Vehicle cover with torsion element having a coupling for engaging and disengaging the torsion element

Abstract

A cover for at least partially covering a cargo area of a vehicle, the cargo area having a plurality of side walls, the cover includes: a first panel; a second panel; a hinge connecting the first panel and the second panel; and a torsion element configured to apply an urging force onto one or both of the first panel and the second panel, the torsion element comprises a coupling that is configured to be engaged and disengaged.

Description

Docket No.: 2021A.040WO (9105812)VEHICLE COVER WITH TORSION ELEMENT HAVING A COUPLING FOR ENGAGING AND DISENGAGING THE TORSION ELEMENTCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] None.FIELD

[0002] These teachings relate to a cover for a vehicle cargo area and a torsion element that assists with moving one or more panels thereof, the torsion element having a coupling for engaging and disengaging the torsion element.BACKGROUND

[0003] Some vehicles, like pick-up trucks, have an open-topped bed or cargo area that may be used for storing or transporting cargo. A cover, such as a tonneau cover or topper, may be placed over the cargo area. The cover may include one or more panels that can be opened to access cargo and / or the inside of the cargo area and then closed to conceal cargo from view and / or to prevent fluid and / or debris from entering the cargo area. However, some of these panels may be heavy and large, which can make them unwieldy and difficult to move when moving the cover between an open and closed position.

[0004] Commonly-owned US Patent No. 11,267,323, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety for all purposes, discloses a cover having one or more torsion elements that store potential energy to help move one or more panels between an open and closed position.

[0005] However, during assembly of the cover, an operator may have to use force to overcome the stored potential energy in the one or more torsion elements to assemble the cover and / or fold the cover and / or the one or more panels into a package for shipping.

[0006] Moreover, during installation and / or while serving the cover, an owner or technician may have to fight to overcome the stored potential energy in the one or more torsion to disassemble the cover and / or fold the cover to remove it from the vehicle.

[0007] Accordingly, it may be desirable to improve the current state of the art.SUMMARYDocket No.: 2021A.040WO (9105812)

[0008] These teachings relate to a cover for a vehicle that has one or more panels. The cover may be a tonneau cover or a topper. The cover may include one or more torsion elements that function to assist a user with moving the one or more panels between an open and closed configuration. The cover may have only one panel (e.g., no more than one panel) or the cover may have two or more panels. One or more torsion elements may be attached to and / or provided between two or more panels or between one panel and an adjacent cover or vehicle structure.

[0009] The torsion element according to these teachings can be engaged and disengaged. In some configurations, the torsion element can be engaged, disengaged, and then engaged again any number of time. In other configurations, the torsion element can be engaged only once and then cannot be subsequently disengaged.

[0010] When engaged, the torsion element may store potential energy or may be configured to store potential energy. When disengaged, the torsion element may not store potential energy, or the amount of stored potential energy may be less than when the torsion element is engaged.

[0011] The torsion element may include one or more couplings. The one or more couplings may be configured to be engaged and disengaged to therefore engage and disengage the torsion element. When the one or more couplings are engaged, the torsion element is configured to store potential energy. When the one or more couplings are not engaged or are disengaged, the torsion element may be free of storing any potential energy or may store less potential energy than when the coupling is engaged.

[0012] When the coupling is engaged and / or when one or more torsion elements store potential energy, the one or more torsion elements may function to provide a force, such as a torsional force, torque, assisting force, lifting force, lowering force, and / or urging force that may help influence or offset a weight of the one or more panels of the cover. When the coupling is engaged and / or when one or more torsion elements store potential energy, a torsion element may function to reduce an amount of force required to move the one or more panels between a closed and an open configuration and between an open configuration and a closed configuration. When the coupling is engaged and / or when one or more torsion elements store potential energy, a torsion element may assist with lifting or moving the cover or one or more panels between the closed configuration and the open configuration and then from the open configuration to the closed configuration. When the coupling is engaged and / or when one or more torsion elements store potential energy, a torsion element may assist with lowering or moving the cover or one orDocket No.: 2021A.040WO (9105812) more panels from the open configuration to the closed configuration by preventing the one or more panels from slamming down due to gravity acting on the one or more panels. Instead, the torsion element may function to slowly lower the one or more panels into the closed or horizontal position.

[0013] Before, during, or after the one or more pins are removed to engage the coupling, the one or more panels may be moved or rotated between a closed and open position or between an open and closed position to wind the torsion element to store the potential energy before the two parts of the coupling can actually engage one another.

[0014] In other words, in the example illustrated at Figs. 7-10, the male and female portions may be specifically keyed so that the two portions can engage one another only after the torsion element is sufficiently wound or only after the first and second end portions of the torsion element are in a proper rotational position relative to one another. This is discussed in further detail with reference to Figs. 7-10. For example, even after the pin is removed from the coupling thereby allowing the biasing member to move or push the moveable end portion towards the fixed end portion, the coupling will not engaged until after the first and second end portion of the torsion element are in a proper rotational arrangement relative to one another, which may be when the end portions form an S, Z, U, or C shape, depending on the direction of rotation and winding of the torsion element.

[0015] The one or more couplings may be disengaged prior to and during assembly of the cover. Advantageously, this may assist an operator with assembling and / or handling the cover and / or the one or more panels by allowing the operator to manipulate or move the cover and / or the one or more panels relative to other panels without having to fight or overcome stored potential energy in the one or more torsion elements.

[0016] The one or more couplings may be disengaged during assembly of the cover. The one or more couplings may be disengaged during shipping of the cover. The one or more couplings may be disengaged before and / or during installation of the cover on the vehicle. The one or more couplings may be disengaged before or during servicing or repair of the cover or vehicle. Advantageously, this may assist an operator, owner, and / or contractor with manipulating the cover and / or moving the one or more panels relative to other panels or the vehicle by not having to fight to overcome stored potential energy in the one or more torsion elements during placement and / or articulation of the one or more panels.Docket No.: 2021A.040WO (9105812)

[0017] The one or more couplings may be engaged after installation of the cover on the vehicle. Advantageously, this may provide an owner or contractor with the ability to engage the one or more torsion elements only after or when the time is appropriate.

[0018] In some configurations, the one or more couplings may be disengaged by an owner or contractor when / as desired for other reasons, such as not needing or desiring the assisting functions of the torsion element.

[0019] The torsion element including the coupling according to these teachings may be included as part of the cover or cover assembly. In some configurations, the torsion element including the coupling according to these teachings may be a stand-alone element or device that can be added to or retrofitted to existing covers. Accordingly, these teachings provide a cover, a tonneau cover, a topper, a torsion element, a torsion element and coupling, a coupling, a cover or tonneau cover or topper with one or more torsion elements and coupling, or any combination thereof.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] Fig. l is a perspective view of a vehicle and a cover.

[0021] Fig. 2 is a bottom perspective view of a portion of a cover having a torsion element.

[0022] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a cover, with one of the panels or folded onto an adjacent panel.

[0023] Fig. 4 is a bottom perspective view of a portion of a cover having a torsion element.

[0024] Fig. 5 is a perspective view of a torsion element.

[0025] Fig. 6 is a perspective view of part of a torsion element.

[0026] Fig. 7 is an exploded perspective view of a coupling.

[0027] Fig. 8 is a perspective view of part of a coupling.

[0028] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of part of a coupling.

[0029] Fig. 10 is a perspective view of a coupling in an engaged configuration.

[0030] Fig. 11 is a perspective view of a vehicle and a cover.

[0031] Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a vehicle and a cover.DETAILED DESCRIPTIONDocket No.: 2021A.040WO (9105812)

[0032] A vehicle 10 is illustrated in Fig. 1. The vehicle 10 comprises a bed or cargo area 12 and a passenger cab 14. The cargo area 12 is defined by a plurality of walls that include: opposing side walls 16a, 16b, a front wall 18 located adjacent the passenger cab 14, and a rear wall or tailgate 20 that opposes the front wall 18. The front wall 18 of the cargo area 12 may be a shared or common wall with a wall of the passenger cab 14. These vehicles may be one piece or uni-body vehicles. In other vehicles, the front wall 18 may be a separate wall, segment, or portion of the vehicle from a rear wall of the passenger cab 14. The front wall 18 may also provide access to the passenger cab 14 via a pass through or fold down wall or door. The cargo area 12 has a bottom or floor 13 that is surrounded by the walls 16a, 16b, 18, 20. The bottom or floor 13 is opposite an open end of the cargo area 12.

[0033] A cover 22 may be applied on top of or over the open or top end of the cargo area 12. The cover 22 may include one or more panels. In Fig. 1, the cover 12 includes four panels 24a, 24b, 24c, and 24d. However, the cover 12 may include any number of panels, including as little as only one panel (i.e., no more than one panel; See Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 for example). The panels may be separated from one another by one or more hinges 26a, 26b, and 26c that allow respective panels to move relative to each other, other panels, the cargo area 12, and / or the vehicle 10. The cover 22 and panels 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d are illustrated in the closed configuration in Fig. 1, where the panels are arranged in a substantially flat or horizontal orientation.

[0034] For purposes of orientation, panel 24a may be referred to as the first or rear panel; panel 24b may be referred to as the second panel; panel 24c may be referred to as the third panel; panel 24d may be referred to as the fourth or front panel. The panel closest to the passenger cab 14 (24d in this example) may be referred to as a cab panel. The panel closest to the tailgate 20 (24a in this example) may be referred to as a tail panel. It is understood that referring to the panels as “first”, second”, “third” etc. herein does not limit the scope of these teachings to a particular orientation or position of the panels. Instead, unless otherwise noted, reference to a first panel having certain features, such as a torsion element, does not mean that it must be only the panel 24a that has the feature. Instead, reference to a first panel having certain features such as a torsion element means that panel 24b, 24c, 24d, 24x, 24x’ etc. can also or can instead have that feature such as a torsion element. This is especially true when reviewing and interpreting the rest of the disclosure and claims.Docket No.: 2021A.040WO (9105812)

[0035] Figs. 2 and 3 illustrate two adjacent panels of the cover. The panels may be a first panel 24a and a second panel 24b of the cover 22. As mentioned above, unless otherwise expressly noted, Figs. 2 and 3 may also or may instead illustrate any two adjacent panels, such as (referring to Fig. 1) panels 24a and 24b, panels 24b and 24c, panels 24c and 24d, or referring to Fig. 4, panels 24x and 24x’, etc.

[0036] The adjacent panels 24a, 24b are separated by hinge 26a. Hinge as used throughout this disclosure may refer to a device or structure that allows or enables one panel to fold onto or under an adjacent panel. A hinge may be or include a single hinge or may include an arrangement or series of a plurality of adjacent hinges. A hinge may also include one or more spacers or spacer bars between adjacent hinges.

[0037] One or both of the adjacent panels may comprise a frame 28a, 28b. A frame may include one or more frame members, that may include: a pair of first frame members 30, 32 and a pair of second frame members 34, 36. The frame members 30, 32, 34, 36 may be arranged as a picture frame on a B-side of the panel 24a. The frame of panel 24b may include one or more frame members, that may include: a pair of first frame members 38, 40 and / or a pair of second frame members 42, 44. The frame members 38, 40, 42, 44 may be arranged as a picture frame on a B-side of the panel 24b.

[0038] One or more torsion elements 46 may be provided at or between adjacent panels. A torsion element may function to store potential energy and to provide a force, such as a torsional force, torque, assisting force, lifting force, lowering force, and / or urging force that may help influence or offset a weight of the one or more panels of the cover during movement of the one or more panels. The potential energy stored in a torsion element may function to reduce an amount of force required to move the one or more panels between a closed and an open configuration (Fig. 2 to Fig. 3) and / or between an open configuration and closed position (Fig. 3 to Fig. 2).

[0039] A torsion element may be provided between all adjacent panels. In some configurations, some adjacent panels may be free of any torsion elements, such as between the tail panel and the second panel. This is because the tail panel is typically light weight and does not benefit from having a torsion element to assist with lifting and / or lowering the tail panel.Docket No.: 2021A.040WO (9105812)

[0040] One or more of the torsion elements 46 may include one or more couplings 100. In other words, some, but not necessary all torsion elements disclosed herein have a coupling. However, in some configurations, all torsion elements have a coupling.

[0041] A coupling 100 can be engaged and disengaged.

[0042] When the coupling 100 is engaged, the torsion element 46 may function to store potential energy or may be configured to store potential energy and provide the aforementioned functions of proving a torsional force, torque, assisting force, lifting force, lowering force, and / or urging force to help influence or offset a weight of the one or more panels of the cover. When the coupling 100 is engaged, the potential energy stored in a torsion element 46 may function to reduce an amount of force required to move the one or more panels between a closed and an open configuration, and vice versa. When the coupling 100 is engaged, the potential energy stored in a torsion element 46 may assist with lifting or moving the cover or one or more panels from the closed configuration and the open configuration and with lowering the one or more panels from the open or stacked configuration to the closed or horizontal configuration.

[0043] When the coupling 100 is disengaged, the torsion element 46 may not store potential energy, or the amount of stored potential energy may be less than when the torsion element 46 is engaged. When the coupling 100 is not engaged or disengaged, the torsion element 46 may not store potential energy or may be configured to store less potential energy and not may provide the aforementioned functions (or provide less functions compared to when the coupling is engaged) of proving a torsional force, torque, assisting force, and / or urging force to help influence or offset a weight of the one or more panels of the cover.

[0044] One or more torsion elements 46 may be connected or attached to the first panel 24a, the second panel 24b, to one or both of the frames 28a, 28b, to one or more frame members of the frames 28a, 28b, or a combination thereof. The torsion element 46 may extend along a B- side of the panels 24a, 24b. The B-side is the side that faces an inside of the cargo area 12 or the floor 13 of the cargo area 12 (Fig. 1). In some configurations, a torsion element 46 may be located or place partially or completely within a thickness of a panel or may be covered by another panel or cover material such as a skin. This may provide an aesthetic function to not see a torsion element 46 especially when one or more panels are in an open configuration.

[0045] The torsion element 46 may have any suitable shape. In this example, the torsion element 46 has a generally “S” or “Z” shape. However, the shape may also or instead be a “C”Docket No.: 2021A.040WO (9105812) or “U” shape. The torsion element 46 may include a first end portion 48 and an opposing second end portion 50. The end portions 48, 50 may function as levers to wind and unwind the torsion element to store and release the potential energy during use or movement of the panels.

[0046] The first end portion 48 may be adjacent, connected, or attached to the first panel 24a, the frame 28a, and / or to one or more of the frame members of frame 28a, such as frame member 36. The second end portion 50 may be adjacent, connected, or attached to the second panel 24b, the frame 28b, and / or to one of the frame members of frame 28b, such as frame member 42. The end portions 48, 50 may engage bores, pockets, recesses, openings, or other attachment or connection features defined in the corresponding panels 24a, 24b, frames 28a, 28b, frame members 36, 48 or may be connected thereto via a bracket or other mounting mechanism or fasteners. For example, as illustrated in Figs. 4 and 6, one or both of the end portions 48, 50 may be provided within a bore of a sleeve 54 of a bracket 52 that is attached to a bottom side of a respective panel.

[0047] In some configurations, one or both of the end portions 48, 50 of the torsion element46 may not be attached to a panel or may be free from being attached or connected to one or more of the panels, frames, frame members. Instead, one or both of the end portions may be located adjacent to the panels, frames, frame members, or a combination thereof. In such configurations, the one or more end portions may press, be pressed against, or come into contact (direct or indirect via one or more other panels, features, elements, spacers, etc.) with the respective panel, frame, frame members, or a combination thereof during movement of the one or more panels between the open and closed configuration and thus apply the torsional or assisting force thereon to assist with further lifting, lowering, or moving the one or more panels into or towards the closed or open position.

[0048] The torsion element 46 may be substantially centered about a center longitudinal axis47 of the first panel 24a and / or the second panel 24b. However, in some configurations, the torsion element 46 may be shifted or arranged towards one side 49 of the cover or another side 51, which may be passenger and driver sides in vehicle position.

[0049] Fig. 4 illustrates a cover 22 for at least partially covering a cargo area of a vehicle, the cargo area having a plurality of side walls (Fig. 1). The cover 22 has a first panel 24x, a second panel 24x’, a hinge 26x connecting the first panel 24x and the second panel 24x’; and a torsion element 46 configured to apply an urging force onto one or both of the first panel 24x and theDocket No.: 2021A.040WO (9105812) second panel 24x’ to assist with raising and / or lowering one or more of the panels of the cover. While only two panels 24x and 24x’ are illustrated, there may be one or more additional panels adjacent to panel 24x and / or panel 24x’ and one or more additional torsion elements between any of the adjacent panels. There may also be one or more torsion elements been a panel of the cover and a rigid portion of the vheicle such as a bed wall.

[0050] With additional reference to Fig. 5, the torsion element 100 comprises a first end portion 48 and a second end portion 50. When the coupling 100 is engaged, the first end portion 48 is rigidly connected to or with the second end portion 50. When the coupling 100 is engaged, the first end portion 48 is configured to provide a force, such as a torsional force, torque, assisting force, raising force, lowering force, and / or urging force onto the panel 24x that may help influence or offset a weight of the panel 24x (and any panels stack onto or under panel 24x) to reduce an amount of force required to move the one or more panels between a closed horizontal portion (Fig. 1, 2) and an open configuration for example onto panel 24x (i.e., into the configuration illustrated in Fig. 3) or to assist with lowering the one or more panels into the closed horizontal arrangement to prevent the panels from slamming downward due to gravity acting on the wight of the panels.

[0051] With additional reference now to Fig. 6, a sleeve or bracket 52 is attached to a bottom side to one or both of the panels 24x, 24x’. The sleeve or bracket 52 comprises a receiving region or bore 54 into which a respective end portion 48, 50 is configured to be received to attach or secure the torsion element 46 to one or both of the panels.

[0052] The coupling 100 comprises a cover or housing 102 that may cover, secure, conceal or protect one or more elements of the coupling 100. The cover or housing 102 may include one or more openings 103 to allow one or more pins 112 discussed further below to engage and disengage the coupling 100.

[0053] Referring now to Figs. 7, 8, and 9, the coupling 100 comprises a moveable end portion 104 and a fixed end portion 106. The moveable end portion 104 comprises a male end portion 108, and the fixed end portion 106 comprises a mating female end portion 110, or vice versa. In other words, in some configurations, the moveable end portion 104 can have features of the female end portion 110 and the fixed end portion 106 can have features of the male end portion 108.Docket No.: 2021A.040WO (9105812)

[0054] The male end portion 108 comprises one or more projections 116 having a first portion 118 and a second portion 120. The female portion 110 comprises one or more recesses or slots 122 having a first portion 124 and a second portion 126.

[0055] The coupling 100 comprises one or more pins 112 and one or more biasing member 114. The pin 112 is configured to selectively engage the coupling 100 between the moveable end portion 104 and the fixed end portion 106 to disengage the coupling. When the pin 112 is inserted into the coupling between the two end portions 104, 106, the structure of the pin is sufficiently thick or big to push the moveable end portion 104 away from the fixed end portion 106 by compressing the biassing member 114 so that the projection 116 becomes spaced apart from and disengages the slot 122.

[0056] When the pin 112 is removed from the coupling 112 (by removing it from the openings 103 in the housing 102 for example), the biasing member 114 is configured to uncompress and urge, bias, or push the moveable end portion 104 or the male end portion 108 towards the fixed end portion 106 or the female end portion 110 and engage the slot 122.

[0057] The moveable end portion 104 or the projection 116 of the coupling 100 will engage or extend into the fixed end portion 106 or the slot 122 of the coupling 100 in a single rotational position so that the first end portion 48 of the torsion element is in a predetermined rotational position relative to the second end portion 50 of the torsion element 50. More specifically, for the coupling 100 to actually engage, the first portion 118 of the projection 108 fits within the first portion 124 of the slot 122 and the second end portion 120 of the projection 108 fits within the second portion 126 of the slot 122. Due to size and geometry differences, the first portion 118 of the projection 116 is sized to not fit within the second portion 126 of the slot 122. Therefore, because both end portions 48, 50 of the torsion element 46 are fixed to a respective panel 24x, 24x’ of the cover 100, before or after the pin 112 is removed from and disengages the coupling 100, one or both of the panels 24x, 24x’ may need to be rotated about a hinge 26x get the end portions 48, 50 of the torsion element 46 into the proper rotational arrangement so that the ends 124, 126 of the slot 122 and the ends 118, 120 of the projection 116 properly align with each other and the biasing member can push the moveable end portion 104 into the fixed end portion 106 and engage the coupling 100. This ensures that the torsion element 46 can wind and build potential energy when one or more of the panels 24x are moved, rotated, or folded onto one or more adjacent panels.Docket No.: 2021A.040WO (9105812)

[0058] After the coupling 100 is engaged (for example, after the projection 1 16 is located within the slot 122), the torsion element 46 is configured to store potential energy. When the coupling 100 is disengaged (for example, after the projection 116 is located outside of the slot 122), the torsion element 46 is free of storing potential energy or stores less potential energy than when the coupling 100 is engaged.

[0059] The pin 112 is configured to be moved or removed from the coupling 100 to allow the coupling 100 to engage. The pin 112 can be inserted into the coupling 100 between the male and female portions or between the projection and slot or between the moveable and fixed ends to disengage the coupling. When the coupling 100 is disengaged, the first end portion 48 is disconnected from the second end portion 50. This means that the panels can be moved or rotated without the torsion element winding and storing potential energy. When the coupling 100 is disengaged, the male end portion 108 is separated from and / or disconnected from the female end portion 110. When the coupling 102 is disengaged, the moveable end portion 104 is retracted away from the fixed end portion 106.

[0060] The torsion element 46 assists in moving pivoting, urging or otherwise folding the panel 24a because the torsion element 46 is already preloaded, twisted, wound, or otherwise configured to store torque when the panel is in a closed configuration or in an at least partially closed configuration.

[0061] Referring to Fig. 11, another vehicle 10 is illustrated. The vehicle 10 comprises a bed or cargo area 12 and a passenger cab 14. The cargo area 12 is defined by a plurality of walls that include: opposing side walls 16a, 16b, a front wall 18 that is located adjacent to the passenger cab 14, and a rear wall or tailgate 20. The front wall 18 may be a shared wall or portion with the passenger cab 14 or the front wall 18 may be a separate wall from the passenger cab 14.

[0062] A cover 222 may be applied or located on top of the open end of the cargo area 12. The cover 122 of Fig. 11 includes only one panel 224 (i.e., no more than one panel). The panel 224 is connected or attached to the cargo area 12 or to one or more walls thereof via one or more hinges, brackets, or other mechanisms that allow the cover 222 or panel 224 to move, pivot, or tilt relative to the cargo area 12 between a closed and the illustrated open configuration. In the closed configuration, the cover 222 or single panel 224 may be in a generally horizontal position.

[0063] The cover 122 may have one or more shocks 226. A shock 226 may be located on each side of the vehicle 10 (i.e., on the driver side and the illustrated passenger side) or the coverDocket No.: 2021A.040WO (9105812)222 may include only one shock (i.e., on the driver side or the illustrated passenger side). The shock 226 however, can be located anywhere, even at a center portion of the cover 222. The shock 226 may restrict or prevent the cover 222 or panel 224 from falling or slamming into the closed position when the cover 222 or panel 224 is being lowered into the closed configuration.

[0064] The cover 222 may include one or more torsion elements 246. The torsion element 246 may be in addition to the shocks 226 or used instead of the shocks 246. In other words, the torsion element 246 may substitute for shocks. The torsion element 246 may be located at or adjacent to the front wall 18 of the cargo area 12. The torsion element 246 may be located at or adjacent to the hinge, bracket, or other mechanism that allows the cover 222 or panel 224 to move or tilt. The torsion element 246 may be attached directly to the rear wall 18, to one or both of the side walls 16a, 16b, or a combination hereof. The one or more torsion elements 246 may include end portions that are attached to or located adjacent to the panel 224 and come into connect with the panel 224 during movement of the panel 224 between closed and open configurations. The one or more torsion elements 246 may include end portions and coupling 100 discussed above. The coupling 100 may be configured to be engaged and disengaged as discussed herein. All teachings relating to the torsion element and coupling disclosed anywhere herein refer to Fig. 11 and vice versa unless otherwise noted.

[0065] Referring to Fig. 12, another vehicle 10 is illustrated. The vehicle 10 comprises a bed or cargo area 12 and a passenger cab 14. The cargo area 12 is defined by a plurality of walls that include: opposing side walls 16a, 16b, a front wall 18 that is located adjacent to the passenger cab 14, and a rear wall or tailgate 20. The front wall 18 may be a shared wall or portion with the passenger cab 14 or the front wall 18 may be a separate wall from the passenger cab 14.

[0066] A cover 322 may be applied on top or over the open end of the cargo area 12. The cover 322 may be a topper or cap. The cover 322 may include a panel that may also be referred to as a rear panel or lift gate 324 and one or more side panels 326a, 326b. One or more of the panels 324, 326a, 326b may be movable or pivotable between an open and closed configuration. In Fig. 12, the rear panel 324 is in an open configuration.

[0067] The cover 324 may have one or more shocks 328. A shock 328 may be located on each side of the vehicle 10 (i.e., on the driver side and the passenger side) or the cover 322 may include only one shock (i.e., on the driver side or the illustrated passenger side). The shock 328 however, can be located anywhere, even at a center portion of the cover 322. The shock 328Docket No.: 2021A.040WO (9105812) may assist with raising and lowering the cover 322 between the closed and open configuration. The shock 328 may restrict or prevent the cover 322 or panel 324 from falling or slamming into the closed position when the cover 322 or panel 324 is being lowered into the closed configuration.

[0068] The cover 324 may include one or more torsion elements 346. Torsion element 346 may be in addition to the one or more shocks 328 or instead of the one or more shocks 328. The torsion element 346 may be located at or adjacent to the front wall 18 of the cargo area 12 or a rear part of the cover 324 adjacent to the panel or liftgate. The torsion element 346 may be located at or adjacent to the hinge, bracket, or other mechanism that allows the panel 324 to move or tilt. The torsion element 346 may be attached directly to the rear wall 18, to one or both of the side walls 16a, 16b, to a roof or member of the cover 322, or a combination hereof. The one or more torsion elements 346 may include end portions that are attached to or located adjacent to the panel 324 and roof structure of the topper via a bracket such as the one illustrated at element 52 in the previous figures. The one or more torsion elements 346 may include end portions and coupling 100 discussed above. The coupling 100 may be configured to engage and disengage the torsion element 346 as discussed herein. All teachings relating to the torsion element and coupling disclosed anywhere herein refer to Fig. 12 and vice versa unless otherwise noted.

[0069] The following description of elements refers to all examples disclosed herein.

[0070] These teachings provide a cover. The cover may be an apparatus or assembly for at least partially covering or concealing at least a portion of a vehicle, such as a cargo area. The cover may be a tonneau cover, topper, cap, tent, or a combination thereof.

[0071] The cover may be attached, placed, supported, connected or made to rest on one or more top surfaces of the one or more walls defining a cargo area. The cover may be attached, placed, supported, connected, or made to rest on one or more rails or supports that are attached or connected to one or more surfaces of one or more walls defining the cargo area. The cover or one or more components thereof may be an aftermarket product that is / are attached to a vehicle by a vehicle owner. The cover or one or more components thereof (e.g., the one or more panels, torsion elements, frames, frame members, hinges, etc.) may be assembled, installed, and / or integrated into the vehicle or cargo area by an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer).Docket No.: 2021A.040WO (9105812)

[0072] The vehicle may be any vehicle. The vehicle preferably has a cargo area or bed. The cargo area or bed may be any area or portion of a vehicle that may be used for storing and / or transporting goods or cargo. The cargo area may be a cargo box, bed, trunk, storage compartment, or a combination thereof. The cargo area may be located in a front portion of a vehicle, a middle portion of a vehicle, and / or a rear portion of a vehicle. The cargo area may be located behind or adjacent a passenger area of a vehicle, where one or more passengers, occupants, and / or drivers may sit. A cargo area may be a trailer that is configured to be pulled, towed, or pushed by a vehicle. The cargo area may be any part of the vehicle that has an open top. The cargo area or open top can be at least partially closed or covered by a cover. The cargo area may be part of a pickup truck. The cargo area may be part of a utility task vehicle or utility terrain vehicle (UTV). In some configurations, the cargo area may have another cover or top on it, and the cover according to these teachings may be provided between the floor of the cargo area and the cover or top. For example, the cover according to these teachings may be provided inside a vehicle or sport utility vehicle (SUV) to close or cover or conceal contends in the hatch, trunk, or other region of the vehicle.

[0073] The cover may be an assembly comprising one or more panels. A panel as used herein may be any of the one or more parts, portions, components, or sections of the cover that are moveable or can be moved relative to another part, portion, component or section of the cover, a vehicle, a cargo area, or a combination thereof. The one or more panels may be separate or discrete pieces that are joined together with one or more hinges, spacers, torsion elements, frames, frame members, or other panels. In some configurations, two or more panels may be defined in or within a single panel. For example, a single panel may be provided that includes one or more living hinges that divide the single panel into two or more panels. A living hinge may be a cutout, detent, notch, groove, channel, thinned-area, flexible material, or a combination thereof formed or added to a panel. Two or more of such panels with one or more living hinges may be combined to define the cover. A living hinge may be one of the hinges used in this application.

[0074] The one or more panels may be made of a suitable material, such as plastic, metal, foam, composite, wood, fiberglass, or a combination thereof. The one or more panels may be substantially rigid, soft or flexible, bendable, resilient, or a combination thereof. The one or more panels may comprise a core that is covered in a skin. The core may be a plastic materialDocket No.: 2021A.040WO (9105812) such as extruded polypropylene or foam. The skin may be a sheet or spray that covers the core. The skin may be TPU, TPV, TPE, and / or TPR. The one or more panels may be made of the same or similar material as the cargo area or fenders so that the cover and the cargo area and vehicle have a uniform appearance. The one or more panels may be made of a single material or may be formed of multiple materials or components that are assembled together. The one or more panels may include one or more frames or frame members that provide strength and rigidity to the panels. The one or more hinges, torsion elements, spacers, frames, frame elements, or a combination thereof may be part of the panel or separate members. The one or more frames or frame members may be covered by a skin or over molded with a material to form the one or more panels. The hinge and / or torsion elements may be over molded or covered by a skin so that the cover has a uniform and sleek appearance, to cover or protect the hinge and / or torsion elements from wear and tear and / or bumping with objects inside the cargo area. The one or more of the panels can be moved or repositioned relative to one another and / or relative to the cargo area or vehicle to move the cover or one or more panels thereof between a closed configuration and an open configuration and vice versa. The one or more panels may be a rear liftgate of a topper or a side panel or window of a topper.

[0075] A closed configuration means that the one or more panels are arranged to at least partially conceal, block, hide, restrict, or otherwise prevent sight, access, and / or entry to an inside of the cargo box. In the closed configuration, the one or more panels may be arranged to protect against dirt, debris, fluid, sunlight, and / or other contaminants or items from entering an inside of a cargo area. In the closed configuration, one or more of the panels may be in a generally horizontal position, and free from being stacked or folded on top of another panel. The closed configuration may refer to one or more panels being in a closed configuration or to the entire cover assembly being in the closed configuration. In other words, one of the panels may be in the closed configuration (for example, a panel that is located near or adjacent to the passenger area, while another panel (for example one that is located rearward of the closed panel, closer to the tailgate) is in the open configuration. A closed configuration may be when the one or more panels restrict more access into the cargo area than when the cover or panel is in an open configuration. In other words, a closed configuration may still provide access into the cargo area, but the access or opening is smaller or less than when the cover or panel is in an open configuration. In the closed or partially closed configuration, one or more of the panels may beDocket No.: 2021A.040WO (9105812) in any non-horizontal position. A partially closed configuration may be when the panel is more closed than a panel when the panel is in a partially open configuration. In some instances, a partially open configuration and a partially closed configuration may be used synonymously.

[0076] An open configuration means that the one or more panels are arranged to at least partially provide access or entry to or into the cargo area or an inside thereof. In the open configuration, one or more of the panels may be moved or repositioned from the closed configuration to provide sight and / or access to an inside of the cargo box. In the open configuration, one or more of the panels may be in any non-horizontal position. In the open configuration, one or more of the panels may be in a generally horizontal position but may be stacked or folded on top of one or more other panels. The open configuration may refer to one or more panels being in an open configuration or to the entire cover assembly being in the open configuration. In other words, one of the panels may be in the closed configuration (for example, a panel that is located near or adjacent to the passenger area, while another panel (for example one that tis located rearward of the closed panel, closer to the tailgate) is in the open configuration.

[0077] The one or more panels may be moved from a closed configuration to an open configuration and vice versa by moving, repositioning, or otherwise changing a position of one or more panels relative to one or more other panels, the cargo box, the vehicle, one or more hinges, or a combination thereof. For example, a position of one or more of the panels can be changed by moving, pivoting, folding, swinging, or otherwise turning or flipping one or more panels over or onto another one or more panels about one or more hinges, frames, panels, torsion elements, or a combination thereof. The one or more panels can be manually moved between the closed and open configurations. The one or more panels can be automatically moved between the closed and open configurations via one or more motors, cylinders, actuators, or a combination thereof.

[0078] The cover may include one or more hinges. A panel may include one or more hinges. A hinge may be a joint, turning point, juncture, axis journal or other feature about which one or more panels or spacers can be move, pivot, swing, bend, fold, roll, flex, displace, or otherwise change position relative to one or more other panels, the cargo box, the vehicle, or a combination thereof. A hinge may allow or provide for the one or more panels to be moved between the open and closed configuration, or into a position in between the open and closed configuration. ADocket No.: 2021A.040WO (9105812) hinge may be provided between two panels. A hinge may define or separate two adjacent panels. A hinge may also be attached to both a fixed or nonmoving portion of the vehicle or cargo bed and to a panel of the cover. A hinge may be comprised of one or more hinges or hinge portions. A hinge may comprise a plurality of hinges provided adjacent one another, which may increase or provide additional movement, pivoting, or folding of the one or more panels relative to each other and / or the vehicle. A hinge may comprise one or more spacer bars. A spacer bar may be provided between adjacent hinges. A spacer bar may increase spacing between adjacent panels connected to the panels; reinforce or provide rigidity to the hinge assembly or cover or both. One or more torsion elements may be attached to or provided adjacent a spacer bar. One or more of the torsion elements may be attached or connected to a spacer bar. A spacer bar may have the same material or construction as one or more of the panels. The spacer bar may be plastic, metal, injection molded, extruded, or stamped. A hinge may comprise one or more brackets attached to or made part of the one or more panels or hinges that turn on one or more pins. A hinge may be a living hinge formed or defined in one panel. This means that two or more panels may be part of one unitary panel but divided or defined into separate panels by way of a living hinge. The one or more hinges may be made of an elastomeric and / or resilient material that is added between two adjacent panels.

[0079] The cover may include one or more torsion elements. A panel may include one or more torsion elements. A torsion element may provide a force, such as a torsional force, torque, assisting force, and / or urging force that influences or offsets a weight of the one or more panels. A torsion element may function to reduce an amount of force required to move the one or more panels between a closed and an open configuration, and vice versa. A torsion element may assist with lifting or moving the cover or one or more panels between the closed configuration and the open configuration and then from the open configuration to the closed configuration. A torsion element may assist with lifting or moving the cover or one or more panels between a first horizontal position and a second horizontal position. For example, one of the horizontal positions may be when a panel is in a closed configuration and another one of the horizontal positions may be when the panel is moved and stacked on top of an adjacent position so that access is provided into the cargo area.

[0080] The one or more torsion elements may be one or more torsion rods, torsion bars, one or more torsion springs, or a combination thereof. The one or more torsion elements may be aDocket No.: 2021A.040WO (9105812) counterbalance. The one or more torsion elements may be made of spring steel. The one or more torsion elements may comprise a composite material, such as molded or extruded plastic. The one or more torsion elements may be coated in a suitable material to prevent rusting, to prevent the torsion element from rubbing against or damaging a panel. The one or more torsion elements may be covered with a skin or over mold. This may hide the torsion element from view and / or protect the torsion element from wear and / tear and / or elements like rain, water, snow, etc. The skin or over mold may protect the torsion element from damage from being bumped or hit by object in the cargo area during loading and / or unloading.

[0081] The torsion element may have opposing end portions. One of the end portions of the torsion element may be directly, fixedly, connected or attached to a panel, bracket, frame, or frame member, or hinge. One of the end portions may be directly, fixedly, connected or attached to another panel, bracket, frame, or frame member or hinge. One of the end portions may be directly, fixedly, connected or attached to a fixed portion or non-movable portion of the vehicle or cargo area, such as a fender or wall defining the cargo area. One of the end portions may be free from directly contacting a panel, bracket, frame, frame member, hinge, or fixed portion of the vehicle or cargo area when the one or more panels are in the open and / or closed configuration. In this arrangement, the torsion element or end portions thereof may come into contact with the panel, bracket, frame, frame member, or hinge or fixed portion of vehicle or cargo area during movement of the cover or one or more panels between the open and closed configurations.

[0082] For example, one of the end portions may be directly connected or attached to the one or more panels and / or frame members via a bracket, clamp, adhesive, weld, strap, bushing, retainer, undercut, flange, or a combination thereof. For example, one of the end portions may be received into a notch, pocket, recess, cut out, bore, defined in the panel, frame member, spacer bar, hinge. Receiving the torsion element or end thereof into a recess, notch, cutout, or depression may be advantageous to increase packaging space inside the cargo area when the cover is in a closed configuration. Receiving the torsion element or end thereof into a recess, notch, cutout, or depression may be advantageous to decrease packaging space of the cover when the cover and panels thereof are folded into an open configuration. The notch, pocket, recess, cut out, bore, etc., may be formed into one or more panels, hinges, spacer bars, or a combination thereof.Docket No.: 2021A.040WO (9105812)

[0083] The one or more torsion elements may be attached to adjacent or juxtaposed panels or frame members. The one or more torsion elements may be connected or attached to opposite sides of adjacent panels. For example, one end portion of a torsion element may be attached to a side of the panel on the driver side of the panel and another end portion of the torsion element may be attached to a side of the other panel on the passenger side of the panel. The one or more torsion elements may be connected or attached to the same sides of adjacent panels. For example, one end portion of a torsion element may be attached to a side of the panel on the driver side of the panel and another end portion of the torsion element may be attached to a side of the other panel also on the driver side of the panel. In some configurations, one end portion of a torsion element may be attached to a leading end of one panel and another end portion of the torsion element may be attached to a trailing end or edger of the adjacent panel. In some configurations, there may be one or more torsion elements that are connected between two panels that have another panel provided between the two connected panel.

[0084] One or both of the end portions may be free from being directly connected or attached to a panel. Instead, one or both of the ends may be located adjacent to or juxtaposed with a panel, panel assembly, frame, frame member, hinge, spacer bar, or a combination thereof.

[0085] The one or more torsion elements may be arranged along a B-side of the one or more panels or cover so that when the cover and / or panels are in a closed configuration the one or more torsion elements are not visible from outside of the vehicle. The one or more torsion elements may be visible from outside of the vehicle when one or more of the panels are moved into an open configuration. The one or more torsion elements may be arranged along a B-side of the one or more panels or cover so that the torsion element is visible. The one or more torsion elements may be arranged along an A-side of the one or more panels and may or may not be covered with a skin or other material.

[0086] The one or more torsion elements may be centered about a center line of the one or more panels, cover, cargo area, and / or vehicle. Alternatively, the one or more torsion elements may be offset towards one side of the panel, cover, cargo area, and / or vehicle (e.g., towards a driver or passenger side thereof).

[0087] The cover may include two or more torsion elements. There may be two or more torsion elements arranged between adjacent panels, which may be advantageous to assist in moving the panels when the panels are substantially heavy. For example, two or more torsionDocket No.: 2021A.040WO (9105812) elements may be provided at or near a front end of the cargo area (adjacent to the passenger area) to assist in lifting or moving a plurality of the panels that have been moved or stacked on top of one another. In some configurations that include two or more torsion elements connecting adjacent panels, the torsion elements may be adjacent to one another, cross over or under one another, or both.

[0088] A torsion element may be provided between two panels that are connected together with a hinge. Alternatively, in some configurations, the cover may be free of a torsion element provided in a location where two panels are joined with a hinge.

[0089] The one or more torsion elements may be formed, bent, or curved in a way that when the one or more panels or cover are in a closed configuration, an amount of packaging space inside of the cargo area is not reduced or taken up by the torsion element. This means that the one or more torsion elements are provided adjacent or juxtaposed with a bottom or B-side of the one or more panels, hinges, frames, frame members, spacers, of a combination thereof.

[0090] The one or more torsion elements may have a shape that generally resembles a “Z”, “S”, “U”, “C” or any other regular or irregular shape.

[0091] The torsion element may include one or more couplings. The one or more couplings may function to connect and disconnect, engage and disengage, the one or more torsion elements. When a coupling is engaged, a torsion element may store potential energy to assist with lifting and / or lowering one or more panels. When a coupling is disengaged, a torsion element may not store potential energy to assist with lifting and / or lowering one or more panels and / or may store less potential energy than when the coupling is engaged. The coupling may be a clutch. The coupling may be a dog clutch. The coupling may include ends or end portions that are configured to mate to engage the coupling. The ends or mating features may be a male and female engagement, one or more dogs or projections engaging one or more bores, recesses or recesses, a contact or friction engagement (i.e., two surfaces in contact to engage the coupling and out of contact to disengage the coupling), or a combination thereof.

[0092] The coupling may include one or more pins. The one or more pins may function to engage and disengage the couplings. The one or more pins may be a grenade pin. The one or more pins may function to separate the two mating end portions of the coupling. The one or more pins may be manually removed and inserted into the coupling. The one or more pins may be automatically withdrawn or inserted into the coupling via one or more motors, servos, robots,Docket No.: 2021A.040WO (9105812) etc. the one or more pins may have a linear shape, a U shape, an N shape, or any other suitable shape. The one or more pins may function to compress the one or more biasing members, which may be a rubber or resilient material, a spring, a compression spring, or any combination thereof.

[0093] The coupling may include a moveable end portion and a fixed end portion. In some configurations, the coupling may include two movable end portion (i.e., no fixed end portion). This may be accomplished by having a biasing member on each of the end portions to bias or move the end portion towards each other after the one or more pins are removed. The end portions may include a male and female structure that assist with engaging the coupling. The male and female structure may include one or more dogs, cogs, projections, splines, gears, fingers, protrusions, projections, that are configured to mate or engage corresponding slots, protrusions, recesses, holes, apertures, gears, valleys, cut outs, or any combination thereof.

[0094] The explanations and illustrations presented herein are intended to acquaint others skilled in the art with the invention, its principles, and its practical application. The above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. 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.

[0095] Accordingly, the specific embodiments of the present invention as set forth are not intended as being exhaustive or limiting of the teachings. The scope of the teachings should, therefore, be determined not with reference to this 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. 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] The disclosure of "a" or "one" to describe an element or step is not intended to foreclose additional elements or steps.

[0098] While the terms 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 toDocket No.: 2021A.040WO (9105812) distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer 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. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings.

[0099] 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 figures. 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 figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below”, or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, 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.

[0100] The disclosures of all articles and references, including patent applications and publications, are incorporated by reference for all purposes. Other combinations are also possible as will be gleaned from the following claims, which are also hereby incorporated by reference into this written description.

Claims

Docket No.: 2021A.040WO (9105812)CLAIMS1) A cover for at least partially covering a cargo area of a vehicle, the cargo area having a plurality of side walls, the cover comprising: a first panel; a second panel; a hinge connecting the first panel and the second panel; and a torsion element configured to apply an urging force onto one or both of the first panel and the second panel, wherein the torsion element comprises a coupling that is configured to be engaged and disengaged.2) The cover according to claim 1, wherein torsion element comprises a first end portion and a second end portion; and when the coupling is disengaged, the first end portion is disconnected from the second end portion.3) The cover according to claim 2 or any one of the previous claims, wherein the coupling comprises a moveable end portion and a fixed end portion and when the coupling is disengaged, the moveable end portion is retracted away from the fixed end portion.4) The cover according to claim 3, wherein the moveable end portion of the coupling engages the fixed end portion of the coupling in a single rotational position so that the first end portion of the torsion element is in a predetermined rotational position relative to the second end portion of the torsion element.5) The cover according to claim 3 or any one of the previous claims, wherein the coupling comprises a biasing member and when the coupling is disengaged, the biasing member is compressed so that the moveable end portion is retracted away from the fixed end portion.Docket No.: 2021A.040WO (9105812)6) The cover according to claim 5 or any one of the previous claims, wherein the coupling comprises a pin that is configured to be provided between the moveable end and the fixed end to disengage the coupling.7) The cover according to claim 1 or any one of the previous claims, wherein when the coupling is engaged the torsion element is configured to store potential energy, and when the coupling is disengaged, the torsion element is free of storing potential energy or stores less potential energy than when the coupling is engaged.8) The cover according to claim 1 or any one of the previous claims, wherein the coupling comprises a male end portion and a mating female end portion, and when the coupling is disengaged, the male end portion is separated and / or disconnected from the female end portion.9) The cover according to claim 8 or any one of the previous claims, wherein the coupling comprises a pin that is configured to engage the coupling between the male end portion and the female end portion to disengage the coupling.10) The cover according to claim 9 or any one of the previous claims, wherein the pin is configured to be moved or removed from the coupling to engage the coupling.11) The cover according to claim 10 or any one of the previous claims, wherein upon movement or removal of the pin from the coupling, the biasing member urges or pushes the male end portion of the coupling into or towards the female end portion of the coupling, or urges or pushes the female end portion of the coupling into or towards the male end portion of the coupling12) The cover according to claim 11 or any one of the previous claims, wherein the male end portion of the coupling fits into the female end portion of the coupling in a single rotational position so that the first end portion of the torsion element is in a predetermined rotational position relative to the second end portion of the torsion element.Docket No.: 2021A.040WO (9105812)13) The cover according to claim 12 or any one of the previous claims, wherein the male end portion comprises a projection having a first portion and a second portion, and the female end portion comprises a slot having a first portion and a second portion, wherein when the coupling is engaged, the first portion of the projection fits within the first end of the slot.14) The cover according to claim 13 or any one of the previous claims, wherein the first portion of the projection is sized to not fit within the second portion of the recess.15) The cover according to claim 2 or any one of the previous claims, wherein the cover comprises a sleeve or bracket that is attached to a bottom side of the first panel, and the first end portion or the second end portion is attached to the bottom side of the first panel via the bracket or sleeve.16) The cover according to claim 15 or any one of the previous claims, wherein the bracket or sleeve comprises a bore and the first end portion or the second end portion is received into the bore.17) A torsion element configured to apply an urging force onto one or more panels of a cover for a vehicle, the torsion element comprises a coupling that is configured to be engaged and disengaged; wherein when the coupling is engaged, the torsion element is configured to store potential energy, and when the coupling is disengaged, the torsion element is free of storing potential energy or stores less potential energy than when the coupling is engaged.18) The torsion element according to claim 17, wherein torsion element comprises a first end portion and a second end portion; and when the coupling is disengaged, the first end portion is disconnected or separated from the second end portion.19) A cover for at least partially covering a cargo area of a vehicle, the cargo area having a plurality of side walls, the cover comprising: a first panel; a second panel connected to the first panel;Docket No.: 2021A.040WO (9105812) a third panel connected to the second panel; a torsion element between the second panel and the third panel configured to apply an urging force onto one or both of the first panel the second panel during movement of the first panel and the second panel onto the third panel; wherein the torsion element comprises a coupling that is configured to be engaged and disengaged; when the coupling is engaged, the torsion element is configured to store potential energy, and when the coupling is disengaged, the torsion element is free of storing potential energy or stores less potential energy than when the coupling is engaged.20) A method of disengaging the torsion element of the cover according to claim 19, wherein the method comprises removing a pin to engage a first end portion of the torsion element and a second end portion of the torsion element.

Images