Patent ID: 6659524
Filing Date: 2003-12-09
Classification: B60P

Abstract:
A retractable cargo bed, comprising:a stationary frame adapted for mounting onto a deck of a truck, the stationary frame having a first end, a second end, a bottom, opposed sides having guide channels, a centrally positioned longitudinal structural member extending between the opposed sides between the first end and the second end; a travelling frame having a first end, a second end and opposed sides, the travelling frame being received within the stationary frame with the opposed sides of the travelling frame engaging the guide channels on the opposed sides of the stationary frame, the travelling frame being movable relative to the stationary frame between a retracted position and an extended position; a locking mechanism for controlling travel of the travelling frame along the stationary frame, the locking mechanism including: stop members secured to the bottom of the stationary frame at spaced intervals along the centrally positioned longitudinal structural member; a locking lever carried by the travelling frame, the locking lever being pivotally mounted for movement about an axis which is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the travelling frame between a downwardly angled locking position and a substantially horizontal release position; means for biasing the locking lever into the locking position whereby the locking lever engages one of the stop members secured to the bottom of the stationary frame; and a release lever for manually moving the locking lever to the release position.