Side runner assembly for a vehicle having a dropping step
US6435534B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 29, 2000 |
| Grant date | Aug 20, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 29, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60R3/02
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A retractable step which is adequately functional, and which virtually automatically shifts between its in-use and storage position. A side runner assembly having a dropping step for a vehicle includes: an elongate member having a front and rear portion, each of the front and rear portions rigidly attached to the frame by a lateral member; and, a dropping central step portion carried by a lateral member, one side portion of the lateral member rigidly attached to the central portion, and the other opposite side portion movably attached to the frame. A spring upwardly biases the central portion; and the central portion is restrained in horizontal alignment with the front and rear portion of the side rail assembly. The central step portion is normally maintained in alignment with the front and rear portions of the assembly and drops to an operative position when and only downward force is applied thereon. In a preferred embodiment the front, rear, and central step portions of the side rail assembly as well as the lateral members, have round tubular cross sections. The lateral members comprise arms and the opposite side portion of the arm carrying the central portion is pivotably attac…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.