Self-retracting step
US4926965A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 18, 1989 |
| Grant date | May 22, 1990 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 18, 2009 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB63B27/14
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A self retracting step apparatus (10) mounted on the underside of a boat step (12) that projects rearwardly from the transom (14) of a boat. The step apparatus includes a mounting bracket (26) to which a support bar (16) is pivotally connected. A stirrup step (20) is secured to the distal end of the support bar, and is pivotal between an extended position and a retracted position. The support bar and stirrup step define a forwardly facing reactive surface (24) against which drag forces act upon movement of the boat. Springs (22) connected from the mounting bracket to the support bar nominally bias the stirrup step to the extended position, but may be overcome by the drag forces to allow the stirrup step to begin pivoting towards the retracted position. Once the stirrup step has begun movement from the extended position, the springs act to compel further pivoting of the stirrup step to a retracted position for stowage.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.