Vehicle tailgate with supplemental tailgate having latching mechanism
US6983972B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignees
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 21, 2004 |
| Grant date | Jan 10, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 21, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB62D33/037
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A tailgate for a vehicle has a supplemental tailgate that retracts within the tailgate and is extendable therefrom in order to provide multiple assist functions. The supplemental tailgate includes a generally fixed guide portion and a movable frame assembly. The movable frame assembly includes a pivotable molding, which mounts on a cross member, and a latching assembly that mounts generally within telescoping supports, which selectively slide within the guide portion. When pivoted, the pivotable molding releases the latching assembly, allowing the movable portion of the supplemental tailgate to be moved to various extended positions. When the supplemental tailgate is in its stowed position, the pivotable molding is aligned with the top surface of the tailgate in order to provide an esthetically pleasing appearance and provide paint scratch resistance. When the movable frame portion is in an essentially fully extended position, it can be rotated relative to the tailgate in order to provide certain of the assist functions.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.