Tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus

Abstract

A tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus that is configured to facilitate placement and retrieval of a tarp over an object such as but not limited to a cargo truck. The apparatus includes a base support frame wherein the base support frame is comprised of a plurality of longitudinal and lateral support members. A pair of vertical support members extending upward from the base support frame provide support for the drive rod member. The drive rod member is rotatable in a clockwise and counterclockwise direction having a motor assembly operably coupled thereto. A tarp engagement member is releasably coupled to the drive rod member utilizing a coupler. The tarp engagement member includes a center rod portion having a plurality of rope engagement members formed thereon. The tarp engagement member includes a guide member that is generally U-shaped and operable to maintain lateral position of a tarp on the tarp engagement member.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus configured to facilitate placement and retrieval of a tarp over a cargo load wherein the tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus comprises:
 a base support frame, said base support frame being comprised of a plurality of lateral and longitudinal support members, said base support frame having a first end and a second end, said base support frame having a first vertical support member proximate said first end, said first vertical support member being perpendicular to said base support frame extending upward therefrom, said base support frame having a second vertical support member, said second vertical support member being proximate said second end of said base support frame, said second vertical support member being perpendicular to said base support frame extending upward therefrom;   a motor assembly, said motor assembly including a motor, said motor being operably coupled to a power supply;   a drive rod member, said drive rod member being operably coupled to said first vertical support member and said second vertical support member, said drive rod member being operably coupled to said first vertical support member and said second vertical support member, said drive rod member being operably coupled to said motor assembly, said drive rod member being rotatable in a clockwise and a counterclockwise direction;   a tarp engagement member, said tarp engagement member being releasably secured to said drive rod member, said tarp engagement member having a center rod portion, said tarp engagement member further having a guide member, said tarp engagement member configured to have a tarp operably coupled thereto.   
     
     
         2 . The tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus as recited in  claim 1 , wherein said tarp engagement member further includes a plurality of rope engagement members, said rope engagement members being secured to said center rod portion. 
     
     
         3 . The tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus as recited in  claim 2 , wherein said plurality of said rope engagement members are square U-shaped, said plurality of rope engagement members having a top portion, said plurality of rope engagement members having a void intermediate said top portion and said center rod portion, said void suitable to have a segment of a rope pulled therethrough. 
     
     
         4 . The tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus as recited in  claim 3 , wherein said guide member include opposing lateral sections, said opposing lateral sections being integrally formed with a center section so as to create a U-shaped guide member. 
     
     
         5 . The tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus as recited in  claim 4 , and further including a coupler, said coupler having a receiver portion integrally formed with said drive rod, said coupler configured to facilitate releasably securing of said tarp engagement member to said drive rod. 
     
     
         6 . The tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus as recited in  claim 5 , wherein said coupler further includes a shank, said shank being formed on said tarp engagement member, said shank configured to journal into said receiver portion. 
     
     
         7 . The tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus as recited in  claim 6 , wherein said coupler further includes a hook member and a pin member, said hook member configured to releasably secure to said pin member ensuing coupling of said shank into said receiver portion. 
     
     
         8 . The tarp deployment and retrieval apparatus as recited in  claim 7 , wherein said motor assembly further includes a chain, said chain operably coupled to a gear secured to said drive rod member.