Load and lock tailgate

US6315346A · kind A · utility

Inventor

• Herbert Martin · Waiblingen, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: May 24, 1999
• Grant date: Nov 13, 2001
• Expiry date: May 24, 2019

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B60P3/40
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A tailgate movable in horizontal and vertical directions and being operative to (1) lock down loads that are too long to be accommodated within the standard length of the bed of a pickup truck or any other vehicle having a cargo bed with sidewalls, or (2) lock down confined moveable loads that are liable to slide or shift within the truck bed. A motorized chain drive produces the forward and backward horizontal movement of the tailgate thereby securing the total cargo and preventing shifting and sliding of the loads within the truck bed. The drive also produces the vertical movement of the tailgate which, together with the plurality of spring-loaded legs and spread pressure pads, provides a pressure locking system thereby holding down long, uneven cargo loads which are eccentrically loaded relative to the length of the truck bed and preventing torsion or slippage of said loads within the truck bed. A U-shaped component replaces the conventional tailgate connection to the truck bed and the moveable tailgate assembly is attached to this U-shaped component by manual or automatic locking devices. The entire tailgate assembly is hinged and can be opened in the conventional manner.