Abstract:
The present invention is directed to a retractable roof system that provides slidable roof sections for vehicles and truck bed shells/caps, where the cargo area roof panels and rear window panel (hatch above tailgate) may be moved forward and above the seating area roof section, by means of a telescoping track system. Additionally, as applied to vehicles, the roof section above the seating areas may be moved rearward and above the cargo area roof section. The retractable roof system truck bed shell/cap assembly will come in segments that can be stored and shipped in a relatively small container. The shell/cap structure is composed of metal frame members and window panels. Right and left telescoping track assemblies are mounted on the metal frame members, with roof panels secured between them. Side and front window panels are attached to the exterior of the metal frame members to form the shell/cap walls. The rear window panel is attached to the rear roof panel by the means of a hinge and will pivot up onto the rear roof panel before the roof panels are moved forward and above the truck cab. An optional lumber/sport rack set may be mounted to the top of the left and right track assemblies.

Description:
[0001]    This patent application claims the benefit of, and is a continuation-in-part (CIP) of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/111,966 filed on Apr. 30, 2008. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    This application relates to the general field of vehicle manufacturing and after-market parts. As applied to vehicles, the retractable roof system allows roof sections (described herein as roof panels) to be slidably retracted, to expose either the cargo bay, or the seating area. The vehicle design variation applies to sport utility vehicles (SUVs), vans, sport/station wagons, sedans, busses and boats, including commercial, military, recreational and rescue applications. The retractable roof system will allow the translation of a plurality of roof panels in both (fore and aft) directions, to allow passengers the option of stowing seating area roof panels atop the cargo area roof panels, and additionally, the option of stowing the cargo area roof panels (and hingeably attached rear window panel) atop the seating area roof panels, within the same track system. The retractable roof system for vehicles improves upon the current practice of uncovering off-road vehicles, to offer the open outdoor experience, without the need to detach and store roof panels in a garage, especially convenient when weather turns for the worse. The retractable roof system for vehicles design would likely be integrated into the vehicle structure at vehicle manufacturing facility. The manufacturer may offer the design as an optional upgrade to an open top vehicle, such as the Jeep Liberty, in place of the currently marketed (accordion-like retractable canvas roof) Sky Slider™® option. The Retractable Roof System for vehicles allows for the open, outdoor experience such vehicles already offer, but without the need to stow large roof panels in the vehicle&#39;s cargo area, or the garage. Furthermore, the design accomplishes such versatility without substituting solid, securable materials with fabric. 
         [0003]    The retractable roof system, as applied to a truck shell/truck cap/camper (herein referred to as a truck shell, or shell) variation also includes multiple sliding roof panels. The rear window panel is rotated approximately 270° to rest upon, and latch atop the top surface of the rear roof panel. The rear roof panel, with rear window panel-in-tote, is then cast atop the forward roof panel. All panels are then cast forward again, stowing above the truck&#39;s cab roof, by means of a telescoping system. The retractable roof system truck shell will come in different styles, for full size, mid-size and compact trucks. The system is intended for use in conjunction with (light, medium and heavy duty) four-door cabs (herein referred to as a quad cab), two-door standard cabs, commercial and military trucks. The shell design allows for easy assembly with simple hand tools and quick-connect assemblies, and would likely be manufactured as an aftermarket kit. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0004]    Traditional truck shells are known in the art to mount atop the cargo box of a truck, to shelter and secure items in the cargo area. These shells, however, limit the capacity to transport items taller than the shell&#39;s roofline. A typical shell must be entirely removed from the cargo bed rails in order to haul such loads. Shell removal, and subsequent reinstallation, requires shoulder-press style lifting, known to be a particularly in-ergonomic method of lifting. Furthermore, the absence of hand-holds exposes the handler to pinch and laceration injury. Lastly, if a strong second person is not available to assist in the removal, and subsequent reinstallation of the shell, the process of removal and installation by a single person is inarguably dangerous to a sole person removing or installing the shell. The painted surfaces of both the truck and the truck shell may also be compromised during transition. Standard shells are designed to be neither portable nor easily stowable. Beyond the practical reasons already discussed, the inherent bulk of a standard truck shell limits the inventory of the typical shell to oversized racks, as seen in commercial yards or warehouses. Automotive supply stores, membership club stores, and mega-mart outlets lack the floor space to stock a comprehensive array of brand-specific models, of various sizes and styles of a conventional truck shell. The (unassembled) retractable roof system truck shell design lends itself to compact, palletized, corrugated cardboard/crate packaging, commonly observed in such superstores, such as Pep Boys, Costco, Home Depot and Walmart. 
         [0005]    Numerous innovations for the truck shell have been provided in the prior art that are described as follows. Even though these innovations may be suitable for specific individual purposes to which they address, they differ from the present design as hereinafter contrasted. The following is a summary of those prior art patents most relevant to this application, and serves as a description outlining the difference between the features of the retractable roof system, truck shell variation, and the prior art. 
         [0006]    Early on, Brooks Stevens, an industrial designer employed at the automobile manufacturer Studebaker, designed the Studebaker Wagonaire, which debuted in January of 1963, and continued production until 1966. The Wagonaire design simply allowed the roof panel above the cargo area to slide into the forward portion of the roof, not unlike a car window retracts into a car door, transposed to the horizontal position. This design differs distinctly from that of the retractable roof system, vehicle variation. It does not raise roof sections, nor does it store them above other roof sections. It does not employ a hinged rear window panel, and does not allow the roof above the seating area to open. The same design was employed in the GM Envoy XUV SUV model marketed from 2003 to 2005. 
         [0007]    U.S. Pat. No. 7,114,769 of Robert G. Storc, James E. Robertson, and Arthur E. Macnee III describes two flexible roof sections (front and rear) that is transferrable to form a barrier between the cargo area and seating area of a van or SUV styled vehicle, by means of a pair of tracks and at least one actuator. The design of this transferrable roof section resembles that of a sectional garage door, not like the stackable, stowable design proposed with the retractable roof system, vehicle variation. 
         [0008]    U.S. Pat. No. 4,496,184 of David A. Byrd et al. describes a portable truck cap comprising a plurality of frame members, which are detachably connected to each other to form a frame, the frame has a top portion and a base portion, the top portion is resilient, the base portion is detachably connectable to a truck. A flexible cover is disposed over the frame, and detachably connected to said base portion of the frame. The cover is tensioned by the top portion of the frame to maintain the cover in a predetermined configuration. 
         [0009]    This patent describes a portable truck cap or shell for pick-up trucks where portions are detachably connected to the truck but it does not provide the unique sliding capability of the roof panels to be stored over the truck cab. It does not offer the heavy duty structural framework and unique support members to handle the weight of an additional lumber/sport rack, as provided by the retractable roof system, truck shell variation. 
         [0010]    U.S. Pat. No. 4,828,315 of Scott A. W. Muirhead describes a pick-up truck cargo canopy assembly, which is enclosed and provides complete protection from weather, theft and vandalism in the cargo area. The cargo canopy assembly is divided into two separate sections. The front canopy section, which is mounted permanently to the truck bed sidewalls with a front wall having an opening behind the pick-up truck cab window and functional windows on each side. The rear canopy section, which is unitarily manufactured, is attached to the front section and the truck bed sidewalls by clamps that may be detached by removing a pin holding the two parts of the clamp together. This provides a removable rear section that may be stored when an open truck bed is desired. A hinged rear window assembly is attached to the rear edge of the top of the rear canopy section that also contains a latch and lock to provide a secure cargo area. 
         [0011]    This patent describes a two-part pick-up truck cargo canopy assembly that emphasizes the need for opening the rear of the shell-covered area at times. The problem is that it uses a unitarily manufactured rear section that would be quite heavy and not easily stored. This shell system could not be easily sold in an automotive parts store due to the large size and the inventory area required. This design also differs from the retractable roof system, truck shell variation in two distinct ways: It does not employ a track system, nor does it stow the opening portion of the shell on board, above the truck cab. 
         [0012]    U.S. Pat. No. 4,974,898 of Irving Baranski tells of a telescoping cover for storage facilities, particularly vehicle cargo beds, which utilizes a plurality of cover sections in successive mutual telescopically receivable relation that slide on guideways in a self-cleaning manner. In the preferred embodiment, a plurality of movable cover sections are provided which are successively mutually telescopable into a stationary cover section through use of a pair of parallel guideways. Each cover has a top from which depend downwardly mutually opposing sides. The guideways, which are attached to the storage facility sidewalls, are made of an elongated base having a substantially flat surface from which extends a plurality of elongated bosses. The bosses have an upper portion, which is disposed in offset relation to a lower portion, which in turn mates with the elongated base. The movable cover sections have a slot in the lower terminus of each side receiving a boss. A detent is provided that protrudes into the slot, interfering with the offset upper portion of the boss and preventing vertical movement of the movable cover section. The surface shape of the slot and its associated detent in each side of the movable cover sections are mutually complementary with the surface shape of the boss received therein. Accordingly, as the movable cover sections are slid along the guideway, accumulated debris is automatically wiped off the boss by interaction of the complementary surfaces. 
         [0013]    This patent describes a telescoping cover for storage facilities, particularly vehicle cargo beds, which utilizes a plurality of cover sections in successive mutual telescopically receivable relation that slide on guideways. Although this patent describes a telescoping device, it is limited to just telescoping over the bed area and does not extend over the cab of the vehicle, and does not entirely retract from the truck bed cargo area. 
         [0014]    U.S. Pat. No. 5,127,701 of Kevin Miller discloses a shell for the bed of a pick-up truck. The shell is comprised of a base member mounted to the truck bed and a top member hinged to and fitted over the base member. The top member is hinged in such a manner that it may be swung open to allow access to the interior of the bed from the side as well as the rear of the truck. The hinge means have a quick release feature so that the top member may be removed for greater hauling capacity. A fabric covering may be substituted for the top member as an alternative cover. 
         [0015]    This patent describes another two-part pick-up truck shell assembly that again emphasizes the need for opening the rear of the shell-covered area at times. The problem is still that it uses a unitarily manufactured rear section that would be quite heavy and not easily stored. It could not be opened and closed easily, and does not stow the opening portion of the shell, as does the retractable roof system, truck shell variation. This is another shell for pick-up trucks that could not be boxed in a compact manner, and sold in an automotive parts store, or discount retail outlet, due to its bulk. 
         [0016]    U.S. Pat. No. 6,942,279 of Richard Hoover describes an improved camper shell that is collapsible and portable. The shell consists of a cover that is positioned over a shell frame. The shell frame is formed by a plurality of components, preferably formed of steel, that are fitted together for use and that may be stored within the cover when not in use. The mainframe components include bottom supports, vertical supports coupled thereto, and cross-members. Preferably, the bottom supports and cross-members are adjustable in length, to fit a plurality of truck bed sizes. The frame preferably angles downward from rear to front, for drainage and other purposes 
         [0017]    This patent describes a light duty collapsible shell for pick-up trucks that would be covered with a canvas material. This device would not support a lumber/sport rack and does not provide security or the unique means of the sliding roof panels that can be stored over the cab of the truck. 
         [0018]    Thus, there has existed a long-felt need for a retractable roof system for both vehicle roofs, and truck shells, that provides for the security offered only by a hard-surfaced enclosure, as well as the unlimited vertical cargo volume offered by an uncovered truck bed. The roof portion of the cover should be easily moved and stowed above the vehicles roofline, and enable users to quickly and efficiently convert the enclosed truck bed to an open area capable of transporting tall or oversized cargo. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0019]    The primary advantage the retractable roof system, vehicle and truck shell variation, is that the design offers a hard enclosure, with slidably adjustable roof panels, capable of stacking and stowing above the cab of a truck, or above the roof of a vehicle, opposite the end in which the roof panels are retracted. 
         [0020]    Another advantage of the retractable roof system, truck shell variation is that it provides a convenient means for transporting large, oversized items in a truck, by opening the roof, and rear window of the enclosure, as opposed to removing the entire shell from the bed of the truck. 
         [0021]    Another advantage of the retractable roof system truck shell is that telescoping rails extend over the truck cab as a method to stow the roof panels. The telescoping rails retract, along with the roof panels, as the roof panels are returned atop the shell. 
         [0022]    Another advantage of the retractable roof system truck shell is that it integrates a heavy-duty metal framework into the side window panels and front window panel, facilitating: 1) rigidity while the roof is open, and 2) modular attachment of a lumber/sport rack. 
         [0023]    Another advantage of the retractable roof system, truck shell variation is that the telescoping rails eliminate the need for 1) displacing cargo space to stow conventional roof panels, and 2) leaving roof panels in the garage, as is the case with some conventional removable roof panels. 
         [0024]    Another advantage of the retractable roof system, truck shell and vehicle variations is that, upon stowing the cargo area roof panels and rear window panel in the forward, stowed position, multiple padded load stabilizing bars may be inserted into the track assembly, to stabilize tall loads at the roofline elevation, at both the fore and aft ends of the tall load. The padded load stabilizing bars employ the same quick-connect retaining pins as do the roof panels, to engage the same series of retaining pin orifices within the channels, so that they may be positioned fore and aft in fine increments. 
         [0025]    Another advantage of the retractable roof system truck shell is that it may be palletized, shipped and warehoused within a compact crate or box, and be distributed at an automotive supply, mega-mart, or club store due to its modular design. 
         [0026]    Another advantage of the retractable roof system, truck shell variation is that a single individual can quickly and easily install any brand-specific model, of any size or style using common hand tools. 
         [0027]    And still another advantage of the retractable roof system truck shell is to provide a truck shell kit with available lumber/sport rack accessories, which may be purchased and installed separately, using simple hand tools. Similarly, the accessories may be removed to facilitate a shell with a standard appearance. Current rack designs for use with shells use an exo-frame of tubing, and thin flat metal tabs to squeeze between the base of the shell, and the top of the bedrails, in a precarious attempt to distribute the payload to the bed rails. Lastly, a base shell (trackless embodiment of the retractable roof system) may be upgraded to an economy track shell (taller than cab, simplified track embodiment of the cab-level retractable roof system) model. Likewise, the base shell or economy track shell may be upgraded to a cab-level shell. Each upgrade is accomplished by simply substituting the-(left and right) track assemblies, as they all share identical exterior dimensions and mounting locations. 
         [0028]    A further advantage of the retractable roof system truck shell is that each component of the retractable roof system truck shell is relatively lightweight and easy to install, slide, remove, and replace. 
         [0029]    Yet another advantage of the retractable roof system, as applied to a vehicle roof, is that the roof panels may be translated in either the aft direction (to expose the seating area), or the fore direction (to open the cargo area), within the same track system. 
         [0030]    Another advantage of the retractable roof system, as applied to a vehicle or shell roof, is that one or more (standard opaque) roof panels may be temporarily or permanently substituted with a windowed roof panel, of either glass or Plexiglas, with any degree of tint and/or UV protection, with or without an optional retractable shade for each windowed roof panel. The vehicle passenger may enjoy a panoramic overhead view while shielded from inclement weather. The retractable roof system, as applied to a truck shell, may also substitute opaque roof panel(s) for translucent roof panel(s), offering a panoramic view to those using the cargo bed as a camper, with any degree of tint and/or UV protection, with or without a retractable shade for each windowed roof panel. 
         [0031]    In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment of the retractable roof system in detail, it is to be understood that the design is not limited in its application to the details of construction or the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The retractable roof system is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. All window panels may be substituted for (windowless) wall panels, for utilitarian purposes. All opaque roof panels may be replaced with translucent windowed roof panels. In addition, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description, and should not be regarded as limiting. 
         [0032]    The retractable roof system, truck shell variation provides a convertible shell enclosure for each brand, size and style of truck, whereas the roof panels and rear window panel can be slidably moved above the cab roof by means of a telescoping track system. The shell structure is composed of metal frame members that are secured into existing stake bed openings along the top edge of all pick-up truck beds, or alternatively, C-clamped to bed rails lacking such openings. A (right and left) track assembly, consisting of a channel and telescoping rail, double as integral structural metal frame members, connecting front and rear frame legs (herein referred to as front and back supports). Side window panels and a forward window panel are mechanically attached to the metal frame assembly. In both the shell and vehicle variations, the rear end plate of the telescoping rail assembly is (hingeably) opened, then multiple roof panels are engaged within track assembly, after which the rear end plate is closed and locked. In both the shell and vehicle variations, the rear window panel is attached to the rear roof panel by means of a durable hinge, upon which the rear window panel will pivot up, over and then come to rest upon, and latch onto a receiver along the top surface of the rear roof panel, before the roof panels are stowed in the forward position. In both the shell and vehicle variations, an optional lumber/sport rack set will be available, to be mounted atop the channel portion of each track assembly. 
         [0033]    Security of the roof panels, as applied to the retractable roof system vehicle and truck shell variations, is accomplished with retaining pins and a pair of rail locks. Retaining pins protrude from the left and right edges, at the stern of each roof panel, engaging the channel pin orifices (with spring pressure) while the roof panels enclose the vehicle or shell variations, and engage the pin orifices within the telescoping rail while in the extended, open position (for both the vehicle and shell variations). In both the vehicle and shell variations, the telescoping rail is secured in place (either the extended or retracted position) by the rail lock, mounted below either channel. The rail lock is an assembly consisting of a handle with a spring-loaded plunger that engages either the front or rear orifice along the bottom of the telescoping rail, and maintained by spring pressure, while in the locked position. The extended (forward) position stows the roof panels above the cab roof, in the case of the shell variation. In the vehicle variation, roof panels may be stowed in either the forward position atop seating area roof panels, or extended over and beyond cargo area roof panels. In the truck shell variation, the retracted (rear) position places the roof panels between the side window Panels, to enclose and secure the shell. The rail lock handle is pulled down against the spring to unlock the plunger from (either) orifice in the bottom of the telescoping rail, then turned inward ninety degrees to hold the plunger in the unlocked position by engaging the lock pin, keeping the spring fully depressed. Upon extending or retracting the telescoping rail, the process is reversed to secure the rail lock. 
         [0034]    The sequence of events for operation of the cab-level retractable roof system truck shell, and vehicle (with tailgate) variation, with the optional lumber/sport rack set, will consist of the following sequential steps:
   1. Step up onto the rear bumper, then unlock and remove the (rear) lumber/sport rack crossbar. (Note that neither of the forward lumber/sport rack crossbars need to be removed).   2. Unlock and rotate the rear window panel up, over and atop the rear roof panel to engage the latching mechanism atop the rear roof panel.   3. Stow the lumber/sport rack crossbar in the dedicated crossbar clip, located on inside of the frame assembly (or behind a panel in the vehicle variation).   4. Open and stand upon the tailgate.   5. Inwardly retract the left and right (rear roof panel) retaining pins, located along the stem of the rear roof panel, from each of the channel orifices.   6. Push rear roof panel forward enough so that the panel ramps up into the telescoping tail, and then slides atop the forward roof panel, contacting the forward end plates.   7. Release both (rear roof panel) retaining pins, and allow the spring to engage the retaining pins into the pin orifices within each of the telescoping rails.   8. Inwardly retract the left and right (forward roof panel) retaining pins, located along the stem of the forward roof panel, from each of the channel orifices.   9. Push the forward roof panel forward enough so that the panel ramps up into, and comes to rest within the telescoping rail, contacting the forward end plates.   10. Release both (front roof panel) retaining pins, and allow the spring to engage the retaining pins into the pin orifices within each of the telescoping rails.   11. Downwardly retract both rail locks from the front orifices in both telescoping rails.   12. Push the aft end of both roof panels, to extend both telescoping rails, along with roof panels, over the cab roof (atop seating area roof panels in the vehicle variation).   13. Re-engage each rail lock into the rear orifices within the telescoping rail, to secure each telescoping rail in the forward extended, stowed position.   14. Engage one padded load stabilizing bar, at the preferred location within the cargo area, to stabilize the front of a tall load (i.e. refrigerator) at the roofline.   15. Load the (refrigerator) against the front padded load stabilizing bar.   16. Engage a second padded load stabilizing bar against the rear of the refrigerator.   17. Thread a rope or strap through the (horizontal) perforations through each of the padded load stabilizing bars, at each corner of the refrigerator, and tie/ratchet the loop snugly.   18. Close the tailgate and go.
 
Tie-Down Openings are also handy to anchor loads at the roofline elevation, located in the either Channel sub-assembly.
   
 
         [0053]    Various different vehicles are used as examples throughout this application, including a light duty pick-up truck standard cab, quad cab and an off-road SUV. It is intended, however, that many additional types of vehicles can benefit from the current invention, including cars, vans, sport/station wagons, boats, commercial (medium and heavy duty) and military trucks, busses, as well as standard SUVs, other off-road vehicle types, and recreational vehicles. Additionally, the accessory rack may be of the lumber rack or sport rack design. The use of a specific type of vehicle in the specification, abstract, or drawings is not meant to limit the scope of this application to that type of vehicle. 
         [0054]    The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the more pertinent and important features of the retractable roof system, in order that the detailed description of the application that follows may be better understood, so that the present contribution to the art may be more fully appreciated. Additional features of the design will be described hereinafter, which form the subject of the claims of this disclosure. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception, and the disclosed specific embodiment may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures, and methods for carrying out the same purposes of the present design. It is important, therefore, that the claims be regarded as including such equivalent construction insofar as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present application. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0055]    The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the retractable roof system, and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this application. The base truck shell assembly is not illustrated, as it appears identical to the retractable roof system truck shell depicted in  FIG. 1 . The difference in the base truck shell: Instead of including a pair of track assemblies—a pair of hollow rectangular tubing sections are substituted, having only a series of holes punched through their interior walls, through which hardware will pass to secure the roof panels in place (at the location where rollers would fasten to the roof panels, in the economy track and cab-level track models). This rectangular tubing also has holes punched on the top side (and nuts spot welded inside the tubing just under the holes) to allow attachment of the optional lumber/sport rack sets. The base model, however, does not allow the user to translate the roof panels fore and aft. Furthermore, the base roof panels lack the quick-connect, spring-loaded retaining pin assemblies described above. The roof panels (along with hinged rear window panel) may be easily unfastened from the rectangular tubing with simple hand tools, however, and stowed (vertically) atop one fender well, against the interior side of one side window panel, and held snugly in place by a simple (horizontal bearing) ratcheting strap (attached to fore and aft positions of the frame assembly along the interior of the side window panel). 
           [0056]      FIG. 1  depicts a perspective view of the cab-level retractable roof system truck shell variation, installed on a quad-cab pick-up truck with the optional lumber rack set attached. 
           [0057]      FIG. 2  depicts a perspective view of the economy track frame assembly of the truck shell variation, installed on a standard two door pick-up truck, with the lumber rack set exploded away. The optional sport rack set is not illustrated. 
           [0058]      FIG. 3  depicts a perspective view of the economy track truck shell variation, installed on a standard two door pick-up truck, with roof panels stowed above the cab roof, within the extended telescoping rails. 
           [0059]      FIG. 4  depicts a perspective view of two segments of a cab-level (left) track assembly, illustrating one forward and one rear guide slot. The cab-level track assembly allows the roof panels to settle between the side window panels, at the same elevation as the cab roof (or seating area roof in the vehicle variation), unlike the economy track illustrated in  FIGS. 2 and 3 . The cab-level track assembly mounts to the same (front and back) supports of the frame assembly, at the same mounting locations as, and bears the same exterior dimensions as the economy track assembly, and base assembly (rectangular tubing), and therefore may be easily installed as a modular upgrade to a base or economy track shell. 
           [0060]      FIG. 5  depicts a cross sectional view through a (left) cab-level track assembly, illustrating one of the retaining pins. The sport-rack crossbars (not shown) use the same retaining pin design as do the roof panels, to allow a plurality of positions by which equipment (of various lengths) may be secured. 
           [0061]      FIG. 6  depicts an interior side view of a cab-level left track assembly, illustrating both the left channel and left telescoping rail sub-assemblies, with the left telescoping rail in the retracted position. 
           [0062]      FIG. 7  depicts a side view of both the forward and rear roof panels. The angle of the front and rear roof panel edges corresponds with the angle of the guide slots within the track assembly. It must be understood that although the drawings depict two roof panels, the design may incorporate additional roof panels and remain within the scope of the patent. 
           [0063]      FIG. 8  depicts a cross sectional view through a (left) cab-level track assembly, at one of the tie down openings. 
           [0064]      FIG. 9  depicts a cross sectional view through a (left) cab-level track assembly, at the location of a rail bearing. 
           [0065]      FIG. 10  depicts a cross sectional view through a (left) cab-level track assembly, with the forward roof panel in place, with one of the roof panel rollers resting at the bottom of a guide slot. 
           [0066]      FIG. 11  depicts a cross sectional view through a (left) cab-level track assembly, with the forward roof panel roller elevated into the lower track of the telescoping rail. 
           [0067]      FIG. 12  depicts a cross sectional view through a (left) cab-level track assembly, with the (forward) roof panel roller of the (rear) roof panel elevated into the upper (inside) track of the telescoping rail. 
           [0068]      FIG. 13  depicts a cross sectional view through a (left) cab-level track assembly, with the (rear) roof panel roller of the (rear) roof panel elevated into the upper (outside) track of the telescoping rail. The additional width of the wide (rear roof panel) rear roller prevents it from descending into the narrow (rear roof panel) forward guide slot, as it casts to the forward position. 
           [0069]      FIG. 14  depicts an inner side view of a (left) cab-level track assembly, with the telescoping rail extended over the truck cab. 
           [0070]      FIG. 15  depicts an inner side view of a portion of a (left) cab-level track assembly, with the rail lock in the secured position. 
           [0071]      FIG. 16  depicts a cross sectional view through a (left) cab-level track assembly, with the rail lock in the secured position. 
           [0072]      FIG. 17  depicts a cross sectional view through a (left) cab-level track assembly, with the rail lock in the unsecured position. 
           [0073]      FIG. 18  depicts a perspective view of a four-door Jeep Wrangler Unlimited with a retractable roof system vehicle variation, cab-level track assembly, with the optional sport rack set attached to the channel portion of the cab-level track assembly. Both roof panels (over the seating area) ramp upwards and cast rearwards to stow above the cargo area roof, and extend beyond the rear of the cargo area, enough to clear the opening above the rear seats. This design may also be reversed, to translate in the forward direction, so that the roof panel(s) from the cargo area (along with the rear window panel) cast forward, and stow above the seating-roof panel area. Lastly, a combination of the two designs described above may be integrated, allowing roof panel(s) above the seating area to cast rearward and stow above the cargo area roof panel(s), or allowing roof panel(s) above the cargo area to cast forward and stow above the seating area roof panel(s), all translating within the same track assembly. 
       
    
    
       [0074]    For a more comprehensive understanding of the nature and advantages of the retractable roof system, reference should be had to the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, illustrating embodiments of the design, together with the description, serving to explain the principles of this application. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
       [0075]    Referring now to the drawings, wherein similar parts of the retractable roof system truck shell  10  are identified by like reference numerals, there is seen in  FIG. 1  a perspective view of the retractable roof system truck shell  10  installed on a quad-cab pick-up truck  12 . The right side window panel  14 , the rear window panel  16 , the front window panel  17 , the rear roof panel  18  and the forward roof panel  20  form the exterior shell of the retractable roof system truck shell. The optional lumber rack set members  22  and  24  are shown attached to the left track assembly  26  and the right track assembly  28 , joined by three lumber rack crossbars  30 . Arrow A indicates capability of the rear window panel  16  to rotate up, over, and atop the rear roof panel  18 , and trigger-latch securely to the receiver atop the rear roof panel  18 . 
         [0076]      FIG. 2  depicts a perspective view of the frame assembly  34  of the economy track retractable roof system truck shell  10  installed on a standard two door pick-up truck  36  with the lumber rack set members  22  and  24  exploded away. Window panels and roof panels are removed to illustrate the Frame Assembly  34 , consisting of two back supports  38  and  40 , with gussets  42  and  44 , and two front supports  46  and  48 , with gussets  50 ,  51  and  52 . A cross brace  54  spans the two front supports  46  and  48 . The left track assembly  26  and the right track assembly  28  double as structural members, spanning back supports  38  and  40  (with gussets  42  and  44 ) and front supports  46  and  48  (with gussets  50  and  52 ). The back supports  38  and  40  and the front supports  46  and  48  will mount into the standard stake bed mounting holes  56  atop the pick-up truck bed rails, or alternatively, C-clamp to the bedrails. Optional lumber rack (members)  22  and  24  are mounted to the left track assembly  26  and the right track assembly  28 , by the means of the angle sections  60  and  62 . 
         [0077]      FIG. 3  depicts a perspective view of the economy track retractable roof system truck shell  10  supported by the frame assembly  34 , with left and right economy track assemblies  26  and  28  installed on a standard two-door pick-up truck  36 . Right side window panel  14  and the left side window panel  64  are illustrated, along with both (front and rear) roof panels and rear window panel  16  stowed above the truck cab roof  65  in the forward extended (telescoped) position. The left economy track assembly  26  is shown with the (left) channel  66  mounted to the back support  38  and the front support  46  with the (left) telescoping rail  68  extended. The right track assembly  28  is shown, composed of the (right) channel  70 , and the (right) telescoping rail  72 , in the forward extended position. The rear roof panel  18 , the forward roof panel  20 , and rear window panel  16  are supported between the left telescoping rail  68  and the right telescoping rail  72 . 
         [0078]    In the following illustrations the left track assembly  26  has been depicted, though it must be understood that the right track assembly  28  is symmetrical in configuration and will contain all of the same elements.  FIG. 4  depicts a perspective view of two segments of the cab-level (left) track assembly  26 , illustrating a forward guide slots  80  and a rear guide slot  82 A. The forward guide slot  80  extends upwards at an angle from the (Left) channel  66 , terminating within the (left) telescoping rail  68 . The (left) telescoping rail  68  translates within the (left) channel  66  by means of a plurality of rail bearings  88  in the (left) channel  66 . The (left) telescoping rail  68  is held within the (left) channel  66  by means of the key section  90  atop the (left) telescoping rail  68 , within the key slot  92  of the (left) channel  66 . On the upper surface of the (left) channel  66  is a plurality of threaded bosses  94 , provided as a means to attach the sport/lumber rack set. A plurality of tie-down openings  96  will extend through the (left) channel  66 . A plurality of drain holes  109  will allow rain from the roof panels, collecting in the gutter plate cavity  106 , to drain to the exterior side of the left side window panel  64 . 
         [0079]      FIG. 5  depicts a cross sectional view through the cab-level left track assembly  26  engaged by a (roof panel) retaining pin  98 . Left and right retaining pins  98  are located at the stern of the forward roof panel  20  and the rear roof panel  18  (not shown). The retaining pins  98  engage pin orifices  100  near the lower edge of the (left and right) channels  66  and  68  [as well as pin orifices  100  in the walls of the (left and right) telescoping rails  68  and  72  as depicted in  FIG. 14 ]. An angle segment  104  acts as a ‘flashing’ strip to facilitate drainage, and settles into a cavity  106  created by a gutter plate  108 , mounted to the bottom surface  110  of the (left) channel  66 . To disengage the retaining pins  98 , the lever  112  is pulled inwards against spring  114 , retracting the retaining pins  98  from the pin orifices  100 . The roof panel ( 18  or  20 ) is then free to be cast forward, elevating the angle segment  104  out of cavity  106 , by pushing forward on the stern of the roof panel ( 18  or  20 ). 
         [0080]      FIG. 6  depicts an inner side view of a cab-level left track assembly  26 , composed of a left channel and left telescoping rail. Within the left telescoping rail  68  are the two tracks. The upper track  86 , upon which the (front and rear) rollers ( 136  and  138  respectively) of the rear roof panel cast along, and a lower track  84 , upon which all four forward roof panel rollers  140  cast along, are clearly depicted in  FIGS. 4 ,  5 ,  6 ,  8 ,  9  and  10 .  FIG. 6  further illustrates the locations of the two (rear roof panel) guide slots  82 A and  82 B, angled upwards to intersect with the upper track  86 , within the left telescoping rail  68 . The locations of the two (forward roof panel  20 ) guide slots  80  are also shown, intersecting the lower track  84  within the left telescoping rail  68 . The angle of the guide slots  80 ,  82 A and  82 B may vary, depending upon the size and weight of the rear roof panel  18  and the forward roof panel  20 , allowing them to easily translate between the cargo bed  58  position, to the stowed position above the truck cab roof  65 . The slope of each (forward and rear) roof panel edge  126  and  128  corresponds with the slope of each guide slot  80 ,  82 A, and  82 B. The plurality of rail bearings  88  provide for smooth casting of the (left) telescoping rail  68 , clearly depicted in  FIG. 9 . The tie-down openings  96  provide anchoring points to secure tall loads, at the roofline elevation, within the cargo bed  58 . Rear end plate  120  will be (hingeably and lockably) mounted at the rear of the left and right channels  66  and  70 , to retain the left and right telescoping rails  68  and  72 . The forward end plates  122  are welded to the forward end of the left and right telescoping rails  68  and  72 , to provide a stop for both the rear and forward roof panels  18  and  20 , as well as to align the (roof panel) retaining pins with the pin orifices  100 , within the left and right telescoping rails  68  and  72 . 
         [0081]      FIG. 7  depicts a side view of both the forward roof panel  20  and rear roof panel  18 , illustrating the configuration of the forward edge  126  of the rear roof panel  18  and the rear edge  128  of the forward roof panel  20 , which forms a trough for (lateral) drainage of water. The slope of the roof panel&#39;s edges  126  and  128  will match the slope of the forward and rear guide slots  80 ,  82 A and  82 B. The rear roof panel  18  will have rear rollers  136  (with a wide track to engage the outer portion of upper track  86 ) and a front rollers  138  (with a narrow track to engage the inner portion of the upper track  86 ). Four forward roof panel rollers  140  (all of which are identical in width) will engage the lower track  84 . The (left—not shown) and right edges of each roof panel bears an angled segment  104  (which acts as a ‘flashing’ strip for drainage) that settles into cavity  106 , created by a gutter plate  108 . 
         [0082]      FIG. 8  depicts a cross sectional view through the left cab-level track assembly  26  at one of the tie-down openings  96 .  FIG. 9  depicts a cross sectional view through the left cab-level track assembly  26 , at the location of one of the rail bearings  88 , illustrating the in-set-depth of the rail bearings  88 , allowing for clearance of roof panels  18  and  20  to move up and down through the (guide slots  80 ,  82 A and  82 B—not shown). Rail bearings  88  are designed to be made of brass or urethane and use a shoulder bolt  144  as an axle, but a variety of other bearing types and materials may be used for this function, including cam followers, remaining within the scope of this application. 
         [0083]      FIG. 10  depicts a cross sectional view through the left track cab-level assembly  26  with the forward roof panel  20  in place, having one of the (forward roof panel) rollers  140  at the bottom of guide slot  80 . The (forward roof panel) roller  140  is also designed to be made of brass or urethane and use a shoulder bolt  146  as an axle, but a variety of other bearing types and materials may be used for this function, including cam followers, remaining within the scope of this application.  FIG. 11  depicts a cross sectional view through the left cab-level track assembly  26  with the forward roof panel  20  in the stowed position within the lower track  84  of the left telescoping rail  68 . 
         [0084]      FIG. 12  depicts a cross sectional view through the left cab-level track assembly  26  with the front roller  138  of the rear roof panel  18  on the (inner portion of the) upper track  86 . Shoulder bolt  148  is used as an axle with a short spacer  150  for the front roller  138 . The width of the narrow front guide slot  82 B, shown in hidden lines, is half as great as the width of the wide rear guide slot  82 A.  FIG. 13  depicts a cross sectional view through the left cab-level track assembly  26 , with the rear roller  136  of rear roof panel  18  on the (outer portion of) upper track  86 . Shoulder bolt  152  is used as an axle with a long spacer  154  for the rear roller  136  of the rear roof panel. The width of the wide rear guide slot  82 A, shown with the hidden lines, is twice as great as the narrow front guide slot  82 B. The wider rear guide slot  82 A allows the wider rear roller  136 , of rear roof panel  18 , to ramp up the wider rear guide slot  82 A, and cast along the (outer portion of) the upper track  86 , then pass over the narrow front guide slot  82 B, without falling into narrow front guide slot  82 B, and ultimately stow above forward roof panel  20 , above the truck cab roof  65 . 
         [0085]      FIG. 14  depicts an inner side view of the left cab-level track assembly  26  with the left telescoping rail  68  extended over the truck cab roof  65 .  FIG. 15  depicts an inner side view of a portion of the left cab-level track assembly  26 , illustrating rail lock  160  in the secured position. The rail lock  160  consists of a handle  162  with a spring-loaded plunger  164  and lock pin  163 . The rail lock  160  engages the forward orifice  166  and rear orifice  168  within the left cab-level telescoping rail  68 . Spring  170  is held in place by retainer  172 . The rail lock  160  retains the left cab-level telescoping rail  68  in either the forward stowed position, or over the cargo bed  58 , between the side window panels  14  and  64 . When the handle  162  is pulled down to release the plunger  164  from the forward orifice  166  in the bottom of the left cab-level telescoping rail  68 , the handle  162  is turned inward ninety degrees to lock the plunger  164  down with lock pin  163 , keeping spring  170  compressed. The user then pushes on the stern of both roof panels  18  and  20 , causing them to push the left cab-level telescoping rail  68 , and right cab-level telescoping rail  72  (not shown) forward over the pick-up truck cab  65 . The user then un-twists handle  162 , allowing spring  170  to de-compress and engage the plunger  164  into the rear orifice  168 .  FIG. 16  depicts a cross sectional view through the left cab-level track assembly  26 , illustrating rail lock  160  in the secured position.  FIG. 17  depicts a cross sectional view through the left cab-level track assembly  26 , illustrating rail lock  160  in the unsecured position. 
         [0086]      FIG. 18  depicts a perspective view of a Jeep Wrangler Unlimited  176  vehicle with sport rack members  22  and  24 , incorporating two sport rack bars  178 . In this variation of the cab-level retractable roof system for vehicles, the forward roof panel  20  and middle roof panel  74 , resting above the seating areas, are capable of ramping up and sliding back above, and extending beyond cargo roof panel  32  (and cargo area  180 ). Additionally, the cargo roof panel  32  (along with hingeably attached rear window panel—not shown) is capable of ramping up and sliding forward above forward roof panel  20 —note that the addition of a (third) sliding roof panel (cargo roof panel  32 ) necessitates a third (middle) track within the telescoping rails (not shown). As is the case with the retractable roof system truck shell, the sport rack  22  and  24  members are attached atop the left and right track assemblies  26  and  28 , with both sport rack bars  178  spanning the sport rack members  22  and  24 . Sport rack bars  178  do not interfere with the translation of roof panels  32 ,  74  or  20 . Sport rack bars  178  are adjustable in the fore and aft directions, to accommodate loads of various lengths, including luggage, skis, snowboards, camping equipment, bicycles, surfboards, kayaks, etc. above the track assembly area. 
         [0087]    The retractable roof system shown in the drawings and described in detail herein discloses arrangements of elements of particular construction, and configuration for illustrating preferred embodiments of structure, and method of operation of the present application. It is to be understood, however, that elements of different construction and configuration and other arrangements thereof, other than those illustrated and described may be employed for providing a retractable roof system in accordance with the spirit of this disclosure. Such changes, alternations and modifications, as would occur to those skilled in the art, are considered to be within the scope of this design, as broadly defined in the appended claims. 
         [0088]    Further, the purpose of the foregoing abstract is to enable the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, the general public, and especially the scientists, engineers and practitioners in the art, who are not familiar with patent or legal terms or phraseology, to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and essence of the technical disclosure of the application. The abstract is neither intended to define the invention of the application, which is measured by the claims, nor is it intended to be limiting as to the scope of the invention in any way.