U.S. patent application number 13/662262 was filed with the patent office on 2013-05-16 for vehicle cargo bed extender.
This patent application is currently assigned to 89908, INC. D/B/A AMP RESEARCH, 89908, INC. D/B/A AMP RESEARCH. The applicant listed for this patent is 89908,INC. D/B/A AMP RESEARCH, 89908,INC. D/B/A AMP RESEARCH. Invention is credited to Horst Leitner, Jonathan Weisel.
Application Number | 20130119693 13/662262 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46276698 |
Filed Date | 2013-05-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130119693 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Leitner; Horst ; et
al. |
May 16, 2013 |
VEHICLE CARGO BED EXTENDER
Abstract
An improved truck bed extender particularly adapted for ease of
installation and removal. When not being used to extend the truck
bed, the extender is advantageously adapted to quickly and easily
create a secondary storage area. In one embodiment, the extender
includes a first side wall, a second side wall, a connecting wall,
a first mount and a second mount. The connecting wall extends
between the first side wall and the second side wall, and
cooperates with the first side wall and second side wall to form a
frame. The first mount is secured to the first side wall and
includes a first interlocking member. The second mount is secured
to the second side wall and comprises a second interlocking member.
The first interlocking member and a first mounting station on the
vehicle and the second interlocking member and a second mounting
station on the vehicle cooperate to secure the truck bed extender
to the vehicle.
Inventors: |
Leitner; Horst; (Laguna
Beach, CA) ; Weisel; Jonathan; (Norco, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
89908,INC. D/B/A AMP RESEARCH; |
Irvine |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
89908, INC. D/B/A AMP
RESEARCH
Irvine
CA
|
Family ID: |
46276698 |
Appl. No.: |
13/662262 |
Filed: |
October 26, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12724374 |
Mar 15, 2010 |
8297677 |
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13662262 |
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12165512 |
Jun 30, 2008 |
7681935 |
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12724374 |
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11418547 |
May 3, 2006 |
7393035 |
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12165512 |
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10914384 |
Aug 9, 2004 |
7063366 |
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11418547 |
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10171456 |
Jun 11, 2002 |
6805392 |
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10914384 |
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09524332 |
Mar 13, 2000 |
6402215 |
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10171456 |
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09347472 |
Jul 2, 1999 |
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09524332 |
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09022951 |
Feb 12, 1998 |
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09347472 |
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08924230 |
Sep 5, 1997 |
6113173 |
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09022951 |
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08651921 |
May 21, 1996 |
5700047 |
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08924230 |
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60091623 |
Jul 2, 1998 |
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60063784 |
Oct 31, 1997 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
296/26.11 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B62D 33/037 20130101;
Y10T 16/628 20150115; B62D 33/0273 20130101; B60P 3/40
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
296/26.11 |
International
Class: |
B62D 33/037 20060101
B62D033/037 |
Claims
1. (canceled)
2. A vehicle bed extender for use with a vehicle having a storage
bed, a first upstanding side panel to one side of said storage bed,
a second upstanding side panel to an opposite side of said storage
bed, a tailgate, said extender comprising: a first side wall; a
second side wall; a connecting wall connecting said first side wall
and said second side wall, said first side wall, said second side
wall, and said connecting wall defining an open frame, said frame
comprising at least a first cross beam and a second cross beam; an
interlock portion configured to receive the first cross beam and
the second cross beam of one of the first side wall and the second
side wall, the interlock portion comprising a male member
projecting therefrom; a mounting bracket adapted to attach to an
inside vertical surface of one of the first upstanding side panel
and the second upstanding side panel, the mounting bracket
comprising an opening configured to receive the male member of the
interlock portion; a latch adapted to rotatably attach to the
mounting bracket, the latch configured to rotate when attached to
the mounting bracket from a first position in which the male member
of the interlock portion can exit the opening of the mounting
bracket to a second position in which a body of the latch at least
partially blocks the opening of the mounting bracket and prevents
the male member of the interlock portion from exiting the opening
of the mounting bracket.
3. The vehicle bed extender of claim 2, wherein the body of the
latch comprises a generally c-shaped section.
4. The vehicle bed extender of claim 2, wherein the latch further
comprises a lever arm.
5. The vehicle bed extender of claim 2, wherein at least a portion
of the male member of the interlock portion is cylindrical.
6. The vehicle bed extender of claim 2, wherein the mounting
bracket comprises an elevated central portion, an upper mounting
flange, and a lower mounting flange.
7. The vehicle bed extender of claim 6, wherein one of the upper
and lower mounting flanges has two screw holes, and the other of
the upper and lower mounting flanges has one screw hole.
8. The vehicle bed extender of claim 2, wherein the latch is biased
toward the second position.
9. The vehicle bed extender of claim 8, wherein the latch in the
second position does not prevent the male member from entering the
opening in the mounting bracket.
10. The vehicle bed extender of claim 2, wherein the interlock
portion comprises a second male member projecting therefrom and the
mounting bracket comprises a second opening, the second opening
configured to receive the second male member.
11. A vehicle bed extender for use with a vehicle having a storage
bed, a first upstanding side panel to one side of said storage bed,
a second upstanding side panel to an opposite side of said storage
bed, a tailgate, said extender comprising: a first side wall; a
second side wall; a connecting wall connecting said first side wall
and said second side wall, said first side wall, said second side
wall, and said connecting wall defining a rigid frame; an interlock
portion configured to attach to one of the first side wall and the
second side wall, the interlock portion comprising an interlock
surface; a mounting bracket adapted to attach to an inside vertical
surface of one of the first upstanding side panel and the second
upstanding side panel, the mounting bracket comprising a mounting
surface, wherein one of said interlock surface and said mounting
surface defines an opening and the other of said interlock surface
and said mounting surface is configured to pass through said
opening to engage said one of the first upstanding side panel and
the second upstanding side panel with said one of the first side
wall and the second side wall; a latch rotatably attached to the
mounting bracket, the latch configured to rotate from a first
position in which said interlock surface and said mounting surface
can separate from each other to a second position in which the
latch prevents separation of said interlock surface and said
mounting surface.
12. The vehicle bed extender of claim 11, wherein the body of the
latch comprises a generally c-shaped section.
13. The vehicle bed extender of claim 11, wherein the latch further
comprises a lever arm.
14. The vehicle bed extender of claim 11, wherein the mounting
bracket comprises an upper mounting flange and a lower mounting
flange in a different plane than the mounting surface.
15. The vehicle bed extender of claim 14, wherein one of the upper
and lower mounting flanges has two screw holes, and the other of
the upper and lower mounting flanges has one screw hole.
16. The vehicle bed extender of claim 11, wherein the latch is
biased toward the second position.
17. The vehicle bed extender of claim 11, wherein one of said
interlock surface and said mounting surface defines a second
opening and the other of said interlock surface and said mounting
surface is configured to pass through said second opening to engage
said one of the first upstanding side panel and the second
upstanding side panel with said one of the first side wall and the
second side wall
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/724,374, filed Mar. 15, 2010, now U.S. Pat.
No. 8,297,677, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 12/165,512, filed Jun. 30, 2008, now U.S. Pat. No.
7,681,935, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 11/418,547, filed May 3, 2006, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,393,035,
which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
10/914,384, filed Aug. 9, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,063,366, which
is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/171,456
filed Jun. 11, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,805,392, which is a
continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/524,332, filed
Mar. 13, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,402,215, which is a continuation
of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/347,472, filed Jul. 2, 1999,
abandoned, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent No.
60/091,623, filed Jul. 2, 1998, and is a continuation-in-part of
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/022,951, filed Feb. 12, 1998,
abandoned, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 60/063,784, filed Oct. 31, 1997, and is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
08/924,230, filed Sep. 5, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,113,173, and
which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
08/651,921, filed May 21, 1996, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,700,047. Each
of these applications is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] This invention relates to an improved truck bed extender
and, in particular, to a truck bed extender particularly adapted
for use of installation and removal.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] Pick-up trucks are extremely popular. One of their primary
advantages is the ability to haul loads in the storage bed located
behind the cab of the vehicle. Unfortunately, often the storage bed
is of an undesirable configuration for the load being transported.
In particular, it is not unusual for the load to be larger than the
truck bed, so that the tailgate of the truck needs to be lowered to
enable the load to be adequately transferred. Unfortunately, this
raises the risk that the load will fall out of the back of the
truck, or that the load will need to be tied down, taking
additional time.
[0006] For this reason, various truck bed extenders have been
developed. These extenders are typically mounted to the truck bed
by brackets or hinges. Truck bed extenders often comprise a series
of light weight panels designed to be foldable to minimize their
impact on storage space when not in use, as is shown in U.S. Pat.
No. 4,472,639 to Bianchi. Alternatively, the truck bed extenders
may comprise strong, but relatively heavy and nonfoldable units,
such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,778,213 to Palmer. Palmer
discloses extended side supports secured to the tailgate by
brackets or welding and a supplemental tailgate. When the main
tailgate is closed, the supplemental tailgate extends over the top
of the vehicle's storage bed. It is disclosed that flexible netting
may be secured to the right and left supports so that the netting
extends in a vertical plane to form a storage box.
[0007] There remains, however, a need for an improved truck bed
extender.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The present invention is an improved truck bed extender
which is particularly adapted for ease of installation and removal.
When not being used to extend the truck bed, the extender is
advantageously adapted to quickly and easily create a secondary
storage area. Another aspect of the invention is a method for
utilizing a truck bed extender.
[0009] One aspect of the invention is a truck bed extender for use
with a vehicle having an open storage bed having a rear end, a
first upstanding side panel to one side of the bed, a second
upstanding side panel to an opposite side of the bed, and a
tailgate, wherein the first upstanding panel defines a first
mounting station and the second upstanding panel defines a second
mounting station. The extender has a first side wall, a second side
wall, a connecting wall, a first mount and a second mounting mount.
The connecting wall extends between the first side wall and the
second side wall, and cooperates with the first side wall and
second side wall to form a generally U-shaped frame. The first
mount is secured to the first side wall and includes a first
interlocking member. The second mount is secured to the second side
wall and comprising a second interlocking member. The first
interlocking member and the first mounting station and the second
interlocking member and the second mounting station cooperate to
secure the truck bed extender to the vehicle so that the extender
is rotatable about an axis between a first position and a second
position. In the first position, the connecting wall is in an
upright position over the tailgate rearward of the rear end of the
bed. In the second position, the connecting wall is in an upright
position spaced forward from the rear end of the bed and the
tailgate.
[0010] Advantageously, the first mounting station comprises a first
aperture and the second mounting station comprises a second
aperture and the first interlocking member is a retractable male
member sized and shaped to be received and retained within the
first aperture and the second interlocking member is a retractable
male member sized and shaped to be received and retained within the
second aperture. An important aspect of the invention is that the
connecting wall desirably comprises at least two interconnecting
sections which are slidable relative one another permitting the
horizontal span of the connecting wall to be adjusted to correspond
to the particular width of the truck bed. Effective truck bed
widths can vary between manufacturers and vary depending on whether
a truck bed protector has been installed. Advantageously, the
extender's adjustability desirably permits the identical extender
to be used with most truck beds, at least in a given size
classification.
[0011] The extender may also comprise a first L-shaped section
defining the first side wall and a first portion of the connecting
wall and a second L-shaped section defining the second side wall
and a second portion of the connecting wall. Advantageously, these
L-shaped portions significantly increase the strength and rigidity
of the extender, enhancing its ability to withstand bumping by
heavy cargo, such as motorcycles, as well as external impact.
[0012] Yet another important aspect of the invention is at least
one buckle secured to one of the walls sized and shaped to be
releasably locked to the latch of the vehicle tailgate.
Significantly, the buckle provides a supplemental attachment point
which minimizes movement and vibration of the extender while
driving and is quickly releasable by using the vehicle tailgate's
own opening mechanism.
[0013] Another aspect of the invention is a truck bed extender for
use with a vehicle having a storage bed. The extender includes a
first side wall, a second side wall, a connecting wall, a first
mount and a second mount. The connecting wall extends between the
first wall and the second wall and cooperates with the first wall
and second wall to form a general U-shaped frame. The first mount
is secured to the first side wall and includes a first interlocking
member. The second mount is secured to the second wall and includes
a second interlocking member. The extender is securable to the
vehicle through cooperation of the first interlocking member and
the first mounting station and the second interlocking member and
the second mounting station in a first position wherein the
connecting wall is in an upright position over the tailgate
rearward of the rear end of the storage bed and a second position
wherein the connecting wall is in an upright position spaced
forward from the rear end of the bed and the tailgate.
[0014] Yet another important aspect of the invention is a truck bed
extender for use with a vehicle having a first side panel defining
a first forward mounting station and a first rearward mounting
station, and a second panel defining a second forward mounting
station and a second rearward mounting station, wherein the
extender includes a first side wall, a second side wall, a
connecting wall, a first mount and a second mount. The connecting
wall extends between the first side wall and the second side wall,
and cooperates with the first side wall and the second side wall to
form a generally U-shaped frame. The first mount is secured to the
first side wall and includes a first interlocking member. The
second mount is secured to the second side wall and comprises a
second interlocking member. The extender is securable to the
vehicle through cooperation of: (1) the first interlocking member
and the first forward station and the second interlocking member
and the second forward station in a first position wherein the
first side wall and the second side wall extend forward of the
connecting wall and the connecting wall is in an upright position
spaced rearward from the front panel, and (2) the first
interlocking member and the first rearward station, and the second
interlocking member and the second rearward station in a second
position wherein the connecting wall is in an upright position
spaced rearward from the rear end of the bed over the tailgate.
[0015] Desirably, the extender is also securable to the vehicle
through cooperation of the first interlocking member and the first
rearward station and the second interlocking member and the second
rearward station in a third position, wherein the connecting wall
is in an upright position spaced forward from the rear end of the
bed and the tailgate.
[0016] As will be readily apparent to one of skill in the art,
another aspect of the invention is a method of mounting a truck bed
extender on a vehicle.
[0017] Yet another aspect of the invention is a truck bed extender
for use with a vehicle having an open storage bed having a rear
end, a first upstanding side panel to one side of the bed having an
inner side, a second upstanding side panel to the opposite side of
the bed having an inner side, and a tailgate. A first mounting
station fixed with respect to the first upstanding panel defines a
first station surface and a second mounting station fixed with
respect to a second upstanding panel defines a second station
surface. The bed extender comprises a first sidewall, a second
sidewall, a connecting wall, a first mount and a second mount. The
connecting wall extends between the first sidewall and the second
sidewall. The first sidewall, the second sidewall and the
connecting wall cooperate to form generally U-shape frame having a
first open side and a second open side. The first mount is on the
first sidewall and comprises a first interlocking member defining a
first mount surface. The second mount is on the second sidewall and
comprises a second interlocking member defining a second mount
surface. The first station surface and the first mount surface, and
the second station surface and the first mount surface cooperate to
secure the apparatus to the vehicle so that the apparatus is in an
upright position over the tailgate rearward of the rear end of the
bed with the first open side facing away from the tailgate and the
second open side facing toward the tailgate. One of the first
station surface and the first mount surface defines a first opening
through which the other of the first station surface and the first
mount surface can be manually withdrawn from the inner side of the
first panel to disengage the extender from the first panel. One of
the second station surface and the second mount surface defines the
second opening through which the other of the second station
surface and the second mount surface can be manually withdrawn from
the inner side of the second panel to disengage the extender from
the second panel.
[0018] Desirably, the extender is rotatable about an axis between a
first position wherein the connecting wall is in a substantially
vertical position over the tailgate rearward of the rear end of the
bed and the first mount cooperates with the first station and the
second mount cooperates with the second station to secure the
assembly against movement radial to the axis, and a second position
wherein the connecting wall is in a nonvertical position and the
first mount cooperates with the first station and the second mount
cooperates with the second station to permit the assembly to be
moved full radially with respect to the axis.
[0019] Another aspect of the invention is a method for an
individual to mount a vehicle bed extender on a vehicle without
tools including: aligning a first mount fixed with respect to the
extender with a first space defined by the first station and
aligning a second mount fixed with respect to the extender with a
second space defined by the second station; moving the bed extender
such that the first mount moves radially through the first space
with respect to an axis defined by the first station and the second
station and the second mount moves radially with respect to the
axis through the second space; and pivoting the extender about the
axis so that the first mount cooperates with the first station and
the second mount cooperates with the second station to prevent
radial movement of the first mount with respect to the axis and the
second mount with respect to the axis.
[0020] Yet another aspect of the invention is the method for an
individual to mount a vehicle bed extender on a vehicle without
tools, including: grasping the bed extender in the first location
with one hand; grasping the bed extender in a second location
spaced from the first location with another hand; while continuing
to grasp the extender with the first hand and the second hand,
aligning the first mount with a first space defined by the first
station and aligning a second mount with a second space defined by
the second station; and while continuing to grasp the extender with
the first hand and the second hand, moving the bed extender such
that the first mount moves through the first space defined by the
first station and the second mount moves through the second space
defined by the second station.
[0021] Yet another aspect of the invention is the truck bed
extender for use with a vehicle having an open storage bed having a
rear end, a first standing side panel to one side of the bed, a
second upstanding side panel to an opposite side of the bed and a
tailgate, a first mounting station fixed with respect to the first
upstanding panel defining a first station surface and a second
mounting station fixed with respect to the second upstanding panel
defining a second station surface. The extender includes a first
sidewall, a second sidewall, a connecting wall extending between
the first sidewall and the second sidewall, a first mount secured
to the first sidewall, and a second mount secured to the second
sidewall. The first sidewall of the second sidewall and the
connecting wall cooperate to form a generally U-shaped frame. The
first mount defines a first mount surface and the second mount
defines a second mount surface. The first station surface and the
first mount surface, and the second station surface and the first
mount surface cooperate to secure the apparatus to the vehicle so
that the connecting wall is in an upright position over the
tailgate rearward of the rear end of the bed. The tailgate defines
a latch to secure the tailgate to at least one of the first
upstanding panel and the second upstanding panel. The truck bed
extender further includes at least one interlock member secured to
one of the walls sized and shaped to be releasably captured by the
latch of the tailgate. Desirably, the interlock member comprises a
buckle or a cylindrical interlock portion rigidly secured to the
connecting wall. Significantly, this stabilizes the tailgate
against movement when the vehicle strikes an object, such as a
speed bump.
[0022] Yet another aspect of the invention is a truck bed extender
for use with the vehicle having an open storage bed having a rear
end, a first upstanding side panel to one side of the bed, a second
upstanding side panel to an opposite side of the bed and a
tailgate, a first forward mounting station fixed with respect to
the first panel, a second forward mounting station fixed with
respect to the second panel, a first rearward mounting station
fixed with respect to the first panel and a second rearward
mounting station fixed with respect to the second panel. The
apparatus includes a first sidewall, a second sidewall, a
connecting wall extending between a first sidewall and the second
sidewall, a first mount secured to the first sidewall and the
second mounts secured to the second sidewall. The first sidewall,
and the second sidewall and the connecting wall cooperate to form a
generally U-shaped frame. The first mount comprises a first
interlocking member and the second mount comprises a second
interlocking member. The extender is mountable in a first position
wherein the connecting wall is in a substantially vertical position
spaced above the tailgate rearward of said rear end of said bed,
and a second position wherein the connecting wall is in a
substantially vertical position forward of the rear end of the bed
and spaced above the rear end of the bed.
[0023] Yet another aspect of the invention is the truck bed
extender for use with the vehicle having an open storage bed having
an open end, first upstanding side panel to one side of the bed
having an inner side having a lower end and an upper end, a second
upstanding side panel to an opposite side of the bed having an
inner side and a tailgate, a first mounting station fixed with
respect to the first upstanding panel defining a first station
surface, and a second mounting station fixed with respect to the
second upstanding panel defining a second station surface. The
apparatus includes a first sidewall, a second sidewall, a
connecting wall extending between the first sidewall and the second
sidewall, a first mount on the first sidewall and a second mount on
the second sidewall. The first sidewall, the second sidewall and
the connecting wall cooperate to form a generally U-shape frame
having a first open side and a second open side. The first mount
comprises a first interlocking member defining a first mount
surface and the second mount comprises a second interlocking member
defining a second mount surface. The first station surface and the
first mount surface, and the second station surface and the first
mount surface cooperate to secure the apparatus to the vehicle so
that the apparatus is in an upright position over the tailgate
rearward of the rear end of the bed with the first open side facing
away from the tailgate and the second open side facing toward the
tailgate. One of the first station surface and the first mount
surface defines a first opening through which the other of the
first station surface and the first mount surface can be withdrawn
from the inner side of the first panel to disengage the extender
from the first panel. One of the second station surface and the
second mount surface defines a second opening through which the
other of the second station surface and the second mount surface
can be withdrawn from the inner side of the second panel to
disengage the extender from the second panel. The first mount forms
a single piece with a portion of the wall extending at least the
majority of the distance between the upper end and the lower end of
the first panel.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0024] These and other features of the invention will now be
described in connection with the accompanying drawings, in
which:
[0025] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of
the truck bed extender of the present invention mounted on a
vehicle in a first position.
[0026] FIG. 2 is an enlarged partial perspective view of the
vehicle and truck bed extender of FIG. 1.
[0027] FIG. 3 is an enlarged sectional view of the mount of the
truck bed extender of FIG. 1.
[0028] FIG. 4 is an enlarged perspective view of a belt and buckle
locking device of the truck bed extender of FIG. 1.
[0029] FIG. 5 is a partial sectional view illustrating the pivoting
of the truck bed extender of FIG. 1 from a first position (shown in
phantom) to a second position.
[0030] FIG. 6 is a top plan view of the truck bed extender and
vehicle of FIG. 1 in a second position.
[0031] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the truck bed extender of
FIG. 1 illustrating its use as a bench.
[0032] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the truck bed extender and
vehicle of FIG. 1 showing the truck bed extender in a third
position.
[0033] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a female element or bracket
of a mounting mechanism for the extender, in accordance with a
second preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0034] FIG. 10 is a front elevational view of the bracket of FIG.
9.
[0035] FIG. 11 is a side elevational view of the bracket of FIG.
9.
[0036] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a mount, including a male
element, of the mounting mechanism of the second embodiment.
[0037] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a combination mount and
strut in accordance with a third preferred embodiment.
[0038] FIG. 14 is an end elevational view of a male element of the
mount and strut of FIG. 13.
[0039] FIG. 15 is a front elevational view of an alternative female
element or bracket for use with the mounts of FIG. 12 or 13.
[0040] FIG. 16 is a front elevational view of another alternative
female element or bracket for use with the mounts of FIG. 12 or
13.
[0041] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the bracket of FIG. 16.
[0042] FIG. 18 is an enlarged partial perspective view of a vehicle
and alternative bed extender.
[0043] FIG. 19 is a top plan view of the bed extender of FIG.
18.
[0044] FIG. 20 is a front elevational view of the bed extender of
FIG. 18.
[0045] FIGS. 21-25 are schematic views illustrating the mounting of
the extender of FIG. 18.
[0046] FIGS. 21a-25a are corresponding schematic views illustrating
the position of the bracket and male member during the mounting of
the extender of FIG. 18.
[0047] FIG. 26 illustrates an alternative mount, which avoids the
need for drilling of additional holes in the vehicle.
[0048] FIGS. 27a-27b illustrate an alternative connector having a
buckle configuration.
[0049] FIGS. 28-33 illustrate an alternative connector.
[0050] FIGS. 34-37 illustrate an alternative holder pair.
[0051] FIGS. 38-41 illustrate an alternative bracket and
combination mount, strut and interlock.
[0052] FIGS. 42-45 are corresponding schematic views of the
bracket, upper holder, latch and interlock of FIG. 38.
[0053] FIGS. 46 and 47 illustrate the mounting of the extender of
FIG. 18 using an alternative fastener.
[0054] FIGS. 48-50 illustrate the alternative fastener of FIGS. 46
and 47.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0055] The preferred embodiment of a multi-purpose apparatus or
truck bed extender 11 will now be described with reference to the
figures. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the truck bed extender 11 is
shown mounted on a truck 13 having a cab 15 to the rear of which is
a storage bed 17. The storage bed 17 has a front end 19 and a rear
end 21. The front end 19 of the storage bed is defined by a front
upstanding panel 23 and the sides of the storage bed are defined by
a first side upstanding panel 25 and a second side upstanding panel
27. The first side upstanding panel 25 defines a first forward
station or aperture 29 and a first rearward aperture 31 (FIG. 3),
the purpose and location of which will be discussed in greater
detail below. Likewise, the second side upstanding panel 27 defines
a second forward aperture (not shown) and a second rearward
aperture (not shown).
[0056] At the rear end 21 of the storage bed 17 is a tailgate 37.
The tailgate has a hinge end 39 and a distal end 41. The tailgate
37 defines a planar inner surface 43 extending between the hinge
end 39 and distal end 41 of the tailgate. The tailgate 37 further
comprises a first lock mechanism (not shown) which mates with a
first latch 47 mounted on the rear end of the first upstanding
panel 23. A tailgate 37 further includes a second lock mechanism 49
which interlocks with a second latch (not shown) mounted on the
second side upstanding panel 27. The first lock mechanism and
second lock mechanism 49 are selectably releasable by means of a
release actuator (not shown) mounted at the outer surface of the
distal end of the tailgate.
[0057] The truck bed extender 11 includes a frame 53 having a first
side wall 55, a second side wall 57 and a connecting wall 59
extending between the first side wall 55 and second side wall 57.
The frame 53 and, therefore, the connecting wall 59 define a
horizontal span H which is slightly less than the distance between
the first side upstanding panel 25 and second side upstanding panel
27 of the truck 13. The frame 53 is formed by a first L-shaped
section 61, a second L-shaped section 63 and a plurality of
connecting sections 65.
[0058] Both L-shaped sections 61, 63 comprise a generally L-shaped
upper cross-beam 67, a generally L-shaped lower cross-beam 69 and a
generally L-shaped middle cross-beam 71. Advantageously, each
cross-beam comprises a single piece of 1.5 inch outer diameter,
0.058 inch wall thickness, 6061-T6 aluminum tubing.
[0059] The cross-beams 67, 69 and 71 are advantageously connected
by an outer vertical strut 73, an inner vertical strut 75 and a
middle vertical strut 77. The struts 73, 75, 77 desirably extend
through mating openings in the cross-beams 67, 69, 71 and comprise
one inch outer diameter, 0.058 inch wall thickness, 6061-T6
aluminum tubing. The use of angled aluminum tubing provides for
high strength, low weight and ease of manufacture.
[0060] As shown in FIG. 2, the inner strut 75 and middle strut 77
are desirably positioned along the connecting wall 59 and the outer
strut 73 is desirably positioned along the distal end of the side
wall. Advantageously, the inner strut 75 is longer than the other
struts and projects downward from the lower crossbeam 69 so as to
define an inner strut foot 79.
[0061] The first L-shaped section 61 and second L-shaped section 63
are connected by the plurality of connecting sections 65.
Specifically, there is an upper connecting section, a lower
connecting section and a middle connecting section. Desirably, the
connecting sections comprise a 7 inch long, 1-3/8 inch outer
diameter, 0.058 inch wall thickness, 6061-T6 aluminum tube. The
connecting sections are slidable within and, desirably form a
slip-fit with, the first L-shaped section 61 and second L-shaped
section 63, and are each desirably locked in place by a pair of
locking screws 87.
[0062] Approximately 5/8 inch from the outer end of each middle
crossbeam 71 is a 0.328 inch diameter horizontal bore mounted over
the middle crossbeam 71 aligned with the bore is a mount 91 having
a body 93 which defines a throughbore. The body has an annular
middle portion with generally diametrically opposed cylindrical
projections corresponding to the throughbore. The mounts 91 are
secured respectively to the first L-shaped section and second
L-shaped section so that the throughbores are coaxially aligned.
The mount 91 further includes a generally cylindrical male member
95 having a cone-shaped engagement end 97 and an actuating end 99.
A handle 101 is threaded on the actuating end 99 and the male
member 95 is mounted for reciprocal movement within the body by a
spring 103 surrounding the male member within the body 93 of the
mount. The precompressed spring desirably has one end biased
against the body 93 of the mount and another end which is biased
against a washer 105 which is secured against outward movement
relative the male member 95 by a C clip 107. Referring now to FIG.
2, a buckle 109 is secured to each of the lower crossbeams 69 by
means of a strap 111. As shown in FIG. 4, the buckle 109 is
generally rectangular with a narrower upper portion and a wider
lower portion. The buckle 109 desirably forms a pair of parallel
slots 113 for receiving the strap 111 and a larger opening 115 for
mating with one of the lock mechanisms 49 of the vehicle.
[0063] The installation and operation of the truck bed extender 11
will now be described.
[0064] When it is desired to ready a vehicle for use with the truck
bed extender 11, the truck bed extender 11 can be placed in the
desired position on the tailgate 37 so that the distal end of the
first side wall 55 and distal end of the second side wall 57 extend
along the inner surface of the rear end of the first side
upstanding panel 25 and the second side upstanding panel 27,
respectively. When the truck bed extender 11 is in the desired
position, its width can be adjusted by sliding the first or second
L-shaped sections 61 and 63 relative the connecting section 65 and
securing it in position by means of one of the locking screws 87.
Once the extender 11 has been adjusted so that it has the desired
horizontal span H, the handle 101 of each of the mounts 91 can be
pressed outward so that the engagement end 97 of the male member 95
presses hard against the respective first side upstanding panel 25
and second side upstanding panel 27 to mark the location for
drilling the first rearward aperture 31 and second rearward
aperture 35. This approach eliminates difficulties in determining
the proper position of the apertures 31 and 35. Once the first
rearward aperture 31 and second rearward aperture 35 are drilled
into the first side upstanding panel 25 and second side upstanding
panel 27, respectively, the truck bed extender 11 is ready for
operation. Importantly, no additional brackets or modifications are
required, so that when the truck bed extender is not in use, there
are no brackets in the way, and virtually no cosmetic change to the
appearance of the truck 13.
[0065] In use, the truck bed extender is simply positioned on the
tailgate 37 so that the engagement ends 97 of the mounts 91 extend
through the respective first rearward aperture 31 and second
rearward aperture (not shown). In this position, the truck bed
extender provides a strong, secure retaining device while the
openings between the respective crossbeams and struts permit the
flow of air to minimize air resistance. If it is desired to remove
the truck bed extender 11, the handles 101 secured to each of the
male members 95 are simply pulled inward causing engagement ends 97
of the male members 95 to retract from the first rearward aperture
31 and second rearward aperture 35 and the truck bed extender can
be removed.
[0066] The truck bed extender can be further secured against
undesired rotation about the mounts 91 by means of the buckle 109
and strap 111, by simply securing the buckles 109 in the first lock
mechanism (not shown) and second lock mechanism 49, respectively,
of the tailgate 37. Advantageously, the buckles are configured so
that they are secured in place by the lock mechanisms and are
selectably releasable by the tailgate's own release actuator.
[0067] Importantly, in the event it is desired to use the truck bed
extender 11 to form a rear storage compartment, as shown in FIG. 5,
the truck bed extender can be quickly and easily pivoted about the
coaxial male members 95 so that the connecting wall 59 is in a
vertical position spaced inward from the rear end 21 of the storage
bed 17 and, therefore, the tailgate 37. In this position, the truck
bed extender 11 provides a convenient open upper-ended storage
compartment to secure grocery bags or other items against movement
within the truck bed.
[0068] Advantageously, the truck bed extender 11 is extremely
strong, but at the same time lightweight. In addition, because its
structural configuration lends itself to construction with a
minimum of parts, the extender can be manufactured at a relatively
low cost.
[0069] Advantageously, as shown in FIG. 7, the truck bed extender
provides a convenient work or picnic bench when it is removed from
the vehicle. Specifically, when the distal ends of the first side
wall 55 and second side wall 57 are placed on the ground, one or
more individuals can sit on the connecting wall 59.
[0070] Finally, as shown in FIG. 8, the truck bed extender 11 is
also capable of forming a forward storage compartment adjacent the
cab 15 of the truck 13. Such a position is often desirable when
transporting pets, due to the proximity to the driver and the wind
resistance afforded by the cab 15. If it is desired to use the
truck bed extender to form such a forward storage compartment, a
first forward aperture 29 and a second forward aperture (not shown)
are desirably formed in the first side upstanding panel 25 and
second side upstanding panel 27, respectively by locating and
drilling the apertures in a manner similar to that of the rearward
apertures 31 and 35. It is then a simple matter to place the truck
bed extender 11 in position so that the first side wall 55 and
second side wall 57 extend forward from the connecting wall so that
the connecting wall 59 is spaced rearward from the front upstanding
panel 23 of the truck 13. Again, removal is easily accomplished by
simply pulling the handles 101 inward so that engagement ends 97
the male members 95 are retracted within the mounts 91 so that they
are withdrawn from the first forward aperture 29 and second forward
aperture (not shown).
[0071] Referring now to FIGS. 9 to 11, a female member or bracket
120 is illustrated in accordance with a second preferred
embodiment. The bracket 120 includes a plurality of screw holes 122
which facilitate mounting the bracket 120 to the panels 25, 27
(FIG. 1) of the truck 13. Preferably, four such brackets 120 are
mounted by screws through the screw holes 122 to the panels 25, 27
at positions centered about positions of the forward aperture 29
and rearward aperture 31 of the first embodiment (FIGS. 1-8).
[0072] The bracket has an upper edge 124 which defines an aperture
or slot with an upper opening and a relatively more narrow lower
opening. In the illustrated embodiment, the edge 124 includes a
pair of generally horizontal upper surfaces 126. A pair of slanted
portions 128 extend inwardly and downwardly from the horizontal
portion 126, each terminating at a cusp 129. A lower curved portion
130 extends downwardly from and joins the cusps 129 to one
another.
[0073] Advantageously, the curved portion 130 defines greater than
180.degree. of a circle, and is illustrated defining about
300.degree. of a circle. Accordingly, the slot defined by the upper
edge 124 is more narrow at the cusps 129 than at the widest point
of the curved portion 130 below.
[0074] With reference to FIG. 12, a mount 140 is shown, including a
body 142 which defines a generally horizontal cylindrical bore. As
with the mount 91 of the first embodiment (FIG. 3), a mount 140 can
be fitted over each middle crossbeam 71 (FIG. 2) approximately 5/8
inch from the outer end.
[0075] A male element 144 extends from the body 142. The male
element 144, in turn, includes an axle portion 146 and a relatively
wider locking portion 148, illustrated as a disk. The axle portion
146 has two generally horizontal, opposed flat sides 150 and two
opposed curved sides 152 (one of each shown). The maximum spacing
between the opposed flat sides 150 defines a first width of the
axle portion 146. The first width is less than the spacing between
the cusps 129 on the bracket 120 (FIGS. 9-11). The maximum spacing
between the opposed curved sides 152 define a second width between
them, where the second width is greater than the spacing between
the cusps 129 on the bracket 120. Preferably, the curved sides 152
have the same curvature as the curved portion 130 of the bracket
120 (FIGS. 9-11) with a slightly smaller radius of curvature.
[0076] The extender of the second preferred embodiment (not shown)
will resemble the extender 11 of FIG. 2, except including a mount
140 at the end of each middle cross-beam. Accordingly, the
following discussion will refer to components of second preferred
embodiment by reference numerals assigned to like components of the
first preferred embodiment (FIGS. 1-8).
[0077] In mounting the extender 11 to the truck 13 (which already
has brackets 140 mounted thereto), a user can lift the extender 11
with the connecting wall 59 facing up and the side walls 55, 57
extending downwardly. The axle portions 146 are then aligned with
the slots of the brackets 140. In this position, the flat sides 150
of the axle portions 146 are generally vertical. The extender 11 is
then lowered. Since the first width is narrower than the spacing
between the cusps 129 of the bracket 120, each axle portion 146
fits between the cusps 129 of a corresponding bracket 120. The 148
fits into the wider upper opening defined by the horizontal upper
surfaces 126.
[0078] As the extender 11 is lowered, a curved side 152 of the male
element 144 contacts the curved portion 130 of the corresponding
female element or bracket 120. The extender 11 is then rotated
outward or inward about 90.degree. (see FIG. 5). The curved sides
152 of the axle portions 146 mate with and journal within the
curved portion 130 of the bracket 120. When thus rotated, the cusps
129 prevent the axles 146 from lifting out of brackets 120, as will
be understood by one of skill in the art. To remove the extender
11, the extender 11 must be rotated until the flat sides 150 of the
axle portions 146 are approximately vertical, and can slip past the
cusps 129 on the brackets 120.
[0079] Advantageously, the extender 11 of the second preferred
embodiment can be installed or removed without retracting any
locking mechanism and without scratching the paint on the interior
of the truck bed 17. Accordingly, the user's hands can be used
solely to lift and rotate the extender 11.
[0080] With reference to FIGS. 13 and 14, a combination mount and
strut 140a is shown with a male element 144a, which can be similar
to the male element 144 of FIG. 12. By performing both functions of
supporting the cross-beams and mounting the extender, this
combination mount and strut 140a can simplify the extender design
and reduce part numbers.
[0081] With reference to FIG. 15, an alternative female mounting
element or bracket 120b is shown, including an upwardly extending
arm 160, a left screw hole 162, and right screw hole 164 for
mounting the bracket 120b to a truck panel 27. It will be
understood that a second bracket would be provided in a mirror
image of that illustrate for the opposite panel 25 of the truck.
The arm 160 is oriented such that a curved portion 130b (in which a
male mounting element can journal) is appropriately positioned
while the left screw hole 162 aligns with a pre-existing screw hole
in the truck panel 25 or 27, such as the lower hole for the
tailgate latch mechanism 47. This arrangement advantageously
reduces the number of screw holes required to be drilled in the
truck panels, while still fixing the bracket 120b in a unique
position.
[0082] Furthermore, it is possible that the arm 160 could be
extended further upward, and another screw hole provided in
alignment with the upper latch screw of the tailgate latch
mechanism 47, thereby eliminating any need for a right screw
hole.
[0083] FIGS. 16 and 17 illustrated yet another bracket 120c, having
two upper screw holes 166 and one lower screw hole 168. It will be
recognized that this arrangement reduces by one the number of screw
holes required to be drilled, relative to the bracket 120 of FIGS.
9-11.
[0084] Referring to FIG. 18, an alternative vehicle bed extender
11b is shown mounted to a truck 13 having a tailgate 37 including a
hinge end 39 and a distal end 41 and defining an inner surface 43.
The bed extender includes a first side wall 169, a second side wall
170, and a connecting wall 171. As with the extender 11 discussed
above, the walls are formed by a first L-shaped section 172 and a
second L-shaped section 173 connected by a plurality of straight
connecting sections 174. As in the extender 11 of FIG. 1, the
sections are formed from L-shaped and straight pieces of tubing.
Specifically, each L-shaped section includes a first cross beam
175, a second cross beam 176 and a third cross beam 177. The cross
beams and the straight sections 174 are connected by elongate
vertical plastic struts. Significantly, the bed extender 11b is
shown with a first and a second locking strut which is a
combination mount and strut and 78, as previously described in
connection with FIG. 13. The extender 11b also includes a first and
second latching strut 180 which is a combination interlock and
strut, a first and second bumper strut 182 which is a combination
bumper and strut, and a first and second simple strut 184. The
struts 178, 180, 182 and 184 each define cylindrical openings for
receiving the tubular cross beams. The struts 178, 182 and 184 are
clamped tightly around the cross beams by means of first, second,
and third fasteners 186, 188, and 190, respectively. The first and
second latch struts 180 define only two horizontal bores and are
secured to only the lower (when the truck bed extender is mounted
over the tailgate) two cross members. Each latch strut 180, or
connector, defines an outer side 196 defining a mounting surface to
which is secured an interlock 200 defining an arm portion 202 and
an interlock portion 204. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS.
18-25, the interlock portion 204 forms a cylinder. Significantly,
the latch struts 180 and, therefore, the interlock portion 204 is
movable toward the front and rear of the tailgate to ensure proper
positioning with respect to the existing tailgate locking
mechanism.
[0085] The bumper strut 182 includes a first post 210 extending
beyond the upper cross beam 175, which is provided with a first
resilient bumper 212 and a second post 214 extending below the
lower cross member 177, which is provided with a second bumper
216.
[0086] Referring to FIG. 20, it will be appreciated that the simple
struts 184 are positioned so as to cover the seam 218 between the
L-shaped cross beams and the straight connecting sections.
[0087] As illustrated in FIGS. 18 and 21-25, the tailgate is
provided with a first and second lock mechanism. As both lock
mechanisms are mirror images of one another, only the second lock
mechanism 222 need be described. The second lock mechanism 222 is
positioned within a notch 223 in the tailgate. The lock mechanism
222 includes an interlock portion 224, which is controlled by a
release actuator 226. As well known by those of skill in the art,
the release actuator 226 typically operates both the first and the
second lock mechanisms. Importantly, the locking mechanism
described is a standard lock mechanism used on the vehicles to
releasably secure the tailgate in an upright position. Thus, no
customized lock mechanism is required.
[0088] Referring again to FIG. 18, a first holder 228 is mounted to
the inner surface of the first upstanding panel 25 and a second
holder 230 is mounted to the inner surface of the second upstanding
panel 27. As the first holder 228 and second holder 230 are
identical, only the first holder 228 will be described. The first
holder 228 has a body 232 which is straddled by a pair of L-shaped
flanges 234, which are used to space the body 232 from the inner
surface of the panel 25 and to provide a surface to mount the
holder 228 to the panel 25. The holder defines an upper edge 236,
which in turn defines a U-shaped slot 238 having an upper open end
and a lower closed end. The purpose of the holders 228 and 230 will
be described in detail below. Referring now to FIGS. 21 and 21a,
the bed extender 11b is shown disconnected from the truck 13. The
bed extender 116 is positioned with the connecting wall 171 being
horizontal, the open ends of the extender 116 extending downward
and the male members of the locking struts 178 being aligned in a
vertical plane with the aperture of the bracket 120.
Advantageously, the truck bed extender can be easily aligned in
this manner by a single person by grasping the bed extender in two
locations spaced on either side of the center of gravity of the bed
extender. As shown by the arrows in FIGS. 21 and 22, the bed
extender is then simply lowered vertically downward until the axle
portion fits between the cusps 129 of the bracket 120. Similarly,
the locking portion fits into the wide opening defined by the
horizontal upper surfaces 126.
[0089] When the truck bed extender reaches the position shown in
FIGS. 22 and 22a, the extender 11b can be rotated outward or inward
approximately 90.degree.. The curved sides 152 of the axle portions
146 mate with and journal within the curved portion of the bracket
120. When thus rotated, the cusps prevent the axles 146 from
lifting out of the brackets 120, as will be understood by one of
skill in the art.
[0090] FIGS. 23 and 23a show the truck bed extender rotated
approximately 60.degree. outward so that the axle portion is
secured by the bracket 120.
[0091] As will be appreciated by FIGS. 23 and 24, as the bed
extender 11b rotates downward, portion 204 of the second interlock
200 is received and retained by the interlock portion 224 of the
second lock mechanism 222 of the tailgate. Significantly, the
vehicle bed extender is configured such that the only portions of
the bed extender 11b in contact with the tailgate 37 are the
interlocks 200. That is, as best seen in FIG. 24, when the bed
extender is latched to the tailgate with the connecting wall in an
upright position, the side walls 169, 170 and the connecting wall
171 are spaced above the tailgate 37. The bumper struts 182 are
provided with bumpers only for purposes of cushioning any contact
between the connecting wall and the tailgate, in the event the
tailgate is jarred such as when the vehicle strikes a speed bump at
excessive speed. This positioning of the side walls and connecting
walls above the tailgate prevents undesired vibration and
rattling.
[0092] When it is desired to close the tailgate, it is a simple
matter to actuate the release actuator 226, thereby releasing the
interlock portions 204 permitting the extender 11b to be rotated
upward away from the tailgate about the pivot axis defined by the
brackets 120 either to (1) a position where the connecting wall is
parallel to the truck bed, so that the truck bed extender can be
removed, by lifting it upward in the direction opposite to the
arrow shown in FIG. 21, or (2) a position shown in FIGS. 25 and
25a, where the interlock portion 204 of the bed extender is secured
within the slot 238 of the holder 230. Again, as the bed extender
is secured by the holders 228 and 230 above the vehicle bed,
vibration and rattling is minimized. As shown in FIG. 25, in this
position, the tailgate can be closed and latched in the usual
manner. Referring now to FIG. 26, an alternative bracket 240 is
illustrated. Significantly, the bracket 240 can be mounted on the
vehicle solely through the use of an existing fastener 254 used to
secure a tailgate safety cable 256 to the side panel 25 of the
truck. The first bracket 240 includes a first section 242 extending
parallel to the length of the truck, a second section 244 extending
perpendicular to the first section and a third section 246
extending parallel to the first section and perpendicular to the
second section. The first section 242 defines a connector hole 250
for receiving the fastener 254 used to mount the inner end of the
tailgate safety cable 256 to the panel.
[0093] Advantageously, due to the configuration of the first
bracket 240, no additional fasteners are required to securely mount
the bracket 240 to the vehicle. Significantly, the sections
cooperate to prevent the rotation of the bracket about the axis of
the connector hole 250 when the bracket 240 is mounted on the
vehicle.
[0094] FIGS. 27a and 27b illustrate an alternative bed extender 11c
having a latching strut 260 including an interlock arm 262 having
an interlock portion 264 defining a buckle arrangement. This
interlock is used in connection with the other major form of
standard tailgate locking mechanism, well known to those of skill
in the art. Advantageously, the interlock portion 264 provides the
only contact between the extender 11c and the tailgate, thereby
minimizing vibration and rattling.
[0095] FIGS. 28-33 illustrate an alternative connector 270 adapted
to be secured to only the lower crossbeam of a bed extender 11d.
The connector 270 includes a bracket 271 and an interlock having an
arm 272 and an interlock portion 274. The bracket 271 includes a
base 276 and a clamp 278 secured to the base by fasteners. As with
the latch struts 180, 260 described above, the connector has the
advantage of being movable toward the front and rear of the
tailgate to ensure proper positioning with respect to the existing
tailgate latch mechanism.
[0096] FIGS. 34-37 illustrate holders 280, 282 mountable to the
inner surface of the side panels to mate with and retain the
interlock portion of a connector, such as the latch strut 180.
[0097] FIGS. 38-41 illustrate an alternative bracket 290 and an
alternative combination first and second interlock and strut 300
which operates in the same general manner as the bracket and
combination interlock and strut illustrated in FIGS. 18-26, with
the notable exceptions that the holder is integrally formed with
the mount and strut, and the holder is provided with a lock
mechanism, as will be described in detail below.
[0098] Referring now to FIGS. 38 and 39, the elongate bracket 290
is provided with a screw hole 302 at each end. The bracket includes
an upper raised holder portion 304 and a lower raised station
portion 306. The upper holder portion 304 and lower station portion
306 are separated by spacing flange 308. An upper mounting flange
310 which defines the upper screw hole 302 is provided above the
upper holder portion 304. A lower mounting flange 312 defining the
lower screw hole 302 is provided below the lower station portion
306.
[0099] The lower station portion 306 forms an aperture 316 defined
by an upper edge 318. The upper edge 318 includes an arcuate
portion 320 which defines a pivot surface and a pair of slanted
portions 322 which define a pair of guiding surfaces. As in prior
designs, the upper spacing wall 323 of the lower station portion
306 defines an opening for receiving the larger end portion of a
male member, as will be described below.
[0100] The upper holder portion 304 is similarly spaced outward
from the flanges 308, 310 and 312. The upper holder portion 304
includes an edge 324 which defines a U-shaped slot 326 having an
open end 328 and a closed end 330. A latch 332 is mounted to the
upper holder portion 304 by pivot pin 334.
[0101] As best seen in FIG. 40, the latch 332 has a generally
C-shaped body 336 and a release arm or lever 338. The body 336
further defines a mounting hole 340 opposite the release arm 338.
Between the release arm 338 and the mounting hole 340 is a
generally U-shaped slot 342 including an open end and a closed end.
The slot is formed by an edge which defines a locking surface 348
and an engagement surface 350.
[0102] Referring now to FIG. 41, the combination first and second
interlock and strut 300 will now be described. The combination
first and second interlock and strut 300 has the same general
configuration as the combination interlock and strut 140a
illustrated in FIG. 13, with certain exceptions. Specifically, the
strut 300 includes three openings 352 to receive the cross beams,
and includes a first male member 354 similar to the male element
144 previously described in connection with FIG. 12. The
combination first and second interlock and strut 300 differs from
the combination interlock and strut of FIGS. 13-14 in that it
includes a second male member 356 extending from near the upper end
of the combination first and second interlock and strut. The second
male member 356 includes a larger disc-shaped outer end portion 358
and a smaller cylindrical middle portion 360. The middle portion
360 defines a cylindrical engagement surface 362.
[0103] A truck bed extender utilizing the combination first and
second interlock and strut 300 and the bracket 290 is operated in a
manner very similar to that previously described in connection with
the extender, bracket and holder of FIGS. 18-26. As will be
appreciated by one of skill in the art, however, the bracket 290 is
mounted on the inside vertical surface of one of the upright panels
of the vehicle, such as second panel 27, so that the lower station
portion is positioned in the same location as the station portion
of the bracket 120. Advantageously, because the upper holder
portion and lower station portion are formed as a single piece, the
holder portion need not be separately positioned and mounted.
[0104] Another advantage of this design is illustrated in FIGS.
42-45, which show an enlarged view of that which has already been
described in FIG. 38. When the truck bed extender is rotated to the
position shown in FIG. 24, in addition to being locked against
radial movement about the pivot axis by the lower station portion
306 as shown in FIG. 38, the cylindrical engagement surface 362 of
the smaller middle portion 360 of the second male member 356, seen
in FIG. 38, enters into the open end 328 of the U-shaped slot 326
and presses against the body 336 of the latch 332. This causes the
latch 332 to rotate about the pivot pin 334 as seen in FIGS. 43 and
44 and in phantom in FIG. 38 until the cylindrical engagement
surface is locked in place by the latch 332, as illustrated in FIG.
45. Specifically, the locking surface 348 of the body 336 of the
latch 332 prevents the cylindrical engagement surface 362 of the
second male member 356, as seen in FIG. 38, from being removed
through the open end 328 of the slot 326 of the upper holder
portion 304.
[0105] When it is desired to release the lock and rotate the truck
bed extender so that it is in the position shown in FIG. 25, the
release arm 338 of the latch 332 is pushed toward the upper holder
portion 304 which, due to its configuration, causes the latch 332
to pivot about the pivot pin 334 as shown in phantom in FIG. 38.
Advantageously, the release of this lock member can be achieved
through the use of a single finger.
[0106] As will be appreciated, this arrangement provides a number
of significant advantages. As discussed above, the use of a single
piece to define both the holder and station avoid the need for a
separate positioning and mounting operation. Further, the use of a
separate lock avoids potential wear and tear on the tailgate latch
mechanism. Importantly, the automatic nature of the lock ensures
that when the truck bed extender is rotated into position over the
tailgate, with the connecting wall in a vertical position, the
truck bed extender will be locked in place automatically. This
essentially eliminates the need for the user to remember to lock
the extender into position over the tailgate. Advantageously, the
connecting wall of the truck bed extender is locked so as to be
spaced above the tailgate avoiding vibration. At the same time,
because the extender locks into position, the truck bed extender
secures the tailgate against significant upward movement in the
event the vehicle rides over a large bump.
[0107] Again, the particular arrangement is particularly desirable
in that only one combination first and second interlock and strut
300 need be used to lock the bed extender in place. The other side
can utilize the standard mounting bracket 120. This is desirable
not only from an assembly and cost standpoint, but also facilitates
the unlocking of the extender. In this regard, it is further
significant that the lock mechanism utilized does not need to be
retracted to avoid damage to the side panel of a vehicle during the
locking operation.
[0108] FIGS. 46-51 illustrate an alternative lock consisting of a
first and second interlock for securing the extender to the
tailgate or bed of the truck. As shown in FIG. 46, the first
interlock portion or clamp 363 is affixed to the bumper strut 182.
The clamp 363 connects to the second interlock portion or latch or
bar 364, which is attached to distal end of the tailgate 365 when
the extender is in position over the tailgate, as illustrated in
FIG. 46. A third interlock portion 364, identical to the second
interlock portion, may also be attached to the bed of the truck 366
when the extender is used to form a rear storage compartment as in
FIG. 47.
[0109] FIG. 48 included an enlarged view of the clamp 363. The
clamp 363 has an opening 366 to accommodate the bar 364. The
opening 366 in the clamp 363 includes a first portion 368 forming a
narrow opening and a second portion 367 defining a slot sizable
enough to accommodate the bar 364. The clamp 363 is preferably made
of a resilient material so that the first portion 368 can expand to
allow the bar 364 to enter the receiver slot 367 defined by the
second portion. Thus some force must be applied to connect the
clamp 363 to the bar 364.
[0110] FIG. 49 is a perspective view of the clamp 363 and the bar
364. As can be seen, the bar consists of two flat mounting portions
370 that will serve as the attachment points to the tailgate or bed
of the truck and a raised portion 369 to which the clamp 363
attaches. FIG. 50 shows that the bar 364 has two holes 371 which
allow the bar 364 to be screwed or bolted to a surface.
[0111] Advantageously, the alternative first 363 and second 364
interlock allow the extender to be secured while in use. This
reduces unwanted vibration or noise and should prevent unwanted
movement of the extender. Importantly, the extender can be simply
secured using this lock by simply pressing down on the extender
when it is in position. Similarly, pushing up on the extender will
release the fastener.
[0112] While the invention has been described with reference to
certain preferred embodiments, many variations are possible and
those of skill in the art will appreciate various modifications
within the scope and spirit of the invention.
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