Patent Publication Number: US-11654755-B2

Title: Vehicle rack assembly

Description:
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE TO ANY PRIORITY APPLICATIONS 
     Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed with the present application are hereby incorporated by reference under 37 CFR 1.57. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Field 
     This disclosure relates generally to vehicle rack assemblies, such as rack assemblies that attach to a truck bed. 
     Description of the Related Art 
     Rack assemblies have been used to add storage space above or within truck beds. Some rack assemblies are used in tandem with tonneau covers to make the space above the tonneau cover usable. Such rack assemblies typically connect and/or apply load to portions of the tonneau cover or side rails that receive the tonneau cover. However, the maximum vertical load that the tonneau cover and/or side rails receiving the tonneau cover can support is limited, especially in relation to the load capacity of sidewalls of a truck bed. 
     SUMMARY 
     The systems, methods, and devices of this disclosure each have several innovative aspects, no single one of which is solely responsible for the desirable attributes disclosed herein. 
     Disclosed herein is a tonneau cover and rack assembly configured to mount to sidewalls of a truck bed of a vehicle. In some embodiments, the tonneau cover and rack assembly comprises: a pair of side rails configured to secure to the sidewalls of the truck bed; a retractable cover received by the pair of side rails; a pair of tracks configured to transfer vertical load to the sidewalls of the truck bed, each of the pair of tracks comprising at least one mounting location; and a plurality of mounting brackets, each mounting bracket comprising a first portion configured to secure to one of the sidewalls of the truck bed and a second portion configured to pass through an opening in one of the side rails and secure to one of the tracks, wherein, when the second portion of each mounting bracket is secured to one of the tracks, a gap exists between a bottom surface of the track and a top surface of one of the side rails such that a primary vertical load is supported by the sidewall of the truck bed as opposed to the side rail. 
     In some embodiments, the at least one mounting location comprises a glider configured to secure to and slide along the tracks. In some embodiments, the glider comprises a substantially horizontal top portion and side arms extending laterally from the top portion, the side arms configured to wrap around sides of the tracks so as to restrict movement of the glider with respect to the tracks in a first direction, wherein the first direction is generally perpendicular to an axis extending from a first end of the tracks to a second end of the tracks. In some embodiments, each of the tracks comprise a recess extending along a portion of each of the tracks, wherein the top portion of the glider comprises a through-hole aligned with the recess of the tracks and configured to allow a fastener to pass therethrough and contact the recess. The tonneau cover and rack assembly can further comprise end caps configured to prevent the glider from sliding off the tracks. In some embodiments, the end caps comprise a first portion configured to secure to the ends of the tracks and a second portion configured to extend at least partially above the tracks. 
     In some embodiments, the pair of tracks comprise at least four mounting locations. In some embodiments, each of the tracks comprise two mounting locations, wherein each of the two mounting locations on each track are aligned with a corresponding one on the other track. The tonneau cover and rack assembly can further comprise two cross bars, wherein each of the tracks comprise two mounting locations, each of the two cross bars configured to secure to one of the two mounting locations on each of the tracks. 
     The tonneau cover and rack assembly can further comprise a cross bar, wherein the at least one mounting location comprises a first mounting location on one of the tracks and a second mounting location on another one of the tracks, and wherein the cross bar is configured to secure to both the first and second mounting locations and extend across the truck bed. 
     In some embodiments, the tracks comprise a substantially horizontal top portion and a bottom portion extending generally perpendicularly from the top portion, the bottom portion comprising two stems configured to receive the second portions of the mounting brackets therewithin. In some embodiments, each of the two stems comprise openings aligning with openings of the second portions of the mounting brackets, the openings configured to receive fasteners for securing the two stems to the mounting brackets. 
     In some embodiments, the first portion of each of the plurality of mounting brackets is generally perpendicular to the second portion and is configured to secure to one of the sidewalls of the truck bed with a clamp. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of mounting brackets can support a load of 350 lbs. In some embodiments, the retractable cover received by the pair of side rails comprises a plurality of connected slats extending between the side rails. 
     Disclosed herein is a rack assembly configured to mount to sidewalls of a truck bed of a vehicle. In some embodiments, the rack assembly comprises: a pair of side rails configured to secure to the sidewalls of the truck bed; a pair of tracks configured to transfer vertical load to the sidewalls of the truck bed, each of the pair of tracks comprising at least one mounting location; and a plurality of mounting brackets, each mounting bracket configured to pass through an opening in one of the side rails, each mounting bracket comprising a first portion configured to secure to one of the sidewalls of the truck bed and a second portion configured to secure to one of the tracks, wherein, when the second portion of each mounting bracket is secured to one of the tracks, a gap exists between a bottom surface of the track and a top surface of one of the side rails. 
     In some embodiments, the at least one mounting location of each of the pair of tracks of the rack assembly comprises a glider configured to secure to and slide along the tracks. In some embodiments, the glider comprises a substantially horizontal top portion and side arms extending laterally from the top portion, the side arms configured to wrap around sides of the tracks so as to restrict movement of the glider with respect to the tracks in a first direction, wherein the first direction is generally perpendicular to an axis extending from a first end of the tracks to a second end of the tracks. In some embodiments, each of the tracks comprise a recess extending along a portion of each of the tracks, wherein the top portion of the glider comprises a through-hole aligned with the recess of the tracks and configured to allow a fastener to pass therethrough and contact the recess. The rack assembly can further comprise end caps configured to prevent the glider from sliding off the tracks, the end caps comprising a first portion configured to secure to the ends of the tracks and a second portion configured to extend at least partially above the tracks. In some embodiments, the pair of tracks comprise at least four mounting locations. In some embodiments, each of the tracks comprise two mounting locations, each of the two mounting locations on each track aligned with a corresponding one on the other track. The rack assembly can comprise two cross bars, wherein each of the tracks comprise two mounting locations, each of the two cross bars configured to secure to one of the two mounting locations on each of the tracks. The rack assembly can comprise a cross bar, wherein the at least one mounting location comprises a first mounting location on one of the tracks and a second mounting location on another one of the tracks, and wherein the cross bar is configured to secure to both the first and second mounting locations and extend across the truck bed. 
     In some embodiments, the tracks of the rack assembly comprise a substantially horizontal top portion and a bottom portion extending generally perpendicularly from the top portion, the bottom portion comprising two stems configured to receive the second portions of the mounting brackets therewithin. In some embodiments, each of the two stems comprise openings aligning with openings of the second portions of the mounting brackets, the openings configured to receive fasteners for securing the two stems to the mounting brackets. 
     In some embodiments, the first portion of each of the plurality of mounting brackets is a bottom portion of the mounting bracket, the bottom portion configured to secure to a clamp, and wherein the second portion is a top portion of the mounting bracket. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of mounting brackets further comprise an intermediate portion located in between the top and bottom portions and configured to contact a top surface of the sidewall of the truck bed when the mounting bracket is secured thereto. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of mounting brackets can support a load of 350 lbs. In some embodiments, the retractable cover received by the pair of side rails comprises a plurality of connected slats extending between the side rails. 
     Disclosed herein is a method of assembling a rack above a truck bed of a vehicle, comprising: inserting mounting brackets through openings in a plurality of side rails, wherein the plurality of side rails are configured to receive a retractable cover; securing the side rails to sidewalls of the truck bed; securing first portions of the mounting brackets to tracks extending in a direction parallel to the side rails such that a gap exists between a bottom surface of the tracks and a top surface of the side rails, wherein the tracks comprise at least one mounting location; securing second portions of the mounting brackets to the sidewalls of the truck bed; and securing one or more cross bars to the at least one mounting location of the tracks. 
     The step of inserting mounting brackets through openings in the plurality of side rails can be carried out before the step of securing first portions of the mounting brackets to the tracks. The step of inserting mounting brackets through openings in the plurality of side rails can be carried out after the step of securing second portions of the mounting brackets to the sidewalls of the truck bed. The step of securing second portions of the mounting brackets to the sidewalls of the truck bed can be carried out before the step of securing first portions of the mounting brackets to tracks. 
     In some embodiments, the at least one mounting location comprises a glider configured to secure to and slide along the tracks. The glider can comprise a substantially horizontal top portion and side arms extending laterally from the top portion, wherein the side arms are configured to wrap around sides of the tracks so as to restrict movement of the glider with respect to the tracks in a first direction, wherein the first direction is generally perpendicular to an axis extending from a first end of the tracks to a second end of the tracks. 
     In some embodiments, the step of securing second portions of the mounting brackets to the sidewalls of the truck bed comprises securing the second portions to clamps and securing the clamps to the sidewalls of the truck bed. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG.  1 A  illustrates an embodiment of a retractable tonneau cover on a vehicle in an extended position. 
         FIG.  1 B  illustrates an embodiment of a retractable tonneau cover on a vehicle in a retracted position. 
         FIG.  2    illustrates a perspective view of a retractable tonneau cover. 
         FIG.  3    illustrates a side view of a retractable tonneau cover. 
         FIGS.  4 A- 4 C  illustrate a side view of a retractable tonneau cover with outer housing components removed. 
         FIG.  5    illustrates a front-on view of a retractable tonneau cover. 
         FIG.  6    illustrates a bottom perspective view of a retractable tonneau cover. 
         FIGS.  7 A- 7 B  illustrates a rear view of a retractable tonneau cover. 
         FIGS.  8 A- 8 C  illustrate views of a toothed cog that can be used with the retractable tonneau cover. 
         FIGS.  9 A- 9 C  illustrates views of an engagement pad that can be used with the retractable tonneau cover. 
         FIG.  10    illustrates an engagement pad in connection with a side rail of a retractable tonneau cover. 
         FIG.  11    illustrates a cross-section view of a replacement tonneau cover. 
         FIGS.  12 A- 19    illustrate embodiments of a rack assembly configured to mount to sidewalls of a truck bed of a vehicle. 
         FIGS.  20 A- 20 E  illustrate a method and assembly for securing the rack assembly to sidewalls of a truck bed using the mounting brackets discussed herein. 
         FIGS.  21 A- 21 B  illustrate another method and assembly for securing the rack assembly to sidewalls of a truck bed using the mounting brackets discussed herein. 
         FIG.  21 C  illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of the mounting brackets discussed herein. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Disclosed herein are embodiments of a rack assembly configured to mount to sidewalls of a truck bed of a vehicle. Embodiments of the disclosed rack assembly can include mounting brackets that can secure to the sidewalls of the truck bed and secure tracks that carry vertical load. In some embodiments, the tracks comprise one or more mounting locations for mounting cross bars that can support loads from, for example, equipment or other small or large items. The mounting brackets can secure to the tracks, pass through openings in side rails of a tonneau cover assembly, and secure to the sidewalls of the truck bed so that little or no additional vertical load from the tracks and/or cross bars is applied to the side rails. This can be advantageous because the vertical load capacity of side rails of a tonneau cover assembly are often less than that of the sidewalls of the truck, especially given that the side rails may already be utilized to receive and support a retractable tonneau cover (and the load from such tonneau cover). Such configuration can be useful where the side rails are manufactured with openings sized to allow the mounting brackets to pass therethrough or where the side rails are retrofitted with such openings. 
     Additionally, in some embodiments, the rack assembly disclosed herein does not apply additional vertical load to an installed tonneau cover, which can be advantageous given the limited load capacity of the tonneau cover. At the same time, the rack assembly disclosed herein can advantageously make the space above the tonneau cover usable for storage. Transferring additional load (e.g., from storage or equipment secured to the rack assembly) directly to the sidewalls of the truck bed provides a safer and more efficient method of load distribution, especially given that vehicles having storage rack assemblies can experience significant wind and/or other dynamic loads when the vehicle is traveling at high speeds. 
     Embodiments of the rack assembly disclosed herein can include one or more mounting locations along the tracks. These mounting locations can support and secure cross bars which can extend across the truck bed and be utilized to secure equipment or other items. Further, these mounting locations can be positioned at various positions along the tracks, and can comprise gliders configured to slide along the tracks. Such gliders can allow virtually an infinite amount of placement of the mounting locations and cross bars mounted thereto, which advantageously gives flexibility in the storage capacity and configuration of the rack assembly. In some embodiments, the gliders have side arms which can restrict movement of the gliders with respect to the tracks in a given direction, thus aiding securement of the gliders to the tracks. In some embodiments, the gliders have a through-hole on a top portion which can allow a fastener to pass or thread therethrough into a recess extending along the tracks. Such configuration can allow the gliders to secure to the tracks in desirable positions. 
     While the following disclosure contains particularities to a hard tonneau cover, the disclosure is not so limited and can be used with a retractable soft tonneau cover as well. 
       FIG.  1 A  illustrates an embodiment of a tonneau cover  100  on a vehicle  10  in an extended position, thereby covering the cargo bed (or truck bed), where  FIG.  1 B  illustrates an embodiment of the tonneau cover  100  on a vehicle  10  in a retracted position, thereby exposing the cargo bed. 
       FIG.  2    shows an embodiment of a tonneau cover  100  in a fully extended position from a perspective view, and  FIG.  3    shows the tonneau cover  100  from a side view. While a vehicle  10  has been removed, it will be understood that the tonneau cover  100  could be used to cover all or a portion of a vehicle, such as a cargo bed of a truck. This tonneau cover  100  can be incorporated into other vehicles as well, and the particular vehicle type does not limit the disclosure. 
     As shown, the tonneau cover  100  can be formed from a number of connected slats  106  that can be translated into a housing  108  near a cab end  102  (the retracted position), thus allowing a user to access a cargo bed of the vehicle  10 , and can be translated out to the tailgate end  104  to cover the cargo bed of the vehicle  10  (the extended position), thus preventing access into the cargo bed. The slats  106  can be resilient, thus making the tonneau cover  100  a hard tonneau cover. Each of the slats  106  can extend between two side rails (or tracks)  110  and follow along a slot in the side rails  110  to extend across a width of the cargo bed. Thus, the slats  106  can slide within the side rails  110  between the retracted and extended positions of the tonneau cover  100 . The side rails  110  can be attached to the vehicle, such as on the cargo bed and/or on sidewalls of the cargo bed, to allow the tonneau cover to properly cover the cargo bed. Side rails  110  can be attached by screws, bolts, rivets, adhesives, etc. and the particular attachment does not limit the disclosure. The side rails  110  can extend along a length of the cargo bed. 
     Accordingly, in the extended position the tonneau cover  100  can extend between the cab and the tailgate of a vehicle  10 , and across the width of the cargo bed, and can completely prevent access to the cargo bed of the vehicle  10 . In some embodiments, the tonneau cover  100  can include a lock at the tailgate end  104  which can attach the tonneau cover  100  to a tailgate. 
     In some embodiments, the slats  106  can be metallic slats (e.g., aluminum, steel, alloy), though the particular metal does not limit the disclosure. The plurality of slats  106  can be flexibly connected to one another allowing for some bending between adjacent slats  106 . In some embodiments, a hinge  107  may be used to attach adjacent slats  106  (shown in  FIG.  4 A ). In some embodiments, a living hinge may be used. In some embodiments, a silicon living hinge can be used. 
     In some embodiments, the slats  106  may be covered by another material, such as vinyl. However, in some embodiments the slats do not contain another material and can be exposed. In some embodiments, the slats  106  are not covered by vinyl. Exposed slats  106  can be advantageous as covering material, such as vinyl, can crease/bunch when the tonneau cover  100  is moving between the extended and the retracted position, stopping movement of the tonneau cover  100  and requiring user maintenance. 
       FIGS.  4 A- 4 C  illustrate a side view of the tonneau cover  100  with a portion of the housing  108  partially removed to better describe the internal components held within the housing  108 . As shown, an outer surface of a circular drive cog  202 , in particular protrusion  206 , interacts with an underside surface of the slats  106  of the tonneau cover  100 . In some embodiments, each of the slats  106  can include a first end wall  132  spaced from a second end wall  134  by a connecting wall  136  to define a slot  138  for receiving a portion of the circular drive cog  202 , in particular the protrusion  206  of the cog  202 . As shown in  FIG.  4 A , a first surface  201  of the protrusion  206  of the cog  202  can apply a force against the first end wall  132  when rotating counterclockwise to drive the tonneau cover  100  towards the extended position. If used to retract the tonneau cover  100 , the second surface  203  of the protrusion  206  can apply a force on the second end wall  134  when rotating clockwise in  FIG.  4 A  to retract the tonneau cover  100 . The top surface  205  of the protrusion  206  can abut against the connecting wall  136 . Thus, as the circular drive cog  202  turns, the slats  106  can translate along the side rails  110 , into and out of the housing  108 . In some embodiments, the slot  138  can be larger than the circular drive cog  202  portion, and thus there is some area for the protrusion  206  to move within the slot  138 . In some embodiments, not every slat  106  contains a slot  138 , which may allow for larger sided cogs (and/or protrusions  206 ) to be used. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  4 B- 4 C , the circular drive cog  202  can surround a motor drive reel (or motor reel, drive reel)  112  on an internal surface, which in turn houses a motor  115  (or motor drive), such as a tubular motor. Thus, the motor  115  can rotate motor coupler  117  within the motor drive reel  112 , and the coupler  117  can engage or disengage with the motor drive reel  112  and or the motor  115  can engage or disengage with the coupler  117 . The motor drive reel  112  can extend a width of the housing  108  and be attached to the housing  108 , such as through brackets  113 . The circular drive cog  202  can fit on the motor drive reel  112  so that as the motor drive reel  112  rotates by rotation of the motor  115 , the circular drive cog  202  would rotate as well, thereby translating the tonneau cover  100  as discussed above. 
     In some embodiments, the motor drive reel  112  is configured to be powered in only one direction. For example, it can be configured to push the tonneau cover  100  from the retracted to the extended position by rotating counterclockwise in the view of  FIG.  4 A . In some embodiments, the motor drive reel  112  can operate in both directions to open and close the tonneau cover  100  such as in a clockwise and counterclockwise as shown in  FIG.  4 A . 
     In some embodiments, two circular drive cogs  202  can be used, each attached on opposite ends of the motor drive reel  112 . In some embodiments, three circular drive cogs  202  can be used, each attached on opposite ends of the motor drive reel  112  and one generally in the middle. A clear view of the three cogs  202  can be seen in  FIG.  6    and  FIG.  7 B . The same motor  115  and motor drive reel  112  can rotate the cogs  102  simultaneously. In some embodiments, two motors and/or two motor drive reels can be used to drive the circular cogs  102  separately. 
     Continuing, the cab end  102  of the tonneau cover  110  can be attached to a spring reel  302 , containing a spring, also contained within the housing  108 . The spring reel  302  can generally extend the width of the tonneau cover  100  and can be contained within the housing  108 . The spring reel  302  can be attached to different sides of the housing  108  at opposite ends of the spring reel  302 , such as through brackets. The slats  106  of tonneau cover  100  can wrap around (e.g., roll up on) the spring reel  302  as the tonneau cover  100  is retracted into the housing  108 . In some embodiments, the cab end  102  of the tonneau cover  100  can be attached, such as riveted, screwed, bolted, to an outer surface of the spring reel  302 . In some embodiments, the tonneau cover  100  may have one or more slats  106  that are curved  107  to match an outer surface of the spring reel  302 . 
     The spring reel  302  may contain a spring, such as a torsion spring, though the type of spring does not limit the disclosure. The spring is configured to provide a force on the tonneau cover  100  in the direction of retracting the tonneau cover  100  towards the spring reel  302 . Thus, in order to retract the tonneau cover  100 , the motor  115  can be disengaged from the motor reel  112 , allowing the motor reel  112  and circular drive cog  202  to freely spin. The tension of the spring in the spring reel  302  will automatically retract the tonneau cover  100  into the housing  108  until the motor  115  is reengaged with the motor reel  112 . Thus, the motor  115  may not exert any force when the tonneau cover  100  is retracting, making the tonneau cover  100  in “a free pull mode”. Accordingly, the tonneau cover  100  can be considered spring loaded. When a user wants to extend the tonneau cover  100 , the motor  115  can be reengaged and used to push out the tonneau cover  100  into the extended position. 
     In some embodiments, a spring may not be used and thus the motor  115  can operate the tonneau cover  100  in both directions. In some embodiments, the spring may exert an extending force on the tonneau cover  100  instead of the retracting force discussed above, and the motor  115  may be used to retract the tonneau cover  100 . The particular force directionality does not limit the disclosure. 
     The spring reel  302  can have a diameter of about 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, or 4 inches. The spring reel  302  can have a diameter of greater than about 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, or 4 inches. The spring reel  302  can have a diameter of less than about 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, or 4 inches. The particular dimensions of the spring reel  302  do not limit the disclosure. 
     In some embodiments, the tonneau cover  100  can be locked at a particular position, such as by engaging the motor  115  with the motor reel  112  but not moving the motor  115  forward. This will allow the tonneau cover  100  to remain in an intermediate position between the retracted and extended position as long as a user desires. 
       FIG.  5    illustrates a front view of the retractable tonneau cover  100  and  FIG.  6    shows a perspective underside view of the retractable tonneau cover  100  to more clearly illustrate certain components. 
     Referring back to  FIG.  3   , the retractable tonneau cover  100  can have an emergency release  400  which can be incorporated into some embodiments of a tonneau cover  100 . In some embodiments, the tonneau cover  100  may not have an emergency release. 
     As shown, the emergency release  400  can include a handle  402  attached to a cable/wire/cord  404 . The cord  404  can be attached into the motor drive reel  112 . By activating the emergency release  400 , such as by pulling or turning the handle  402 , the cord  404  can disengage a spring loaded mechanism in the motor  115 , such as a release pin compression spring, releasing it from the motor drive reel  112 . Thus, when the emergency release  400  is activated, the motor  115  disengages (or separates) from the motor reel  112  and/or the circular drive cog  202 , and can only spin in place. Accordingly, even if the motor  115  continues to turn, it will not move the tonneau cover  100 . The emergency release  400  can be connected to the side rail  110  by one or more holders  406  extending downwards from the side rails  110 . The emergency release  400  can be bolted, or otherwise connected to the holders  406 . In some embodiments, the holders  406  can be thin sheet metal, hooks, etc. In some embodiments, the cable  404  can include a covering extending partially along a length of the cable  404 . The emergency release  400  can be located within the cargo bed in some embodiments, such as shown in  FIG.  1 B , and outside the cargo bed in some embodiments. A user can further deactivate the emergency release  400  when desired to reengage the motor  115 . 
       FIGS.  7 A- 7 B  illustrate a reverse perspective of the retractable tonneau cover  110  with the back portion of the housing  108  removed, which allows viewing of electronic components  306 .  FIG.  7 B  also removes the spring reel  302  for convenience. Specifically, a lid  120  on the top side of the tonneau cover  100  on the cab end  102  can be seen. The lid  120  may be one single piece covering the housing  108  and allowing the tonneau cover  100  to pass under the lid  120  and into the housing  108 . The lid  120  can lie on the rails  110  and thus can span a width of the tonneau cover  110 . 
     Previously, electronic components  306  for operating the motor  115  were stored within the lid  120 , such as on a tray that is not used in this embodiment. This can create a large and bulky lid  120 , which is aesthetically unappealing. Accordingly, embodiments of the disclosure have moved and/or integrated the electronic components  306  from the lid  120  into and/or with the housing  108  and/or into the motor drive reel  112 . This allows for the lid  120  to be much more compact, both vertically and horizontally, and more aesthetically pleasing, as well as moving the electronic components  306  under further cover to prevent any damage from the elements. 
     Thus, in some embodiments the lid  120  can have a height of 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, or 5 inches. In some embodiments, the lid  120  can have a height of greater than 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, or 5 inches. In some embodiments, the lid  120  can have a height of less than 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, or 5 inches. 
     In some embodiments, the lid  120  can have a length (the direction from the cab to the tailgate) of 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12 inches. In some embodiments, the lid  120  can have a length (the direction from the cab to the tailgate) of greater than 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12 inches. In some embodiments, the lid  120  can have a length (the direction from the cab to the tailgate) of less than 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12 inches. This can be approximately ½, ⅓, or ¼ smaller of a length than previous retractable tonneau covers. In some embodiments, it can be greater than ½, ⅓, or ¼ smaller of a length than previous retractable tonneau covers. In some embodiments, it can be less than ½, ⅓, or ¼ smaller of a length than previous retractable tonneau covers. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  7 A- 7 B , the electronic components  306  have been moved within the housing  108  and can be integrated more closely with the motor drive reel  112 . This allows the electronic components  306  to be moved from the lid  120 , thereby reducing the size of the lid  120 . In some embodiments, the electronic components  302  may connect the motor  115  to electronics within the vehicle  10 . In some embodiments, the electronic components  302  may include a battery. The electronic components  302  can include wires connecting the motor  115  to an activation source, which can receive a signal (wireless, Bluetooth, RF, etc.) from a user to operate the motor  115 , and thus the tonneau cover  100 . The electronic components  302  may be generally contained within a container in the housing  108  and/or motor drive reel  112 , or may be free within them. 
     In some embodiments, the tonneau cover  100  can include a stopper  111  (or stop mechanism or tab) on its tailgate end  104 . The stopper  111  can be seen in  FIG.  6    among others. The stopper  111  can extend generally downwards from the tailgate end  104 . As the tonneau cover  100  is withdrawn through tension of the spring reel  302 , the tonneau cover  100  would be completely withdrawn into the housing  108  if left on its own. This would release the tonneau cover  100  from the circular drive cog  202 , thereby making the tonneau cover  100  inoperable. Accordingly, it can be advantageous to include the stopper  111  for preventing the tonneau cover  100  from fully entering the housing  108 . As the tonneau cover  100  is retracted, the stopper  111  will abut the housing  108  or cargo bumper, preventing any further retraction of the tonneau cover  100  into the housing  108 . 
     The stopper  111  can extend partially or fully along the width of the final slat in the tonneau cover  100 . In some embodiments, a plurality of stoppers can be used, adjacent stoppers being spaced apart from one another. In some embodiments, 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 stoppers can be used. In some embodiments, greater than 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 stoppers can be used. In some embodiments, less than 2, 3, 4, or 5 stoppers can be used. 
     The stopper  111  can extend downwards from the slats  106  approximately 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, or 3 inches. The stopper  111  can extend downwards from the slats  106  greater than 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, or 3 inches. The stopper  111  can extend downwards from the slats  106  less than 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, or 3 inches. In some embodiments, the stopper  111  can be 1/10, ⅛, ⅙, ¼, or ½ inches in thickness. In some embodiments, the stopper  111  can be greater than 1/10, ⅛, ⅙, ¼, or ½ inches in thickness. In some embodiments, the stopper  111  can be less than 1/10, ⅛, ⅙, ¼, or ½ inches in thickness. The particular size of the stopper does not limit the disclosure, and the stopper  111  can be generally sized to abut against a front surface of the housing  108  or the cargo bumper. 
     While the stopper  111  can be advantageously used to prevent unwanted retraction of the tonneau cover  100  into the housing  108 , it can also be used for the initial setting of the motion of the tonneau cover  100 . Embodiments of the disclosed tonneau cover  100  can be used for many different lengths of cargo beds. Thus, the stopper  111  can be used to set the retraction/extension limit of the tonneau cover  100  when first installed. The tonneau cover  100  can be installed onto a vehicle and operating in setting to properly extend/retract the tonneau cover  100 . For example, the tonneau cover  100  can be pulled into the fully extended position and run until the stopper  111  hits the housing, stopping retraction of the tonneau cover  100 . This setting can be saved into the system, thus allowing for the tonneau cover  100  to extend and retract to the proper dimensions. In some embodiments, the housing  108  can include a cargo bumper  109  attached facing into the cargo bed, such as towards the tailgate, shown in  FIG.  4 C . This bumper  109  can be formed to accept impacts, such as the stopper  111  or cargo in the cargo bed, thus reducing or eliminating damage the housing  108  and/or any internal components. 
       FIGS.  8 A- 8 C  illustrate an embodiment of a circular drive cog  202  that can be used to retract and extend the tonneau cover  100 . This circular drive cog  202  can be generally smaller than cogs typically used for a retractable tonneau cover, as well as having more teeth and smaller teeth. As shown, the circular drive cog  202  can contain a generally circular body  204  with a number of protrusions (or teeth)  206  extending outwards from the body  204 . Each of the protrusions  206  can have a first surface  201 , a second surface  203  opposite the first surface, and a top surface  205  connecting the first surface  201  and the second surface  203 . The circular drive cog  202  can contain 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 protrusions. The circular drive cog  202  can contain greater than 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 protrusions in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the protrusions  206  are equally spaced around the body  204 . In some embodiments, the protrusions  206  are spaced around the body  204  unequally. The circular drive cog  202  can contain less than 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 protrusions in some embodiments. As shown, the body  204  can have an aperture  208  extending through the center, forming the body  204  into a ring shape. The aperture  208  can be sized to fit around the motor drive reel  112  so that the circular drive cog  202  rotates with the motor drive reel  112 . Further, the protrusions  206  can each contain an aperture  210  extending through them. 
     In some embodiments, the radius of the circular drive cog  202  can be between 1 and 2 inches (or between about 1 and about 2 inches). In some embodiments, the radius of the circular drive cog  202  can be greater than 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.6, 1.8, 1.9, or 2.0 inches. In some embodiments, the radius of the circular drive cog  202  can be less than 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.6, 1.8, 1.9, or 2.0 inches. In some embodiments, the circular drive cog  202  can have a depth (shown in  FIG.  8 B ) of between 0.5 and 2 inches (or between about 0.5 and about 2 inches). In some embodiments, the circular drive cog  202  can have a depth “d” (shown in  FIG.  8 C ) of greater than 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, or 2.0 inches. In some embodiments, the circular drive cog  202  can have a width of less than 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, or 2.0 inches. 
     In some embodiments, the circular drive cog  202  can have a diameter of approximately 1, 1.5, or 2 inches. In some embodiments, the circular drive cog  202  can have a diameter of less than approximately 1.5 or 2 inches. In some embodiments, the circular drive cog  202  can have a diameter of greater than 1, 1.5, or 2 inches. The diameter of the drive cog  202  is the diameter across the internal surface of the body  204  (from inside surface to opposite inside surface), which is also the diameter of the aperture  208 . This is smaller than previous cogs, which were approximately 2.5 inches in diameter or greater. In some embodiments, the diameter of the cog  202  from the outer surface of a protrusion  206  to the outer surface of an opposite protrusion  206  may be about 3, 3 and ⅛, 3 and ¼, or 3 and ½ inches. In some embodiments, the diameter of the cog  202  from the outer surface of a protrusion  206  to the outer surface of an opposite protrusion  206  may be greater than about 3, 3 and ⅛, 3 and ¼, or 3 and ½ inches. In some embodiments, the diameter of the cog  202  from the outer surface of a protrusion  206  to the outer surface of an opposite protrusion  206  may be less than about 3, 3 and ⅛, 3 and ¼, or 3 and ½ inches. 
     In some embodiments, the protrusions  206  can have a width “w” (shown in  FIG.  8 B ) of between 0.25 and 0.75 inches (or between about 0.25 and about 0.75 inches). In some embodiments, the protrusions  206  can have a width of greater than 0.25, 0.5, or 0.75 inches. In some embodiments, the protrusions  206  can have a width of less than 0.25, 0.5, or 0.75 inches. In some embodiments, the protrusions  206  can have a height “h” (shown in  FIG.  8 B ) of between 0.25 and 0.75 inches (or between about 0.25 and about 0.75 inches). In some embodiments, the protrusions  206  can have a height of greater than 0.25, 0.5, or 0.75 inches. In some embodiments, the protrusions  206  can have a height of less than 0.25, 0.5, or 0.75 inches. In some embodiments, the protrusions  206  can have a generally square cross-section when viewed from the width v. height plane, such as shown in  FIG.  8 B . In some embodiments, the protrusions  206  can have a generally rectangular cross-section. The particular cross-section shape does not limit the disclosure. 
     As discussed above, the protrusions  206  of the circular drive cog  202  can be generally sized and configured to fit into the underside of the slats of the tonneau cover  100 . Thus, rotation of the circular drive cog  202  causes the tonneau cover  100  to linearly translate between the retracted and extended positions. As the circular drive cog  202  can provide an upward force onto the tonneau cover  100 , there is the potential that the tonneau cover  100  could jump the circular drive cog  202 . Further, the circular drive cog  202  can potentially push the tonneau cover  100  into the underside of the lid  120 . Accordingly, embodiments of the disclosure can include engagement  500  pads which can prevent/limit the vertical movement of the tonneau cover  100 , thus avoiding the tonneau cover  100  inappropriately moving or stopping. 
       FIGS.  9 A- 9 C  illustrate an embodiment of such an engagement pad  500 , with  FIG.  4 B  illustrating its position on the tonneau cover  100 .  FIG.  9 A  illustrates a side view of the pad  500 , such as shown in  FIG.  4 B .  FIG.  9 B  illustrates a top view and  FIG.  9 C  illustrates a bottom view. As shown, the engagement pad  500  can have an outward facing surface  502 , an inward facing surface  504 , a bottom surface  506 , and an upper surface  508 . 
     As shown, the upper surface  508  can include a number of indents  510  which can be used to connect the engagement pad  500  to the side rail  110 , such as by mating with protrusions in the side rail  110 , and prevent unwanted motion of the engagement pad  500 . In some embodiments, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 indents  510  can be used, though the particular location and number of indents does not limit the disclosure. Further, the bottom surface  506  and upper surface  508  can include an aperture  512  for extending a bolt through the engagement pad  500  to attach to the side rail  110 . The bottom surface  506  can include a larger aperture than the top surface  508  in order to retain the head of a bolt. In some embodiments, the engagement pad  500  can alternatively be screwed, adhered, or otherwise connect to the rail  110 , and the aperture  512  may not be used in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the bottom surface  506  is flat other than the aperture  512  in order to engage with the slats  106 . The bottom surface  506  can be depressed or deformed by the slats  106  during operation. 
     Further, the inward facing surface  504  can include a step  514 . This step  514  can be configured so that a portion of the side rail  110  can rest on the step  514   
     In some embodiments, the engagement pad  500  can be made of plastic, metal, or rubber. In some embodiments, the engagement pad  500  can be injected molded, though the particular processing methodology does not limit the disclosure. 
     In some embodiments, the engagement pad  500  can be approximately 3 inches by 0.5 inches by ¼ inches. As shown, the engagement pad  500  can have a trapezoidal look when viewed from the side, the bottom being narrower than the top. Thus, both sides of the engagement pad  500  can be inclined. The engagement pad  500  can be keyed into the side rail  110 . Thus, there can be two engagement pads, one on each side of the width of the tonneau cover  100 . More engagement pads can be used along the length of the side rails  110 . The engagement pad  500  can put downward pressure onto an upper surface of the tonneau cover  100 , thereby preventing unwanted motion. Specifically, the engagement pad  500  can hold down the tonneau cover  100  and prevent it from “jumping” off of the cogs  202 . 
       FIG.  10    illustrates a side rail  110  and an engagement pad  500  connected to the side rail  110 . In some embodiments, the width of the engagement pad  500  (We) can be ⅛, ¼, ½, ¾, equal to, 1 and ¼, 1 and ½, 1 and ¾, 2, 2 and ½, 3, or 4 times with width of the side rail  110  (Wr). In some embodiments, the width of the engagement pad  500  (We) can be less than ⅛, ¼, ½, ¾, equal to, 1 and ¼, 1 and ½, 1 and ¾, 2, 2 and ½, 3, or 4 times with width of the side rail  110  (Wr). In some embodiments, the width of the engagement pad  500  (We) can be greater than ⅛, ¼, ½, ¾, equal to, 1 and ¼, 1 and ½, 1 and ¾, 2, 2 and ½, 3, or 4 times with width of the side rail  110  (Wr).  FIG.  11    illustrates a cross-section view when viewed toward the tailgate end  104 , which shows the positioning of the engagement pad  500  with respect to other components in the tonneau cover  100 . In some embodiments, the engagement pads  500  are only positioned along the respective side rails  110 , the engagement pads extend no more than ½, 1, 1½ or 2 times the width of the rail  110  and there is only one engagement pad  500  per rail  110 . 
     Embodiments of the tonneau cover  100  can be activated by a user to extend between a retracted and extended position. For example, a user can activate a key fob to operate the motor  115  of the tonneau cover  100 , thereby moving it between an extended and retracted position. The key fob can use Bluetooth connection, wireless connection, radiofrequency connection, or any other connection to operate the motor  115 . Further, the key fob may be able to stop the tonneau cover  100  at a particular position on the truck bed, e.g., at a partially retracted/partially extended position. In some embodiments, the tonneau cover  100  may be operated by another approach, such as through a smartphone app, a button/switch on the vehicle, a button/switch on the tonneau cover, etc. and the particular device for operating the tonneau cover  100  does not limit the disclosure. 
       FIGS.  12 A- 19    illustrate a rack assembly  600  that can be utilized alone or in combination with tonneau covers, such as tonneau cover  100  discussed above with reference to vehicle  10 . As discussed herein, the rack assembly  600  can mount to sidewalls of the truck bed of a vehicle (such as vehicle  10 ) and can transfer additional vertical load directly to the sidewalls as opposed to transferring such additional load to side rails, such as side rails  110  discussed above. Thus, the rack assembly  600  discussed herein can not only make the space above a tonneau cover usable for storage, but also can transfer vertical load in an efficient and safe manner. 
       FIGS.  12 A- 12 B  illustrate components of a rack assembly  600  which can be secured to a truck bed of a vehicle, such as vehicle  10 . The rack assembly  600  can include a plurality of mounting brackets  604  that can secure to sidewalls of the vehicle  10 . As discussed above, side rails  110  can be attached to the vehicle (such as to the sidewalls of the truck bed) via bolts, screws, bolts, rivets, adhesives or a combination of these, and/or the side rails can be secured to and/or supported by brackets that can secure to the vehicle  10 . The mounting brackets  604  can secure to the sidewalls of the vehicle  10 , pass through openings  606  in the side rails  110 , and secure to tracks  602 . The side rails  110  can be retrofitted to include openings  606  or, alternatively, the side rails  110  can be manufactured with such openings  606 . The openings  606  can be sized and/or shaped to allow the mounting brackets  604  or a portion thereof to pass therethrough. 
     The mounting brackets  604  can comprise a first portion that secures to the sidewalls of the vehicle  10  and a second portion which secures to the tracks  602 . As illustrated in  FIGS.  12 A- 12 B , the first portion (which can be a bottom or lower portion  604   c ) of the mounting brackets  604  can extend laterally outward and/or in a generally perpendicular direction from the second portion and towards the sidewalls of the truck bed. For example, the first portion can be bottom portion  604   c  of mounting bracket  604  as illustrated in  FIG.  21 C  and the second portion can be a top portion  604   a . As also shown in  FIG.  21 C , the mounting bracket  604  can comprise a stem  604   d . The bottom portion  604   c  can have a length that is shorter than a length of the stem  604   d  and/or the top portion  604   a , especially where the distance between the sidewalls and the side rails  110  is relatively small in comparison with the distance (e.g., vertical distance) that the mounting brackets  604  need to span in order to pass through the side rail openings  606  and secure to the tracks  602 . In some embodiments, the bottom portion  604   c  extends generally perpendicularly from the stem portion  604   d  and/or the top portion  604   a . In some embodiments, the mounting brackets  604  are L-shaped, for example, where mounting bracket  604  comprises a top portion  604   a , stem  604   d , and a bottom portion  604   c . In some embodiments, the mounting bracket  604  comprises stem  604   d , top portion  604   a , intermediate portion  604   b , and bottom portion  604   c , and intermediate portion  604   b  and/or bottom portion  604   c  are generally perpendicular to stem  604   d  and/or top portion  604   a . In some embodiments, intermediate portion  604   b  and/or bottom portion  604   c  extend in a transverse direction from stem  604   d . In some embodiments, an end of the top portion  604   a  comprises one or more through-holes  613  configured to align with one or more through-holes  612  in the tracks  602  (see  FIG.  13   ). The aligning through-holes  612 ,  613  can be used along with fasteners to secure the top portion  604   a  of the mounting brackets  604  to the tracks  602 . In some embodiments, an end of the bottom portion  604   c  of the mounting brackets  604  comprises one or more through-holes  615  which can align with holes in a clamp (such as clamp  814 ) configured to secure the mounting brackets  604  to a sidewall  802  of the truck bed (see  FIGS.  21 A- 21 B  and discussed below). 
     As shown in  FIGS.  12 A- 12 B , the side rails  110  can include, or be retrofitted to include, openings  606 . In some embodiments, the rack assembly  600  includes seals  608 . Seals  608  can be placed around the mounting brackets  604  and/or atop the side rails  110  at openings  606 . Seals  608  can be sized and/or shaped to fit within a space between a perimeter of the mounting brackets  604  and a perimeter of the openings  606 . Additionally or alternatively, seals  608  can be sized and/or shaped to sit above and/or around a space between a perimeter of the mounting brackets  604  and a perimeter of the openings  606 . Seals  608  can advantageously prevent water and/or moisture from passing through the such space between a perimeter of the mounting brackets  604  and a perimeter of the openings  606  and/or corroding portions of the mounting brackets  604  and/or the side rails  110 . Further, where the rack assembly  600  is used alongside a tonneau cover, such seals  608  can prevent water and/or moisture from entering into an interior space defined between a closed tonneau cover and the truck bed floor. In addition to providing a water and/or moisture seal, seals  608  can also advantageously be used to closed a space between a perimeter of the mounting brackets  604  and a perimeter of the openings  606  and/or help align or position the mounting brackets  604  and the side rails  110  with respect to one another. Desirably, the openings  606  are sufficiently large and the seals  608  and sized and constructed such that the seals  608  form a water-tight seal with the ride rails  110  and the mounting brackets  604 , without any significant transfer of load from the mounting brackets  604  to the side rails  110 . As used herein “significant load” is a load sufficient to damage the rails or cause the rails flex sufficiently to cause interference (that is, requiring increased force to open or close, or the prevention of opening and closing) with the opening and closing of the cover of the tonneau. Desirably, the load transferred to the side rails  110  by each seal  608  and mounting bracket  604  pair can be less than 30 lbs, 20 lbs, 10 lbs, 5 lbs, 4 lbs, 3 lbs, 2 lbs, 1 lb, 0.5 lb, or 0.25 lb. 
     As discussed above, the rack assembly  600  can mount to sidewalls of the truck bed of a vehicle and can transfer additional vertical load directly to the sidewalls as opposed to transferring such additional load to side rails discussed above.  FIGS.  20 A- 20 E  illustrate an example method of securing the rack assembly  600  to the sidewalls of a vehicle using the mounting brackets  604 .  FIG.  20 A  illustrates a truck bed of a vehicle having openings  702  in sidewalls  704  of the truck bed. The truck bed can have one or more openings  702  spaced along the sidewalls  704  between a front end of the truck bed and a back end of the truck bed. As shown by  FIGS.  20 B- 20 C , supporting brackets  706   a ,  706   b  can secure to and/or through openings  702  with bolt  708 , such that supporting bracket  706   b  is secured to an exterior face of the sidewall  704  and supporting bracket  706   a  is secured to an interior face of the sidewall  704 . As shown by  FIGS.  20 D- 20 E , supporting bracket  706   a  can be L-shaped and include two flanges that are generally perpendicular to one another, such that a top flange extends outward from the interior face of the sidewall  704  when the supporting brackets  706   a ,  706   b  are secured to the sidewall  704 . The top flange of supporting bracket  706   a  can secure the side rail  110  with the use of a bolt  710 . Further, mounting bracket  604  can rest upon and/or secure to supporting bracket  706   a  so that load from the mounting bracket  604  can be transferred directly through the supporting bracket  706   a  to the sidewall  704 . As discussed above and shown in  FIGS.  20 D and  20 E , mounting bracket  604  can extend through an opening  606  in side rail  110 . 
     As discussed herein, the rack assembly  600  can include one or more tracks  602 . For example, the rack assembly  600  can include a pair of elongate tracks  602 , each track  602  positioned above side rails  110  and/or above sidewalls of the truck bed. Each track  602  can have a first end, a second end, and a length extending therebetween. Each track  602  can have a length that is a portion of a length of the side rails  110 . The length of each track  602  can extend in a direction that is parallel to a length of the side rails  110 . In some embodiments, the length of the tracks  602  is at least 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, or 90% of the length of the side rails  110 . In some embodiments, the length of the track  602  is no more than 90%, 80%, 70%, 60%, 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, or 10% of the length of the side rails  110 . In some embodiments, the length of the track  602  may be between 10% and 90% of the length of the side rails  110 , between 30% and 70% of the length of the side rails  110 , or between 70% and 100% of the length of the side rails  110 . The length of the tracks  602  can be varied depending on the desired variability in arrangement of the rack assembly  600 . As discussed below, the tracks  602  can comprise one or more mounting locations that can be used to mount cross bars which can extend across the truck bed. Additionally, as discussed below, the mounting locations of the tracks  602  can be movable and/or translatable along the tracks  602 . Where it is desirable to have a wide range of flexibility in the placement of the mounting locations along the tracks  602 , more spacing between cross bars, and/or more cross bars, the tracks  602  can have a length that is closer to the length of the side rails  110 . However, where it is desired to have less flexibility (for example, where the rack assembly  600  is desired to be utilized in only a portion of the vertical space above a truck bed), the length of the tracks  602  can be made shorter. Thus, the rack assembly  600  can be advantageously customized to obtain various desirable features. 
     The tracks  602  can extend above and/or along a portion of the side rails  110 . As discussed above, the tracks  602  can secure to mounting brackets  604  (e.g., a top portion  604   a  of the mounting brackets  604 ). In some embodiments and as illustrated in  FIGS.  14 A- 14 B , the tracks  602  can be generally T-shaped with a top portion  603  and a bottom portion  605 , wherein the bottom portion  605  is configured to secure to the mounting brackets  604 . The top portion  603  of the tracks  602  can be a top flange, which can be substantially horizontal. The bottom portion  605  of the tracks  602  can comprise one or more stems that extend from the top portion  603  of the tracks  602 . In some embodiments, the one or more stems extend generally perpendicular to the top portion/flange  603  of the tracks  602 . In some embodiments, the bottom portion  605  of the tracks  602  comprises two stems, wherein both stems extend from the top flange of the tracks  602  and are spaced from each other. The space between both stems of the bottom portion  605  of the tracks  602  can be sized and/or shaped to receive a portion of the mounting brackets  604  (e.g., top portion  604   a  of the mounting brackets  604 ). For example, as shown by  FIGS.  12 A- 13   , an end of the mounting brackets  604  (such as top portion  604   a ) can fit within the space between the two stems of the bottom portion  605  of the tracks  602  when the tracks  602  are secured to the mounting brackets  604 . Such “sandwiching” of the mounting brackets  604  between the two stems of the tracks  602  provides robust securement of the tracks  602 . For example, such securement allows the tracks  602  to resist rocking and/or other forces, especially when the rack assembly  600  is assembled on the truck bed of a vehicle and the vehicle is in motion. 
     As also discussed above, the mounting brackets  604  and the tracks  602  can have corresponding through-holes  612 ,  613  that allow fasteners to pass therethrough and help secure the mounting brackets  604  and tracks  602  together. In some embodiments, the fasteners comprise bolts  616  and nuts  614 , wherein the bolts  616  pass through aligning through-holes  612 ,  613  in the tracks  602  and mounting brackets  604  and secure with nuts  614  which, when threaded along a threaded portion of bolts  616 , contact and/or apply pressure to surfaces of the bottom portion  605  of the tracks  602  (such as surfaces of one of the two stems of the bottom portion of the tracks  602 ). Such configuration of through-holes  612 ,  613  and fasteners  616  allow the tracks  602  to transfer load to the mounting brackets  604 , such as vertical loads from the cross bars (discussed below). Such loads can then be safely and efficiently transferred from the mounting brackets  604  to the sidewalls of the vehicle. 
     Advantageously, when the tracks  602  are secured to the mounting brackets  604 , the tracks  602  can be positioned and/or mounted above the side rails  110  so that vertical load from the tracks  602  is not transferred to the side rails  110 . As discussed herein, the tracks  602  of the rack assembly  600  can receive vertical load from one or more cross bars (such as cross bars  640  discussed below). Such vertical load can be significant, depending on the use of the rack assembly  600  and the equipment secured to the cross bars. As opposed to relying on the strength capacity of the side rails  110 , a tonneau cover installed within the side rails  110 , or top flanges of sidewalls of the vehicle, the rack assembly  600  allows load from the cross bars to be transferred through the tracks  602  and directly to the sidewalls of the truck bed of the vehicle, via the mounting brackets  604 . Including a gap  607  between a bottom surface of the tracks  602  and a top surface of the side rails  110  when the tracks  602  are secured to the mounting brackets  604  can ensure that the tracks  602  do not transfer vertical load to the side rails  110  (by resting thereon) (see  FIG.  14 A ). The gap  607  between the bottom surface of the tracks  602  and the top surface of the side rails  110  can be, for example, no more than 0.1 inch, no more than 0.2 inch, no more than 0.3 inch, no more than 0.4 inch, no more than 0.5 inch, or no more than 0.6 inch. In some embodiments, the gap  607  can be between 0.1 inch and 1 inch, between 0.2 inch and 0.8 inch, between 0.4 inch and 2 inch, between 0.1 inch and 0.5 inch, or between 0.1 inch and 0.25 inch. In some embodiments, the mounting brackets  604  are able to transfer up to 350 lbs of vertical load from the tracks  602  to the sidewalls of the vehicle. Desirably, this transfer of load from the tracks  602  to the sidewalls of the vehicle occurs without the transfer of significant load to the side rails  110 . 
     As discussed herein, the tracks  602  can comprise one or more mounting locations configured to facilitate mounting of, for example, cross bars, to the tracks  602 . The mounting locations can be positioned along the length of the tracks  602 . In some embodiments, the mounting locations comprise gliders  620  configured to secure to and slide along the tracks  602 .  FIGS.  14 A- 15   , among others, show gliders  620 . Glider  620  can comprise a substantially horizontal top portion  620   a  (also refereed to herein as “top flange  620   a ”) and side arms  620   b  which can extend laterally from the top portion (see  FIG.  14   ). The side arms  620   b  can extend generally perpendicular to the top portion  620   a  in a downward direction and generally parallel to sides of the top portion  620   a  of the tracks  602 . The side arms  620   b  can additionally extend and/or wrap around the top flange  620   a  of the tracks  602 . Such configuration of the side arms  620   b  can help restrict movement of the glider  620  with respect to the tracks  602  in a direction generally perpendicular to an axis extending from a first end of the tracks  602  to a second end of the tracks  602 . This can be advantageous because the gliders  620  can experience a combination of vertical and horizontal (lateral) forces when the rack assembly  600  is loaded and/or when the vehicle is moving, and such configuration of side arms  620   b  of the glider  620  can help prevent the gliders  620  from sliding off the tracks  602  in a direction generally perpendicular to a longitudinal axis running through the tracks  602 . 
     In some embodiments, the gliders  620  include a stem  622  extending downward from one or both side arms  620   b . The stem  622  can be positioned along a side of the bottom portion  605  of the track  602  when the glider  620  is mounted to the track  602 . The stem  622  can also prevent rocking and/or lateral movement of the glider  620  with respect to the track  602  similar to the side arms  620   b  of the glider  620 . 
     In some embodiments, the tracks  602  comprise a recess  626  extending along a portion of the tracks  602  (see  FIG.  15   ). The recess  626  can extend along a portion of the track  602  and can be continuous, or alternatively, non-continuous. In some embodiments, the glider  620  comprises a top portion  620   a  having a through-hole configured to align with the recess  626  of the track  602  when the glider  620  is mounted to the track  602 . The through-hole of the top portion  620   a  of the glider  620  can be sized to allow a fastener  624  to pass therethrough and contact the recess  626  (see  FIG.  14 B ). By threading the fastener  624  through the through-hole of the top portion of the glider  620  to contact the recess  626 , movement and/or sliding of the glider  620  along the track  620  can be prevented or minimized, which can be advantageous if it is desired to fix the glider  620  in place along the track  602  and/or lessen the glider&#39;s ability to slide. The recess  626  can extend along the entirety of track  602 , which can advantageously allow the glider&#39;s movement along the track  602  to be hindered or prevented along any portion of the length of the track  620  via utilization of fastener  624  as described above. While  FIG.  14 A  shows the recess  626  extending along the entire length of the track, in some embodiments, the recess  626  is non-continuous and/or does not extend the entirety of the length of the track  602 . For example, recess  626  can be positioned at non-continuous segments along the track  602 , which can be advantageous if it is desired to limit the ability of a glider  620  to move along the track  602  when the fastener  624  threaded through the through-hole in the glider  620 . In such situations, when the fastener  624  is threaded through the through-hole of the glider  620  and into a non-continuous segment of recess  626 , the glider  620  can be prevented from sliding outside such segment because the fastener  624  will but up against ends of the non-continuous recess  626 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  15 - 19   , the rack assembly  600  can include one or more end caps  630  to prevent the gliders  620  from sliding off the tracks  602 . In some embodiments, the end caps  630  comprise a base configured to secure to an end of the track  602  and a top piece configured to extend above a surface of the track  602 . As shown in  FIG.  15   , a portion of the end caps  630  can protrude outward from the base and can be sized and/or shaped to fit within two stems of the tracks  602 . Such protruding portion of the base of the end caps  630  can be secured between the two stems of the tracks  602  and can be friction fit between the stems. Alternatively or additionally, the protruding portion can be secured to the two stems with a fastener  621  which can extend through corresponding and aligning through-holes in one or both of the two stems of the tracks  602  and the protruding portion of the based of the end caps  630  (see  FIG.  15   ). The top piece of the end caps  630  can extend above a surface of the tracks  602  and can prevent the gliders  620  from sliding off the tracks  620 . However, in some embodiments, the top piece does not extend above a surface of the tracks  620 . Even where the top piece does not extend above a surface of the tracks  602 , the top piece can prevent the gliders  620  from sliding off the tracks  602 . For example, where the recess  626  of the tracks extends along the tracks near the ends and a fastener  624  is threaded at least partially into a space defined by the recess  626 , when the glider  620  is moved to an end of the track  602 , the fasteners  624  can contact and/or bump into the top piece of the end cap  630  and thereby prevent the glider  620  from moving past the top piece of the end cap  630 . 
     In some embodiments, the tracks  602  comprise a groove  610  extending along a length of the bottom portion of the tracks  602  (see  FIGS.  14 A- 14 B ). For example, the tracks  602  can comprise a groove  610  that extends along a portion of one of the two stems of the bottom portion of the tracks  602 . The fastener  621  (see  FIG.  15   ) used to secure the end caps  630  to ends of the tracks  602  can be placed through through-holes in the stem of the tracks  602  so that, when secured therein, a head of the fastener  621  sits within the groove  610 . This can advantageously allow the glider  620  and/or portions thereof (e.g., stem  622 ) to slide along and/or adjacent to the tracks  602  or portions thereof (e.g., adjacent to the groove  610  of the inner stem of the tracks  602 ) without interfering and/or contacting the fasteners  621  (see  FIGS.  14 A- 15   ). 
     In some embodiments, the base of the end caps  630  comprises a triangle-shaped body (see, e.g.,  FIG.  15   ). Such triangle-shaped body can be oriented such that a hypotenuse side of the triangle extends from the top piece of the end cap  630  to an end of the end caps  630  that contacts the side rails  110  when in use. Such shape and orientation of the base of the end caps  630  provides strong overturning resistance of the end cap  630  while utilizing minimal amount of material. For example, as discussed above, the gliders  620  can be prevented from sliding off the tracks  602  by the top piece of the end caps  630 . The forces applied to the top piece of the end caps  630  when the glider contacts and/or bumps into the top piece can result in overturning of the end cap  630 . The triangle-shaped base of the end cap  630 , and more particularly the bottom side of the triangle which extends away from the track  602 , allows such glider-induced forces and/or overturning moment to be resisted. At the same time, because of the triangle-shape of the base of the end cap  630 , the amount of material required to be used in the end caps  630  is reduced. 
     As discussed above, the rack assembly  600  can include one or more cross bars  640  which can extend across the truck bed of a vehicle and can transfer load to the one or more mounting locations (such as gliders  620 ) of the tracks  602 .  FIGS.  16 A- 19    illustrate the one or more cross bars  640 . The cross bars  640  can comprise various cross-sectional shapes, such as square, circle, rectangle, triangle, scalene, among others. The cross bars  640  can be hollow. In some embodiments, such as is illustrated in  FIGS.  16 A- 19   , the cross bars  640  comprise a partially trapeze cross-section, wherein a top flange of the cross bars  640  is smaller than a bottom flange. In some embodiments, the cross-section of the cross bars  640  comprises a recess  623  extending inward from a bottom flange towards a center of the cross-section. Such recess  623  can be symmetrically positioned within the cross-section with respect to the bottom flange of the cross-section. Such recess  623  can advantageously provide space for one or more fastener heads to fit within, without interfering with the placement and/or securement of the cross bars  640  on or to the mounting locations of the tracks  602 . For example, such recess  623  can allow a head of the fastener  624  (that threads through the through-hole in the top portion  620   a  of the glider  620  and contacts recess  626  of track  602 ) to fit therewithin so that the bottom flange of the cross bars  640  can sit flush atop the gliders  620 . 
     In some embodiments, the cross-section of the cross bars  620  includes two minor flanges  625   a ,  625   b  that extend from the bottom flange inwardly partially across the recess  623 . Such flanges  625   a ,  625   b  can help the cross bar  640  secure to the glider  620  with a fastener  642  as described below.  FIGS.  16 A- 17    shows a fastener  642  (e.g., a bolt) and  FIG.  17    shows a nut  648 . Bolt  642  can be placed within the recess  623  of the cross bar  640  such that a head of the bolt  642  is above the minor flanges  625   a ,  625   b . Further, bolt  642  can be placed within the recess  623  and into the through-hole  644  in a top portion of the glider  620 . Such placement of the bolts  642  within the recess  623  can occur before or after the cross bar  640  is placed atop and/or in contact with the glider  620 . When bolt  642  is placed within the recess  623  and dropped into the through-hole  644 , the head of bolt  642  can contact the minor flanges  625   a ,  625   b . Thereafter, nut  648  can be threaded onto a threaded portion of the bolts  642  from underneath the glider  620 . Once threaded, the nut  648  can contact and/or press against a bottom surface of the glider  620  (e.g., a bottom surface of the top portion  620   a  of glider  620 ) and can thus secure the cross bar  640  to the glider  620 . When the cross bar  640  is secured to the glider  620 , the recess  623  provides space for the head of the bolt  642  to fit and, at the same time, a bottom surface of the cross bar  640  can lay flush against a top surface of the glider  620 . 
       FIG.  18    illustrates end pieces  650  which can be secured to ends of the cross bars  640 . The end pieces  650  can be sized and/or shaped corresponding with the cross-section of the cross bars  640 . End pieces  650  can comprise a through-hole  652  configured to receive a fastener  654 . Fastener  654  can pass and/or thread through through-hole  652  and secure to through-holes  629  on ends of the cross bars  640 . Thus, the end pieces  650  can close hollow and/or open ends of the cross bars  640 . 
       FIG.  19    illustrates how gliders  620  can be at least partially secured to the tracks  602  using fastener(s)  660  (for example, a screw). For example, a fastener  660  can be positioned through a through-hole in a surface of glider  620  which is proximate to a side of track  602  and can be at least partially received in a recess extending along the side of the track  602 . In such configuration, the fastener  660  can be tightened and/or inserted (for example, inserted toward a surface within the recess) so as to restrict and/or reduce the likelihood of relative movement of the glider  620  along track  602 . 
     The rack assembly  600  discussed herein can be assembled a variety of different ways. For example, the rack assembly  600  can be assembled above a truck bed of a vehicle by securing the side rails  110  to sidewalls of the truck bed, securing portions of the mounting brackets  604  to the sidewalls of the truck bed, and securing other portions of the mounting brackets  604  to tracks  602 . The securement of the mounting brackets  604  to the sidewalls of the truck bed and/or to the tracks  602  can occur before or after passing a portion of the mounting brackets  604  through openings  606  in the side rails  110 . As discussed above, the side rails  110  can be retrofitted to include openings  606  or such side rails  110  can be manufactured to include such openings  606 . As discussed above, when the mounting bracket  604  is secured to the track  602 , a gap can exist between a bottom surface of the tracks  602  and a top surface of the side rails  110  so that a primary vertical load applied to the rack assembly  600  is supported by the sidewalls of the truck bed as opposed to the side rails  110 . 
     As discussed above, the rack assembly  600  can mount to sidewalls of the truck bed of a vehicle and can transfer additional vertical load directly to the sidewalls as opposed to transferring such additional load to the side rails. As also discussed below, a first portion (e.g., bottom portion  604   c ) of the mounting brackets  604  can include one or more through-holes  615  which can align with holes in a clamp (such as clamp  814 ) configured to secure the mounting brackets  604  to a sidewall of the truck bed.  FIGS.  21 A- 21 B  illustrate another example method and an assembly  800  for securing the rack assembly  600  to the sidewalls  802  of a vehicle using the mounting brackets  604 . As shown, mounting assembly  800  can include a clamp  814  which can secure to the first portion (for example, bottom portion  604   c ) of the mounting bracket  604  with a fastener  818  (such as a socket cap screw). The fastener  818  can pass and/or thread through a hole in the clamp  814  and hole  615  in the mounting bracket  604  at a first portion of the clamp  814  (see  FIGS.  21 A- 21 C ). A second portion of the clamp  814  can contact and secure to a portion of the truck sidewall  802  (such as to an interior surface of the sidewall  802 . A washer  816  can be placed between the fastener  818  head and a surface of the first portion of the clamp  814 . Side rails  110  can be secured to a side of the mounting bracket  604  with a fastener  810  near a bottom portion of the side rail  110 , and a washer  812  can be placed in between the side of the mounting bracket  604  and a surface of the side rail  110 . 
     When the mounting bracket  604  is secured to the side wall  802  along with the clamp  814 , an intermediate portion  604   b  of the mounting bracket  604  can contact a top edge of the side wall  802 . In such configuration, the intermediate portion  604   b  can sit vertically between the side rail  110  and the side wall  802  and can transfer vertical load from the tracks  602  directly to the sidewalls  802 . In some embodiments, the mounting brackets  604  can transfer a primary vertical load from the tracks  602  to the sidewalls  802 . As discussed above, a first portion of the mounting brackets  604  can secure to clamp  814  and a second portion of the mounting brackets  604  can pass through opening  606  in the side rail  110  and secure to the track  602 . Referring to  FIG.  21 C , the first portion can be bottom portion  604   c  and the second portion can be top portion  604   a . The intermediate portion  604   b  can extend from a stem  604   d  of the mounting bracket  604  in a transverse direction (e.g., a generally perpendicular direction) and/or can be generally parallel to the bottom portion  604   c  which can also extend from the stem  604   d  in a transverse direction (e.g., a generally perpendicular direction). When the mounting bracket  604  is secured to the side wall  802  via clamp  814 , the intermediate portion  604   b  can be substantially parallel to a top surface and/or a top edge of the side walls  802  and can contact and/or press against the surface. As shown in  FIGS.  21 A- 21 B , top portion  604   a  of mounting bracket  604  can extend vertically upward through opening  606  in side rail  110 , and the bottom portion of the track  602  (which can comprise two spaced-apart stems  602   a ,  602   b ) can receive the top portion  604   a  in between stems  602   a ,  602   b . As discussed above, seal  608  can be placed around the mounting brackets  604  and/or atop the side rails  110  at openings  606  in side rails  110  (see  FIGS.  19  and  21 A ). As also discussed above, the mounting brackets  604  and the tracks  602  can have corresponding through-holes  612 ,  613  that allow fasteners  616  to pass therethrough to secure the mounting brackets  604  and tracks  602  together along with nuts  614 . Washer  808  can be placed between a head of fastener  616  and a surface of stem  602   b .  FIG.  21 B  shows assembly  800  when fully assembled. 
     From the foregoing description, it will be appreciated that an inventive retractable tonneau cover and an inventive rack assembly for a truck bed are disclosed. While several components, techniques and aspects have been described with a certain degree of particularity, it is manifest that many changes can be made in the specific designs, constructions and methodology herein above described without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. 
     Certain features that are described in this disclosure in the context of separate implementations can also be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single implementation can also be implemented in multiple implementations separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations, one or more features from a claimed combination can, in some cases, be excised from the combination, and the combination may be claimed as any subcombination or variation of any subcombination. 
     Moreover, while methods may be depicted in the drawings or described in the specification in a particular order, such methods need not be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, and that all methods need not be performed, to achieve desirable results. Other methods that are not depicted or described can be incorporated in the example methods and processes. For example, one or more additional methods can be performed before, after, simultaneously, or between any of the described methods. Further, the methods may be rearranged or reordered in other implementations. Also, the separation of various system components in the implementations described above should not be understood as requiring such separation in all implementations, and it should be understood that the described components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single product or packaged into multiple products. Additionally, other implementations are within the scope of this disclosure. 
     Conditional language, such as “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include or do not include, certain features, elements, and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and/or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments. 
     Conjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to convey that an item, term, etc. may be either X, Y, or Z. Thus, such conjunctive language is not generally intended to imply that certain embodiments require the presence of at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z. 
     Language of degree used herein, such as the terms “approximately,” “about,” “generally,” and “substantially” as used herein represent a value, amount, or characteristic close to the stated value, amount, or characteristic that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, the terms “approximately”, “about”, “generally,” and “substantially” may refer to an amount that is within less than or equal to 10% of, within less than or equal to 5% of, within less than or equal to 1% of, within less than or equal to 0.1% of, and within less than or equal to 0.01% of the stated amount. If the stated amount is 0 (e.g., none, having no), the above recited ranges can be specific ranges, and not within a particular % of the value. For example, within less than or equal to 10 wt./vol. % of, within less than or equal to 5 wt./vol. % of, within less than or equal to 1 wt./vol. % of, within less than or equal to 0.1 wt./vol. % of, and within less than or equal to 0.01 wt./vol. % of the stated amount. 
     Some embodiments have been described in connection with the accompanying drawings. The figures are drawn to scale, but such scale should not be limiting, since dimensions and proportions other than what are shown are contemplated and are within the scope of the disclosed inventions. Distances, angles, etc. are merely illustrative and do not necessarily bear an exact relationship to actual dimensions and layout of the devices illustrated. Components can be added, removed, and/or rearranged. Further, the disclosure herein of any particular feature, aspect, method, property, characteristic, quality, attribute, element, or the like in connection with various embodiments can be used in all other embodiments set forth herein. Additionally, it will be recognized that any methods described herein may be practiced using any device suitable for performing the recited steps. 
     While a number of embodiments and variations thereof have been described in detail, other modifications and methods of using the same will be apparent to those of skill in the art. Accordingly, it should be understood that various applications, modifications, materials, and substitutions can be made of equivalents without departing from the unique and inventive disclosure herein or the scope of the claims.