Manual retracting box step for pick-up trucks
US6533303B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 31, 2001 |
| Grant date | Mar 18, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 31, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60R3/02
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The step assembly (20) includes a mounting bracket (26) mounted to an under-carriage of the pick-up truck. A step (30) is pivotally secured to the mounting bracket. The step can rotate between a stowed position with the step disposed adjacent the mounting bracket and an operative position with the step extending from the bracket. A coil spring is mounted between the bracket and the step for continuously biasing the step toward the stowed position. A ratchet mechanism, having a pawl, a cam and an over-center spring, is mounted between the bracket and the step. The ratchet mechanism locks the step in the operative position in response to rotation of the step from the stowed position to the operative position. When in the operative position, a user can stand on the step assembly to access the bed of the pick-up truck. The ratchet mechanism also unlocks the step in response to over rotation of the step beyond the operative position. Once unlocked, the step automatically counter rotates back to the stowed position. When in the stowed position, the step assembly is concealed underneath the pick-up truck.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.