Importance

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Abstract

An articulated hinge for mounting a cover to the open bed of a vehicle includes first and second arms pivotally interconnected at medial portions thereof in a scissors-like configuration. First and second links are pivotally connected to the rearward and forward ends, respectively, of the second arm. The forward end of the first arm and the outer end of the first link are pivotally connected to the cover in a longitudinally spaced apart relationship, and the rearward end of the first arm and the outer end of the second link are pivotally connected to the vehicle bed in a longitudinally spaced apart relationship, such that vertical translation of the rear of the cover shifts the same between open and closed positions. An adjustment mechanism is associated with the second link and varies the distance between the opposite pivot points on the second link while permitting pivotal motion about the same. Manipulation of the adjustment mechanism achieves substantially vertical translation of the cover as it shifts into and out of the closed position to facilitate sealing contact between the cover and the vehicle bed.

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First Claim