Tailgate with integrated and extensible steps for a vehicle having a cargo bed
US7234750B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 16, 2006 |
| Grant date | Jun 26, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 16, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60R3/02
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A tailgate that is hingeably connected to a vehicle and configured to pivot from a closed position to a generally vertical open position includes an inner panel having an inner tailgate surface and an outer panel having an outer tailgate surface. The outer panel is attached to the inner panel to define a pocket therebetween. An opening extends from the inner tailgate surface to the outer tailgate surface and is configured to receive a foot. A step assembly is housed in the pocket and is moveable from a retracted position enclosing the opening, to an extended position revealing the opening. The step assembly includes a stationary frame fixed with respect to the pocket and a moveable frame moveable with respect to the stationary frame. The moveable frame extends from a lower peripheral edge of the tailgate in the extended position.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.