Importance

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Abstract

This invention broadly provides a trailer having a side which opens and closes to prevent the loss of material during transport. In the preferred embodiment, the trailer includes three solid or rigid sides with a fourth side that opens and closes with a drape, though in alternative configurations, two or more sides may also open and close, preferably utilizing the methods and apparatus disclosed herein. In a simple configuration, the invention utilizes a cable suspended between opposing upper points, with a curtain having upper eyelets journaled thereon, enabling the curtain to open and close so as to permit access to the trailer interior. Although this may be carried out according to the invention with an upper cable that remains affixed, in the preferred embodiments, a winch and pulley system is used to tighten the cable, and to loosen the cable for detachment purposes. As a further refinement, a door composed of structural members is utilized, preferably toward the rear of the trailer, this door-like feature including an upper tube through which the cable extends, enabling the curtain to be retracted onto the tube, and the door folded over the back of the trailer to keep the closure out of the way during access to the trailer bed. The curtain or drape may be made from various materials, including a vertical louvers, chain-link, and the like, though the preferred material is a mesh with small openings similar or identical to that used in commercial tennis net construction.

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First Claim