Retractable vehicle step
US9701249B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 29, 2015 |
| Grant date | Jul 11, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 29, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60R3/02
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A retractable vehicle step is attachable to a vehicle or truck, such as at the rear portion. The vehicle step facilitates access to a cargo hold of the vehicle. Advantageously, the vehicle step provides clearance space relative to a tailgate of the vehicle by displacing a stepping member of the vehicle step in a generally lateral direction. The vehicle step desirably has a covered and protected biasing mechanism for transitioning between retracted and extended positions of the stepping member. Another advantage is that the vehicle step is readily attachable to the vehicle using already existing connection members, thereby generally eliminating or mitigating the need for customized retrofitting and avoiding undesirable installation cost and time. Further, the vehicle step may be pulled out from under the vehicle by the foot of a user.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.