Patents by Inventor Craig E. Esler

Craig E. Esler has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Integrated multi-function tailgate
    Patent number: 6991277
    Abstract: A vehicle tailgate extension apparatus comprises a tailgate extender, having a stowed position in which the tailgate extender is located within a space within the tailgate, and a deployed position in which an exposed portion of the tailgate extender protrudes out of the tailgate space, a motor, and a gear drive assembly coupling the motor to the tailgate extender. The motor and gear drive assembly can be located within the tailgate space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: Toyota Technical Center USA, Inc.
    Inventor: Craig E. Esler