Retrofit tailgate counterbalancing hinge
US7281746B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 1, 2005 |
| Grant date | Oct 16, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 19, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60P1/267
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A torque rod-based counterbalancing hinge assembly includes a first assembly for securing the torque rod to one side of vehicle's body and supporting the tailgate to the same side of the vehicle's body, and a second assembly for supporting the other end of the tailgate to the other side of the vehicle's body. The first assembly includes a body bracket with an elongated key slot that receives an elongated key of a pivot coupling having an opening for receiving a first end of the torque rod. A retainer assembly including a one-piece construction retainer block receives and secures to the tailgate a second end of the torque rod, so that it twists as the tailgate is rotated. The retainer block has the structural strength necessary to restrain without failing the torque rod as it is twisted and subjected to a torsional force in response to the rotation of the tailgate.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.