Truck cap hatch release system

Abstract

A hatch release system comprising a truck cap having a hatch, and a tailgate. The hatch comprises a latch mechanism that is actuated by the tailgate.

Description

Atorney Docket No.: 2021A.043WO (9121204)TRUCK CAP HATCH RELEASE SYSTEMCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] None.FIELD

[0002] The present teachings generally relate to a hatch release system for a truck cap and a latch mechanism comprised by the same.BACKGROUND

[0003] Conventional truck cap hatches typically include handles or butons to open the hatch. Traditionally, hatches have been designed with a parting line between the hatch and the top surface of the tailgate. In this regard, a hatch and a tailgate can be manipulated independently of one another. Some design trends have included overhangs of hatches extending partially over a surface of the tailgate, for aesthetics and extra degrees of protection from water and / or debris ingress.

[0004] With the later design, the hatch impedes an opening action of the tailgate, so typically the hatch must first be opened before the tailgate. This requires an extra step for the vehicle owner. Moreover, there is an increasing number of automated features in modem vehicles, such as automated tailgate opening and closing mechanisms. Use of this feature is impeded with overhanging truck caps since manual operation of the hatch is required first.

[0005] In another aspect, handle and buton mechanisms increase the costs of truck caps as well as the complexity of manufacturing. With at least one element (e.g., a handle or a buton) extending to the exterior of the truck cap to be accessible by the vehicle owner, leak paths are introduced, as well as vulnerabilities with respect to theft security. Even with hatches that can move independently of tailgates (e.g., without the above-described overhangs) there may be benefits in eliminating handles, butons, or the like.

[0006] There may be circumstances in which mutual opening of the tailgate and hatch is beneficial, to eliminate an extra step of accessing the cargo area. In modem vehicles with an increasing quantity of automated features, such as automated tailgates, there is a need in the industry for enhanced mechanisms that cooperate with these automated features.

[0007] It would be desirable to provide a tmck cap that requires fewer steps for actuation relative to tailgate actuation.

[0008] It would be desirable to provides a tmck cap with a hatch that opens, at least partially, to avoid impeding opening of the tailgate.

[0009] It would be desirable to provide a tmck cap that can be opened remotely, in cooperation with an automated tailgate.Atorney Docket No.: 2021A.043WO (9121204)

[0010] It would be desirable to provide a truck cap that is less costly and complex to manufacture.SUMMARY

[0011] The present disclosure relates to a hatch release system and latch mechanism, which may address at least some of the needs identified above. The hatch release system may comprise a truck cap having a hatch, and a tailgate; wherein the hatch comprises a latch mechanism that is actuated by the tailgate.

[0012] The latch mechanism may comprise an arm that engages with the tailgate in a latched configuration. The arm may positionally translate in response to movement of the tailgate. The arm may be disengaged from the tailgate in an unlatched configuration.

[0013] Conversion of the latch mechanism from the latched configuration to the unlatched configuration may occur, at least in part, mutually with opening the tailgate.

[0014] Conversion of the latch mechanism between the latched configuration and the unlatched configuration may involve a pivotal translation of the latch mechanism.

[0015] The arm may engage an inner surface of the tailgate in the latched configuration, the inner surface being oriented toward a cargo area.

[0016] The arm may move axially, pivotally, or both, in a direction from the latched configuration to the unlatched configuration, or vice versa.

[0017] The latch mechanism may comprise a bracket upon which the arm is directly or indirectly atached. The bracket may be mounted on a pillar of the truck cap, or the hatch.

[0018] The latch mechanism may further comprise a spring. The spring may be under a first load when the tailgate is closed and may be under a second load or may be unloaded when the tailgate is opened. The spring may change energy states in response to an interaction of the arm with the tailgate.

[0019] The spring may cause the arm to move axially when the tailgate is opened. The second load may be less than the first load.

[0020] The hatch may comprise a pin extending therefrom. The pin may be captured by the latch mechanism in the latched configuration and the pin may be released by the latch mechanism in the unlatched configuration. The latch mechanism may further comprise a catch that captures and releases the pin. The catch may move pivotally between the latched and unlatched configurations.

[0021] The latch mechanism may further comprise a pawl that engages and maintains a pivotal position of the catch in the latched configuration. The pawl may comprise an extension that toggles to release the catch. The extension may toggle upon impacting a projection, in response to the arm moving axially toward the tailgate when the tailgate is opened. The projection may extend from the bracket.

[0022] The bracket may comprise a track that guides axial translation of the latch assembly between the latched and unlatched configurations.Atorney Docket No.: 2021A.043WO (9121204)

[0023] The arm may comprise an overhang that engages with the inner surface of the tailgate in the latched configuration and slides along a top surface of the tailgate between the unlatched and latched configurations.

[0024] The overhang may comprise a beveled, curved, and / or radiused surface that engages the tailgate and aids in pivotal translation of the arm.

[0025] The arm may pivot relative to the bracket or the overhang may pivot relative to the arm between the unlatched and latched configurations.

[0026] The spring may cause the arm or the overhang to drop to engage with an inner surface of the tailgate.

[0027] The arm may comprise a first segment and a second segment. The first and second segments may be axially adjustable relative to each other. The overhang may be axially adjustable relative to the arm.

[0028] A portion of the hatch may extend over an exterior surface of the tailgate, the exterior surface being oriented away from the cargo area.

[0029] The latch mechanism may be free of a handle, a buton, a cable, a keyway, or the like that is accessible on an exterior surface of the truck cap.BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cargo area and a truck cap installed thereon.

[0031] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a hatch release system according to the present teachings.

[0032] FIG. 3A is a plan view of a latch mechanism in a latched configuration

[0033] FIG. 3B is a plan view of a latch mechanism in an unlatched configuration

[0034] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a latch mechanism.

[0035] FIG. 5A is a plan view of a latch mechanism.

[0036] FIG. 5B is a plan view of a latch mechanism.

[0037] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a hatch release system.

[0038] FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a latch mechanism.

[0039] FIG. 7B is a perspective view of a latch mechanism.

[0040] FIG. 8 is a sectional view of a latch mechanism.

[0041] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a latch mechanism.

[0042] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a latch mechanism.

[0043] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a latch mechanism.DETAILED DESCRIPTIONAtorney Docket No.: 2021A.043WO (9121204)

[0044] The present teachings relate to a hatch release system and a latch mechanism comprised by the same. The hatch release system may be advantageous for the cooperative release of a hatch and a tailgate. The hatch release system may function with a truck cap.

[0045] The hatch release system may comprise a tailgate, a truck cap, and a latch mechanism. The tailgate may be a part of a vehicle having a cargo area (e.g., a truck bed). The cargo area may be defined by the tailgate, a front wall in opposing relationship to the tailgate, two sidewalls extending therebetween, and a floor. The truck cap may be installed on the cargo area. The truck cap may be supported by the top surfaces of one or more of the front wall and two sidewalls. The truck cap may function to protect the cargo area from access to cargo stored therein, water ingress, debris ingress, or any combination thereof.

[0046] The truck cap may have one or more hatches. The hatch may be located above the tailgate, although the present teachings contemplate that the hatch may be located above the sidewalls of the cargo area, or the truck cap may comprise a plurality of hatches located above the tailgate and / or one or both sidewalls.

[0047] The hatch may comprise a hinged edge. The hinged edge may be a top edge or a side edge of the hatch. Location on the top edge may provide for a hatch that swings up to open. Accordingly, the hatch may pivot upward or to the side to open.

[0048] The truck cap may comprise one or more force assistance mechanisms for assisting hatch opening. The force assistance mechanisms may function to completely open the hatch upon actuation of the latch mechanism described herein. The force assistance mechanisms may function to at least partially open the hatch, or cooperate with manual manipulation of the hatch by a user, after actuation of the latch mechanism described herein. The force assistance mechanisms may comprise hydraulic struts, pneumatic struts, springs, the like, or any combination thereof.

[0049] As described herein, the hatch may open in cooperation with the tailgate. In this regard, opening the tailgate may initiate opening the hatch. The present teachings may be particularly advantageous where the tailgate is autonomously enabled, or where the hatch includes a downwardly extending portion that extends below the top surface of the tailgate. In the former scenario, cooperative opening of the hatch and the tailgate may eliminate a step, performed manually by a user, in accessing the cargo area. In the later scenario, cooperative opening may avoid the downwardly extending portion from blocking the tailgate from opening.

[0050] The present teachings contemplate that some benefits may be realized with hatches having downwardly extending portion that extend below the top surface of the tailgate, but the hatch release system and latch mechanism described herein may be employed with any type of truck cap hatch configuration.

[0051] The hatch release system may comprise a latch mechanism. The latch mechanism may function to selectively maintain the hatch in a closed configuration and release the hatch to allow it to beAtorney Docket No.: 2021A.043WO (9121204) manipulated into an open configuration. The latch mechanism may be actuated, at least in part, by the tailgate. That is, an opening action of the tailgate may actuate the latch mechanism to cause the hatch to open or at least partially open. A closing action of the tailgate may also actuate the latch mechanism.

[0052] The latch mechanism may comprise an arm. The arm may engage with the tailgate in a latched configuration. The arm may engage an inner surface of the tailgate in the latched configuration, the inner surface being oriented toward the interior of the cargo area. The arm may shift position in response to movement of the tailgate. Although, the present teachings contemplate mechanisms for actuating the arm other than that related to the tailgate, which are described in greater detail herein. The arm may disengage from the tailgate in an unlatched configuration. Conversion of the latch mechanism from the latched configuration to the unlatched configuration may occur, at least in part, mutually with the tailgate opening.

[0053] The arm may have a bumper for mitigating damage to the tailgate, providing a tolerance in the positioning of the arm relative to the tailgate, or both. The bumper may dampen a force upon the latch mechanism by the tailgate (e.g., in closing the tailgate) via elasticity, springs, pneumatics, hydraulics, or any combination thereof.

[0054] Conversion of the latch mechanism between the latched configuration and the unlatched configuration may involve pivotal and / or axial translation of the latch mechanism. That is, pivotal and / or axial translation of one or more components of the latch mechanism. The arm, or a portion of the arm, may pivotally and / or axially translate.

[0055] The latch mechanism may comprise one or more brackets. The bracket may function to mount the latch mechanism to the truck cap and / or hatch. The bracket may be mounted to or proximate to a pillar of a truck cap (e.g., a D-pillar). The bracket may be mounted to a frame or glass of a hatch. The latch mechanism may comprise two or more components that are mounted to different surfaces. For example, the latch mechanism and associated catch may be mounted to the truck cap and the system may comprise a pin mounted to the hatch and that communicates with the catch. However, the present teachings contemplate that arrangements of two different elements respectively mounted to the truck cap and the hatch may be swapped (e.g., relative to the foregoing example, a latch mechanism mounted on a hatch and a pin mounted to a truck cap). This applies to all embodiments.

[0056] The arm may pivotally and / or axially move relative to the bracket. At least a portion of the arm may be rigidly connected to the bracket. A first portion of the arm may be rigidly connected to the bracket and a second portion of the arm may move pivotally and / or axially move relative to the bracket. At least a portion of the arm may be rigidly connected to a catch assembly, described hereunder.

[0057] The latch mechanism may comprise one or more springs. The spring may contribute to the latch mechanism transitioning between the latched and unlatched configurations. The spring may act upon the arm or one or more elements of and / or connected to the arm. The spring may act on an overhang, as described herein. The spring may be a compression spring, an extension spring, a torsion spring, orAtorney Docket No.: 2021A.043WO (9121204) the like. The spring may influence axial movement and / or pivotal movement of the arm or one or more elements of and / or connected to the arm. The present teachings contemplate other energy storage devices, such as devices that are elastically deformable to store and release energy.

[0058] The spring may be under a first load when the tailgate is closed. The spring may be under a second load, or unloaded when the tailgate is opened. The second load may be less than the first load. The spring may cause the arm to move axially toward the rear of the vehicle when the tailgate is opened.

[0059] The spring may be under a first load in the latched and unlatched configurations. The spring may be under a second load between the latched and unlatched configurations. The second load may be greater than the first load.

[0060] The latch mechanism may comprise one or more spring retaining members. The spring retaining member may captivate a first end of a spring. The second end of the spring may communicate with a catch assembly, an arm, or both. The spring may be compressible therebetween.

[0061] The hatch release system may comprise one or more pins. The pin may be captured by the latch mechanism in the latched configuration and may be released by the latch mechanism in the unlatched configuration. The pin may be mounted to a bracket described above. For example, the pin may be positioned to communicate with the latch mechanism (e.g., a catch of the latch mechanism).

[0062] The pin may be mounted to the hatch and the latch mechanism may be mounted to the truck cap, or vice versa. In some circumstances, it is envisioned that the pin or latch mechanism may be affixed to a sidewall of a cargo area (e.g., an interior surface and / or atop surface of the sidewall), such as proximate to the tailgate.

[0063] The latch mechanism may comprise a catch assembly. The catch assembly may function to capture and release the pin. An exemplary, but non-limiting, catch assembly is described in U.S. Patent No. 6,471,260 Bl, incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0064] The catch assembly may comprise a catch. The catch may move pivotally between the latched and unlatched configurations, although the present teachings contemplate that the catch may move axially between the latched and unlatched configurations.

[0065] The catch assembly may comprise a pawl. The pawl may engage and maintain a pivotal position of the catch in the latched configuration. The pawl may disengage from the catch and cause the catch to release the pin. The catch and pawl may cooperate with a spring, such as a torsion spring, such that disengagement of the pawl from the catch allows the spring to release energy and the catch may translate accordingly. The catch and the pawl may pivotably translate. The catch and the pawl may pivotably translate in opposing directions.

[0066] The pawl may comprise an extension that toggles to pivot the pawl. The extension may toggle by impacting a projection and / or in response to the catch translating from the unlatched configuration to the latched configuration (e.g., receiving the pin and thus the pin causing the catch to pivotablyAtorney Docket No.: 2021A.043WO (9121204) translate). The extension may impact the projection in response to the arm moving axially toward the tailgate when the tailgate is opened.

[0067] The projection may extend from the bracket or any other portion of the latch assembly. The projection may be rigidly connected to the latch assembly. The projection may be located within a path of movement of one or more components of the latch assembly. For example, in an axial path of movement of the catch assembly.

[0068] The bracket may comprise one or more tracks that guide axial translation of one or more components of the latch assembly (e.g., the catch assembly) between the latched and unlatched configurations. The track may be in the form of an elongate hole. A fastener or extension of one or more axially translating components of the latch assembly may extend at least partially through the elongate hole. In this regard, the fastener or extension may travel along at least a portion of a length of the elongate hole.

[0069] The present teachings contemplate that one or more elements of the latch mechanism may be adjustable to provide for correct positioning relative to the truck cap and the tailgate. In this regard, the latch mechanism may be suited to function with a variety of truck cap and vehicle combinations that are commercially available. For example, the bumper may be adjustable relative to the arm, the bracket of the latch assembly may be adjustable relative to the surface it is mounted on, the bracket of the pin may be adjustable relative to the surface it is mounted on, and the like.

[0070] The arm may comprise an overhang that engages with the inner surface of the tailgate in the latched configuration. The hatch may be precluded from opening when the overhang is engaged with the tailgate (e.g., an inner surface of the tailgate).

[0071] The overhang may comprise a beveled surface, a curved surface, an angled surface, or any combination thereof, that engages the tailgate and aids in pivotal translation of the arm and / or the overhang. For example, closing the hatch after closing the tailgate may cause such surface to engage the tailgate and such surface may slide along the tailgate to clear the tailgate, at least until the overhang passes the tailgate and drops behind the tailgate. The overhang may slide along a top surface of the tailgate between the unlatched and latched configurations. The latch mechanism may be manually manipulated to lift the arm and / or overhang to close the hatch.

[0072] The overhang may be pivotably and / or axially translatable. The overhang may pivotably and / or axially translate relative to the arm. The arm may be pivotably and / or axially translatable. The arm may pivotably and / or axially translate relative to the bracket. The present teachings contemplate that both the overhang and the arm may be pivotably and / or axially translatable.

[0073] The overhang may pivotably translate to transition between the unlatched and latched configurations. The overhang may have a pivot axis that is generally orthogonal to an inner surface of the tailgate. The overhang may have a pivot axis that is generally parallel to an inner surface of the tailgate.Atorney Docket No.: 2021A.043WO (9121204)

[0074] The overhang may axially translate to transition between the unlatched and latched configurations. The overhang may have a track and the arm may have a slider that moves within the track, or vice versa. The track may be elongated in a generally vertical direction. The slider may move generally vertically within the track. Although, other mechanisms of axial translation are contemplated by the present teachings.

[0075] The arm may pivotably translate to transition between the unlatched and latched configurations. The arm may have a pivot axis that is generally orthogonal to an inner surface of the tailgate. The arm may have a pivot axis that is generally parallel to an inner surface of the tailgate.

[0076] The arm may axially translate to transition between the unlatched and latched configurations. The arm may have a track and the bracket may have a slider that moves within the track, or vice versa. The track may be elongated in a generally vertical direction. The slider may move generally vertically within the track. Although, other mechanisms of axial translation are contemplated by the present teachings.

[0077] The arm may comprise a first segment and a second segment. The first and second segments may be axially adjustable relative to each other. The arm and the overhang may be axially adjustable relative to each other. The bracket and the arm may be axially adjustable relative to each other. Axial adjustment may position the overhang relative to the tailgate. In this regard, the latch mechanism of the present teachings may be suited to function with a variety of truck cap and vehicle combinations that are commercially available.

[0078] The arm and / or the overhang may comprise a translation limiting feature. The translation limiting feature may function in pivotal or axial translation. The translation limiting feature may limit translation to a predefined angle or length.

[0079] The latch mechanism may be free of a handle, a buton, a cable, a keyway, or the like on an exterior surface of the truck cap and / or hatch. Although, the present teachings contemplate that the same may be present, such as for an emergency or manual release mechanism. The emergency or manual release mechanism may function where the latch mechanism is physically hindered from functioning, becomes broken, or the like. In another aspect, a user may want to disable the cooperative opening of the hatch with the tailgate.

[0080] A handle, buton, cable, keyway, the like, or any combination thereof may be accessible on an exterior surface of the truck cap and / or the hatch. The handle, buton, cable, keyway, the like, or any combination thereof may extend from the latch mechanism, through the truck cap and / or hatch, and to the exterior surface thereof.

[0081] The truck cap may comprise two or more latch mechanisms. For example, a first latch mechanism on a right side of a hatch and a second latch mechanisms on a left side of the hatch. The two or more latch mechanisms may be connected via one or more linkages such that actuation of one may cause actuation of another. Said actuation may be to convert the latch mechanism into a latchedAtorney Docket No.: 2021A.043WO (9121204) configuration, an unlatched configuration, or both. The linkages may include rods, chains, cables, the like, or any combination thereof.

[0082] The truck cap may comprise one or more motors. The motor may function to actuate the latch mechanism. The motor may be selectively engageable and disengageable from the latch mechanism. The motor may communicate with the latch mechanism via one or more linkages. The linkages may include rods, chains, cables, gears, the like, or any combination thereof. An interruption in the linkages may disengage the motor from the latch mechanism. For example, two gears may be disengaged.

[0083] The latch mechanism may comprise a locking member. The locking member may function to preclude cooperative opening of the hatch with the tailgate. The locking member may interfere with translation of one or more elements of the latch mechanism. The locking mechanism may be positioned pivotably and / or axially to interfere with said translation. By way of example, but not limitation, a locking member may be positioned to captivate a pin, even where a catch disengages from the pin. Other mechanisms are possible, such as a structure that maintains a position of an arm regardless of a position of the tailgate.

[0084] The latch mechanism may comprise a secondary release mechanism. The secondary release mechanism may function to constrain the hatch to a first range of motion and, upon actuation of the secondary release mechanism, allow the hatch to move through a second range of motion. In other words, the secondary release mechanism may allow the hatch to open to allow the tailgate to open, but not fully open the hatch. The secondary release mechanism may be manually actuated by a user.

[0085] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cargo area 10 of a vehicle, with a cap 12 installed thereon. The cap 12 covers the cargo area 10 and protects the same from debris and fluid ingress, as well as securing cargo stored therein. The cap 12 comprises a hatch 14 that provides access into the cargo area 10 from the rear of the vehicle. The cargo area 10 can also be accessed through the tailgate 16. The present teachings describe a hatch release system that can cause the hatch 14 to open in coordination with the tailgate 16.

[0086] The cap 12 may be in any suitable form. This may include caps 12 having a defined parting line between the hatch 14 and the tailgate 16 and caps 12 with hatches 14 with a botom edge (e.g., defined by glass or contour strips) that at least partially overlaps the tailgate 16.

[0087] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a hatch release system 18 including a latch mechanism 20 installed on the cap 12 (e.g., fastened to or proximate to a D-pillar of the cap 12). The hatch release system 18 is also defined by the tailgate 16, which cooperates with the latch mechanism 20 to cause the hatch 14 to open in coordination therewith.

[0088] The hatch 14 includes a bracket 22 that positions a pin 24 relative to the latch mechanism 20. The pin 24 is captured by the latch mechanism 20 in a latched configuration and the pin 24 is released from the latch mechanism 20 in an unlatched configuration. With the pin 24 released, the hatch 14 isAtorney Docket No.: 2021A.043WO (9121204) free to pivotably translate relative to the cap 12. As will be described in greater detail below, opening the tailgate 16 causes the latch mechanism 20 to release the pin 24.

[0089] FIG. 2 shows the latch mechanism 20 fastened to the cap 12 and the bracket 22 with the pin 24 fastened to the hatch 14. However, the present teachings contemplate that this arrangement can be reversed, whereby the latch mechanism 20 is fastened to the hatch 14 and the bracket 22 with the pin 24 is fastened to the cap 12. Although mechanical fasteners are shown, it is also contemplated that chemical fasteners may be utilized. The depicted hatch 14 is fabricated from a panel of glass affixed by a frame, although the present teachings contemplate that the hatch 14 may comprise a continuous panel of glass without a frame.

[0090] FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B show a latch mechanism 20. The latched configuration is illustrated in FIG. 3A and the unlatched configuration is illustrated in FIG. 3B. The latch mechanism 20 comprises a bracket 26 that mounts the latch mechanism 20 to a cap 12, shown in FIG. 2. A catch 28 receives and holds the pin 24 shown in FIG. 2.

[0091] The catch 28 is engaged with a pawl 30 that has an extension acted upon by a projection 32. The catch 28 and pawl 30 are both pivotable at their respective positions. Thus, pivoting of the pawl 30 in response to the extension thereof coming into contact with the projection 32 causes pivoting of the catch 28. This mechanism is shown and described in greater detail in FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B. The catch 28 and pawl 30 are both contained within a catch assembly 34.

[0092] The catch assembly 34 is acted upon by a spring 36 (shown as a compression spring), the spring 36 being disposed between the catch assembly 34 and a spring retaining member 38 mounted to the bracket 26. The spring 36, in FIG. 3A, is loaded to a greater degree relative to FIG. 3B. The spring 36 is maintained in a loaded state by a tailgate. In this regard, an arm 40 is rigidly affixed to and extends from the catch assembly 34. The arm 40 is configured to engage with an inner surface of a tailgate. That is, a surface of the tailgate oriented toward the cargo area. Thus, the tailgate acts, through the arm 40 and the catch assembly 34, upon the spring.

[0093] Thus, when the tailgate is in a closed configuration, engagement thereof with the arm 40 positions the catch assembly 34 to load the spring 36, and the pawl 30 is positioned to maintain the catch 28 in a pivotal position that captivates the pin 24 shown in FIG. 2. When the tailgate is opened, the spring 36 unloads as the catch assembly 34 moves in the direction D. As a result, the extension of the pawl 30 engages the projection 32, so the pawl 30 pivots and releases the catch 28, which pivots to release the pin 24.

[0094] It can be seen that the arm 40 has a bolt affixed thereto by two nuts. In this regard, the bolt can be adjusted to adapt to different tailgate and cap configurations, e.g., relating to different makes and models of vehicles and caps. Other configurations of the arm 40 are contemplated, such as direct- threading of the bolt to the arm 40, a sliding adjustment rather than the depicted pivoting adjustment, or a tailgate engagement portion of the arm 40 that is non-adjustable.Atorney Docket No.: 2021A.043WO (9121204)

[0095] Other adjustments of the latch mechanism 20 are also contemplated to adapt the latch mechanism 20 to different vehicles and caps. For example, the bracket 26 includes elongated holes through which fasteners extend and into the cap. Thus, the fasteners can be positioned along the elongated holes.

[0096] FIG. 4 shows another view of the latch mechanism 20 where tracks 42 formed in the bracket 26 are visible. The catch assembly 34 moves along the tracks when transitioning between the latched and unlatched configurations described above. In this regard, fasteners extend through the tracks and into the catch assembly 34.

[0097] The bracket 26 is shown as constructed from two separate plates fastened by two sets of nuts and bolts. However, the present teachings contemplate any suitable form of the bracket 26, such as two separate plates joined by a chemical fastener, or a unitary construction (e.g., forged, machined, cast, or otherwise formed as a unitary piece).

[0098] FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B show the catch assembly 34 with the cover removed. The catch 28 and the pawl 30 are both pivotable, and the pawl 30 captivates the catch 28 when engaged therewith. The catch assembly 34 includes a spring 44 (a torsion spring), which urges the catch 28 in the pivotal direction D 1. The spring 44 also urges the pawl 30 in the pivotal direction D2, when a pin engages with the catch 28 while the hatch is being closed.

[0099] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a hatch release system 46 including a latch mechanism 48 installed on the hatch 14. The hatch release system 46 is also defined by the tailgate 16, which cooperates with the latch mechanism 48 to cause the hatch 14 to open in coordination therewith. As will be described in greater detail below, opening the tailgate 16 releases the latch mechanism 48.

[0100] FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B show the latch mechanism 48, which comprises a bracket 50 and an arm 52 extending from the bracket 50. The arm 52 is pivotable relative to the bracket 50. The arm 52 has an overhang 54 that, as shown in FIG. 6 engages the inner surface of the tailgate 16.

[0101] When the tailgate 16 is opened, the overhang 54 is freed and the hatch 14 can swing open. The hatch 14 can be closed before the tailgate 16 or, if closed after the tailgate 16, the arm 52 can be pivoted to clear the tailgate 16. The arm 52 may be manually pivoted by a user or the overhang 54 may impact an edge of the tailgate and a curved surface of the overhang 54 my urge the arm 52 upward. The overhang 54 may ride along at least a portion of the top surface of the tailgate 16 until it clears the top surface and falls into engagement with the inner surface of the tailgate 16. In another aspect, the overhang 54 may initially impact the top surface of the tailgate 16 and thereafter ride along at least a portion of the top portion of the tailgate 16.

[0102] The present teachings contemplate that a spring, such as a torsion spring, may urge the arm 52 in clockwise or counterclockwise directions. Where urged in the pivotal direction where the overhang 54 moves upward, the spring may offset at least a portion of the gravitational force upon the arm 52 and the overhang 54 and thus assist in the overhang 54 sliding up and along the tailgate while closing theAtorney Docket No.: 2021A.043WO (9121204) hatch. Where urged in the pivotal direction where the overhang 54 moves downward, the spring may provide for a more positive engagement of the arm 52 and overhang 54 with the tailgate.

[0103] The arm 52 comprises a first segment 56 and a second segment 58, which are axially adjustable relative to each other. As shown in greater detail in FIG. 8, the arm 52 can be adjusted to a dimension of the tailgate. A nut 60 can be adjusted along a length of a bolt 62 to axially adjust the first and second segments 56, 58.

[0104] FIG. 9 shows a latch mechanism 64 comprising a bracket 66, an arm 68 extending from the bracket 66, and an overhang 70. The overhang 70 is pivotably engaged with the arm 68. The overhang 70 engages with a tailgate 72 and thus a hatch 74 to which the latch mechanism 64 is engaged is prevented from opening while the tailgate 72 is closed.

[0105] When the tailgate 72 is opened, the overhang 70 is disengaged and the hatch 74 opens. The tailgate 72 can be closed and thereafter the hatch 74 can be closed. The overhang 70 may contact an edge of the tailgate 72 and pivot to slide along a top surface of the tailgate 72 and when the overhang 70 clears the top surface of the tailgate 72 it pivots down and into engagement with an inner surface of the tailgate 72. In another aspect, the overhang 70 may initially impact the top surface of the tailgate 72 and thereafter ride along at least a portion of the top portion of the tailgate 72.

[0106] The present teachings contemplate that a spring, such as a torsion spring, may urge the overhang 70 in clockwise or counterclockwise directions.

[0107] FIG. 10 shows a latch mechanism 76 comprising a bracket 78, an arm 80 extending from the bracket 78, and an overhang 82. The overhang 82 is pivotably engaged with the arm 80. The overhang 82 engages with a tailgate 84 and thus a hatch 86 to which the latch mechanism 76 is engaged is prevented from opening while the tailgate 84 is closed.

[0108] When the tailgate 84 is opened, the overhang 82 is disengaged and the hatch 86 opens. The tailgate 84 can be closed and thereafter the hatch 86 can be closed. The overhang 82 contacts an edge of the tailgate 84 and pivots to slide along a top surface of the tailgate 84 and when the overhang 82 clears the top surface of the tailgate 84 it pivots down and into engagement with an inner surface of the tailgate 84. In another aspect, the overhang 82 may initially impact the top surface of the tailgate 16 and thereafter ride along at least a portion of the top portion of the tailgate 16.

[0109] The present teachings contemplate that a spring, such as a torsion spring, may urge the arm 82 in clockwise or counterclockwise directions.

[0110] FIG. 11 shows a latch mechanism 88 in a latched configuration. The latch mechanism 88 comprises a bracket 90 that mounts the latch mechanism 88 to a cap, such as shown in FIG. 2. A catch 92 receives and holds a pin, such as shown in FIG. 2.[oni] The catch 92 is engaged with a pawl 94 that has an extension acted upon by a projection 96. The catch 92 and pawl 94 are both pivotable at their respective positions. Thus, pivoting of the pawl 94Atorney Docket No.: 2021A.043WO (9121204) in response to the extension thereof coming into contact with the projection 96 causes pivoting of the catch 92. The catch 92 and pawl 94 are both contained within a catch assembly 98.

[0112] The catch assembly 98 comprises an arm 100 that is connected to a linkage 106 at pivot point 108. linkage 106 is acted upon by a spring (not shown), the spring being compressible between the linkage 106 and a spring retaining member 102. The arm 100 is rigidly affixed to and extends from the catch assembly 98. The linkage 106 is configured to with an adjustable end 110, which engages with an interior surface of a tailgate.

[0113] Thus, when the tailgate is in a closed configuration, engagement thereof with the linkage 106 positions the linkage 106 to load the spring, translating the load to the arm 100, and the pawl 94 is positioned to maintain the catch 92 in a pivotal position that captivates a pin. When the tailgate is opened, the spring unloads as the catch assembly 98 moves in the direction D. As a result, the extension of the pawl 94 engages the projection 96 and the pawl 94 releases the catch 92, which pivots to release the pin.

[0114] The latch mechanism 88 comprises a locking member 104 which can be manually positioned to captivate the pin, even where the catch 92 releases the pin. In this regard, the hatch can be maintained in a closed position when the tailgate is opened. The latch mechanism 88 includes a compliant mechanism where an elongated hole can be deformed to shift position relative to a post extending at least partially through the elongated hole.

[0115] 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 the art with the invention, its principles, and its practical application.

[0116] 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.

[0117] 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.

[0118] The omission in the following claims of any aspect of subject mater that is disclosed herein is not a disclaimer of such subject mater, nor should it be regarded that the inventors did not consider such subject mater to be part of the disclosed inventive subject mater.

[0119] The disclosures of all articles and references, including patent applications and publications, are incorporated by reference for all purposes.

[0120] 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.Atorney Docket No.: 2021A.043WO (9121204)

[0121] The disclosure of “a” or “one” to describe an element or step is not intended to foreclose additional elements or steps.

[0122] 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.

[0123] 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 a 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.

[0124] 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.

[0125] The term “consisting essentially of’ to describe a combination shall include the elements or components identified, and such other elements or components 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 or components herein also contemplates embodiments that consist essentially of the elements or components.

[0126] 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 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. Thus, 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.

[0127] 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” the other elements or features. Thus, the example term “below” can encompass both an orientation of above andAttorney Docket No.: 2021A.043WO (9121204) below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

[0128] The terms “generally” or “substantially” to describe angular measurements may mean about + / - 10° or less, about + / - 5° or less, or even about + / - 1° or less. The terms “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.

[0129] 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 terms “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

[0130] 10 Cargo area

[0131] 12 Cap

[0132] 14 Hatch

[0133] 16 Tailgate

[0134] 18 Hatch release system

[0135] 20 Latch mechanism

[0136] 22 Bracket

[0137] 24 Pin

[0138] 26 Bracket

[0139] 28 Catch

[0140] 30 Pawl

[0141] 32 Projection

[0142] 34 Catch assembly

[0143] 36 Spring

[0144] 38 Spring retaining member

[0145] 40 Arm

[0146] 42 Track

[0147] 44 Spring

[0148] 46 Hatch release system

[0149] 48 Latch mechanism

[0150] 50 Bracket

[0151] 52 Arm

[0152] 54 Overhang

[0153] 56 First segmentAtorney Docket No.: 2021A.043WO (9121204)

[0154] 58 Second segment

[0155] 60 Nut

[0156] 62 Bolt

[0157] 64 Latch mechanism

[0158] 66 Bracket

[0159] 68 Arm

[0160] 70 Overhang

[0161] 72 Tailgate

[0162] 74 Hatch

[0163] 76 Latch mechanism

[0164] 78 Bracket

[0165] 80 Arm

[0166] 82 Overhang

[0167] 84 Tailgate

[0168] 86 Hatch

[0169] 88 Latch mechanism

[0170] 90 Bracket

[0171] 92 Catch

[0172] 94 Pawl

[0173] 96 Projection

[0174] 98 Catch assembly

[0175] 100 Arm

[0176] 102 Spring retaining member

[0177] 104 Locking member

[0178] 106 Linkage

[0179] 108 Pivot point

[0180] 110 Adjustable end

Claims

Atorney Docket No.: 2021A.043WO (9121204)CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:Claim 1 : A hatch release system comprising a truck cap having a hatch, and a tailgate; wherein the hatch comprises a latch mechanism that is actuated by the tailgate.Claim 2: The hatch release system according to Claim 1, wherein the latch mechanism comprises an arm that engages with the tailgate in a latched configuration; wherein the arm positionally translates in response to movement of the tailgate; and wherein the arm is disengaged from the tailgate in an unlatched configuration.Claim 3 : The hatch release system according to Claim 1 or Claim 2, wherein conversion of the latch mechanism from the latched configuration to the unlatched configuration occurs mutually with opening the tailgate.Claim 4: The hatch release system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein conversion of the latch mechanism between the latched configuration and the unlatched configuration involves a pivotal translation of the latch mechanism.Claim 5 : The hatch release system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the arm engages an inner surface of the tailgate in the latched configuration, the inner surface being oriented toward a cargo area.Claim 6: The hatch release system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the arm moves axially, pivotally, or both, in a direction from the latched configuration to the unlatched configuration, or vice versa.Claim 7 : The hatch release system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the latch mechanism comprises a bracket upon which the arm is directly or indirectly atached; and wherein the bracket is mounted on a pillar of the truck cap, or the hatch.Claim 8: The hatch release system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the latch mechanism further comprises a spring; wherein the spring is under a first load when the tailgate is closed and is under a second load or is unloaded when the tailgate is opened; and wherein the spring changes energy states in response to an interaction of the arm with the tailgate.Attorney Docket No.: 2021A.043WO (9121204)Claim 9: The hatch release system according to Claim 8, wherein the spring causes the arm to move axially when the tailgate is opened; and wherein the second load is less than the first load.Claim 10: The hatch release system according to Claim 8 or Claim 9, wherein the hatch comprises a pin extending therefrom; wherein the pin is captured by the latch mechanism in the latched configuration and the pin is released by the latch mechanism in the unlatched configuration; and wherein the latch mechanism further comprises a catch that captures and releases the pin, and that moves pivotally between the latched and unlatched configurations.Claim 11: The hatch release system according to any one of Claims 8 through 10, wherein the latch mechanism further comprises a pawl that engages and maintains a pivotal position of the catch in the latched configuration; wherein the pawl comprises an extension that toggles to release the catch; and wherein the extension toggles upon impacting a projection, in response to the arm moving axially toward the tailgate when the tailgate is opened; and optionally wherein the projection extends from the bracket.Claim 12: The hatch release system according to any one of Claims 8 through 11, wherein the bracket comprises a track that guides axial translation of the latch assembly between the latched and unlatched configurations.Claim 13: The hatch release system according to Claim 8, wherein the arm comprises an overhang that engages with the inner surface of the tailgate in the latched configuration and slides along a top surface of the tailgate between the unlatched and latched configurations.Claim 14: The hatch release system according to Claim 13, wherein the overhang comprises a beveled, curved, and / or radiused surface that engages the tailgate and aids in pivotal translation of the arm.Claim 15: The hatch release system according to Claim 13 or Claim 14, wherein the arm pivots relative to the bracket or the overhang pivots relative to the arm between the unlatched and latched configurations.Claim 16: The hatch release system according to any one of Claims 13 through 15, wherein the spring causes the arm or the overhang to drop to engage with an inner surface of the tailgate.Atorney Docket No.: 2021A.043WO (9121204)Claim 17: The hatch release system according to any one of Claims 13 through 16, wherein the arm comprises a first segment and a second segment; and wherein the first and second segments are axially adjustable relative to each other.Claim 18: The hatch release system according to any one of Claims 13 through 16, wherein the overhang is axially adjustable relative to the arm.Claim 19: The hatch release system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a portion of the hatch extends over an exterior surface of the tailgate, the exterior surface being oriented away from the cargo area.Claim 20: The hatch release system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the latch mechanism is free of a handle, a buton, a cable, a keyway, or the like that is accessible on an exterior surface of the truck cap.

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