Patent · US Active

Apparatuses and methods for an automatic stepgate

US11358529B2 · kind B2 · utility

1Cited by
34References
20Claims
0Family size

Inventor

Key dates

Filing dateDec 5, 2019
Grant dateJun 14, 2022
Priority date
Expiry dateDec 15, 2040

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
  • CPC primaryB62D33/037
  • WIPO fieldTransport
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

Apparatuses and methods for providing an automatic tailgate step are provided. The apparatuses may comprise a tailgate comprising a tailgate latch; a bumper; a trailer hitch; and at least two tailgate steps each comprising a foot step. As such, the tailgate latch may be affixed to the tailgate, such that when a user engages the tailgate latch when the tailgate is in a closed position the at least two tailgate steps are released, and wherein the at least two tailgate steps when released may freely swing clear of the bumper and the trailer hitch as the user pulls the tailgate down such that when the tailgate is in a fully open position the user may utilize the foot step of each tailgate step.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.