Systems for accessing cargo spaces on vehicles equipped with a tailgate assembly

US11780373B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Ford Global Technologies, LLC · US

Inventors

• Stuart C. Salter · White Lake, US
• David Brian Glickman · Southfield, US
• Dawn Piechocki · Grosse Pointe Park, US
• Dennis Yee · Milford, US
• Darshan Arun Nayak · Northville, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jul 6, 2021
• Grant date: Oct 10, 2023
• Expiry date: Dec 16, 2041

Classification

• Technology area (CPC E): Fixed Constructions
• CPC primary: E06C5/42
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

Various vehicle systems are proposed for accessing and utilizing vehicle cargo spaces on vehicles equipped with a tailgate assembly. The vehicle systems may include deployable and/or rotatable stairgate systems, deployable step systems, etc. designed for the accessing the vehicle cargo spaces. The proposed systems may include various deployment mechanisms that enable the stairgate/step systems to slide, pivot, rotate, swing, and/or otherwise adjust for providing ease of access and increased flexibility when stepping up to access the vehicle cargo space.