Mechanical Or Power-extending Means Patents (Class 182/158)
  • Patent number: 9527448
    Abstract: A retractable stair system for vehicles. The apparatus includes stairs which are retractable into a frame, or extendable to provide a set of stairs with relatively uniform height therebetween. Indexing plates with locking notches and companion latches with latch tongues to fit in the notches enable adjustment of the height of a top step S1 in a set of steps in an extensible-retractable stairs assembly. Extensible legs are provided which are individually vertically adjustable to provide secure engagement with an uneven substrate such as rocky ground or a sloping surface. Foot pads are pivotally attached to the extensible legs. The combination of vertical adjustability, the selection of a desired number of stairs, and individual top stair height adjustability, make the unit adaptable for use in a variety of vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2016
    Assignee: TORKLIFT INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventors: Jack Kay, Joel Crawford
  • Publication number: 20100051387
    Abstract: A movable step apparatus that includes a mounting frame, at least one step, and a rotary drive mechanism is provided. The movable step apparatus also includes a drive link and a follower link. The drive link is operatively connected to the drive mechanism to move the at least one step between retracted and extended positions. The follower link is pivotally connected to the drive link and pivotally connected to the at least one step. The follower link drives the at least one step to extend and retract the at least one step. The movable step apparatus further includes at least one link pivotally connecting the at least one step to the mounting frame to move between the retracted and extended positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: Borivoj Krobot
  • Publication number: 20090166129
    Abstract: A retract and pivot stairway assembly includes a drive and pivot mechanism, a stairway assembly and an opening cover. The operation is controlled with a push button wall switch that controls the drive mechanism. The drive mechanism uses rack and pinion gearing to retract and pivot the stairway. The stairway is guided on rollers on a pivot devices. The pivot devices also serve as a mounting apparatus for the opening cover. An emergency feature is provided with a guide bracket and hand crank. The stairway approaches as a stairway and not a ladder. It has wide steps and a full length hand rail on one side. There is an emergency feature provided to extend and pivot down the stairway using a worm screw and bracket pilot with a support and access hole for it.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2007
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Inventors: Ernest Ray Siler, Jennie Lee Siler
  • Patent number: 4958979
    Abstract: Arrangement for a lift adapted to a motor vehicle, comprising a lifting platform capable of moving between the vehicle and a floor. The invention provides a simple device for achieving a reliable and efficient lift arrangement, for example, for use by individuals in wheelchairs who wish to move between the inside and the outside of a vehicle without the help of an assistant, and without additional ramp or lift arrangements. The platform is attached via a scissor mechanism to a source of power for the platform, so that the platform, upon actuation of the power source, moves between a lower and an upper position, one of which at least is situated at a different level with respect to that of the attachment of the scissor mechanism to the source of power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 25, 1990
    Inventor: Ingemar Svensson