TARP DEPLOYMENT AND RETRIEVAL APPARATUS

Description

PRIORITY UNDER 35 USC Section 119(e) & 37 CFR Section 1.78

This nonprovisional application claims priority based upon the following prior United States Provisional Patent Application entitled: Tarp Deployment and Retrieval Apparatus, Application No. 63/549,646, filed Feb. 5, 2024 in the name of Hiromi Higo, which is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to mechanical apparatus, more specifically but not by way of limitation, a tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus that is configured to assist in both the placing and retrieval of a protective tarp over a cargo load or other desired object.

BACKGROUND

In the realm of transportation and logistics, the safe and efficient movement of goods is paramount. Open trailers are a common choice for hauling items due to their versatility and cost-effectiveness. However, transporting loads on open trailers without proper coverings poses significant risks to public safety, environmental health, and the integrity of the cargo. Utilizing tarps to cover open trailer loads is not only a best practice but, in many jurisdictions, a legal requirement. While the benefits of tarping are clear, the process of securing a tarp over an open trailer can present practical challenges that demand careful consideration and planning. One of the primary reasons for covering open trailer loads with tarps is to ensure public safety. Unsecured cargo can shift, spill, or become airborne during transit, endangering other road users. Debris from uncovered loads has been a significant contributor to road accidents, causing damage to vehicles and, in severe cases, leading to fatalities. For example, loose gravel or construction materials falling from a trailer can result in hazardous driving conditions, prompting sudden braking or swerving.

In addition to safety concerns, many countries and local governments have implemented strict regulations mandating the use of tarps on open trailers. Non-compliance can result in hefty fines, legal repercussions, and damage to a company's reputation. These regulations aim to reduce road hazards and environmental pollution caused by debris and unsecured cargo. By adhering to these requirements, transporters demonstrate their commitment to safety and environmental stewardship. Covering loads with tarps also serves to protect the integrity of the cargo itself. Weather conditions such as rain, snow, or strong winds can cause significant damage to exposed goods. For instance, construction materials like lumber or drywall may become weakened by moisture, while agricultural products can spoil if exposed to rain or excessive heat. Additionally, tarps shield cargo from dust, dirt, and other contaminants, ensuring that goods reach their destination in optimal condition. This not only minimizes financial losses but also enhances customer satisfaction and trust.

Despite the clear benefits, placing a tarp over an open trailer load can be a complex and labor-intensive task. One of the primary challenges is the sheer size and weight of the tarp, particularly for larger trailers. Tarps made of durable materials such as vinyl or polyethylene can be cumbersome to handle, especially in windy conditions where they may act like sails. This increases the risk of accidents or injuries to workers attempting to secure the tarp. Another challenge lies in ensuring that the tarp is properly secured to prevent it from flapping or coming loose during transit. Achieving a tight, even fit often requires specialized equipment such as bungee cords, straps, or ratchets, as well as a thorough understanding of load geometry. Irregularly shaped cargo further complicates the process, as it may create gaps or pressure points that can compromise the tarp's effectiveness. Weather conditions and time constraints add further difficulties to the task. Workers may need to tarp loads in adverse weather, such as heavy rain or extreme heat, which can hinder visibility and increase physical strain. In fast-paced logistics environments, there is often pressure to complete the task quickly, raising the likelihood of errors or oversights.

To overcome these challenges, companies can invest in training programs that educate workers on safe and efficient tarp-handling techniques. Providing access to tools such as tarp deployment systems, ladders, and safety harnesses can also reduce physical strain and improve overall safety. Additionally, fostering a workplace culture that prioritizes safety and compliance over speed can help mitigate risks associated with hasty tarp placement. Covering open trailer loads with tarps is a critical practice that safeguards public safety, protects cargo, and ensures compliance with legal requirements. While the process of tarping can be challenging, these difficulties can be addressed through proper training, equipment, and planning. By committing to the use of tarps and addressing the associated challenges, transporters not only uphold industry standards but also contribute to a safer and more sustainable transportation system.

Accordingly, there is a need for a tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus that is configured to assist in both the placing and retrieval of a protective tarp over a cargo load

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is the object of the present invention to provide a tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus that is operable to facilitate deployment and retrieval of a tarp wherein the present invention includes a base support frame said base support frame having lateral and longitudinal support members operably coupled.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus that is configured to assist in deploying a tarp over an object and further provide retrieval thereof wherein the base member includes vertical support members on the opposing sides thereof extending upward therefrom.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus that is operable to facilitate deployment and retrieval of a tarp and further including a motor assembly wherein the motor assembly is mounted to the base support frame.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus that is configured to assist in deploying a tarp over an object and further provide retrieval thereof wherein the present invention includes a drive rod member wherein the drive rod member is operably superposed the vertical support members.

An additional object of the present invention is to provide a tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus that is operable to facilitate deployment and retrieval of a tarp wherein the drive rod member is operably coupled to the motor assembly wherein the motor assembly provides bi-directional rotational movement of the drive rod member.

Yet a further object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus that is configured to assist in deploying a tarp over an object and further provide retrieval thereof wherein the drive rod member includes a portion that extends outward from the base support member and is operable to receive a tarp in a rolled format thereon.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus that is operable to facilitate deployment and retrieval of a tarp wherein the base support member is configured to be operably coupled to a forklift or other suitable lifting device.

An alternate object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus that is configured to assist in deploying a tarp over an object and further provide retrieval thereof wherein the drive rod member further includes a guide member coupled to the portion thereof beyond the base support member.

Still a further object of the present invention is to provide a tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus that is operable to facilitate deployment and retrieval of a tarp wherein the guide member is generally u-shaped and is configured to provide engagement of the lateral sides of the tarp during retrieval thereof.

An additional object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus that is configured to assist in deploying a tarp over an object and further provide retrieval thereof wherein the drive rod further includes formed on a portion thereof rope engagement members that are configured to have lead rope operably coupled thereto for initiation of the tarp retrieval.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus that is operable to facilitate deployment and retrieval of a tarp wherein the motor assembly provides automatic release and reverse rotation.

A further object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus that is configured to assist in deploying a tarp over an object and further provide retrieval thereof wherein the second portion of the drive rod member extending beyond the base support frame is releasably coupled to the first portion of the drive rod member operably coupled to the base support frame.

Yet an additional object of the present invention is to provide a tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus that is operable to facilitate deployment and retrieval of a tarp wherein the first portion of the drive rod member and second portion of the drive rod member employ a shank and receiver style coupler to facilitate releasable securing of the second portion of the drive rod member.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus that is configured to assist in deploying a tarp over an object and further provide retrieval thereof wherein the system of the present invention can employ tarp clamps utilized proximate tie holes in tarps to provide reinforcement thereof.

To the accomplishment of the above and related objects the present invention may be embodied in the form illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Attention is called to the fact that the drawings are illustrative only. Variations are contemplated as being a part of the present invention, limited only by the scope of the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete understanding of the present invention may be had by reference to the following Detailed Description and appended claims when taken in conjunction with the accompanying Drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of the present invention; and

FIG. 2 is a lower perspective view of the present invention operably coupled for deployment to a forklift; and

FIG. 3 is a detailed view of the coupling intermediate the drive rod assembly and tarp engagement member; and

FIG. 4 is a detailed view of the rope engagement member; and

FIG. 5 is a side diagrammatic view of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to the drawings submitted herewith, wherein various elements depicted therein are not necessarily drawn to scale and wherein through the views and figures like elements are referenced with identical reference numerals, there is illustrated a tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus 100 constructed according to the principles of the present invention.

An embodiment of the present invention is discussed herein with reference to the figures submitted herewith. Those skilled in the art will understand that the detailed description herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes and that it is contemplated within the scope of the present invention that alternative embodiments are plausible. By way of example but not by way of limitation, those having skill in the art in light of the present teachings of the present invention will recognize a plurality of alternate and suitable approaches dependent upon the needs of the particular application to implement the functionality of any given detail described herein, beyond that of the particular implementation choices in the embodiment described herein. Various modifications and embodiments are within the scope of the present invention.

It is to be further understood that the present invention is not limited to the particular methodology, materials, uses and applications described herein, as these may vary. Furthermore, it is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is used for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. It must be noted that as used herein and in the claims, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” include the plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, a reference to “an element” is a reference to one or more elements and includes equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art. All conjunctions used are to be understood in the most inclusive sense possible. Thus, the word “or” should be understood as having the definition of a logical “or” rather than that of a logical “exclusive or” unless the context clearly necessitates otherwise. Structures described herein are to be understood also to refer to functional equivalents of such structures. Language that may be construed to express approximation should be so understood unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

References to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, “exemplary embodiments”, and the like may indicate that the embodiment(s) of the invention so described may include a particular feature, structure or characteristic, but not every embodiment necessarily includes the particular feature, structure or characteristic.

Referring now to the Figures submitted as a part hereof, the tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus 100 is operable to be lifted with a conventional forklift 99 in order to be positioned so as to facilitate the placement and removal of a tarp 98 over a cargo truck or other desired object. While the tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus 100 is illustrated herein being utilized with a forklift 99, it is contemplated within the scope of the present invention that the tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus 100 could be placed in an elevated location with respect to a cargo truck and have the cargo truck move in a desired direction during placement or removal of the tarp 98.

The tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus 100 includes a base support frame 10. The base support frame 10 is manufactured from a durable rigid material such as but not limited to metal. The base support frame 10 is comprised of a plurality of lateral support members 11 and longitudinal support members 12 that are operably coupled utilizing suitable techniques such as but not limited to welding. The lateral support members 11 and longitudinal support members 12 are manufactured from tubular steel or similar material and are formed to create a desired size, weight and shape for the base support frame 10. It should be understood within the scope of the present invention that the base support frame 10 could be manufactured in alternate sizes and shapes. Secured to the base support frame 10 on opposing ends thereof is a first vertical support member 15 and a second vertical support member 17. The first vertical support member 15 and second vertical support member 17 extend upwards from the base support frame 10 and are perpendicular thereto. Secured to ends of the first vertical support member 15 and second vertical support member 17 are drive rod brackets 18,19. Drive rod brackets 18,19 are cylindrical in shape being hollow and provide support while permitting rotation of the drive rod member 20. Drive rod member 20 includes gear 21 operably coupled to chain 22 wherein the chain 22 is operably coupled to motor 23. Motor 23 is operably coupled to power source 24, wherein in a preferred embodiment the power source is a twelve-volt battery. While the motor 23 is an electric motor in a preferred embodiment of the tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus 100, it should be understood within the scope of the present invention that the motor 23 could be alternate types of motors capable of providing rotational movement of the drive rod member 20. Additionally, while a chain 22 is utilized in a preferred embodiment of the tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus 100 to rotatably move the drive rod member 20, it is contemplated within the scope of the present invention that the tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus 100 could employ alternate techniques such as but not limited to direct drive or belt drive.

The drive rod member 20 is cylindrical and elongated in form and is configured rotate in both a clockwise and counterclockwise direction so as to facilitate placement and retrieval of a tarp 98. The drive rod member 20 is operably coupled to the tarp engagement member 30. The tarp engagement member 30 as discussed herein is configured to be operably coupled to a tarp 98 to facilitate placement and retrieval thereof. The tarp engagement member 30 is coupled to the drive rod member 20 employing coupler 25. The coupler 25 facilitates an ability to quickly connect and disconnect the tarp engagement member 30. The coupler 25 includes receiver 26, shank 27, hook 28 and pin 29 wherein the aforementioned are configured to operably coupled to achieve the operable coupling of the tarp engagement member 30 and drive rod member 20. While a preferred embodiment of the coupler 25 has been illustrated and discussed herein, it is contemplated within the scope of the present invention that the coupler 25 could be constructed in numerous alternate manners.

The tarp engagement member 30 includes center rod portion 32. Center rod portion 32 has operably coupled thereto a plurality of rope engagement members 34. The rope engagement members 34 are square u-shaped having a void 35 between top portion 33 and center rod portion 32. Void 35 provides the necessary space to receive exemplary rope 97 wherein rope 97 is secured to the rope engagement member 34 prior to initiation of winding of tarp 98 onto the tarp engagement member 30. It is contemplated within the scope of the present invention that the tarp engagement member 30 could have various quantities of the rope engagement members 34. Furthermore, while a particular form of the rope engagement member 34 has been illustrated herein, it should be understood within the scope of the present invention that the rope engagement member 34 could be constructed in alternate shapes and sizes in order to achieve the desired objective discussed herein.

The tarp engagement member 30 includes guide member 40 wherein guide member 40 provides direction of the tarp 98 during placement and retrieval thereof ensuring the tarp 98 does not spool off of the center rod portion 32. The guide member 40 includes opposing lateral sections 41,42 integrally formed with a center section 43 creating a U-shaped guide member 40. The guide member 40 is manufactured in alternate sizes so as to accommodate tarps 98 of different lengths wherein the rolled diameter thereof is different. The opposing lateral sections 41,42 are secured to the center rod portion 32 utilizing suitable techniques. The guide member 40 is manufactured from a durable material such as but not limited to metal.

In the preceding detailed description, reference has been made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments, and certain variants thereof, have been described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. It is to be understood that other suitable embodiments may be utilized and that logical changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. The description may omit certain information known to those skilled in the art. The preceding description is, therefore, not intended to be limited to the specific forms set forth herein, but on the contrary, it is intended to cover such alternatives, modifications, and equivalents, as can be reasonably included within the spirit and scope of the invention.