Abstract:
A camper shell kit including a plurality of removable panels that are individually mountable onto a frame is herein disclosed. The frame serves as the skeleton for the shell and also provides a base for an optional top-mounted rack. Each panel may be mounted individually to the frame to create customized camper shell configurations. Panel insertion may not require the use of tools. Panels can be interchanged with others made of different materials for specific tasks. The frame may be integrated to match the shape of the truck and provide flush mounting for shell panels offering a smooth, integrated appearance with the vehicle. The frame mounts directly onto standard truck bed mount points which may provide maximum strength and load-bearing capacity. The frame permits the panels to be locked into place providing security for the payload against theft.

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present invention was first described in and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/081,318 filed Jul. 16, 2008, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to covers for the bed of a pickup truck, and more particularly, to a modular component camper shell kit having an optional cargo rack. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Many people have a special fondness for the pickup truck, as it provides a unique combination of function, versatility, comfort, and style. The pickup truck enables a user to transport articles having a wide variety of sizes and weights. One disadvantage associated with transporting items in the load carrying portion of the pickup truck is that the items are vulnerable to damage, theft, or loss due to the open and unsecured nature of the pickup truck bed. One solution to this problem is to utilize hard top camper shells or tonneau bed covers, which mounts to the upper rails of the pickup bed. While there are various types of shells available, these shells typically cover the entire cargo area and are only large enough to cover and protect items that would fit within the confines of the pickup truck bed outer perimeter. If larger items need to be transported the camper shell must be removed, which leads to difficulty in storage and the effort of reattaching after transportation of the oversized items. Additionally, camper shells and bed covers do not provide any means to support additional cargo due to their typically flimsy construction and lightweight materials. 
     Various attempts have been made to overcome these restrictions and provide oversized shells or covers having pneumatic cylinders that enable portions of the cover to expand and retract as needed. While these attempts attempt to eliminate the need to remove the cover for some applications, they still restrict the hauling versatility provided by an open truck bed. Examples of such attempts can be seen through reference to several U.S. Patents, including: U.S. Pat. No. 5,056,855; U.S. Pat. No. 7,261,362; U.S. Pat. No. 7,243,965; U.S. Pat. No. 7,246,839; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,435,594. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,056,855, issued in the name of Moraysky, describes a vehicle bed cover assembly having a frame member and a series of frame panels. U.S. Pat. No. 7,261,362, issued in the name of Mendez, describes a camper shell for a vehicle having foldable sections which can expand and retract upon a base channel unit. U.S. Pat. No. 7,243,965, issued in the name of King et al., describes a convertible camper shell and hard tonneau which can be raised and lowered between a camper shell and a bed cover. 
     While these devices fulfill their respective, particular objectives, each of these references suffers from one or more of the aforementioned disadvantages or deficiencies. Accordingly, there exists a need for a means to cover the cargo area of a pickup truck without the disadvantages as described above. The development of the present invention substantially departs from the conventional solutions and in doing so fulfills this need. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the prior art, it has been observed that there is need for a component camper shell system for use on a bed portion of a truck. Such a component camper shell system preferably includes a frame adapted to be mounted to the truck bed portion, a forward panel, a pair of side panels, and a top panel independently and removably affixed to the frame. The component camper shell system further includes a rear window assembly pivotally mounted to the frame and oppositely spaced from the forward panel. 
     Notably, the frame includes a plurality of tracks contiguously formed along a perimeter thereof, and a plurality of moveable brackets connected to the tracks. Each of the forward side and top panels linearly slide along the tracks respectively and are secured to the frame by the moveable brackets respectively. 
     In one embodiment, a cargo rack system may be removably attached to a roof of the frame. 
     In one embodiment, the frame further includes a plurality of mounting, plates adapted to be positioned along a wall of the truck bed portion; and a plurality of pegs adapted to be positioned on the wall of the truck bed portion. Such pegs are attached to the mounting plates and the wall of the truck bed portion for stabilizing the frame above the truck bed portion. 
     In one embodiment, a first bottom one of the tracks preferably includes an outer bracket edge and an inner bracket edge adapted to be placed flush against a road side edge of the frame. The first bottom track and a fixed lower one of the tracks may have “U”-shaped channels and are each mounted externally to the frame. 
     Notably, each of the moveable brackets is pivotally attached to a corresponding one of the tracks and thereby permits the panels to linearly slide along the tracks when the moveable brackets are biased to an open position respectively. 
     In one embodiment, the rear window assembly preferably includes a window, first and second side brackets, and bottom and top brackets. Each of the first, second, bottom and top brackets are connected to a corresponding edge of the window respectively. The top bracket laterally slides into one of the tracks wherein the one track remains attached to the frame as the rear window assembly is pivoted upward and into an open position. In this manner, the rear window shields a rear side of the frame from ambient weather. 
     In one embodiment, the top bracket is provided with an interlocking piece received by one track. The top bracket further includes a hinge attached to the window and thereby permits the window to pivot exterior of the frame when biased between open and closed positions. Each of the movable brackets are hingedly affixed to fixed ones of the tracks such that the forward, side and top panels are freely inserted along the fixed tracks when the movable brackets are biased to an open position respectively. 
     In one embodiment, the present invention may further include a lock coupled to at least one of the movable brackets and a corresponding one of the mounting plates to prevent a corresponding one of the panels from prematurely sliding out from the fixed tracks. Further, the forward panel may have a boot adapted to create a weather proof seal between a cab portion of the truck and the camper shell. 
     In one embodiment, the present invention may further include a plurality of rollers located along an edge of the panels respectively for aiding in linear displacement of the panels along the tracks respectively. 
     In one embodiment, the present invention may further include a plurality of interlocking connector portions formed at abutting ends of the top panel and a conjoining one of the panels respectively. The tracks may be inverted and externally mounted to the frame and configured in such a manner that the top and conjoining panels fully wrap around the tracks when the interlocking connector portions are mated together. 
     In one embodiment, the present invention may further include a method of installing and utilizing acquiring a component camper shell system. Such a component camper shell system preferably includes a frame adapted to be mounted to the truck bed portion; a forward panel, a pair of side panels, and a top panel independently and removably affixed to the frame; and a rear window assembly pivotally mounted to the frame and oppositely spaced from the forward panel. The frame preferably includes a plurality of tracks contiguously formed along a perimeter thereof, a plurality of moveable brackets connected to the tracks, and a cargo rack system removably attached to a roof of the frame. Each of the forward side and top panels linearly slide along the tracks respectively and are secured to the frame by the moveable brackets respectively. 
     The method preferably includes the steps of form-fitting the component camper shell system to the truck so the component camper shell system does not extend beyond outer dimensions of the truck; installing the frame to corresponding mount points on the truck; installing the panels to create a shell portion of the component camper shell system by sliding each of the panels a corresponding track and thereafter positioning the moveable brackets downwardly in a locked position; and installing the cargo rack as desired by the user. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The advantages and features of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following more detailed description and claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like elements are identified with like symbols, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  is an environmental view of a component camper shell with optional cargo rack  10 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a partial isometric view illustrating an exploded side panel  25  and an exploded front panel  24  and a frame  21 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 3  is a partial isometric view of the frame  21  depicting an installed side panel  25 , a front panel  24  and a top panel  33 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 4  is a partial isometric view of an alternate embodiment of the frame  21 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 5  is a top view of the component camper shell with optional cargo rack  10  depicting a front mount point  53  and a rear mount point  52  thereon each side, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 6  is a side view of the frame  21  mounted to a rear truck edge  63  depicting an aligned state, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 7  is a side view of the frame  21  mounted to a rear truck edge  63  depicting an offset state, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 8  is a partial isometric view of the frame  21  mounted to the truck  15  in an offset state therewith a mounting plate and pre-drilled apertures for fasteners, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 9  is a top view of an oval stock frame  21 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 10  is a top view of a square stock frame  21 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 11  is a rear view of a curbside  86  bed wall of the truck  15  depicting an exterior track configuration, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 12  is a rear view of a curbside  86  bed wall of the truck  15  depicting an interior  121  track configuration, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 13  is rear view of a curbside  86  bed wall of the truck  15  depicting an internal  131  track configuration, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 14  is rear view of a curbside  86  bed wall of the truck  15  depicting a flush  141  track configuration, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 15  is a partial isometric view of a rear window assembly  151 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 16  is a side view of the rear window assembly  151 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 17  is a side view of a movable bracket  27  utilized therewith a side panel  25 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 18  is a side view of the movable bracket  27  depicting a locked configuration, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 19  is a side view of a forward panel  24 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 20  is a side view of the side panel  25  depicting placement of weather-stripping  201 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 21  is a rear view of an external, inverse bracket mount configuration, according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention; 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTIVE KEY 
     
         
         
           
               10  component camper shell with optional cargo rack 
               15  truck 
               21  frame 
               23  cargo rack 
               24  forward panel 
               25  side panel 
               26  fixed bracket 
               27  rear movable bracket 
               28  front movable bracket 
               31  first bottom track 
               31   a  fixed lower track 
               32  front bottom track 
               33  top panel 
               34  front panel top track 
               35  side panel top track 
               52  rear mount point 
               53  front mount point 
               62  mounting hardware 
               63  rear truck edge 
               64  plate 
               65  peg 
               83  predrilled aperture 
               84  roadside mount point 
               85  truck bed inner side 
               86  curbside mount point 
               92  fasteners 
               95  outer bracket edge 
               96  inner bracket edge 
               111  exterior mount 
               121  interior mount 
               131  internal mount 
               141  flush mount 
               151  rear window assembly 
               152  track 
               153  first side bracket 
               153   a  second side bracket 
               154  bottom bracket 
               155  rubber strip 
               156  hydraulic piston 
               157  frame mount point 
               159  first piston mount point 
               159   a  second piston mount point 
               161  top bracket 
               164  rear window 
               165  top bracket hinge 
               166  interlocking piece 
               172  fixed track 
               173  hinge 
               183  side panel perimeter 
               184  lock 
               185  bolt 
               192  optional boot 
               201  weather-stripping 
               202  roller 
               231  alternate track 
               232  shell panel 
               233  alternate top panel 
               237  interlocking connector 
           
         
       
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     The best mode for carrying out the invention is presented in terms of its preferred embodiment, herein depicted within  FIGS. 1 through 20 , with an alternate embodiment within  FIG. 21 . However, the invention is not limited to the described embodiment and a person skilled in the art will appreciate that many other embodiments of the invention are possible without deviating from the basic concept of the invention, and that any such work around will also fall under scope of this invention. It is envisioned that other styles and configurations of the present invention can be easily incorporated into the teachings of the present invention, and only one particular configuration shall be shown and described for purposes of clarity and disclosure and not by way of limitation of scope. 
     The terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items. 
     The present invention describes a device and method for a component camper shell with optional cargo rack (herein described as the “system”)  10 , which provides the capability to utilize both a removably attachable camper shell and optional cargo rack  23  simultaneously thereon a bed portion of a truck  15 . Said system  10  comprises a frame  21 , a cargo rack  23 , a forward panel  24 , a side panel  25 , a top panel  33 , a rear window assembly  151 , and various integral components. Said system  10  integrates a frame  21  and an optional cargo rack  23  into a single componentized system. Said system  10  utilizes the frame  21  as a skeleton for the shell and the base of the cargo rack  23 , thereby eliminating the need to optimize one (1) at the expense of the other. Said system  10  allows the frame  21  to be well-fitted to a truck  15  and still offers the ability to use the interior portion of the camper shell and cargo rack  23 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 1 , an environmental view of the system  10 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. The system  10  comprises a forward panel  24 , a pair of side panels  25 , and a top panel  33  which are each independent components. Said system  10  also comprises a rear window assembly  151  mounted to a frame  21 . When the system  10  is in an assembled state the panels  24 ,  25 ,  33 , rear window assembly  151 , and frame  21  forms a fully-enclosed camper shell. When the system  10  is in a disassembled state the panels  24 ,  25 ,  33  can be stored easily, for example they can be stood on edge and stacked against a wall in a similar manner as sheets of plywood or drywall, minimizing the amount of storage space required. The panels  24 ,  25 ,  33  are fabricated from suitable material such as, but not limited to the following materials: fiberglass, wood, composites, carbon fiber, steel, aluminum or plastics (e.g. Polycarbonate or others). A total of five (5) sides can be enclosed by panels, and together therewith the bed of the truck  15  as the sixth (6) side the full rectangular volume is enclosed. Each panel  24 ,  25 ,  33  can enclose one (1) or more sides depending on the configuration. For example, in a five (5) panel configuration each panel  24 ,  25 ,  33  is relatively flat and the components include one (1) top, two (2) sides, one (1) front and one (1) rear.  FIG. 1  illustrates the frame  21  installed on a truck  15  with the side panel  25  and rear window assembly  151  installed. The optional roof rack  23  is also depicted. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2 , partial isometric view illustrating an exploded side panel  25  and an exploded front panel  24  and a frame  21 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed.  FIG. 2  depicts the frame  21  without the truck  15  and also depicts two (2) shell components (the forward panel  24  and the side panel  25 ) for illustration purposes only. The frame  21  serves as the skeletal structure for the component panels  24 ,  25 ,  33  and rear window assembly  151 . Said frame  21  can be installed on the truck  15  and utilized with or without the camper shell components. Said frame  21  is fabricated from suitable structural materials such as, but not limited to the following materials: steel, aluminum, wood, composites, carbon fiber, or titanium. Said frame  21  also serves as a base platform for optional top-mounted cargo rack  23 ; therefore, said frame  21  can be utilized for the sole purpose of supporting the panels  24 ,  25 ,  33 , or can be extended for carrying cargo thereon the cargo rack  23 . Said frame  21  is full strength similar to conventional cargo carrying racks and is mounted directly onto the truck  15  via a rear mount point  52  and front mount point  53  (discussed below) for maximum strength and cargo carrying capacity. The panels  24 ,  25 ,  33  are inserted into the frame  21  along the direction shown by the arrows. 
     The system  10  comprises a pair of rear moveable brackets  27  and a pair of front movable brackets  28  in which one (1) of each are shown in the open position. The panels  24 ,  25 ,  33  slide into place along a first bottom track  31 , a front bottom track  32 , a top track  34 , and a side panel top track  35 . A stationary or fixed “end cap” bracket  26  is also shown. The front panel  24  will slide along the top and bottom tracks  32 ,  34  until it reaches this fixed bracket  26 . After the panel  24 ,  25 ,  33  is fully inserted, its front moveable bracket  28  or rear movable bracket  27  can be hinged downwardly in a closed position. Each movable bracket  27 ,  28  may be pivotally mounted to the frame  21  by a pivot pin in a conventional hinging fashion. In this manner, each movable bracket  27 ,  28  may be swung into an open position from a closed position (depicted in  FIG. 3 ), and vise versa. 
     The panel  24 ,  25 ,  33  components of the camper shell may be constructed from a molded, lightweight material such as fiberglass or plastic/composite material. Each panel is formed to be assembled with the frame  21 . Both the panels and the frame  21  may be configured for a given truck  15  to give the maximum aesthetic value. Panels  24 ,  25 ,  33  can be color matched to the vehicle or given any other color via processes known in the art. Camper shell manufacturers are skilled in the art of molding entire one-piece shells. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 3 , a partial isometric view of the frame  21  depicting an installed side panel  25 , a front panel  24  and a top panel  33 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed.  FIG. 3  shows the frame  21  with three (3) panels  24 ,  25 ,  33  installed and the optional roof rack  23  is also depicted. The bottom-most track pieces  31 ,  32  that run along the entire side walls thereon the bed portion of the truck  15  comprise continuous (straight) bottom edges that can be made to seal thereto said bed portion of the truck  15 . A plurality of conventional weather-stripping  201  may be applied to the bottom edge of these tracks  31 ,  32  for this purpose. It is important that this seal remain unbroken for it to remain weatherproof. 
     The optional cargo rack  23  may include any conventional vehicle top-rack known in the art such as, but not limited to: top racks designed to transport bicycles, canoes, Kayaks, surf boards, skis, snow boards, boxes, cargo containers, or the like. Further, the cargo rack  23  may include relatively simple racks to which items and materials may be tied or otherwise fastened thereon said cargo rack  23 . Because the cargo rack  23  may be utilized to transport heavy items and/or materials the frame  21  may be constructed to support the weight of the cargo rack  23  and the items and/or materials transported thereby. Further, the frame  21  may be configured to provide support to the loaded cargo rack  23  while the vehicle is moving. The cargo rack  23  may also be integrally formed with the frame  21  therein the conventional welding processes or constructed separate from the frame  21  and fastened to the frame  21  in any manner known in the art, including welds, rivets, bolts, screws, adhesives, and the like. In particular embodiments, the cargo rack  23  is removably fastened to the frame  21  and the user may fasten the cargo rack  23  to the frame  21  for use and when the cargo rack  23  is not longer needed, said user may disassemble the cargo rack  23  from the frame  21 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 4 , a partial isometric view of an alternate embodiment of the frame  21 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed.  FIG. 4  shows the frame  21  without the optional cargo rack  23 . In this figure, the same three (3) panels  24 ,  25 ,  33  are installed in the frame  21 , and the moveable brackets  27 ,  28  are in the closed position. This configuration uses the frame  21  as a skeleton for the camper shell and does not include a cargo rack  23 . The frame  21  can be constructed as a weldment of tubular steel in a manner similar to many conventional standalone cargo top-racks. When constructing the frame  21 , space may be allotted for the brackets  27 ,  28  and top panel  33 . Because the frame  21  may be constructed using techniques well known in the art, the process will not be described in detail herein. The frame  21  dimensions in the embodiment are made to match the profile of the target truck  15 , including cab heights, cab rear window inclination angle, the angles of the sides of the cab, the truck bed wall angles, and the rear profile of said truck  15 . Matching these dimensions will allow the lines of the shell to line up with those of the cab, as shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 5 , a top view of the component camper shell with optional cargo rack  10  depicting a front mount point  53  and a rear mount point  52  thereon each side, according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed.  FIG. 5  depicts a rear mount point  52  and a front mount point  53  of the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) which is provided thereon the walls of the bed portion of the truck  15 . Each wall of the bed contains a mount point  52 ,  53  thereon a road side  84  and a curb side  86  of the truck  15 . As is apparent to those of ordinary skill, the assignment of the labels “Road Side” and “Curb Side” is arbitrary and used merely for illustrative purposes. Each side contains a front mount point  53  and rear mount point  52 , for a total of four (4) mount points. These mount points  52 ,  53  are utilized thereto secure the frame  21  to the truck  15 , in addition to a plurality of mounting plates  64  and fasteners. The embodiment allows for the mounting plates  64  to extend downwards into the OEM mount points  52 ,  53  as shown below in  FIGS. 6 through 8 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 6 , a side view of the frame  21  mounted to a rear truck edge  63  depicting an aligned state, according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed: The frame  21  is attached to the mounting hardware  62 , which consists of a plurality of mounting plates  64  and a plurality of optional pegs  65 . The frame  21  is aligned directly over the peg  65  in this example. The mounting plate  64  is a rectangular device utilized to attach the frame  21  thereto the truck  15  mounting points  52 ,  53 . The peg  65  is cylindrical devices utilized thereto secure the mounting plate  64  thereto the truck  15 . The mounting plate  64  and peg  65  are preferably fabricated from materials similar to that of the frame  21 , yet other materials may be incorporated without limiting the functions of the system  10 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 7 , a side view of the frame  21  mounted to a rear truck edge  63  depicting an offset state, according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed.  FIG. 7  shows another method, whereby the frame  21  is offset from the peg  65 . In the embodiment shown, the frame  21  is configured to correspond to the lines of the truck  15 , so its mounting method is offset. Note that the frame  21  is still directly aligned over the wall of the bed portion of the truck  15 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 8 , a partial isometric view of the frame  21  mounted to the truck  15  in an offset state therewith a mounting plate  64  and pre-drilled apertures  83  for the insertion of fasteners  92 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. The mounting hardware  62  is mated with the OEM mount points  52 ,  53  and the frame  21  is offset rearwards thereto better align with the rear edge of the truck  15 . Pre-drilled apertures  83  are provided for fasteners  92  such as screws, bolts or other means well-known in the art. Said pre-drilled apertures  83  are located thereon the inner side of the bed portion of the truck  15 . Also note that since the frame  21  is offset rearwards from the OEM mount point  52 ,  53 , the frame  21  remains over the bed wall itself, so it does not compromise overall strength and load-carrying capacity as do the over-the-shell methods (note that no lateral extension brackets are required, thus allowing the truck  15  to directly support the frame  21 ). 
     Referring now to  FIG. 9 , a top view of an oval stock frame  21  and  FIG. 10 , a top view of a square stock frame  21 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, are disclosed.  FIGS. 9 and 10  depict top views of the left rear (road side  84 ) bed wall of the truck  15 , each with a different frame  21  support profile.  FIG. 9  illustrates the position of the frame  21  fabricated from oval stock. A pair of fasteners  92  is inserted through the corresponding pre-drilled apertures  83  aligned with the bed-side of the bed wall  85 . The first bottom track  31  is aligned thereon the road-side  84 . The outer bracket edge  95  and inner bracket edge  96  are placed flush against the road side edge  84  of the frame  21 . Said edges  95 ,  96  when combined with a bottom edge form a completed bottom track  31  (denoted earlier in  FIG. 2 ). In  FIG. 10 , the same configuration is shown except that the frame  21  is made from square stock. The bracket outer edge  95  is unchanged; however the inner edge  96  can now be integrated with the frame  21  along its road side edge  84 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 11 , a rear view of a curbside  86  bed wall of the truck  15  depicting an exterior track configuration, according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. In this embodiment, the first bottom track  31  and fixed lower track  31   a  are mounted externally  111 . Said tracks  31 ,  31   a  are comprised of conventional “U”-shaped channels. By way of a non-limiting example, the tracks  31 ,  31   a  may be constructed as a weldment of square steel shapes (flat bar stock). Said tracks  31 ,  31   a  may be attached to the frame  21  using any method known in the art such as, but not limited to: welding, fasteners, adhesive, or the like.  FIG. 11  depicts a rear view of the right hand (curbside) bed wall of the truck  15 . Each track  31 ,  31   a  is open at both ends to permit panel  24 ,  25 ,  33  insertions (also see  FIG. 2 ) and removal. The brackets  26 ,  27 ,  28  are used to enclose the ends. A single bracket  26 ,  27 ,  28  and tracks  31 ,  31   a  is configured to contain or retain a single shell component panel  24 ,  25 ,  33  around its entire perimeter. Each bracket  26 ,  27 ,  28  and track  24 ,  25 ,  33  comprise a movable bracket  26 ,  27 ,  28  that is hinged or otherwise removable to permit panels  24 ,  25 ,  33  to be inserted or removed. The brackets  26 ,  27 ,  28  and tracks  31 ,  31   a  may be mounted to the frame  21  in several configurations as illustrated herein below. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 12 through 14 , rear views of various track configurations, according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, are disclosed.  FIG. 12  depicts an interior track configuration,  FIG. 13  depicts an internal track configuration, and  FIG. 14  depicts a flush track configuration. Each bracket  26 ,  27 ,  28  is a “U”-shaped channel with a cap at both ends. Attaching the brackets  26 ,  27 ,  28  is accomplished via devices such as, but not limited to: welding, fasteners (such as rivets, screws, bolts, and the like), adhesives, or any other means known in the art. Note that in some configurations (e.g. internal  131  or flush  141 ) the frame itself  21  has been altered to accommodate the tracks  31 ,  31   a  and such embodiments are within the scope of the present invention. 
     Each of the moveable brackets  27 ,  28  may be attached to the frame  21  by one more conventional hinging devices. For example,  FIG. 2  illustrates a rear bracket  27  attached by a hinge to a side panel track  35 , and a front bracket  28  attached by a hinge to a front panel track  34 . When in the open position illustrated in  FIG. 2 , the front bracket  28  allows the forward panel  24  to be inserted into and slid along the front tracks  32  and  34  in the direction indicated by arrow “A”. Further, when the front bracket  28  is in the open position, the forward panel  24  may be slid along the tracks  32  and  34  (in the opposition direction identified by the arrow “A”) and removed therefrom. When in the closed position illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the front bracket  28  retains the forward panel  24  in the front tracks  32  and  34 . The other movable brackets (e.g., movable bracket  27 ) may operate in substantially the same manner as the bracket  28 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 15 , a partial isometric view of a rear window assembly  151 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. Said  FIG. 15  depicts an embodiment of a rear window assembly  151  that includes a glass rear window  164 . Note that other embodiments may be constructed that which omit a window  164  such as, but not limited to: utilizing a solid panel could be utilized if the truck  15  owner prefers to obscure the payload from view without limiting the functions of the system  10 . Constructing the rear window assembly  151  involves attaching a first side bracket  153 , a second side bracket  153   a , a bottom bracket  154 , and a top bracket  161  to the rear window  164  and one track  152  to the frame  21 . The brackets  153 ,  153   a ,  154 ,  161  fully enclose the window  164  similar to a picture frame, providing structure and support for the glass. The top bracket  161  slides into the track  152  laterally (also see  FIG. 16 ). When the assembly  151  is removed, the track  152  remains attached to the frame  21 , thereby enabling full use of the bed of the truck  15 , its tailgate, and its payload when the rear window assembly  151  is removed or when the rear window assembly  151  is pivoted upward and into an open position. The bottom bracket  154  that forms the bottom edge of the window  164  would contain a provision for a standard rubber strip  155  for weatherproofing as found on standalone camper shells today, as well as standard locking mechanisms to secure the window  164  to the tailgate (Note: this locking mechanism is separate from the locks attached to the moveable brackets  27 ,  28  that secure the panels  24 ,  25 ,  33  in place). The vertical brackets  153 ,  153   a  for the rear window assembly  151  include a first piston mount point  159  and a second piston mount point  159   a , thereby providing a position for a pair of standard hydraulic pistons  156 . Said hydraulic pistons  156  are utilized thereto assist lifting the rear window panel  164  to an open position. The other end of the pistons  156  mount onto the frame  21  at the frame mount points  157 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 16 , a side view of the rear window assembly  151 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. Said  FIG. 16  depicts a detailed curb side view of the track  152  used to mount the rear window assembly  151  to the frame  21 . The location of the track  152  on the frame  21  is abovementioned therein  FIG. 15 . A top bracket  161  comprises an interlocking piece thereto receive the inside the track  152 . The bracket  161  includes an attached top bracket hinge  165 . Said top bracket hinge  165  is attached to the top bracket  161  and may be utilized to open the rear window  164 . The interlocking piece  166  of the top bracket  161  is inserted into the track  152  by sliding the interlocking piece  166  horizontally into said track  152 . The track  152  comprises an end cap on the road side. The locking mechanisms used to lock the rear window assembly  151  therein the track  152  are similar to the other locking mechanisms used to other panels  24 ,  25 ,  33  within their respective tracks  31 ,  31   a ,  32 ,  34 ,  35  explained below. In each of the locking mechanisms described below, a lock forms an end cap, which may be located on the end of the curb side of the track  152 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 17 , a side view of a movable bracket  27  utilized therewith a side panel  25 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed.  FIG. 17  clearly depicts a side view of the rear movable bracket  27  mounted to the fixed track  172  by the hinge  173 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 18 , a side view of the movable bracket  27  depicting a locked configuration, according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed.  FIG. 18  depicts how the hinged movable bracket  27  and abovementioned track assembly can be locked into place. The locking mechanism is shown for the side panel  25  at a rear truck edge  63 . The hinged movable bracket  27  can be opened (i.e., placed in the open position illustrated in  FIG. 2 ) to allow for the insertion of the side panel  25  into the first bottom track  31  and side panel top track  35 . When the hinged movable bracket  27  is in the closed position, it seals against the bottom first track  31  and the side panel top track  35 . While in the closed position, the bracket  27  can be secured in place by a lock  184  configured to deploy a bolt  185  into the mounting plate  62  or truck bed side walls. Each abovementioned bracket  26 ,  27 ,  28  has its own lock  184  to permit any configuration of panels  24 ,  25 ,  33  to be locked into place individually. The lock  184  may be constructed using any standard lock known in the art such as, but not limited to: devices which utilize a manual key with pins and tumblers, a lock configured to provide electronic keyless entry, or the like. The bracket  27  is illustrated attached to side panel top track  35  by a hinge  173  that allows the rear moveable bracket  27  to swing up and out of the way so that the side panel  25  can be inserted into or removed from the top track  35 . The hinge  173  may be permanently affixed on the rear movable bracket  27  and the fixed top track  35  to prevent tampering or removal by other persons and may be comprised of a conventional hinging device known in the art. The hinge  173  may be permanently affixed to the rear movable bracket  27  by welding, fasteners, bolts, rivets, adhesives, or other suitable means known in the art. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 19 , a side view of a forward panel  24 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. In this embodiment, the forward panel  24  has an optional boot  192  that creates a weather proof seal between the cab and the camper shell. The bracket  27 ,  28  and tracks  31 ,  35  for the side panel  25  have been omitted for illustration purposes only. External mounting of the forward bracket  24  and track  31 ,  35  thereto the frame  21  allows for the ready insertion of the panel  24  that utilizes the boot  192 . In this view, the bracket  28  is shown in the open position to provide visibility of the forward panel  24 . When the bracket  28  is in the closed position, the forward panel  24  may be obscured but the boot  192  may remain visible. This view also shows the optional cargo carrying rack  23 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 20 , a side view of the side panel  25  depicting placement of weather-stripping  201 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. Each panel  24 ,  25 ,  33  may include weather-stripping  201  insets along its entire perimeter to enable a good seal with the tracks  31 ,  31   a ,  32 ,  34 ,  35  and brackets  27 ,  28 . In the embodiment depicted, the weather-stripping  201  is inset along one of the faces of the panel  25  rather than its edges. With respect to the weather-stripping  201 , the front and back faces are equivalent. In this manner, when a panel  25  is slid into place, its weight will not be loaded on top of the weather-stripping  201 , thereby increasing the useful life of said weather-stripping  201 . Alternatively, the weather-stripping  201  may be placed inside each track  31 ,  31   a ,  32 ,  34 ,  35  and bracket  27 ,  28  in a location adjacent to and along one of the faces of the panels  24 ,  25 ,  33  (and not along the bottom edge of the panels  24 ,  25 ,  33 ). To ease the job of sliding a panel  25  into place, a plurality of conventional rollers  202  may be placed inside the edges of the panels  25 , similar to those found on the bottom of screen and sliding glass doors. This may be particularly useful for use with panels  25  constructed from heavier materials, such as steel. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 21 , a rear view of an external, inverse bracket mount configuration, according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. This alternate embodiment comprises a pair of alternate tracks  231 , a plurality of shell panels  232 , an alternate top panel  233 , and an interlocking connector  237 . The alternate tracks  231  are inverted and externally mounted to the frame  21 , thereby permitting the shell panel  232  to fully wrap around and enclose them. The alternate top panel  233  is also shown, along with an interlocking connector portion  237 , thereby allowing the panels  233  to interlock to create a seamless appearance. This approach allows the panels  233  to completely obscure the frame  21 , brackets  27 ,  28 , and tracks  31 ,  31   a ,  34 ,  35  for a flusher, integrated appearance. The perspective is a rear view, with the outside edge of the bed wall  84  on the left, and the bed side  85  on the right. This approach still permits the bottom edge of the lower track  31   a  to run the length of the truck bed to allow for a continuous seam of weather-stripping  201  for the entire perimeter of the truck bed. The track  31   a  is similar in purpose to the previous bottom track  31 , with the notable difference that this design obscures the track  31   a  from view. The track  31   a  still serves the purpose of permitting a panel  233  to be slid into place and removed from the brackets  27 ,  28  and track assembly. This design still permits the use of a cargo rack  23  if desired. Cutouts (not shown) may be formed in one or more of the interlocking panels to permit a cargo rack  23  to be affixed to the top portion of the frame  21  if desired. The design of the system  10  allows for this flexibility. 
     It is envisioned that other styles and configurations of the present invention can be easily incorporated into the teachings of the present invention, and only one particular configuration shall be shown and described for purposes of clarity and disclosure and not by way of limitation of scope. 
     The preferred embodiment of the present invention can be utilized by the common user in a simple and effortless manner with little or no training. After initial purchase or acquisition of the system  10 , it would be installed as indicated in  FIGS. 1 through 21 . 
     The method of installing and utilizing the system  10  may be achieved by performing the following steps: acquiring the system  10 ; form-fitting the system  10  to the truck  15  so said system  10  does not extend beyond the dimensions of the truck  15 ; installing the frame  21  thereto corresponding mount points  52 ,  53  thereon the truck  15 , as intended by the truck manufacturer; utilizing the frame  21  as is and installing the cargo rack  23  as desired; installing the panels  24 ,  25 ,  33  thereto create the shell of the system  10  as desired, thereby sliding said panels  24 ,  25 ,  33  thereon a corresponding track  31 ,  31   a ,  34 ,  35  and positioning the brackets  27 ,  28  downwardly in a locked position; removing the top panel  33  for transporting tall loads; removing and storing the panels  24 ,  25 ,  33  on edge and stacked in a compressed manner as desired; and, utilizing the system  10  thereto carry cargo therein the bed portion of a truck or thereon the cargo rack  23 . 
     The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention and method of use to the precise forms disclosed. Obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, and to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is understood that various omissions or substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstance may suggest or render expedient, but is intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims of the present invention.