Patent Abstract:
This invention relates to an apparatus, system and method for adjustable support of an extension of a vehicle cargo bed. The apparatus provides a range of horizontal, vertical, diagonal and angular adjustment of a vehicle cargo bed extension deck so as to accommodate a wide variety of differently designed and dimensioned vehicles and provides other features promoting reliability and safety while minimizing unwanted vibration during use.

Full Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATION(S) 
     This herein document is a continuation and non-provisional utility patent application that claims priority and benefit to co-pending U.S. non-provisional patent application having Ser. No. 13/407,367, which was filed on Feb. 28, 2012 and entitled “Adjustable Support Structure for Vehicle Cargo Bed Extension”. 
     The aforementioned non-provisional patent application having Ser. No. 13/407,367 claimed priority and benefit to, then U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. (61/447,613) that was filed on Feb. 28, 2011 and entitled “Adjustable Support Structure for Extension of a Vehicle Cargo Bed”. The aforementioned Ser. No. 13/407,367 also claimed priority and benefit to, then U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/553,624 that was filed on Oct. 31, 2011 and entitled “Adjustable Support Structure for Vehicle Cargo Bed Extension”. This herein continuation and non-provisional patent application claims priority and benefit to all of the above referenced patent applications. All of the above referenced patent applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 
     CROSS REFERENCE TO PATENT APPLICATION(S) INCLUDING RELATED SUBJECT MATTER 
     This patent application includes subject matter that is similar to the subject matter that is included within U.S. Pat. No. 6,648,391, that is titled “Truck Bed Extension Device” to Whiteford et al. and that was issued Nov. 18, 2003. The aforementioned patent is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
     This patent application includes subject matter that is similar to the subject matter that is included within U.S. Design Pat. No. D441,340, that is titled “Truck Bed Extension” to Whiteford et al. and that was issued May 1, 2001. The aforementioned patent is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     This invention relates to an apparatus, system and method for adjustable support of an extension of a vehicle cargo bed. The apparatus provides a range of horizontal, vertical, diagonal and angular adjustment of a vehicle cargo bed extension deck so as to accommodate a wide variety of differently designed and dimensioned vehicles and provides other features promoting reliability and safety while minimizing unwanted vibration during use. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The objects and features of the invention can be better understood with reference to the claims and drawings described below. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, and the emphasis is instead generally being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. Within the drawings, like reference numbers are used to indicate like parts throughout the various views. Differences between like parts may cause those like parts to be each indicated by different reference numbers. Unlike parts are indicated by different reference numbers. 
         FIGS. 1A-1C  illustrate a side view of an embodiment of a lower support apparatus for attachment to a vehicle including a cargo bed structure. 
         FIGS. 2A-2B  illustrates an end view of the embodiment of the first segment of the lower support apparatus of  FIG. 1  and an end view of a vehicle hitch. 
         FIG. 3  illustrates a side view of the embodiment of the apparatus of  FIG. 1  being configured with the deck support unit folded upwards. 
         FIG. 4  illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a deck that is attachable to the lower support apparatus. 
         FIG. 5  illustrates the dimensions of a rear view perspective of an embodiment of the deck. 
         FIG. 6  illustrates an end view of an embodiment of the hinged second segment of the deck support unit. 
         FIG. 7  illustrates an end view of an embodiment of the third segment of the deck support unit. 
         FIG. 8  illustrates a side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the deck (section A-A) 
         FIGS. 9A-11K  illustrate other embodiments of an apparatus for attachment to a vehicle including a cargo bed structure and accessories to attach thereto. 
         FIGS. 12A-12B  each illustrate a side view of an embodiment of the apparatus of  FIG. 9A  that is attached to a vehicle. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       FIGS. 1A-1C  illustrate a side view of an embodiment of a lower support apparatus for attachment to a vehicle including a cargo bed structure. This embodiment includes a first segment  110 , a second segment  120  and a third segment  130 . The third segment  130  functions as a deck support unit  130  for physically engaging and supporting a deck component  170  (See  FIGS. 4-5 ). The deck  170  is designed for carrying cargo extending beyond a cargo bed area of a vehicle (not shown). 
     As shown, a first segment  110  includes a horizontal portion  111   a  and a non-horizontal portion  111   b  and has a first end  110   a  and a second end  110   b . The horizontal portion  111   a  including the first end  110   a  that is designed to be attachable to a hitch (not shown here) that is fixedly attached to a vehicle (not shown). The non-horizontal portion  111   b  including the second end  110   b  is designed to attach to the second segment  120  (Also see  FIG. 6 ). The first end  110   a  is designed to slidably engage the hitch along a first axis  150 . The first segment  110  has a long dimension that is parallel to axis  150 . 
     A sliding position of the first segment  110  relative to the hitch is adjustable and lockable in a direction along the first axis  150 . Locking holes  112   a - 112   d  are manufactured within the first segment  110  to enable the sliding position to be locked via a threaded locking bolt (threaded ⅝ inch bolt) (not shown) that is designed to be inserted through a locking hole in the hitch (not shown) and through one of the locking holes  112   a - 112   d  within the first segment  110 . Each one of the adjustment holes  112   a - 112   d  can be positioned to slide within and align to an adjustment hole of the hitch (See  FIG. 2B ), as a prerequisite step to inserting the threaded locking bolt through the locking hole of the hitch and through a locking hole  112   a - 112   d  of the first segment  110 . 
     As shown, the second segment  120  has a long dimension that is oriented in a diagonal (non-horizontal) direction that is parallel to diagonal axis  152  and has a first end  120   a  and a second end  120   b . The first end  120   a  of the second segment is designed to slidably engage the second end  110   b  of the first segment  110 . The first end  120   a  of the second segment includes locking holes  116   a - 116   b  which are designed to each slide within and align with one of the adjustment holes  114   a - 114   c  of the second end  110   b  of the first segment  110 , as a prerequisite step to inserting the threaded locking bolt through one of the locking holes of the second segment  116   a - 116   b  and through a locking hole  114   a - 114   c  of the first segment  110 . 
     The second segment  120  and the third segment  130 , are connected by a hinge mechanism  140 . The hinge mechanism  140  is designed to adjust an orientation of the third segment  130 , which functions as and is referred to herein as a deck support unit  130  for extension of a cargo bed (not shown) of the vehicle (not shown). The hinge  140  attaches the second end  120   b  of the second segment  120  to a first end  130   a  of the third segment (deck support unit)  130 . As properly installed onto a vehicle, the deck support unit  130  of the apparatus  100  and a deck  170  that is attached on top of the deck support unit (See  FIGS. 4-5 ) is substantially parallel to a geometric plane defined by a floor area of the cargo bed. Locking holes  118   a - 118   d  are employed to adjust a sliding position of the deck  170  onto the third segment  130 . The third segment  130  has a long dimension that is parallel to axis  154 . 
     A position of the hinge mechanism  140  can be defined by an interior angle  142   a  and/or an exterior angle  142   b . As shown, when properly installed, the interior angle  142   a  is smaller than the exterior angle  142   b . When adjusting the hinge  140 , as the interior angle  142   a  becomes larger the exterior angle  142   b  becomes smaller. 
     The size of the interior angle  142   a  is adjustable and lockable via an adjustment link  144 . As shown in this embodiment, the adjustment link  144  is manufactured with a ring at each end. Each ring is generally circular in shape and is designed to engage a pin (like a large bolt) that can protrude (not shown here) through each of the hinge angle adjustment holes  146   a - 146   b  at locations  146   a - 146   b . A first pin (large bolt)  148   a  (not shown here) protrudes through hole  146   a  which is proximate to the second end  120   b  of the second segment  120 . A second pin (large bolt)  148   b  (not shown) protrudes through hole  146   b  which is proximate to the first end  130   a  of the third segment  130 . In some embodiments, the first and second pin are clevis type pins. 
     As also shown in this embodiment, the adjustment link  144  has a long dimension that is adjustable via a threaded connection between (2) separate portions  144   a - 144   b  of the adjustment link  144 , that slide along a same axis that is parallel to the long dimension of the adjustment link  144 . When these (2) portions  144   a - 144   b  are screwed in a direction closer to each other, the long dimension of the adjustment link  144  is shortened, and when these (2) portions  144   a - 144   b  are screwed in a direction farther apart, the long dimension of the adjustment link  144  is elongated. 
     The adjusted length of the adjustment link  144  sets the interior angle  142   a  of the hinge  140 . That is, the more elongated the length of the adjustment link  144  the larger the interior angle  142   b  of the hinge  140 , while the more shorter the length of the adjustment link  144  the smaller the interior angle  142   b  of the hinge  140 . 
     As properly installed onto a vehicle, the deck support unit  130  of the apparatus  100  is substantially parallel to a plane defined by the floor area of the cargo bed deck. For proper installation upon each separate and different vehicle, the proper sliding engagement position between the first segment  110  and the second segment  120  may vary and the proper angle of the hinge  140  may also vary. Also the proper sliding engagement position between the first segment  110  and the vehicle hitch may also vary. 
     Hence, the sliding engagement between the first segment  110  and the second segment  120 , the sliding engagement between the second segment  120  and the first segment  110  and the angle of orientation between the second segment  120  and the third segment (deck)  130  via the hinge  140 , enables the lower support unit apparatus  100  to adjust to a wide variety of vehicles, while supporting a substantial load for each proper and different installation. 
       FIG. 1C  shows a variation of the embodiments of  FIGS. 1A-1B  wherein the first segment  110  is elongated and further attaches a ball hitch  150  to accommodate towing, of a trailer for example. This embodiment also includes an additional structural member  160  to better support a diagonal portion  111   b  of the first segment  110 . 
       FIGS. 2A-2B  illustrates an end view  110   a  of the embodiment of the first segment  110  of the lower support apparatus  100  of  FIG. 1  and an end view of a vehicle hitch  230 . The first segment  110  is designed to be inserted into a cavity of a vehicle hitch  230 . 
     The first segment  110  is constructed from a metal tube  210  having a substantially square cross-section. In this embodiment, the metal is referred to as cold rolled steel. The metal tube  210  has outside dimensions (OD) that measure 2.0 inches vertical (high) and 2.0 inches horizontal (wide), as shown in this view. The thickness of the metal tube  210  is 0.25 inches. Hence, the metal tube  210  has inside dimensions (ID) that measure 1.5 inches vertical (high) and 1.5 inches horizontal (wide), as shown in this view. 
     There are (4) threaded adjustment holes  112   a - 112   d  that are located on the right side of the first segment  110 , as shown in this view and that are shown in  FIG. 1A . There are (4) un-threaded adjustment holes  162   a - 162   d  that each align with adjustment holes  112   a - 112   d  respectively, and that are located on the left side of the first segment  110  as shown in this view and that are not shown in  FIG. 1A . These adjustment holes  112   a - 112   d  and  162   a - 162   d  are sized to accommodate a ⅝ inch diameter threaded bolt of 3 or more inches in length. 
     The vehicle hitch  230  for which it is inserted has a rectangular inside cross-section of slightly more than 2 inches vertical (high) and 2.0 inches horizontal (wide). In one embodiment, the vehicle hitch inside cross-section is 2 plus 85/1000 inches vertical (high) and 2 plus 85/1000 of an inch horizontal (wide). 
     Notice that the right side of an inside portion  208  of this first segment  110  has a metal bar  212  that is spot welded onto an inner right side of the outer metal tubing  210 . Absent the metal bar  212 , the cross-section of the inside portion  208  of this metal tube  210  measures 1.5 inches vertical and 1.5 inches horizontal. The metal bar  212  has a horizontal width dimension equal to 3/16 inches. Hence, with the metal bar  212  installed, the cavity cross-section  218  of this metal tube  210  measures 1.5 inches vertical and 1 5/16 inches horizontal. 
     The metal bar adds 3/16 inches of thickness, (also referred to herein as additional material to provide for a depth extended threaded hole) of the right side wall to provide more structural material (metal) through which to bore threads for engaging a threaded bolt and for attaching the first segment  110  to the vehicle hitch  230 . To attach to the vehicle hitch  230 , a threaded bolt is inserted through an unthreaded hole  232   a - 232   d  of the hitch  230 , and passed through an unthreaded hole  162   a - 162   d  of the first segment  110  and is threaded through a corresponding threaded hole  112   a - 112   d  of the first segment  110  and passed through an unthreaded hole  262   a - 262   b  of the vehicle hitch  230 . This technique incorporated throughout the apparatus  100 ,  900  provides much added strength without much added weight. 
     Turning the bolt in the above described manner through the threaded holes  112   a - 112   d  moves and presses the first segment  110  towards and against the left inner side wall of the hitch  230 . Tightening the bolt presses the first segment  110  tightly against left inner side wall of the hitch  230 , in order to minimize vibration and wobble between the hitch  230  and the first segment  110 , when the hitch  230  and lower support unit  100  are in use. 
     In this embodiment, note that the adjustment holes  112   a - 112   d  are threaded and the adjustment holes  162   a - 162   d  are not threaded. In other embodiments, at least some of the adjustment holes  112   a - 112   b  are not threaded and some corresponding adjustment holes  162   a - 162   d  are threaded. Likewise adjustment holes  114   a - 114   c , which are proximate to the second end of the first segment  110   b , are also threaded in the same manner as shown here and correspond to non-threaded adjustment holes that are located on an opposite side of the first segment  110 , like shown herein  FIG. 2A . 
       FIG. 3  illustrates an embodiment of the apparatus  100  being configured with the third segment (deck support segment)  130  folded upwards when not in use. When attached to the deck  170  (See  FIG. 4 ), the deck itself  170  would also be oriented upwards while attached to the third segment  130 . The embodiment shown here includes a different type of adjustment link  144   x  than shown in  FIG. 1 . The adjustment link  144   x  shown here is designed to have a fixed length as opposed to the adjustable length of the adjustment link  144  of  FIG. 1 . 
     As shown, the adjustment link  144   x , is a one piece rigid component made of metal and having an angled shape like that of a boomerang. In this embodiment, this component includes (2) substantially straight portions that join at an angle to form its  144   x  angled shape. The angled adjustment link  144   x  shown here is designed to separate the hinge adjustment holes  146   a - 146   b  at a fixed distance so that a long dimension of the third segment  130  is oriented in a substantially vertical direction, which is a direction that is substantially parallel to the direction of gravity, while the first, second and third segments are attached to each other and installed onto a vehicle. 
     Other embodiments of the adjustment pin are each manufactured as (1) straight segment having a length that is likewise, designed to separate the hinge adjustment holes  146   a - 146   b  at a fixed distance in order to perform a fine adjustment to a substantially horizontal position of the long dimension of the third segment  130 , while it  130  is attached to the second segment  120  via the hinge mechanism  140 , and while the first, second and third segments are attached to each other and installed onto a vehicle. The horizontal position is perpendicular to the direction of gravity. For example, the length of each of these different straight adjustment link  144   x  embodiments is designed to position the third segment  130  to be tilted at an angle between 0, 2, 4 and 6 degrees relative to a horizontal orientation. 
     For example, when the third segment  130  is at a −2 degree angle, a distal end  130   b  would be lower than at a 0 degree angle relative to a horizontal orientation. Likewise, when the third segment  130  is at a 2 degree angle, a distal end  130   b  would be higher than a 0 degree angle relative to a horizontal orientation. 
     The orientation of a deck  170  will change in response to carrying a substantial load, such as for example 500 pounds. Setting a 2, 4 or 6 degree angular orientation of the deck  170  before it is carrying a load, may enable the deck  170  to arrive at a horizontal angular orientation when carrying a substantial load. This change in angular orientation is dependent upon the design of the vehicle and its associated vehicle hitch  230 . Hence, the angular orientation of the deck in response to carrying a substantial load can be anticipated and such an angular adjustment prior to carrying the load can provide an improved deck angular orientation when later carrying a substantial load. 
     The length of each of these straight segments is designed to adjust an angle of the third (deck support) segment relative to the direction of gravity. The length of this segment separates the hinge adjustment holes  146   a - 146   b  at a fixed distance to adjust an angle of the third (deck support) segment relative to the direction of gravity. 
     In some embodiments, the length of this segment is designed to fixedly separate the position the adjustment holes  146   a - 146   b  in order to adjust a position of a long dimension of the third segment  130  to be at a horizontal angle, which is perpendicular to the direction of gravity, when the first, second and third segments are attached to each other and installed onto a vehicle. 
     For the embodiment shown, the length  311   a  of the horizontal portion  111   a  of the first segment  110  is 15 inches, the length of  311   b  of the non-horizontal (diagonal) portion is 19.25 inches, the length  320  of the second segment  120  is 9 plus 1/16 inches, and the length  330  of the third segment is 21 inches. 
     For this embodiment, there is a minimum overlap between the first segment  110  and the second segment  120  equal to 3 inches and a minimum non-overlap equal to 1 inch. As a result, for this embodiment a minimum diagonal extension is approximately 20.25 (19.25+1 inches) inches when the second segment  120  is slid over the first segment  110  to the maximum extent. And for this embodiment, the maximum diagonal extension is approximately 25.3125 (19.25+9.0625-3) inches when the second segment  120  is slid over the first segment  110  to the minimum extent 
     Hence, the diagonal extension range is approximately 5 inches. Given that the diagonal extension shown here is at a 45 degree angle above horizontal, the vertical range component of the diagonal extension range is approximately 3.5 inches. Likewise, given that the diagonal extension shown here is at a 45 degree angle above horizontal, the horizontal range component of the diagonal extension range is approximately 3.5 inches. 
     In other embodiments, the first segment  110  and/or the second segment  120  are elongated beyond the embodiment shown here to realize a larger range of diagonal, vertical and horizontal extension to further accommodate various vehicle and truck designs. Or alternatively, the first segment  110  is shortened while the second segment is elongated. 
     In another embodiment, the length of the second segment is extended to 15.125 inches from 9.125 inches, and the minimum overlap is equal to 4 inches and the minimum non-overlap remains equal to 1 inch. For this embodiment a minimum diagonal extension remains equal to 20.25 inches when the second segment  120  is slid over the first segment  110  to the maximum extent. In this embodiment, the maximum diagonal extension is approximately 30.3125 inches when the second segment  120  is slid over the first segment  110  to the minimum extent. 
     Hence, the diagonal extension range is approximately 10 inches. Given that the diagonal extension remains equal to a 45 degree angle above horizontal, the vertical range component of the diagonal extension range is approximately 7 inches. Likewise, given that the diagonal extension shown here is at a 45 degree angle above horizontal, the horizontal range component of the diagonal extension range is approximately 7 inches. 
     In the embodiment shown, a range of adjustment between adjustment holes  112   a - 112   d  is at least 5 inches and a range of adjustment of between adjustment holes  118   a - 118   d  is at least 8 inches. Other embodiments can expand these adjustment ranges.  FIG. 4  illustrates the dimensions of an embodiment of a deck  170  attached to the lower support apparatus  110  from a top-down viewing perspective. As shown from this viewing perspective, this embodiment has beveled corners  432   a - 432   b  along its rear side that is located farthest from the hitch  230  (not shown here). The deck  170  has an upper surface (shown from this perspective) and a lower surface (not shown from this perspective). The deck  170  is supported via engagement with the third segment  130  (See  FIGS. 1A-1C ) along its lower surface (See  FIG. 5 ). A top view of a front safety rail  532 , a top view of a rear safety rail  536 , a top view of a right side safety rail  538   a  and a top view of a left side safety rail  538   b , are also shown. 
     For the embodiment shown, a length  486  of a rear edge of the deck  170  is 51 inches, a length  482  of a front edge of the deck  170  is 61 inches, a length  488   b  of a left side edge of the deck  170  is 19 plus 1/16 inches and a length  488   a  of distance from the rear edge to the font edge of deck  170  is 19 plus 1/16 inches. 
       FIG. 5  illustrates the dimensions of a rear view perspective of an embodiment of the deck  170 . As shown from this perspective, this embodiment includes removable safety rail  532  and traffic signaling lights  584   a - 584   b  and a lower support unit engagement member  530 . As shown, a lower support unit engagement member  530 , is a rectangular tube like structure that is dimensioned so that the third segment  130  of the lower support unit  100  can slide into it  530  and be locked at a sliding position via locking adjustment holes and bolts  118   a - 118   d  located within the third segment  130  and locking adjustment holes located within the lower support unit engagement member  530  (not shown here), to provide support to the deck  170 . The engagement member  530  is sized and shaped like the vehicle hitch  230  (See  FIG. 2B ) and the sliding position is adjusted and locked as described between the vehicle hitch  230  and the first segment  110 , as described in association with  FIG. 2A . 
       FIG. 6 . illustrates a view of an end  120   b  of an embodiment of the second segment  120  of the deck support unit. This end  120   b  constitutes one side of a hinge mechanism  140 . As shown in  FIGS. 1A-1B , the second segment  120  is designed to slide over and fixedly attach to a distal end  110   b  of the non-horizontal portion  111   b  of the first segment  110  of the deck support unit  100 . As shown, the second segment  120  includes (4) adjustment holes  116   a - 116   b . that can be aligned with the adjustment holes  114   a - 114   c  of the non-horizontal portion  111   b  of the first segment to adjust a sliding position. The sliding position is adjusted and locked in the same manner as described for the sliding position between the vehicle hitch  230  and the first segment  110 , as described in association with  FIG. 2A . 
       FIG. 7 . illustrates a view of an end  130   a  of an embodiment of the segment  130  of the deck support unit  100 . This end  130   a  constitutes one side of a hinge mechanism  140  that is opposite end  120   b  of the second segment  120 . Adjustment holes  118   a - 118   d  of the third segment  130  are employed while sliding the lower support unit engagement member  530  of the deck  170  ( FIGS. 4-5 ) over end  130   b  and along the outside surface of the third segment  130 . The sliding action starts by inserting end  130   b  of the third segment  130  into the lower support unit engagement member  530  of the deck  170 , like the first segment  110  is slide into the vehicle hitch  230 . At least one adjustment hole  818  (See  FIG. 8 ) of the lower support unit engagement member  530  is aligned with one of the adjustment holes  118   a - 118   d  of the third segment  130 . The sliding position is adjusted and locked in the same manner as described for the sliding position between the vehicle hitch  230  and the first segment  110 , as described in association with  FIG. 2A . 
       FIG. 8  illustrates a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the deck  170 . From this view, a cross-section of the lower support unit engagement member  530  and right side safety rail  538   a  are visible. An adjustment hole  818  that is located within the lower support unit engagement member  530 , is also visible. The adjustment hole  818  is configured to be aligned with one of the adjustment holes  118   a - 118   d  of the third segment  130  of the lower support unit  100  (See  FIGS. 1A-1B and 7 ) or of the third segment  930  of the lower support unit  900  (See  FIG. 9A ), as described above in association with  FIG. 7 . 
       FIG. 9A  illustrates another second embodiment of a lower support unit apparatus  900  for attachment to a vehicle including a cargo bed. The apparatus  900  shown here is designed to function like the first embodiment of the lower support unit apparatus  100  of  FIG. 1 . However, the design of this second embodiment of the lower support differs in some respects as compared to the design of the first embodiment of the lower support  FIG. 1 . 
     Notice that this second embodiment  900  is shown from a different perspective view than the first embodiment  100  of  FIG. 1  and instead, its first segment  910  is shown as being located on a lower right hand side and its third segment  930  is shown as being located on a left hand side with respect to the viewing perspective of FIG.  9 A. Conversely, the first embodiment  100  of  FIG. 1  is shown where the first segment  110  is shown as being located on a lower left hand side and its third segment  930  is shown as being located on a right hand side with respect to the viewing perspective of  FIG. 1 . Like the first embodiment  100  of  FIG. 1A-1B , the second embodiment of  FIG. 9  is shown with its second segment  920  sliding over and physically engaging its first segment  910 . 
     Also shown, this second embodiment includes an embodiment of a sliding adjustment plate  944  that is substituted for the adjustment link  144  of the first embodiment of  FIG. 1 . The sliding adjustment plate  944 , also referred to herein as the adjustment plate  944  or adjustment link  944 , includes (6) adjustment holes  940   a - 940   f . The hole  940   a  is shown as being currently employed for attachment between the adjustment plate  944  and the third segment  930 . Another hole  940   b - 940   e  can alternatively be selected and employed for attachment between the adjustment plate  944  and the third segment  930 . The hole  940   c  is shown as being currently employed for attachment between the adjustment plate  944  and the second segment  920 . Another hole  940   b - 940   f  can alternatively be selected and employed for attachment between the adjustment plate  944  and the second segment  920 . 
     Note that although adjacent holes  940   a - 940   f  appear to be equidistant, the distance between these pairs of holes  940   a - 940   f  are not required to be equidistant so to provide fine adjustment to and angle of orientation of the third segment  930 . For example, setting an angle of orientation of the third segment  130  to be 2 degrees above horizontal, then a first pair of adjustment holes can be selected. To set an angle of orientation of the third segment  130  to be 6 degrees above horizontal, then a second pair of adjustment holes are selected. As a result, other pairs of holes are assigned for linking between the third segment  930  and the second segment  920  to effect different angles of orientation of the third segment  130  and an attached deck  170 . 
     As described above, the attachment plate  944  is designed to permit adjustment of an angled pitch of the third segment  930  relative to the first  910  and second  920  segments. For example, in some embodiments, the outside end  932  of the third segment  930  can be lifted or lowered to add or subtract pre-determined increments of an angle of pitch for the third segment  930  relative to a substantially horizontal pitch, as shown in  FIG. 9A . 
     For example and as shown, the attachment plate  944  enables the third segment  930  to be oriented substantially horizontal and parallel relative to the surface of the earth (substantially level) and parallel relative to an angle of orientation of the lower most portion of the first segment  910  that is designed to be fixedly attached to a vehicle hitch. As shown, the pitch of the third segment  930  is also referred to herein as being a substantially level pitch. 
     Alternatively, the second segment  920  can be adjusted to attach to another hole within the attachment plate  944 . For example, in some embodiments, attaching the second segment  920  to the attachment plate  944  via the hole  940   d  instead of via the hole  940   c  (as shown) increases the angle pitch of the third segment  930  by for example in some embodiments by (2) degrees, and thereby causing the outside end  932  of the third segment  930  to raise slightly higher than as shown. Or for example, in some embodiments, attaching the second segment  920  via the hole  940   b  instead of via the hole  940   c  (as shown) lowers the angle pitch of the third segment  930  by for example in some embodiments, (2) degrees, and thereby causing the outside end  932  of the third segment  930  to drop slightly lower. Hence, the attachment plate  944  can be designed to adapt to a variety of vehicle designs to maximize precise positioning of the vehicle bed extension. 
     In some embodiments, attaching the second segment  920  to the hole  940   f  increases the angle pitch of the third segment  930  by (90) degrees relative to a horizontal pitch and thereby causing the outside end  932  of the third segment  930  to sufficiently raise to cause the pitch of the third segment  930  to be oriented substantially vertical and perpendicular relative to a the lower most portion of the first segment  910  (Also See  FIG. 3 ). When oriented in a substantially vertical position, the third segment  930  can function to interface with one or more accessories in order to carry different types of items in different ways as compared to when it  930  is oriented in a substantially horizontal position. 
     Also notice that in this embodiment, the quantity of and/or location of the adjustment holes  912   a - 912   e  of the first segment,  914   a - 914   c  (See  FIG. 9B ) and of the adjustment holes  916   a - 916   c  of the second segment and of the adjustment holes  918   a - 918   f  of the third segment of this second embodiment of  FIG. 9 , may differ in some respects with the quantity and/or location of the adjustment holes  112   a - 112   d ,  114   a - 114   c ,  116   a - 116   b  and  118   a - 118   d  of the first embodiment of the lower support of  FIG. 1 . 
     Note that within this second embodiment of  FIG. 9A , the adjustment holes  914   a - 914   c  (Best seen in  FIG. 9B ) of the upper portion of the first segment  910  are obstructed from view by the second segment  920  which is shown as having been slid over the upper portion of the first segment  910 . 
       FIG. 9B  illustrates a close-up perspective view of the entire first segment  910  of the second embodiment of the lower support unit. The adjustment holes  914   a - 914   c  of the upper portion of the first segment  910  of the lower support unit  900  are visible and not obstructed from view by the second segment  920 , as shown in  FIG. 9A . Notice that the adjustment holes  912   a - 912   e  of the lower portion of the first segment  910  and that the adjustment holes  914   a - 914   c  of the upper portion of the first segment  910  are threaded and are designed to receive a threaded locking bolt as described with respect to the first embodiment of the lower support unit and in association with  FIG. 2A . 
       FIG. 10A  illustrates a perspective view of a second embodiment of a deck  1070  that includes a removable side rails  1032 ,  1036 ,  1038   a - 1038   b , repositionable tail light fixtures  1084   a - 1084   b  and a repositionable license plate fixture  1086 . As shown, along a rear side of the deck  1070  is attached a rotatable shaft  1080  which is attached to a left tail light support fixture  1084   a , and attached to a right tail light support fixture  1084   b  and attached to a license plate support fixture  1086 . The rotatable shaft  1080  is designed to rotate and to alter a direction in which the tail light support fixtures  1084   a - 1084   b  and license plate fixture  1086  face. 
     As shown, the deck  1070  is oriented horizontally for the purpose of extending a cargo bed while carrying items. Also shown, the tail light support fixtures  1084   a - 1084   b  and the license plate support fixture  1086  are planar in shape and each oriented vertically and perpendicular to the orientation of the deck  1070 , and facing towards traffic located towards the rear side of the deck. 
     When not being employed for extending a floor of the cargo bed, the third segment  130 ,  930  of the lower support apparatus  100 ,  900  can be oriented into a vertical position with or without an attached deck  170 ,  1070  (See  FIGS. 3 and 11C ). When the deck  1070  is oriented in this vertical position, the rear edge of the deck  1070  and the tail light support fixtures  1084   a - 1084   b  and the license plate support fixture  1086  located along the rear edge of the deck  1070  are lifted higher in elevation and are redirected to face upward. In this position, the orientation of tail light support fixtures  1084   a - 1084   b  and of the license plate fixture  1086  can create a risk of being not visible to traffic and creating an increased a risk of collision. 
     To address this problem, the rotatable shaft  1080  is rotatable so that the tail light support fixtures  1084   a - 1084   b  and the license plate support fixture  1086  can continue to face traffic while the deck  1070  is oriented into vertical position. 
       FIG. 10B  illustrates a close-up of the repositionable tail light fixture  1084   a  and the repositionable license plate fixture  1086 . As shown, a circular shaped plate  1048  including a plurality of holes  1048   a - 1048   b  is fixedly attached to the rotatable shaft  1080  and rotates with the rotatable shaft  1080 . A stationary plate  1040  that is not fixedly attached to the rotatable shaft and that does not rotate with the rotatable shaft  1080  includes at least one spring loaded pin (not shown) that is designed to protrude through hole  1048   b  while in the position shown. 
     In preparation for orienting the deck  1070  into a vertical position, the rotatable shaft  1080  can be rotated in a direction  1042  so that the spring loaded pin (not shown) protruding through hole  1048   b  instead protrudes through hole  1048   a  to enable the tail light fixtures  1084   a - 1084   b  and the license plate fixture  1036  to be seen by traffic while the deck  1070  is oriented in a vertical position while attached to the vertically configured lower support unit  100 ,  900  (See  FIGS. 3 and 11C ). 
     In preparation for orienting the deck  1070  back into a horizontal position, the rotatable shaft  1080  can be rotated in a direction  1044  so that the spring loaded pin (not shown) protruding through hole  1048   a  instead protrudes again through hole  1048   b  to enable the tail light fixtures  1084   a - 1084   b  and the license plate fixture  1086  to be seen by traffic while the deck  1070  is oriented in a horizontal position. 
       FIG. 10C  illustrates a close-up of an attachment of a perimeter fence  1032 ,  1036 ,  1038   a - 1038   b  to the deck  1070 . As shown, a portion  1050  of the fence, also referred to herein as a fence post  1050 , passes through and attaches to a structural member  1072  of the deck  1070 . The structural member  1072  is a rectangular tube having rectangular cross-section (not shown) through which a metal sleeve  1052  passes through a top surface and through a bottom surface (as shown here) of the structural member  1072 . The metal sleeve  1052 , also referred to herein as a bushing  1052 , receives and enables the fence post  1050  to pass through it  1052  and the structural member  1072  through which it also passes through. 
     A rubber o-ring  1054  is disposed between an upper portion of the bushing  1052   a  and the perimeter segment  1072  and is designed to dampen transmission of vibration between the deck  1070  and the fence  1050 . A lynch pin (not shown) that is located near the bottom portion  1052   b  of the bushing is employed to securely attach the fence post  1050  to the structural member  1072  of the deck  1070 . 
       FIG. 11A  illustrates a side view of a t-bar accessory  1110  that is attachable to the lower support structure  900 . As shown, a t-bar structure  1110 , instead of the deck  1070 , is attached to the third segment  930  of the lower support structure  900 . A first portion of the t-bar structure  1110 , slides over and attaches to the third segment  930 . The sliding position between the first portion of the t-bar  1110  and the third segment  930  of the lower support unit is adjustable via adjustment (locking) holes  1112  of the first portion of the t-bar  1110  and adjustment (locking) holes of the third segment  918   a - 918   f  of the lower support unit. Adjustment locking bolts are employed for insertion into a locking hole  1112  of the t-bar  1110  and adjustment holes  918   a - 918   f  of the third segment  930  in order to lock the t-bar  1110  and the third segment  930  into a sliding engagement position. 
     This configuration enables long dimensioned items, such as strips of lumber, metal or vinyl for example, to be supported in lengths exceeding that which could be supported and carried by the cargo bed alone. The t-bar  1110  includes a second sliding portion  1120  that is configured to slide into the first portion and to adjust a vertical height position of the t-bar  1110  and to lock the vertical height position via adjustment holes  1126 . 
       FIG. 11B  illustrates a rear view of the t-bar accessory of  FIG. 11A . As shown, the t-bar  1110  can be further adjusted to set its overall horizontal length and adjusted so that clearance is available either on its right or left side to load/remove items into and out of the cargo bed that are not being supported by the t-bar  1110 . As shown, one side  1110   a  (currently shown on left hand side from this viewing perspective) of the t-bar  1110  can be slid into its other side  1110   b  (currently shown on right hand side from this viewing perspective) to provide access to the cargo bed on its left side while the t-bar supports various items resting onto the right hand side of the cargo bed. Further, the entire t-bar  1110  can be rotated 180 degrees so that what is shown from this perspective view on the right hand side and on the left hand side are reversed, so that access to the cargo bed can be made available on the right hand side while the t-bar  1110  supports various items resting onto the left hand side of the cargo bed. 
       FIG. 11  C illustrates a side view of the lower support structure  900  that is configured so that its third segment  930  is oriented into a vertical position without an attached deck  1070 . When not being employed for extending a floor of the cargo bed, the third segment  930  can be oriented into a vertical position with or without an attached deck  1030 . Accessories are also attachable to the third segment  930  while being vertically oriented as shown. 
       FIGS. 11D-11E  illustrate a side view of the lower support structure  900  that is oriented into a vertical position with an attached t-bar  1110  accessory positioned above a tailgate (access door)  1114  to a cargo bed  1116  of a vehicle. In this configuration, the t-bar  1110  can protect a tail gate  1114  from physical contact with items being supported by the t-bar  1110 . Furthermore, the tail gate  1114  can be opened or closed while the t-bar  1110  is in use. The tail gate  1114  is shown as being closed in  FIG. 11D  and shown as being opened in  FIG. 11E . 
       FIG. 11F  illustrates a side view of the lower support structure  900  that is oriented into a vertical position with an attached bicycle rack accessory  1120 . As shown, the bicycle rack accessory  1120  is physically attached to the third segment  930  of the lower support structure  900 , while the third segment  930  is not attached to the deck  170 ,  1070 . The bicycle rack  1120  extends away from a rear side of the cargo bed  1116  and enables support of a plurality of bicycles while the cargo bed  1116  can be used to carry other items. 
       FIG. 11G  illustrates a side view of the lower support structure  900  that is oriented into a horizontal position supporting a cargo bag accessory  1124  and supporting another second embodiment of an attached bicycle rack accessory  1130 . As shown, the cargo bag  1124  is supported on a deck  170 ,  1070  at a location between the cargo bed  1116  and another second embodiment of a bicycle rack assembly  1130 . 
     The second embodiment of the bicycle rack assembly  1130  includes a smaller dimensioned (1.25 inch) metal tube  1132  that inserts into a larger dimensioned hollow tube  1134  that has a square cross-section, like the segments  110 ,  120  and  130  and that is located on a bottom side of the deck  1070 . The deck  170  is supporting the cargo bag  1124 . 
     In one embodiment, the (female) hollow tube  1134  is actually the third segment  930  with a welded interior metal bar like the metal bar  212  of  FIG. 2A  to provide add structural material to bore threaded adjustment holes like the threaded holes  112   a - 112   d  of  FIG. 2A . In this embodiment, the cavity within the third segment would be 1.5 inches high and 1.5 inches wide minus the 3/16 inch width metal bar, yielding 1 plus 5/16 inch width cavity for which to insert the smaller dimensioned tube  1132 . In another embodiment, the hollow tube  1134  is a separate structural segment apart from the third segment  930  supporting the deck  170 ,  1070 . Regardless, the adjustment holes employed within the (female) hollow tube  1134  and the adjustment holes of the smaller dimensioned tube  1132  are together slide adjusted, aligned and locked using the same technique employing at least one threaded adjustment hole as described with respect to the first embodiment of the lower support unit and in association with  FIG. 2A , in order to minimize and/or eliminate vibration and wobble. 
       FIG. 11H  illustrates a side view of the lower support structure  900  that is oriented into a vertical position with an attached rack  1140  for supporting carpet or linoleum. As shown, the rack  1140  is configured to slide over and physically attach to the third segment  930  of the lower support structure  900 , while the third segment  930  is not attached to the deck  170 ,  1070 . The rack  1140  extends partially above the cargo bed  1116  and is located above the lower support unit  900 . In some embodiments, the rack  1140  spans horizontally (perpendicular to the direction of gravity) about 8 feet parallel to a direction of movement of the vehicle and about 4 feet in depth perpendicular to a direction of movement of the vehicle. In some embodiments the rack is made from aluminum and includes straps  1142   a - 1142   b  that are configured to secure an object, such as a roll of vinyl flooring or carpeting. 
       FIG. 11I  illustrates a side view of the lower support structure  900  that is oriented into a vertical position with an attached rack  1150  for supporting an item such as a kayak, for example. As shown, the rack  1150  is configured to slide over and physically attach to the third segment  930  of the lower support structure  900 , while the third segment  930  is not attached to the deck  170 . The rack  1150  partially extends above the cargo bed  1116  and is located above the lower support unit  900 . In some embodiments the rack is made from aluminum and includes straps  1152   a - 1152   b  that are configured to secure an object, such as a kayak. 
       FIG. 11J  illustrates a metal plate  1160  that can be installed onto the deck  1070  to better distribute loads to be carried by the deck  1070 . In this embodiment, the plate is made from ¼ inch thick aluminum and is attached via fasteners  1162  as shown. 
       FIG. 11K  illustrates a barbeque grill  1170  that can be installed attached onto the deck  1070  for cooking food on the deck  1070 . 
       FIGS. 12A-12B  each illustrate a side view of an embodiment of the apparatus of  FIG. 9A  that is attached to a vehicle  1180 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 12A , an embodiment of the apparatus  900  is shown as being attached to the vehicle and configured so that the hinge portion  140  of the apparatus  900  is substantially vertically flush with (having a vertical elevation that is proximately equal to) an upper surface of a fully opened tailgate  1114  of the vehicle  1180 . The tailgate  1114  of the vehicle is designed to be vertically flush with (having a vertical elevation that is equal to) with a cargo bed structure  1116  of the vehicle  1180 . Accordingly, the hinge portion  140  of the apparatus is also substantially vertically flush with (having a vertical elevation that is proximately equal to) the cargo bed structure  1116  of the vehicle  1180 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 12B , an embodiment of the deck  1070  is shown as being attached to the apparatus  900  of  FIG. 12A . An upper surface of the deck  1070  is shown to have a slightly higher elevation relative to the upper surface of the tailgate  1114 . The upper surface of the deck  1070  is elevated by a small distance being equal to a height of the upper surface of the deck  1070  relative to an upper surface of the third segment (portion)  930  of the apparatus  900 , when the deck  1070  is attached to the third segment (portion)  930  of the apparatus  900 , as shown. Accordingly, the upper surface of the deck  1070  is shown to be slightly elevated above the cargo bed structure  1116 . 
     As shown, the deck  1070  is unloaded. However, note that when a substantial load is placed onto the upper surface of the deck  1070 , a downward gravitational force is placed upon the deck  1070  and upon the supporting apparatus  900 , which can cause the vertical elevation of the deck  1070  to lower by a small distance, and can also cause the vertical elevation of the upper surface of the deck  1070  to become more proximate (more flush) with that of the vertical elevation of the upper surface of the tailgate  1114 , and more proximate (more flush) with the vertical elevation of the cargo bed structure  1116  itself. 
     This written description employs examples to disclose embodiments of the invention, and also to enable a person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. 
     PARTS LIST 
     
         
           100  lower support unit 
           110  first segment of apparatus  100   
           110   a  first end of first segment  110   
           110   b  second end of first segment  110   
           110   c  joint between horizontal portion  111   a  and non-horizontal portion  111   b    
           111   a  horizontal portion of first segment  110   
           111   b  non-horizontal portion of first segment  110   
           112   a - 112   d  threaded adjustment holes of horizontal portion  111   a  of first segment  110   
           114   a - 114   c  adjustment holes of non-horizontal portion  111   b  of first segment  110   
           116   a - 116   b  adjustment holes of second segment  120   
           118   a - 118   d  adjustment holes of third segment  130   
           120  second segment 
           120  a first end of second segment  120   
           120   b  second end of second segment  120   
           130  third segment, deck support unit 
           130   a  first end of third segment  130   
           130   b  second end of third segment  130   
           140  hinge mechanism 
           142   a  interior angle of hinge mechanism  140   
           142   b  exterior angle of hinge mechanism  140   
           144  clevis pin 
           144   x  adjustment pin 
           144   a - 144   b  adjustment holes of clevis pin  144   
           146   a - 146   b  hinge angle adjustment holes 
           148   a - 148   b  first and second pins 
           150  first axis 
           162   a - 162   d  non threaded adjustment holes of horizontal  111   a  portion of first segment 
           170  deck 
           210  metal tube 
           212  metal bar 
           218  cavity cross-section 
           230  vehicle hitch 
           232   a - 232   b  unthreaded hole of vehicle hitch  230   
           262   a - 262   b  unthreaded hole of vehicle hitch  230   
           311   a  length of horizontal portion  111   a  of first segment  110   
           311   b  length of non-horizontal portion  111   b  of first segment  110   
           320  length of second segment  120   
           330  length of third segment  130   
           432   a - 432   b  beveled corners 
           482  length of a front edge of the deck  170   
           486  length of a rear edge of the deck  170   
           488   a  length of distance from the rear edge to the font edge of deck  170   
           488   b  length  488   b  of a left side edge of the deck  170   
           530  lower support unit engagement member 
           532  front safety rail 
           536  rear safety rail 
           538  a right side safety rail 
           538   b  left side safety rail 
           584   a - 584   b  traffic signaling lights 
           818  adjustment hole  818  of the lower support unit engagement member  530   
           900  second embodiment of a lower support unit apparatus 
           910  first segment of second embodiment 
           912   a - 912   e  adjustment holes 
           914   a - 914   c  adjustment holes 
           916   a - 916   e  adjustment holes 
           918   a - 918   f  adjustment holes 
           920  second segment 
           930  third segment of second embodiment 
           940   a - 940   f  adjustment holes 
           944  adjustment plate 
           1032  removable rear side rail of deck  1070   
           1036  removable rear side rail of deck  1070   
           1038   a  removable right side rail of deck  1070   
           1038   b  removable left side rail of deck  1070   
           1040  stationary plate 
           1042  direction of rotation 
           1044  direction of rotation 
           1048  circular shaped plate 
           1048   a - 1048   b  plurality of holes 
           1050  fence 
           1052  metal sleeve 
           1052   a  bushing 
           1052   b  bottom portion of the bushing 
           1054  rubber o-ring 
           1070  deck 
           1072  perimeter segment 
           1080  rotatable shaft 
           1084   a  left tail light support fixture 
           1084   b  right tail light support fixture 
           1086  license plate support fixture 
           1110  t-bar accessory 
           1110   a  one side of t-bar accessory 
           1110   b  other side of t-bar accessory 
           1112  horizontal adjustment holes of t-bar accessory 
           1114  tail gate 
           1116  cargo bed 
           1118  vertical portion oft-bar 
           1118   a  vertical adjustment holes of t-bar accessory 
           1120  bicycle rack 
           1124  cargo bag 
           1130  second embodiment of a bicycle rack assembly 
           1132  smaller dimensioned tube 
           1134  larger dimensioned (female) hollow tube 
           1140  rack for rolled flooring 
           1142   a - 1142   b  straps for rolled flooring 
           1150  rack for kayak 
           1152   a - 1152   b  straps for kayak 
           1160  metal plate 
           1162   a - 1162   b  fasteners 
           1170  barbeque grill 
           1180  vehicle

Technology Classification (CPC): 1