim 9: The prop panel according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising one or more aerodynamic features; optionally wherein the one or more aerodynamic features include ridges, fins, scoops, vents, wings, or any combination thereof.Claim 10: The prop panel according to Claim 9, wherein the one or more aerodynamic features are integrally formed in or on. or connected to the body portion, or any combination thereof.Claim 11: Tire prop panel according to Claim 9 or Claim 10, further comprising one or more lights including a taillight, a turn signal, or both; and wherein the one or more lights are located along or proximate to the edge of the body portion.Claim 12: The prop panel according to any one of Claims 1 through 8, further comprising one or more lights including a taillight, a turn signal, or both; and wherein the one or more lights are located along or proximate to the edge.Claim 13: A tonneau cover assembly comprising the prop panel according to any one of the preceding claims, the tonneau cover assembly further comprising at least one panel, preferably at least two panels, or even more preferably at least three panels; and wherein the prop panel is located on a bottom surface of the at least one panel.Claim 14: Tire tonneau cover assembly according to Claim 13, wherein the at least one panel comprises a frame portion and a cover portion extending over and / or between the frame portion; and wherein the prop panel is connected to tire frame portion and / or the cover portion; and optionally wherein the prop panel locates within a storage space defined by the frame portion and the cover portion.Claim 15 : Tire tonneau cover assembly according to Claim 13 or Claim 14, further comprising at least one frame rail upon which the at least one panel is supported and relative thereto the at least one panelpivotally translates: and wherein the prop panel is supported and optionally removably connected to tire at least one frame rail or an element extending from the frame rail.Claim 16: Tire tonneau cover assembly according to any one of Claims 13 through 15, wherein the prop panel is pivotal between the stored configuration and a deployed configuration; wherein in the stored configuration, the first side of the prop panel faces the at least one panel of the tonneau cover; optionally in the stored configuration the prop panel locates within the space of the at least one panel: wherein in the stored configuration, the second side of the prop panel faces away from the at least one panel of the tonneau cover.Claim 17: The tonneau cover assembly according to any one of Claims 13 through 16, wherein in the deployed configuration, the first side of the prop panel faces toward a center of the at least one panel: and wherein in the deployed configuration, the second side of the prop panel faces away from the center of the at least one panel.Claim 18: The tonneau cover assembly according to any one of Claims 13 through 17, further comprising an additional prop panel; wherein the prop panel and the additional prop panel locate on or proximate to opposing sides of the at least one panel.Claim 19: A vehicle comprising the tonneau cover assembly according to any one of Claims 13 through 18.Claim 20: The vehicle according to Claim 19, further comprising a bed comprising: a sidewall having a top surface upon which the at least one frame rail is supported and / or attaches to: and a cargo area selectively protected by the tonneau cover; wherein the prop panel pivotally translates relative to a centerline of the vehicle.

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