Patent ID: 6318790
Filing Date: 2001-11-20
Classification: B60J,F16F

Abstract:
An actuation mechanism for a cover system on an open-topped container, the cover system including a cover extendable from a stowed position to a deployed position covering the container and a bail member attached to the cover and movable relative to the container to move the cover between the stowed and deployed positions, said mechanism comprising:at least one elastically deformable double-coil spring having two coil portions concentrically wound around each other and disposed in a common plane with an integral center portion between each said coil portion, each of said coil portions including a free reaction end;a pivot shaft mountable on the container, and having a portion configured for attachment to said center portion of said spring;a housing connectable to the bail member and defining a bore to receive said pivot shaft therethrough, said housing configured to receive said at least one spring therein with said center portion attached to said pivot shaft; anda pair of reaction posts disposed within said housing, each of said posts configured to contact said reaction end of a corresponding one of said two coil portions, whereby said at least one double-coil spring applies a torsional force to the bail member through said pair of reaction posts and said housing.