An Automated Tarpaulin Covering and Locking System and Method of Operation

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Title: An Automated Tarpaulin Covering and Locking System and Method of Operation The present disclosure proposes an automated tarpaulin covering and locking system (100) that provides enhanced load security by ensuring that a tarpaulin (110) is securely fastened on all sides of a truck (10), preventing movement or spillage of a load during transit. The automated tarpaulin covering and locking system (100) comprises a tarpaulin deployment assembly (102) and a tarpaulin locking assembly (104). Additionally, the automated tarpaulin covering and locking system (100) offers automated operation by automating the deployment and retraction of the tarpaulin (110), reducing manual labor and speeding up the process of covering and uncovering the load. This automation is powered by a barrel cam (118) that enables smooth, controlled movement of the tarpaulin (110). The design also focuses on reliability and durability, reducing mechanical wear and tear by minimizing the interaction between moving parts.

Specification

Description:DESCRIPTION:
Field of the invention:
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to the technical field of automated systems for covering and securing loads on commercial vehicles, and in specific relates to an automated tarpaulin covering and locking system designed to ensure efficient deployment and secure fastening of tarpaulins over truckloads.
Background of the invention:
[0002] Transportation of goods by commercial trucks is a vital part of global logistics and supply chains. A common requirement in the transportation industry is ensuring that truckloads are securely covered during transit to protect the goods from environmental factors like rain, dust, and wind, while also preventing load spillage, which could pose a hazard to other road users. In many countries, it is mandatory that transported goods must be adequately covered for safety and compliance purposes.
[0003] Despite the regulations, manually covering and securing truckloads with tarpaulins can be labor-intensive, time-consuming, and inefficient. Manual processes are prone to errors, leading to improperly secured tarpaulins that can result in cargo damage or accidents on the road due to shifting loads or falling debris. Additionally, the manual method often fails to provide a consistent level of tension and security on all sides of the load, making the covering vulnerable to wind and other environmental conditions.
[0004] Several automated and semi-automated systems have been developed to address the problem of efficiently covering and securing tarpaulins over truckloads. For example, screw shaft mechanisms systems use rings inserted into a screw shaft to move a tarpaulin along the truck's load, covering it as the screw shaft rotates. However, the screw shaft mechanisms systems are prone to jamming if the rings or the shaft become misaligned or if debris interferes with the screw mechanism. This can prevent the tarpaulin from fully covering or uncovering the cargo, defeating the purpose of automation.
[0005] Further, movable covers with springs and holes systems, springs and mechanical frames are employed to cover and lock the load, using holes or slots to secure the tarpaulin at specific points. The spring and frame-based covers systems using springs and mechanical frames experience wear and tear over time. Springs can lose tension, and repeated use of holes or slots can cause mechanical fatigue, leading to failure in locking the tarpaulin securely.
[0006] At present, belt and pulley systems involve belt and pulley mechanisms to deploy the tarpaulin over the load but often lack effective locking mechanisms to secure the sides and endpoints of the tarpaulin. Although these systems provide basic automation, they often fail to secure the sides and endpoints of the tarpaulin properly, leaving the load vulnerable to environmental exposure and reducing overall safety.
[0007] Pneumatic cylinder systems are used in some systems to automate the opening and closing of the tarpaulin cover over the truck's load. While pneumatic systems offer smooth opening and closing, they typically focus on enhancing the speed and efficiency of deployment but do not address the need for a strong, secure locking mechanism. These systems are susceptible to mechanical failure and may not provide adequate security during high-speed transit.
[0008] Therefore, the existing technologies for covering and securing tarpaulins on commercial trucks have significant limitations in terms of reliability, wear and tear, and secure locking mechanisms. These shortcomings create a need for a more robust and efficient automated tarpaulin system that ensures complete coverage and secure locking on all sides of the truck.
[0009] Therefore there is a need for an automated tarpaulin covering and locking system that is designed to ensure efficient deployment and secure fastening of tarpaulins over truckloads. There is also a need for an automated tarpaulin covering and locking system that integrates mechanical and motorized components to automatically cover and securely lock the tarpaulin on all sides of the truck, enhancing safety, reducing manual labor, and improving operational efficiency in the transportation of goods.
Objectives of the invention:
[0010] The primary objective of the invention is to provide an automated tarpaulin covering and locking system that is designed to ensure efficient deployment and secure fastening of tarpaulins over truckloads.
[0011] Another objective of the invention is to provide an automated tarpaulin covering and locking system that integrates mechanical and motorized components to automatically cover and securely lock the tarpaulin on all sides of the truck, enhancing safety, reducing manual labor, and improving operational efficiency in the transportation of goods.
[0012] The other objective of the invention is to provide a robust automated tarpaulin covering and locking system that ensures the tarpaulin is securely fastened on all sides of the truck, preventing any movement or spillage of the load during transit.
[0013] Another objective of the invention is to automate the deployment and retraction of the tarpaulin, minimizing manual labor and reducing the time required to cover and uncover truckloads.
[0014] Another objective of the invention is to design an automated tarpaulin covering and locking system that reduces mechanical wear and tear by minimizing the interaction between moving parts. Unlike traditional systems that rely on springs or pneumatics.
[0015] The other objective of the invention is to provide a fast and effective locking and unlocking mechanism using rack teeth levers and gears that engage and disengage the tarpaulin quickly and reliably.
[0016] The other objective of the invention is to enhance the overall safety of the vehicle by ensuring that the load is fully covered and securely locked, thus preventing accidents caused by unsecured cargo or load spillage.
[0017] Yet another objective of the invention is to protect the transported goods from exposure to environmental elements such as rain, dust, and wind, by securely covering the load with a retractable tarpaulin that remains taut and properly fastened throughout the journey.
[0018] Another objective of the invention is to provide a cost-effective and low-maintenance solution for commercial vehicle operators by reducing manual labor, minimizing system failures, and extending the lifespan of the covering system through durable design components.
Summary of the invention:
[0019] The present disclosure proposes an automated tarpaulin covering and locking system and method of operation. The following presents a simplified summary in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the claimed subject matter. This summary is not an extensive overview. It is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope of the claimed subject matter. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
[0020] In order to overcome the above deficiencies of the prior art, the present disclosure is to solve the technical problem to provide an automated tarpaulin covering and locking system designed to ensure efficient deployment and secure fastening of tarpaulins over truckloads.
[0021] According to an aspect, the invention provides an automated tarpaulin covering and locking system that comprises a tarpaulin deployment assembly and a tarpaulin locking assembly.
[0022] The tarpaulin deployment assembly comprises a spool unit , a driving unit, a tarpaulin, a movable shaft, one or more guide shafts, at least two followers, a pin attached to each follower, and a barrel cam with a helical groove. The tarpaulin locking assembly comprises a pair of levers having rack teeth, a pair of locking shafts, plurality of fastening clamps, a pair of rotary discs, and a stopper clamp.
[0023] The spool unit is operably connected to the driving unit. The spool unit is configured to store and wind the tarpaulin. The movable shaft is connected to a lead edge of the tarpaulin. The movable shaft is operable to unwind the tarpaulin from the spool unit. The guide shafts are positioned on opposing sides of a truck bed. Each guide shaft is connected to the movable shaft through at least two followers. The barrel cam is positioned on at least one side of the truck bed, and operably connected to the driving unit. One of the at least two followers is movably connected to the helical groove of the barrel cam. The driving unit includes at least one motor that is electrically connected to a power unit. The driving unit is configured to rotate the barrel cam through a predetermined number of rotations to facilitate smooth forward and reverse movement of the tarpaulin.
[0024] The levers are connected to the respective followers on each guide shaft. The locking shafts are positioned on the opposing sides of the truck bed. Each locking shaft has a distal end connected to the locking gear. The fastening clamps are fixed on each locking shaft. Further, each rotary disc includes a slot for connecting one end of the corresponding locking shafts. The rotary discs are configured to facilitate the movement of the locking shafts.
[0025] In one embodiment, when the driving unit rotates the barrel cam, the follower with the pin traverses the helical groove of the barrel cam, causing the followers to slide along the respective guide shafts, thereby moving the movable shaft in a linear motion to selectively unwind or wind the tarpaulin with precise control over the tarpaulin deployment and retraction.
[0026] During a deployment process, the driving unit rotates the barrel cam in clockwise direction, causing the follower with the pin traverses the helical groove of the barrel cam, thereby moving each follower a deployment direction (forward direction) along the respective guide shafts, thereby moving the movable shaft in a linear motion to unwind the tarpaulin from the spool unit. As the levers are connected to the followers, so when the followers move in the deployment direction, the levers move in conjunction with the respective followers. Once the levers reach the distal end of the respective locking shafts, the rack teeth of the levers engage with teeth of the respective locking gears. As the driving unit still rotates the barrel cam, the followers continue moving forward, thereby rotating the locking gears in clockwise direction, causing the locking shafts to move downward, lowering the fastening clamps to securely fasten a deployed tarpaulin over the truck bed, providing stable coverage and protection during transport.
[0027] In one embodiment, the driving unit rotates the barrel cam in a counter-clockwise direction for winding the tarpaulin over the spool unit. The stopper clamp is disposed at ends of the opposing sides. The stopper clamp is configured with a semi-circular opening for holding the movable shaft when the tarpaulin is deployed over the truck bed, thereby preventing movement during transit. The stopper clamp further comprises teeth that are configured to engage with the rack teeth of the respective levers upon fasting the deployed tarpaulin over the truck bed by the plurality of fastening clamps.
[0028] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, a method for automatically covering and securing a tarpaulin on the truck. The method comprises, activating, by a user, a driving unit to rotate a barrel cam. The method comprises, enabling a follower to slide along a guide shaft to pull the tarpaulin from a spool unit, thereby deploying the tarpaulin and covering the truck bed of the truck. The method comprises, engaging the rack teeth of the levers with the respective locking gears to activate a locking process. The method comprises, enabling the locking gears to rotate for lowering a pair of locking shafts along with the fastening clamps onto the deployed tarpaulin and secure the deployed tarpaulin along sides of the truck bed. The method comprises, reactivating, by the user, the driving unit to rotate the barrel cam in reverse, releasing the deployed tarpaulin and rolling the tarpaulin back onto the spool unit.
[0029] Further, objects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from a study of the following portion of the specification, the claims, and the attached drawings.
Detailed description of drawings:
[0030] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate an embodiment of the invention, and, together with the description, explain the principles of the invention.
[0031] FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of an automated tarpaulin covering and locking system, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0032] FIG. 1B illustrates a perspective view of the automated tarpaulin covering and locking system, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0033] FIG. 1C illustrates an exploded view of the automated tarpaulin covering and locking system, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0034] FIG. 2A illustrates a detailed view of levers connection with respective followers, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0035] FIG. 2B illustrates a side view of the automated tarpaulin covering and locking system, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0036] FIG. 3A illustrates a top view illustrating the activation of the tarpaulin deployment assembly, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0037] FIG. 3B illustrates a corresponding side view of this activation of the tarpaulin deployment assembly, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0038] FIG. 3C illustrates a top view of the tarpaulin in a partially deployed state, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0039] FIG. 3D illustrates the complete deployment of the tarpaulin, fully covering the truck bed, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0040] FIG. 4A illustrates a top view illustrating the activation of the tarpaulin locking assembly, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0041] FIG. 4B illustrates a corresponding side view of this activation of the tarpaulin locking assembly depicting downward motion of the locking shafts, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0042] FIG. 4C illustrates a side view depicting the unlocking and retraction (rewinding) of the deployed tarpaulin, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0043] FIG. 5 illustrates a flowchart of a method for automatically covering and securing a tarpaulin on the truck, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
Detailed invention disclosure:
[0044] Various embodiments of the present invention will be described in reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, same or similar reference numerals are used in the drawings and the description to refer to the same or like parts or steps.
[0045] The present disclosure has been made with a view towards solving the problem with the prior art described above, and it is an object of the present invention to provide an automated tarpaulin covering and locking system designed to ensure efficient deployment and secure fastening of tarpaulins over truckloads.
[0046] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 1A refers to a perspective view of an automated tarpaulin covering and locking system 100 for a truck 10. FIG. 1B refers to a perspective view of the automated tarpaulin covering and locking system 100. The automated tarpaulin covering and locking system 100 comprises a tarpaulin deployment assembly 102 and a tarpaulin locking assembly 104. In one embodiment, the truck 10 comprises a truck bed 12. The truck bed 12 have a pair of side walls (14, 16) laterally separated by a front wall 18.
[0047] FIG. 1C refers to an exploded view of the automated tarpaulin covering and locking system 100. The tarpaulin deployment assembly 102 comprises a spool unit 106, a driving unit 108, a tarpaulin 110, a movable shaft 112, one or more guide shafts 114, at least two followers 116, a pin 116A attached to each follower 116, and a barrel cam 118 with a helical groove 118A. The tarpaulin locking assembly 104 comprises a pair of levers 120 having rack teeth 120A, a pair of locking shafts 122, plurality of fastening clamps 126, a pair of rotary discs 128, and at least two stopper clamps 130.
[0048] The spool unit 106 is operably connected to the driving unit 108. The spool unit 106 is configured to store and wind the tarpaulin 110. The movable shaft 112 is connected to a lead edge of the tarpaulin 110. The movable shaft 112 is operable to unwind the tarpaulin 110 from the spool unit 106. The guide shafts 114 are positioned on opposing sides of a truck bed 12. Each guide shaft 114 is connected to the movable shaft 112 through at least two followers 116. In some embodiments, the tarpaulin deployment assembly 102 comprise at least one guide shaft 114 on a first side 14 of the truck bed 12 and at least one guide shaft 114 on a second side 16 of the truck bed 12. The first and second sides (14, 16) can be opposite lateral sides. At least one follower 116 is movably fixed on the guide shaft 114 on the first side 14, and another follower 116 is movably fixed on the guide shaft 114 on the second side 16.
[0049] The barrel cam 118 is positioned on at least one side of the truck bed 12, and operably connected to the driving unit 108. In a preferred embodiment, the barrel cam 118 have a first end attached to driving unit 108, and a second end fixed on a support structure 131. One of the at least two followers 116 is movably connected to the helical groove 118A of the barrel cam 118. In preferred embodiment, the follower 116 is on the first side 14 is configured with the pin 116A. The pin 116A is inserted into the helical groove 118A of the barrel cam 118.
[0050] In some embodiments, at least one barrel cam 118 is positioned on the first side 14 and the second side 16. Further each follower 116 is configured with at least one pin 116A.
[0051] The driving unit 108 includes at least one motor that is electrically connected to a power unit (not shown). The driving unit 108 is configured to rotate the barrel cam 118 through a predetermined number of rotations to facilitate smooth forward and reverse movement of the tarpaulin 110. In another embodiment, the driving unit 108 comprises a controller that is configured to control the motor rotation.
[0052] The levers 120 are connected to the respective followers 116 on each guide shaft 114. The locking shafts 122 are positioned on the opposing sides of the truck bed 12. Each locking shaft 122 having a distal end connected to at least one locking gear 124. The fastening clamps 126 are fixed on each locking shaft 122. Further, each rotary disc 128 includes a slot 128A for connecting one end of the corresponding locking shafts 122. The rotary discs 128 are configured to facilitate the movement of the locking shafts 122.
[0053] In one embodiment, when the driving unit 108 rotates the barrel cam 118, the follower 116 with the pin 116A traverses the helical groove 118A of the barrel cam 118, causing the followers 116 to slide along the respective guide shafts 114, thereby moving the movable shaft 112 in a linear motion to selectively unwind or wind the tarpaulin 110 with precise control over the tarpaulin 110 deployment and retraction.
[0054] The stopper clamps 130 are positioned at the ends of the opposing sides of the truck bed 12. Each stopper clamp 130 is designed with a semi-circular opening 130A, which secures the movable shaft 112 when the tarpaulin 110 is fully deployed. This configuration prevents any unintended movement of the movable shaft 112 during transit. Additionally, the stopper clamps 130 are equipped with teeth 130B, which are designed to mesh with respective locking gears 124 when the fastening clamps 126 secure the deployed tarpaulin 110. This additional locking mechanism provides further stabilization, ensuring that the tarpaulin remains tightly fastened throughout transportation.
[0055] Each fastening clamp 126 is designed with an L-shaped profile, enabling a secure and robust attachment to the tarpaulin system. Each fastening clamp 126 includes a protrusion 126A, extending outward from an upper portion of the fastening clamp 126. The protrusion 126A serves as a dedicated holding feature, ensuring that the deployed tarpaulin 110 remains securely in place even under conditions of tension or external forces, such as wind or load shifts. The protrusion 126A is configured to prevent slippage and further distribute the stress along the fastening clamps 126 and tarpaulin interface, thereby enhancing durability and reliability. The placement and dimensions of the protrusion 126A are tailored to interlock with the edge or reinforced segments of the deployed tarpaulin 110, making it adaptable to varying deployment conditions and providing consistent, secure fastening throughout use.
[0056] FIG. 2A refers to detailed view of the levers 120 connection with the respective followers 116. FIG. 2B refers to a side view of the automated tarpaulin covering and locking system 100. The driving unit 108 is positioned on the top surface of one of the truck's side walls, extending to the back of a truck's cabin, and is responsible for rotating the barrel cam 118. The top surface of the driving unit 108 is directly connected to the barrel cam 118, which is mounted along the upper section of the first side 14. As the driving unit 108 rotates the barrel cam 118, the pin 116A slides within the helical groove 118A located on the surface of the barrel cam 118. This helical groove 118A is designed with threads of opposite hands and equal pitch, ensuring balanced and consistent motion. The interaction between the rotating barrel cam 118 and the pin 116A inserted into the helical groove 118A facilitates the linear movement of the pin 116A and it's connected the follower 116, driving them back and forth along a guided path formed by the helical groove 118A.
[0057] The pin 116A is movably inserted into the helical groove 118A and serves to control the motion of the follower 116. The follower 116, located at the bottom of the pin 116A, is attached to the guide shaft 114, along which it slides smoothly, directed by the movement of the pin. A bottom end of the follower 116 is connected to the movable shaft 112, while its side engages with the levers 120, which aid manage the deployment and tensioning of the tarpaulin 110.
[0058] The guide shaft 114, parallel to the barrel cam 118, is located at the top of the driving unit 108, providing a stable path for the followers 116 to move. At the back of the truck's cabin, the spool unit 106 is positioned, which holds a starting edge of the tarpaulin 110. The tarpaulin 110 is attached to the movable shaft 112, and as the movable shaft 112 is actuated by the followers 116, it facilitates the smooth extension and retraction of the tarpaulin 110 over the truck bed 12. The endpoints of the movable shaft 112 are secured to each guide shaft 114, ensuring synchronized and controlled movement across the entire system.
[0059] FIG. 3A refers to a top view illustrating the activation of the tarpaulin deployment assembly 102. FIG. 3B refers to a corresponding side view of this activation of the tarpaulin deployment assembly 102. FIG. 3C refers to a top view of the tarpaulin 110 in a partially deployed state. FIG. 3D refers to the complete deployment of the tarpaulin 110, fully covering the truck bed 12.
[0060] During a tarpaulin deployment process, the driving unit 108 engages to initiate rotational motion of the barrel cam 118 in a clockwise direction, as shown in FIG. 3A. The barrel cam 118, equipped with the helical groove 118A, guides the movement of the pin 116A attached to the follower 116. As the barrel cam 118 rotates, the pin 116A moves along the path defined by the helical groove 118A, which converts the rotational motion of the barrel cam 118 into linear motion of the follower 116.
[0061] The tarpaulin deployment assembly 102 incorporates the followers 116 on both sides of the truck bed 12, symmetrically positioned along the respective guide shafts 114. As the pin 116A traverses the helical groove 118A, each follower 116 translates along its corresponding guide shaft 114 in the deployment (forward) direction, as shown in FIG. 3B. This synchronized motion ensures that both followers 116 advance uniformly along the guide shafts 114.
[0062] Each follower 116 is connected to the movable shaft 112, which spans the width of the truck bed 12. The linear displacement of the followers 116 along the guide shafts 114 results in the simultaneous movement of the movable shaft 112 toward the opposite end of the truck bed 12. This forward motion gradually unspools the tarpaulin 110 from the spool unit 106, as shown in FIG. 3C. As the tarpaulin 110 is unwound, it extends progressively over the truck bed 12, eventually reaching full coverage, as shown in FIG. 3D. The coordinated interaction of the followers 116, the guide shafts 114, and the movable shaft 112 ensures that the tarpaulin 110 is evenly deployed, securely covering the truck bed 12.
[0063] FIG. 4A refers to a top view illustrating the activation of the tarpaulin locking assembly 104. FIG. 4B refers to a corresponding side view of this activation of the tarpaulin locking assembly 104 depicting downward motion of the locking shafts 122. FIG. 4C refers to a side view depicting the unlocking and retraction (rewinding) of the deployed tarpaulin 110.
[0064] The levers 120 are mechanically coupled to the followers 116, ensuring that when the followers 116 advance in the deployment direction, the levers 120 move in unison with them, as shown in FIG. 4A. Upon reaching the distal ends of the respective locking shafts 122, the rack teeth 120A of the levers 120 engage with the corresponding teeth of the locking gears 124. As the driving unit 108 continues to rotate the barrel cam 118, the followers 116 proceed further along their guide shafts 114. This movement causes the levers 120 to drive the locking gears 124 in a clockwise rotation through the interaction of the rack teeth 120A with the corresponding teeth on the locking gears 124. Subsequently, the rotational motion of the locking gears 124 drives the locking shafts 122 downward, causing the fastening clamps 126 to descend and securely lock the deployed tarpaulin 110 over the truck bed 12, as shown in FIG. 4B. The engagement of the fastening clamps 126 ensures stable and secure coverage, providing enhanced protection for the truck bed contents during transportation.
[0065] In one embodiment, a half rotation (90 degrees) of the locking gears 124 ensures that the fastening clamps 126 are correctly positioned on the tarpaulin 110, effectively securing it on all sides of the truck bed 12. Once the locking gears 124 complete the half rotation, driven by the levers 120, the locking shafts 122 move downward, firmly placing the fastening clamps 126 onto the tarpaulin 110. The endpoints of the tarpaulin 110 are secured by the stopper clamps 130, which slide downward, guided by each locking gear 124. The stopper clamps 130 lock the movable shaft 112 within the semi-circular opening 130A, preventing any movement. The semi-circular opening 130A ensures that the movable shaft 112 remains immobile. In one embodiment, the fastening clamps 126 and the stopper clamps 130 have L-shaped profile.
[0066] Referring to FIG. 4C, in an alternative embodiment, the driving unit 108 is configured to rotate the barrel cam 118 in a counter-clockwise direction to initiate the retraction of the tarpaulin 110. This counter-clockwise rotation triggers the unwinding mechanism, allowing the tarpaulin 110 to be gradually rolled back onto the spool unit 106.
[0067] To unlock and retract the deployed tarpaulin 110, the driving unit 108 reverses the rotational direction of the barrel cam 118, shifting from its original clockwise motion used during deployment to a counter-clockwise motion. This reverse rotation causes the locking gears 124 to rotate in counter-clockwise direction moving the locking shafts 122 in upward direction, releasing the fastening clamps 126. Once the fastening clamps 126 are disengaged, the tarpaulin 110 is no longer secured in place and is free to retract.
[0068] The movement of the barrel cam 118 continues in the counter-clockwise direction, drawing the followers 116 back along the guide shafts 114 toward the spool unit 106. As the followers 116 move, the movable shaft 112 also shifts in the reverse direction, guiding the tarpaulin 110 as it is neatly rewound onto the spool unit 106. This retraction process ensures that the tarpaulin 110 is compactly stored on the spool unit 106, ready for subsequent use. This mechanism allows for smooth and controlled winding of the tarpaulin 110, preventing tangling or improper folding during storage. The system's design ensures that the tarpaulin 110 can be efficiently retracted and redeployed as needed.
[0069] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 5 refers to a flowchart 500 of method for automatically covering and securing a tarpaulin on the truck 10. The method comprises, activating, by a user, the driving unit 108 to rotate a barrel cam 118, as depicted in step 502. The method comprises, enabling the followers 116 to slide along the guide shafts 114 to pull the tarpaulin 100 from the spool unit 106, thereby deploying the tarpaulin 110 and covering the truck bed 12 of the truck 10, as depicted in step 504.
[0070] The method comprises, engaging the rack teeth 120A of the levers 120 with the respective locking gears 124 to activate a locking process, as depicted in step 506. The method comprises, enabling the locking gears 124 to rotate for lowering the locking shafts 122 along with the fastening clamps 126 onto the deployed tarpaulin 110 and secure the deployed tarpaulin 110 along sides of the truck bed 12, as depicted in step 508. The method comprises, reactivating, by the user, the driving unit 108 to rotate the barrel cam 118 in reverse, releasing the deployed tarpaulin 110 and rolling the tarpaulin back onto the spool unit 106, as depicted in step 510.
[0071] Numerous advantages of the present disclosure may be apparent from the discussion above. In accordance with the present disclosure, an automated tarpaulin covering and locking system 100 is provides enhanced load security by ensuring that the tarpaulin 110 is securely fastened on all sides of the truck 10, preventing movement or spillage of the load during transit. This is achieved through the use of a precise coupled wheel mechanism and L-clamps that lock the tarpaulin in place.
[0072] Additionally, the automated tarpaulin covering and locking system 100 offers automated operation by automating the deployment and retraction of the tarpaulin, reducing manual labor and speeding up the process of covering and uncovering the load. This automation is powered by a motor-driven barrel cam 118 that enables smooth, controlled movement of the tarpaulin. The design also focuses on reliability and durability, reducing mechanical wear and tear by minimizing the interaction between moving parts.
[0073] Instead of relying on traditional systems that use springs or pneumatics, this invention incorporates a combination of rack-and-gear assemblies and the guide shafts 114 for long-term reliability. For efficient locking and unlocking, the automated tarpaulin covering and locking system 100 utilizes rack teeth 120A and the locking gears 124 that engage and disengage quickly and reliably, ensuring that the load is covered and locked with minimal effort from the user.
[0074] In terms of safety, the automated tarpaulin covering and locking system 100 enhances the truck's overall safety by securely covering the load to prevent accidents caused by unsecured cargo, while also ensuring that the tarpaulin 110 and its components do not obstruct the driver's visibility. The automated tarpaulin covering and locking system 100 provides protection against environmental factors such as rain, dust, and wind, keeping the load safe and secure with a retractable tarpaulin 110 that remains taut during the journey. Finally, the automated tarpaulin covering and locking system 100 provides a cost-effective solution by reducing manual labor, minimizing mechanical failures, and extending the lifespan of the covering system through its durable design components, making it a low-maintenance and economical option for commercial vehicle operators.
[0075] It will readily be apparent that numerous modifications and alterations can be made to the processes described in the foregoing examples without departing from the principles underlying the invention, and all such modifications and alterations are intended to be embraced by this application.
, Claims:CLAIMS:
I / We Claim:
1. An automated tarpaulin covering and locking system (100) for a truck (10), comprising:
a tarpaulin deployment assembly (102) comprises:
a spool unit (106) operably connected to a driving unit (108), wherein the spool unit (106) is configured to store and wind a tarpaulin (110);
a movable shaft (112) connected to a lead edge of the tarpaulin (110);
a pair of guide shafts (114) positioned on opposing sides of a truck bed (12), wherein each of the guide shaft (114) is connected to the movable shaft (112) through followers (116); and
a barrel cam (118) having a helical groove (118A) positioned on at least one side of the truck bed (12), and operably connected to the driving unit (108), wherein the barrel cam (118) is configured enable the at least one follower (116) to move along at least one guide shaft (114) through the helical groove (118A),
wherein each of the follower (116) is configured to traverse along the respective pair of guide shafts (114) when the driving unit (108) rotates the barrel cam (118), thereby moving the movable shaft (112) in a linear motion to selectively unwind and wind the tarpaulin (110) while providing precise control over deployment and retraction of the tarpaulin (110); and
a tarpaulin locking assembly (104) configured to securely lock and unlock the tarpaulin (110), wherein the tarpaulin locking assembly (104) comprises:
a pair of levers (120) having rack teeth (120A) connected to the followers (116), respectively, on each of the guide shaft (114);
a pair of locking shafts (122) positioned on the opposing sides of the truck bed (12), wherein each of the locking shaft (122) having a distal end connected to one or more locking gears (124); and
plurality of fastening clamps (126) fixed on each of the locking shaft (122),
wherein the pair of levers (120) is configured to move in conjunction with the respective followers (116) when the driving unit (108) rotates the barrel cam (118),
wherein each of the lever (120) is configured to engage the respective one or more locking gears (124) through the rack teeth (120A) upon reaching the distal end of each locking shaft (122), thereby rotating the one or more locking gears (124) and causing the pair of locking shafts (122) to move downwards, which lowers the plurality of fastening clamps (126) to securely fasten the tarpaulin (110), which is in a deployed position, over the truck bed (12) while providing stable coverage and protection during transport.
2. The automated tarpaulin covering and locking system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the follower (116) is configured with a pin (116A) that slides within the helical groove (118A) of the barrel cam (118) for enabling movement of each of the follower (116).
3. The automated tarpaulin covering and locking system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the driving unit (108) include at least one motor that is electrically connected to a power unit.
4. The automated tarpaulin covering and locking system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the driving unit (108) is configured to rotate the barrel cam (118) through a predetermined number of rotations to facilitate smooth forward and reverse movement of the tarpaulin (110).
5. The automated tarpaulin covering and locking system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the tarpaulin locking assembly (104) comprises a pair of rotary discs (128), each rotary disc (128) includes a slot (128A) for connecting one end of the corresponding locking shafts (122), wherein the pair of rotary discs (128) is configured to facilitate the movement of the locking shafts (122).
6. The automated tarpaulin covering and locking system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the tarpaulin locking assembly (104) comprises a stopper clamp (130) that is disposed at ends of the opposing sides, wherein the stopper clamp (130) is configured with a semi-circular opening (130A) for holding the movable shaft (112) when the tarpaulin (110) is deployed over the truck bed (12), thereby preventing movement during transit.
7. The automated tarpaulin covering and locking system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the stopper clamp (130) further comprises teeth (130B) that are configured to engage with the respective locking gears (124) upon fasting the deployed tarpaulin (110) over the truck bed (12) by the plurality of fastening clamps (126).
8. The automated tarpaulin covering and locking system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the driving unit (108) rotates the barrel cam (118) in clockwise direction, the at least one follower (116) traverses the helical groove (118A) of the barrel cam (118), causing each follower (116) to slide in a deployment direction along the respective guide shafts (114), thereby moving the movable shaft (112) in a linear motion to unwind the tarpaulin (110) from the spool unit (106), wherein the driving unit (108) rotates the barrel cam (118) in a counter-clockwise direction for winding the tarpaulin (110) over the spool unit (106).
9. A method for automatically covering and securing a tarpaulin on a truck (10), comprising:
activating, by a user, a driving unit (108) to rotate a barrel cam (118);
enabling a follower (116) to slide along a guide shaft (114) to pull the tarpaulin from a spool unit (106), thereby deploying the tarpaulin and covering a truck bed (12) of the truck (10);
engaging rack teeth (120A) of a pair of levers (120) with respective locking gears (124) to activate a locking process;
enabling the locking gears (124) to rotate for lowering a pair of locking shafts (122) along with plurality of fastening clamps (126) onto the deployed tarpaulin and secure the deployed tarpaulin along sides of the truck bed (12); and
reactivating, by the user, the driving unit (108) to rotate the barrel cam (118) in reverse, releasing the deployed tarpaulin and rolling the tarpaulin back onto the spool unit (106).

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