Abstract: A boat trailer that includes a first front sidewall and a second front sidewall connected to a frame. The front sidewalls include at least one compartment to store equipment, tools, gear, or other items. The front sidewalls may be comprised of fiberglass and may include at least one toe socket. The boat trailer may include a rear sidewalls connected to the frame. The first front sidewall and the second front sidewall may be substantially contoured to the hull of a boat. An adapter sidewall may be attachable to the front sidewalls so that the front sidewalls are substantially contoured to the hull of a second boat. The boat trailer may include a nose cone with a recessed step connected to each front sidewall. The boat trailer may include means to selectively connect the boat trailer to the motorized vehicle in addition to a typical tongue and hitch.

Abstract: An apparatus for coupling a trailer to a transporting vehicle is provided. The apparatus has a trailer assembly coupled to a hitch assembly. The trailer assembly has a skid plate having a cam channel formed therein and a cam arm having a cam member wherein the cam member engages and is movable within the cam channel. A hitch bar pivotally connects the hitch assembly to the trailer assembly. The trailer assembly is slidable in a longitudinal direction with respect to the hitch assembly such that the trailer is movable toward and away from the towing vehicle. To this end, the hitch assembly is mountable in a stationary position with respect to the vehicle and the trailer assembly is movable away from the transporting vehicle.

Abstract: An interface device between an element for retaining a boot and a gliding board, the interface device including a raising platform having an upper surface with at least one zone for receiving the retaining element, as well as a lower surface; a planar longitudinal stiffener having a thickness less than the thickness of the raising platform, the longitudinal stiffener being positioned beneath the raising platform. The raising platform includes two parallel rails on which the retaining element of the boot can slide. The longitudinal stiffener includes a first planar portion sandwiched between the raising platform and the upper surface of the gliding board, and the planar portion is parallel to the upper surface of the gliding board. The invention also includes a gliding board equipped with the interface device, as well as a method of manufacturing a gliding apparatus that includes the interface device.

Abstract: A binding, in particular a snowboard binding, comprises a base plate, a heel-cradling element and means for fastening the heel-cradling element to the base plate in a manner allowing longitudinal adjustment of its position/ The heel-cradling element comprises a heel-cup frame of generally U-shape in plan view, having spaced arms connected by a curved heel-cradling part, the arms fitting over opposite sides of the base plate. The arms have a profile in the form of a downwardly-open longitudinal channel, and the base plate has spaced longitudinal guide rails on which the longitudinal channels slidably engage. The fastening means include a single screw on each side, accessible from above the top of the arms.

Abstract: A binding, in particular a snowboard binding comprises a base plate; a heel-cradling element; a toe-cradling element; an instep-strapping arrangement having a long part connected to one side of the base plate and a short side part connected to the other side; a closure device for the instep-strapping arrangement; and a flexible linkage connecting the closure device of the instep-strapping arrangement and the toe-cradling element. In an open position the toe-cradling element is free to move, and in a closed position the flexible linkage pulls the toe-cradling element, so the foot is secured between the toe-cradling element, the heel-cradling element and the instep-strapping arrangement. In this closed position the held-together parts of the instep-strapping arrangement hold a foot securely by forces acting between these parts through the closure device, independently of the need to maintain tension in the flexible linkage.

Abstract: A modular utility stand storage apparatus includes a plurality of components for storage/transport and utility stand operation. The storage components are stacked on top of one another in a utility stand mode. The apparatus also includes a platform which can serve as a working platform or a hand truck for transport of the various components. The stacked utility stand storage apparatus provides various working heights and the individual storage compartments are easily lifted and portable.

Abstract: A motor vehicle structure that includes a hidden airbag door and an integrated airbag chute. The structure may be selected from instrument panel assemblies, seat shields, airbag covers, pillar garnishes, side curtain shields, door trim, knee bolsters, or a combination of one or more of the foregoing structures. The structure is designed to include a retainer having a first surface and a second surface, a deployment chute, and a door portion defined by a tear seam notch in at least one of the first surface and the second surface of the retainer. The deployment chute is attached to and integrated with the retainer. Additionally, the deployment chute and the retainer are constructed and arranged from the same material. The motor vehicle structure may be made by integrally forming the deployment chute with the retainer and defining a door portion using a tear seam notch in at least one of the first surface and the second surface of the retainer.

Abstract: A vehicle-use air bag module which hardly exerts influence on a side end portion of a module cover even when an external force or heat is applied to the module cover. Ribs are formed on side end portions in the left and right direction of a top plate member of a module cover and are brought into contact with an upper surface portion of a bracket having an approximately L-shape. The bracket is integrally fixed together with the right extending portion having a side tear line and a right side wall of a casing in which an air bag is stored using rivets. A lower end portion of a support portion of the rib is supported on an upper surface portion of the bracket. The side end portion is prevented from being deformed even when an external force is applied from the direction indicated by an arrow C.

Abstract: An airbag device for a vehicle includes a gas supply portion, an airbag body, and a low pressure portion. When a vehicle collision occurs, the gas supply portion injects gas into an airbag body. The airbag body has a single-chamber structure. When the airbag body receives the gas from the gas supply portion, the airbag body is inflated and deployed toward an occupant to restrain the shoulders of the occupant. The low-pressure portion is provided in the same area of the airbag body, which faces the occupant when the airbag body is inflated and deployed, to protect the occupant's head. When the airbag body is inflated and deployed, the low-pressure portion is inflated such that the pressure in the low-pressure portion is lower than the pressure in the airbag body.

Abstract: A vehicle seat component (18) includes a side air bag module (18) mounted on a frame (24) within a trim cover (30) that also covers a seat pad (26). An air bag guide (44) includes flexible inner and outer panels (46,48) that extend between a release seam (32) of the trim cover (30) and the air bag module (18) to provide a guiding function to an air bag (36) upon inflation so as to project outwardly through the release seam (32) for use. An inner extremity (52) of the flexible inner panel (46) of the air bag guide (44) has a grommet (58) that is secured to a frame (24) by a threaded stud (38) and a nut (40) that also mount the air bag module on the frame, and the inner extremity (56) of the flexible outer panel (48) is secured in any suitable manner to the seat component.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a metal-sealing material-feedthrough for igniters of airbags or belt tensioning devices, especially glass-metal-feedthrough, including at least one metal pin which is located in a feedthrough opening in the base body in a sealing material, wherein the base body has a front side and a back side. Structure is provided between the front and the back side in order to avoid a relative movement of sealing material in the direction toward the back relative to the inside circumference of the feedthrough opening. At least the feedthrough opening is punched out of the base body. The base body is configured so that the ratio of thickness (D) of the base body to the maximum dimension of the feedthrough opening vertical to the axis direction of the feedthrough opening is in the range of between and including 0.9 to 1.6.

Abstract: An air bag system includes an inflator, an inflatable air bag, and a vent opener operatively connected to the air bag and selectively movable from a first position to a second position to create a cushion vent within the air bag for venting inflation fluid. A movable member operatively connects to an air bag housing, with a retention member extending through a connector arm to selectively connect the movable member and the vent opener. A sensing tether is operable to selectively release the retention member. The air bag system may further include a switch, with a sensing tether operable to change the state of the switch if any portion of the air bag passes a predetermined plane during inflation thereof.

Abstract: An impact protection device for a vehicle occupant includes a gas bag, a tension means (16) and a drawing arrangement (22). The gas bag has at least one discharge opening (12). The cross section of the discharge opening (12) is able to be altered by means of the tension means. The tension means is coupled to the drawing arrangement which is not fastened to the gas bag.

Abstract: An apparatus (10) provides inflation fluid to an inflatable vehicle occupant protection device (14). The apparatus (10) includes an inflator (24) actuatable to provide inflation fluid for inflating the protection device (14). A conduit (22) directs inflation fluid into the protection device (14) from the inflator (24). A deflector (50) is arranged in fluid communication with the conduit (22) and has at least a portion in fluid communication with the protection device (14). The deflector (50) is configured to direct inflation fluid into the protection device (14) in opposing directions to reduce the magnitude of pressure waves experienced by a vehicle occupant (28).

Abstract: A square shaped sub-frame for a vehicle manufactured from an especially designed aluminium profile (1). The profile comprises a first and a second channel (11, 13) separated by an intervening channel (12). Said first and second channels (11, 13) are separated in localized areas by removing wall material from the intervening channel (12). Then, the profile (1) is bent into a U-shaped or square, closed frame, said second channel (13) defining a load carrying frame. The first channel (11) is machined into mounting brackets for control arms etc.

Abstract: A seat belt shoulder guide having a plate with a flange protruding normally outwardly from the plate which defines an opening between the flange and the plate. A plastic insert is positioned in the opening. A belt opening is provided through the insert and this opening includes a linear central portion and an arcuate and transversely extending portion at each end. An antirotation lip is formed around the insert opening. In addition, a central aperture in the plate reduces the weight of the shoulder guide while reinforcing beads formed around the sides of the aperture rigidify the plate.

Abstract: The liner assembly incorporates a liner formed of a synthetic air permeable material adhesively mounted to the underside of an exposed motorcycle fender or to a structure having surfaces susceptible to mud buildup, chipping or other types of damage. The liner is a relatively thin, flexible sheet of air permeable, synthetic material formed to substantially cover the concave portion of an exposed fender. The liner is either directly attached to the structure, or is attached via a double-sided tape, or has a bead of adhesive material disposed around the edge thereof, further securing the liner to the surface of the fender and protecting the edge from fraying and the lining from delaminating. The liner is coated with a wet or dry lubricant to increase its lubricity.

Abstract: A vehicle fender is mounted to a mounting arm through at least one clamp that is mounted on the mounting arm. The clamp and an edge of the fender have complementary teeth and grooves to adjustably mount the fender to the mounting arm. The fender teeth and grooves are formed in a pocket and the pocket extends beneath the fender panel and receives the mounting arm.

Abstract: A multi-functional cover for a writing pad to incorporate a utility accessory thereto includes a main body, a plurality of window connectors, and a supporting frame. The main body has a display window formed thereon. The window connectors are spacedly provided on a peripheral boundary of the display window. The supporting frame is detachably attached on the display window of the main body, wherein the supporting frame is adapted for detachably mounting with the utility accessory so as to detachably mount the utility accessory with the writing pad.

Abstract: A printed publication is produced having at least two sections which are separable one from the other by tearing along a weakened region along the spine. Each section preferably has pages produced by a web based printing system with edges thereof secured to the adhesive binding. Interior covers are provided between adjacent sections with a removable insert intermediate the interior covers. Removal of the insert assist in appropriate tearing of the publication between sections to physically separate one section from the other. A method of manufacture of this publication is also disclosed.

Abstract: A map, having a printed sheet of paper or synthetic paper and optionally having a lamination or lining on one or both sides, and having fanfold lines extending in one direction and at least two cross folds extending perpendicular to the fanfold lines. One at the top, forming the map spine, and the other at lowest a edge of the map. Such a map has in the final folded format preferably a square or approximately square format. The cross fold at lowest edge of the map forms a smooth edge of the map and a step formed by a shorter front outer map surface in vertical direction as the one in the back. This step forms a narrow horizontal surface with a vertical height of 1 to 100 mm and being imprinable. Optional there are further cross folds at the ends of the map surfaces multiplying the printable surface.

Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a combination stamp and advertising booklet. Particularly, a combination postage stamp and advertising booklet having dimensions of paper currency so that it can be readily placed in the till of a checkout register for easy dispensing thereof by the cashier. Each page of the booklet may include one or more removably attached stamps and one or more forms of advertisement, thereby exposing the potential customer accessing the stamps to the advertising material located on the page and adjacent pages. This configuration minimizes the risk that the advertising material will be overlooked or discarded by the consumer.

Abstract: A tamper evident label includes a first portion formed of a first material. The first portion is defined by at least a first top surface and a first bottom surface. The label also includes a second portion defined by at least a second edge and a printable portion. The second portion is defined by at least a second top surface and a second bottom surface. A release coating inhibits adherence of the second portion to at least portions of the first portion. A third portion is coupled to the printable portion. The third portion is defined by at least a third top surface and a third bottom surface.

Abstract: The invention relates to a binder-free photopolymerizable composition comprising: (i) at least one ethylenically unsaturated monomer; (ii) a photoinitiator system; and (iii) at least one organic component. In a first embodiment the at least one organic component is selected from the group consisting of fats, oils, paraffins and silicones. In an alternative embodiment the absolute value of the difference in refractive index between the at least one ethylenically unsaturated monomer and the at least one organic component is at least 0.065. Furthermore, the invention relates to a photosensitive element comprising said photopolymerizable composition, a process for preparing a refractive index image, in particular a hologram, and a refractive index image.

Abstract: The present invention provides a shipping method for guaranteeing that an article for shipping has remained sealed with a seal and has remained unopened. Specifically, first, the sender is asked to enter a signature on a seal. Because of the pressure from a writing implement at time of entering, the signature is copied to a sheet for verification. An article for shipping is sealed with a seal and transported to a recipient. The signature on the seal is verified against the signature on the sheet for verification. By confirming that the two match, it is confirmed that the seal has not been replaced. Thus it is guaranteed that the article for shipping has remained sealed with the seal and has remained unopened.

Abstract: According to an aspect of the embodiment, a sheet-backed label assembly includes a backing sheet. The backing sheet comprise plural labels capable of being peeled off the backing sheet, a first easy breaking line along which to break the backing sheet to separate the plural labels from each other, and a second easy breaking line which is formed at such a position as to intersect the first easy breaking line and to traverse the labels.

Abstract: A tubular and compressible seal attached to one tube and formed with a cowling projecting over a peripheral bead in a second tube and formed with a rearwardly inwardly projecting sealing ring engaging such second tube. A constraining sleeve compressing the cowling and sealing ring against the second tube.

Abstract: A threaded tubular connection includes a male tubular element including a male threaded portion and a female tubular element including a female threaded portion that cooperates by screwing with the male threaded portion. The threaded connection includes at least one transfer zone that can transfer bending loads between the elements and that is axially spaced from the threaded portions, in which the male and female elements have an undulating surface and a smooth surface facing each other, the undulating surface defining a series of rounded annular ribs that come into contact with the smooth surface with a radial interference fit. The connection may find application to production strings for hydrocarbon wells.

Abstract: The wheel comprises: a shaft adapted to be secured to a bearing structure of the vehicle and about which the wheel is mounted to rotate, a reversible rotary electrical machine mounted coaxially about the shaft and adapted selectively to act as an electrical generator and as an electric motor actuating the wheel, energy storage devices which may be coupled to the electrical machine, an electronic control unit adapted to control the electrical machine and the energy storage means according to predetermined methods, and solar energy converters connected to at least one lateral portion of the wheel and adapted to convert the incident solar energy into electrical energy, and which may be coupled to the energy storage means. The energy storage devices comprise at least one substantially planar or film rechargeable battery applied to at least one lateral portion of the wheel and rotating rigidly with this wheel.

Abstract: An air conditioner compressor united with a starter motor includes: a drive portion including a motor and a drive shaft, a refrigerant compressing portion for compressing a refrigerant by a rotational force of the motor driven by a battery power source applied through a compressor relay, a power transmission device for transmitting a rotational force of the drive shaft to an engine crank shaft when the motor is driven, and a clutch device for controlling the rotational force between the drive shaft and the power transmission means. The motor and the clutch device are connected to a starter relay and receive the battery power source when starting an engine such that the motor and the clutch device operate when the starter relay is turned on to transmit the rotational force to the engine crank shaft through the drive shaft and the power transmission device, thus starting the engine.

Abstract: A wind turbine rotor is decelerated and locked in a target rotational position in relation to rotation of the rotor about the rotor axis. The rotational position of the rotor in relation to the rotational axis is detected relative to at least one target rotational position. Once the rotor reaches one of the target rotational positions, the rotor is halted and automatically locked in the target rotational position.

Abstract: A wind powered turbine with low voltage ride-through capability. An inverter is connected to the output of a turbine generator. The generator output is conditioned by the inverter resulting in an output voltage and current at a frequency and phase angle appropriate for transmission to a three-phase utility grid. A frequency and phase angle sensor is connected to the utility grid operative during a fault on the grid. A control system is connected to the sensor and to the inverter. The control system output is a current command signal enabling the inverter to put out a current waveform, which is of the same phase and frequency as detected by the sensor. The control system synthesizes current waveform templates for all three-phases based on a sensed voltage on one phase and transmits currents to all three-phases of the electrical system based on the synthesized current waveforms.

Abstract: A wind power installation comprising a pylon which is based on a foundation and a power module, wherein the power module has at least one transformer, by means of which the electrical energy provided by the generator of the wind power installation is transformed to a medium voltage or a high voltage, wherein the power module also includes further units, by means of which the electrical energy produced by the generator of the wind power installation is controlled and/or supplied and/or converted, wherein the power module has a support which is placed on the foundation of the wind power installation, and the support accommodates the electrical devices of the power module such as for example the transformer and the width and/or length of the power module are less than the diameter of the pylon of the wind power installation in the foundation region, characterized in that the power module is accommodated by a container, wherein the wall of the container is disposed between the pylon wall and the power module.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a power generating unit secured beneath a semi-trailer on an over-the-road vehicle. The power generating unit is selectively positionable from a raised position to a lowered position wherein a generating wheel is in contact with the road surface for recovering brake torque potential energy during select operational states of the vehicle. A storage battery is carried on the vehicle trailer and in electrical communication with the generator to store such excess electrical energy. Periodically, the electrical energy is made available for discharging to a stationary storage battery for sale and distribution into the power grid as supplemental energy or alternately to provide a temporary power substation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a shock absorber (6) for the bumper (2) of a vehicle. The inventive absorber comprises: a support (12), and strips (32, 34) which extend forward from the support and which are equipped with a face (38) that is directed toward the interior of the absorber. In addition, the invention comprises one opening (36) for each strip, said opening extending opposite the aforementioned face (38) and opening onto the exterior of the absorber.

Abstract: A bumper absorber for protecting pedestrians is formed into a W-shaped cross-sectional configuration, as taken along a direction which is orthogonal to a longitudinal direction of the bumper absorber. The W-shaped cross sectional configuration has portions in which a front notch portion, an upper rear notch portion, and a lower rear notch portion overlap with one another in a vertical direction of a vehicle. Ribs are formed respectively at the upper rear notch portion and the lower rear notch portion, and a triangular notch is formed from a vehicle rear side at each of the rib. Further, the ribs 30 are formed at the upper rear notch portion and the lower rear notch portion so as to be separated from each other at predetermined intervals in a longitudinal direction of the bumper absorber, namely, in a transverse direction of the vehicle. With this structure, a rise in impact load acting on a pedestrian who is hit by a bumper can be controlled.

Abstract: A tube comprising an outer tube section with a stepped outer surface and an inner tube section, with the inner tube section being located within the outer tube section. The tube also comprises a spanning section connecting an end of the outer tube section to an end of the inner tube section. The outer tube section is longer than the inner tube section, whereby, upon undergoing a longitudinal impact, the outer tube section crushes predictably and sooner than the inner tube section upon the energy management tube receiving forces from the longitudinal impact, to thereby create a first energy absorption level during crushing of the outer tube section alone and a second energy absorption level during crushing of the outer tube section and the inner tube section.

Abstract: A modular energy absorber 10 that is tunable. It comprises one or more energy absorbing modules 12. The energy absorbing modules 12 have means for coordinating 14 energy absorbing units 16 of the one or more modules. The means 14 for coordinating position and support the units 16 in relation to each other before and during relative motion between an incident object and the energy absorber. The units 16 are provided with an upper perimeter 22, a lower perimeter 24 and an intermediate wall 26 with stiffening male 36 or female 38 ribs. A method for configuring and for making the modular energy absorber are also disclosed.

Abstract: A pair of training chopsticks for developing intellectual faculties is described. The training chopsticks comprise a first stick, a second stick and a coupling means. The first stick has a thumb-inserting hole for inserting the thumb and a first pad for picking up solids. The thumb-inserting hole is formed on the upper side of the first stick and the first pad is formed on the lower end of the first stick. The second stick has a holding unit for inserting the forefinger and the second finger, an adjusting means for adjusting the fixing position of the holding unit and a second pad for picking up solids. The holding unit has a forefinger-inserting hole for inserting the forefinger and a second finger-inserting hole for inserting the second finger. The coupling means formed on the upper sides of the first and second stick couples the first and second stick at an interval.

Abstract: A combination grill mitt and grill tool has a grill mitt and a grill tool connected to the grill mitt. The grill tool may be selected from the group of spatula, tongs and fork.

Abstract: A snow removing device is disclosed which is particularly intended for the use in the manual removal of the freshly fallen snow from around the house, or business, such as wooden decks and steps, carpeted porches and steps, cement and blacktop sidewalks. Parking lots drive ways and, the automobiles parked there. This device includes, one blade made of two different materials. (1) A hard concaved plastic blade, with the distal tips rolled up slightly. (2) The top 3 inches of the plastic blade are enveloped with cross linked physically blown closed cell polyethylene foam with a density of 2 pounds per cubic foot. This molded foam edge (cap) tapers to a relatively sharp point. An articulating, pivoting handle is uniquely attached with a large clip, (stabilizer bar) a kick pin, and a strong flexible strap, allowing the worker to throw the snow with both edges thereby giving it abilities to shovel, or plow the snow.

Abstract: The invention concerns a vacuum gripper for suctioning workpieces with an vacuum port, an elastic vacuum element and a vacuum element holder, wherein the vacuum element has a sealing lip on its side facing the workpiece, which delimits the vacuum chamber, and the vacuum chamber is flow-connected to the vacuum port, wherein the vacuum gripper has means that display the suction state.

Abstract: A replacement device for clamping heads comprises a plurality of clamping jaws and is provided with pivoting parts, which are pivotably mounted on a carrier. The pivoting parts extend essentially in the axial direction of said device and can engage in holes on the clamping jaws. A radially active force applying device pushes the pivoting parts outwards, causing the clamping jaws connected thereto to be pressed together. In this way, the clamping head can be used in a housing or a machine-tool.

Abstract: This invention provides a simple means to allow a user to carry a bag without injuring his hands. This apparatus provides a safe means to carry a bag because it has a flexible portion for human fingers to grasp and it has secured ends to keep the bag in place while it is being carried.

Abstract: An overhead console for motor vehicles and the like includes a storage bin configured to support and store sunglasses. The bin is movably mounted to the base for movement between an opened position and a closed position. The storage bin includes a body made of a substantially rigid polymer material forming a cavity for storing sunglasses. An elastomeric material is molded to the body of the storage bin, and provides a soft surface on the inner side of the body to support sunglasses. The polymer material of the body forms walls having one or more apertures therethrough, and the elastomeric material extends through the apertures to mechanically connect the elastomeric material to the body of the storage bin.

Abstract: An expandable/collapsible apparatus is provided for storing items within vehicle compartments that may be manipulated into an operative position or into a closed position. The apparatus may include a plurality of panels that are pivotally attached to one another so that the apparatus is movable between a closed position beneath, e.g., an upper panel or roof portion of a vehicle and an open position expanded for receiving items for storage. A spring loaded latch may be provided for securing the apparatus in either a collapsed or expanded (drop-down) position. Access to the apparatus may be through the trunk or rear cargo area of a vehicle or through a door formed in the package shelf of a vehicle.

Abstract: A movable cargo floor assembly for a vehicle providing at least a portion of the cargo floor moving closer to an entrance of the vehicle or extending beyond or outside the vehicle when it is in a deployed position, and the cargo floor being in a stowed position when not in the deployed position. In addition, the cargo floor has at least one ramp surface integrated into the base of the cargo floor, and a track that is integrated into the ramp surface so that a gear assembly contacts the track and moves the cargo floor to and from a deployed position and a stowed position. Thus, as a gear rotates it contacts the teeth of the track and causes the cargo floor to move between positions.

Abstract: A utility vehicle comprising a front end, a rear end, a front seat assembly facing the front end, and a rear seat assembly facing the rear end. The rear seat assembly can comprise a footrest extending from the rear end of the vehicle, a seat frame, a seat mounted to the seat frame, a rear seatback base mounted to the seat frame, and a seatback cushion removably mounted to the seat frame.

Abstract: A double folding mechanism of a seat of a vehicle can fold a seat cushion from a space on a floor and fold a seat back into the space, thereby changing the seat from its use condition to its retracted condition. The double folding mechanism can include a first connecting mechanism connecting the seat cushion and the floor and a second connecting mechanism connecting the seat back and the floor. The second connecting mechanism can control the rotational speed of the seat back such that the seat back can enter inside a rotational trajectory of a rear end of the seat cushion after the seat cushion comes out of a rotational trajectory of an upper end portion of the seat back. The double folding mechanism can change the seat from the use condition to the retracted condition in one operation.

Abstract: A utility vehicle comprising a front end, a rear end opposite the front end, a polymeric footrest, and a plurality of polymeric traction promoting features. The footrest is mounted at the rear end and extends from the rear end of the vehicle. The traction promoting features are integral with the footrest and protrude from an upper surface of the footrest.