Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure disclose a vehicle step apparatus and a vehicle. The vehicle step apparatus includes a step, a retractable device, and a locking member. The step is movable between an extended position and a retracted position. The retractable device is connected to the step and configured to drive the step to move between the extended position and the retracted position. The locking member is configured to lock the step in the retracted position or to allow the step to move away from the retracted position towards the extended position.

Abstract: A ladder system includes a first rail, a second rail parallel to the first rail, a ladder bracket supported by and configured to slide along the first rail and the second rail, a ladder coupled to the ladder bracket and configured to rotate with respect to the ladder bracket between a lowered position and a storage position, and an air spring coupling the ladder to the ladder bracket and configured to apply a force to the ladder when the ladder is in the lowered position to keep the ladder in the lowered position. Another ladder system includes a rail, a bumper stop below the rail, a ladder bracket, a ladder, a bumper, and an air spring. An agricultural vehicle includes a chassis supported by a plurality of wheels, and a ladder system carried by the chassis. Related methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: A vehicle, a running board assembly, and a drive assembly for a running board are disclosed. The drive assembly includes: a mounting base, a first connecting portion, a second connecting portion, and a running board holder. The first connecting portion is rotatably connected with the mounting base and the running board holder. The second connecting portion is rotatably connected with the mounting base and the running board holder. The running board holder includes a third main body and a third hinged portion. The first connecting portion includes a first main body and a plurality of first hinged portions, and the third hinged portion is rotatably connected among the plurality of first hinged portions; and/or the second connecting portion includes a second main body and a plurality of second hinged portions, the third hinged portion being rotatably connected among the plurality of second hinged portions.

Abstract: A vehicle, a running board assembly, and a drive assembly for a running board are disclosed. The drive assembly includes: a mounting base, a first connecting portion, a second connecting portion, and a running board holder. The first connecting portion is rotatably connected with the mounting base and the running board holder. The second connecting portion is rotatably connected with the mounting base and the running board holder. The running board holder includes a third main body and a third hinged portion. The first connecting portion includes a first main body and a plurality of first hinged portions, and the third hinged portion is rotatably connected among the plurality of first hinged portions; and/or the second connecting portion includes a second main body and a plurality of second hinged portions, the third hinged portion being rotatably connected among the plurality of second hinged portions.

Abstract: The present embodiments provide an aviary, a walkway for an aviary, and a walkway system for an aviary. The walkway includes a ramp and at least one support disposed below the ramp.

Abstract: A tailgate assembly includes, among other things, a tailgate coupled to a vehicle body, and a step moveable from a stowed position where the step is held within a chamber of the tailgate to a step position where the step provides a step surface to a vehicle cargo bed. A method includes, among other things, moving a step from a stowed position where the step is held within a chamber of a tailgate to a step position where the step provides a step surface to a vehicle cargo bed.

Abstract: A deployable stool system for slidably attaching a step to a cart includes a cart that may be rolled along a support surface. A step unit is coupled to the cart and the step unit is selectively positioned in a deployed position. Thus, the step unit may support a user thereby increasing the user's reach. The step unit is selectively positioned in a stored position.

Abstract: An extendable/retractable step assembly mounted at the rear assembly of a flatbed trailer to permit access to and from the ground to the flatbed trailer. The extendable/retractable stair assembly includes a pair of steps that are staggered and can be extended out of the rear assembly during use and then retracted therein when not in use. The steps can be manually extended/retracted or they can be automatically controlled. A safety interlock is also disclosed to automatically retract the steps when the trailer emergency brakes are released.

Abstract: A vehicle, a running board assembly, and a drive assembly for a running board are disclosed. The drive assembly includes: a mounting base, a first connecting portion, a second connecting portion, and a running board holder. The first connecting portion is rotatably connected with the mounting base and the running board holder. The second connecting portion is rotatably connected with the mounting base and the running board holder. The running board holder includes a third main body and a third hinged portion. The first connecting portion includes a first main body and a plurality of first hinged portions, and the third hinged portion is rotatably connected among the plurality of first hinged portions; and/or the second connecting portion includes a second main body and a plurality of second hinged portions, the third hinged portion being rotatably connected among the plurality of second hinged portions.

Abstract: A retractable step stool assembly for assisting a person in elevating him or herself above a floor includes a base member, a step stool member which in an upright position has a generally horizontal platform surface and two side members which depend downwardly from opposite ends of the platform surface, and an arm assembly which is configured to pivotally connect the step stool member to the base member for movement of the step stool member between a stored position in which the step stool member is positioned over the base member to a deployed position in which the step stool member is positioned on the floor in front of the base member. The arm assembly is configured such that the platform surface remains generally horizontal during movement of the step stool member between the stored position and the deployed position.

Abstract: A manual and submersible auxiliary swim platform for a vessel having a main aft platform, the main aft platform having a recessed area for receiving the auxiliary swim platform. A pair of bracket assemblies secure the auxiliary platform to the main aft platform, and both bracket assemblies have a first bracket member, a second bracket member, and a bushing. The bushing is interposed and secured to the first and second bracket members at a common end. The bracket members and bushing have limiter surfaces which limit rotational and pivotal movement of the bracket assemblies in conjunction with external edges, a pin and interface designs of the bracket assemblies.

Abstract: A vehicle, a running board assembly, and a drive assembly for a running board are disclosed. The drive assembly includes: a mounting base, a first connecting portion, a second connecting portion, and a running board holder. The first connecting portion is rotatably connected with the mounting base and the running board holder. The second connecting portion is rotatably connected with the mounting base and the running board holder. The running board holder includes a third main body and a third hinged portion. The first connecting portion includes a first main body and a plurality of first hinged portions, and the third hinged portion is rotatably connected among the plurality of first hinged portions; and/or the second connecting portion includes a second main body and a plurality of second hinged portions, the third hinged portion being rotatably connected among the plurality of second hinged portions.

Abstract: An assembly for mounting or dismounting a vehicle comprising a step that is structured to slide on an axis longitudinally along the vehicle on a rail. The step has a pivot assembly enabling rotation from a stowed position to open position and back. The slidable step can be stowed in place by engaging a latch mounted to the vehicle. A handrail assembly can be inserted into a handrail-receiving member to facilitate grasping a handrail upon mounting or dismounting the vehicle.

Abstract: A dent shield for a vehicle door includes a running board having a first position for stepping into the vehicle door. The running board conceals or at least partially overlies a lifter including a linkage in the lowered position. The lifter includes an actuator for actuating the linkage to move the running board to a second position (which may be a tilted position) for at least partially shielding the vehicle door from dents or dings.

Abstract: A side step apparatus for a vehicle including a side step, a bracket having a base plate and a panel plate, and an actuation mechanism including a first link, a second link and an actuator connected between the base plate of the bracket and the side step to move the side step in at least one of a running board position, an aerodynamic position, and a stowed position based on a speed of the vehicle.

Abstract: A manual and submersible auxiliary swim platform for a vessel having a main aft platform, the main aft platform having a recessed area for receiving the auxiliary swim platform. A pair of bracket assemblies secure the auxiliary platform to the main aft platform, and both bracket assemblies have a first bracket member, a second bracket member, and a detent bushing. The detent bushing is interposed and secured to the first and second bracket members at a common end. The detent bushing limits rotational and pivotal movement of the bracket assemblies in conjunction with a contact tab, pin and channel design of the bracket assemblies.

Abstract: A work vehicle includes a vehicle body, a vehicle cover, at least one user support member and a deployment structure. The body supports at least one serviceable component. The cover is movably mounted to the body to move between a closed position and an open position. The vehicle cover at least partially covers the serviceable component(s) in the closed position, and the cover permits access to the serviceable component(s) in the open position. The user support member(s) is movably mounted to the body to move between a stowed position and a deployed position. The deployment structure is operatively coupled to the user support member(s) to move the user support member(s) from the stowed position to the deployed position in response to movement of the cover from the closed position to the open position.

Abstract: A personnel platform for installation on a cargo truck comprises a mounting bracket securely fastened to a framing structure of the cargo truck beneath a personnel door, a platform deck mounted to a sliding mechanism securely fastened to the mounting bracket, wherein the platform deck is operable to be slidably configured in a stowed position beneath the cargo truck and a deployed position extending substantially horizontally beyond the cargo truck, and a latching mechanism operable to lock the platform deck in one of the stowed position and the deployed position. The platform further includes a guardrail accessory that may be stowed under the platform deck as well as a multi-step stair accessory that may be stowed under the platform deck.

Abstract: A motor vehicle (1) has a body (4) and a sill (3) arranged between the wheel houses (5) on a longitudinal side of the vehicle. The sill (3) has a sill element (6) that is adjustable in the lateral direction between a first end position and a second end position. At least one protruding air guiding element (7,8) is arranged on the sill element (6).

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for maneuvering, on the ground, a door of an aircraft landing gear, the door being linked with door maneuvering means and uplock means for locking the door when it reaches the closed position, at least one unlocking electromechanical actuator arranged to act upon the uplock means with a view to deactivating them during opening of the door in flight. According to the invention, the device comprises control means 17 which can be operated by an operator on the ground in order to control at least: an opening sequence during which the unlocking electromechanical actuator is actuated in order to deactivate the uplock means, a closing sequence during which the maneuvering means are actuated in order to close the door again.

Abstract: A running board assembly may include a motor which supplies power, a transmission which transmits the motor's power, a rack gear which is disposed lengthily in a transverse direction of a vehicle body such that one side thereof is connected to a body of a running board, and a motion control unit which transmits the power from the transmission to the rack gear such that a motion of the rack gear is controlled to allow a sliding motion and a pivot motion of the rack gear.

Abstract: An autorack railroad car has a housing surmounting an underframe. The underframe defines a first or main deck. The housing, or “rack” defines at least one additional deck spaced upwardly from the main deck. The housing has end doors. The end doors may be folding end doors, such as a tri-fold hinged door. When closed, the door may be secured by latches at top and bottom. The car may have a movable sill-step, or foot-hold that is movable between a deployed or extended position, and a stowed or retracted position. The movable step may be mounted to a panel of the door. The movable step may be biased away from any position between the stowed and retracted positions. The movable step may be free of springs that may break, and free of pins or other items requiring careful removal and replacement. The movable parts of the step assembly may be captured by the stationary parts to prevent them from coming loose or falling off.

Abstract: A step apparatus for heavy construction equipment and tree harvester having a leveling system for controlling a horizontal level of a cab and an upper frame is provided, which includes a step protector including a main body fixedly installed on one side of an upper frame, a step guide hole opened from an inside of the main body to an outside, a guide rail formed along a length direction of an inner side wall of the main body, and an insert hole formed on one side of the guide rail and open toward a vertically upward direction of the guide rail; a side step including a plurality of foot steps arranged at specified intervals on a step frame to form stairs, a step drawer formed on an upper part of the step frame and seated in the step guide hole, and a guide pin positioned adjacent to the step drawer and projected toward the side wall of the main body, wherein when the guide pin is slid along the guide rail, the step frame is seated in the main body or is drawn out from the inside of the main body; and a folding

Abstract: An extending and retracting device for a vehicle-step apparatus includes a mounting bracket and step bracket. A first arm defines a first end pivotally connected to the mounting bracket and a second end pivotally connected to the step bracket. A second arm defines a first end pivotally connected to the mounting bracket and a second end. A third arm defines a first end pivotally connected to the second end of the second arm and a second end pivotally connected to the step bracket. A trajectory-control assembly is configured to connect the first arm to the second arm and/or third arm to control a “motion” trajectory of the step bracket. A vehicle-step apparatus includes a step member, the extending and retracting device, and a driving device driving the first arm and/or second arm to move the extending and retracting device between an extended position and a retracted position.

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.

Abstract: According to the present invention, there is provided a retractable staircase for a recreational vehicle. The retractable staircase has a translational section, which includes at least one-step. The translational section moves between an extended and a retracted position relative to the recreational vehicle. In the extended position, a rotational section, which also includes at least one step, moves between a lowered position with the step below the step of the translational section and an upside down and inverted position above the step of the translational section to provide for movement of the translational section to the retracted position.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved collapsible step assembly for recreational vehicles. The movable step apparatus comprises a mounting frame, at least one step mounted to the frame through a linkage assembly, and a pivot assembly having a pivot rod with a longitudinal axis of rotation. In use, the pivot rod is rotatably mounted to the frame and rotates the linkage assembly and the steps between an extended position and a retracted position. Rotating the pivot rod in a first direction moves the step to the extended position, and rotating the pivot rod in the opposite direction moves the step to the retracted position. A two-part linkage is rotatably engaged between the pivot rod and the step linkage and transfers downward forces on the step when retracted and when extended to the drive unit so that the step stays in its position.

Abstract: To provide a marine safety ladder that makes rescue possible within a short time, without posing any risk of contact with a pleasure boat or the like, without causing any additional concern in the operation of boats during docking and departure, without the risk of injury to a person who has fallen, etc., and without the risk of falling when the ladder is being stowed.

Abstract: A novel rear deck service ladder and handle assembly for combine harvesters is disclosed having integral latching and height adjustment features.

Abstract: According to an exemplary embodiment, and apparatus includes: a non-collapsible single unit stair including: a pair of opposing side rails supporting at least a top step and a bottom step; and a rotator unit including a lower portion secured to a substantially horizontal surface, and an upper portion mounting the non-collapsible single unit stair, wherein the lower portion and the upper portion are rotatable with respect to one another about an axis oriented substantially perpendicular to the substantially horizontal surface.

Abstract: A step device for accessing a truck bed according to the present invention includes a telescopic boom assembly that is movable between retracted and extended configurations. A first end of the boom assembly may be coupled to the frame of a truck. The step device may be hidden from view beneath the truck bed at the retracted configuration. The step device also includes a plurality of steps movable between collapsed and deployed configurations. A linkage couples at least one of the steps with the boom assembly such that the steps are moved between collapsed and deployed configurations as the boom assembly is moved between retracted and extended configurations, respectively. A latch selectively holds the boom assembly at the extended configuration and, when released, a tension member biases the boom member to move to the retracted configuration.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved collapsible step assembly for recreational vehicles. The movable step apparatus comprises a mounting frame, at least one step mounted to the frame through a linkage assembly, and a pivot assembly having a pivot rod with a longitudinal axis of rotation. In use, the pivot rod is rotatably mounted to the frame and rotates the linkage assembly and the steps between an extended position and a retracted position. Rotating the pivot rod in a first direction moves the step to the extended position, and rotating the pivot rod in the opposite direction moves the step to the retracted position. A two-part linkage is rotatably engaged between the pivot rod and the step linkage and transfers downward forces on the step when retracted and when extended to the drive unit so that the step stays in its position.

Abstract: A staircase system (2) includes a rail element (40) and multiple stair elements (42). Baluster elements (44) are coupled to the rail element (40) and to the stair elements (42). A center support system (46) is coupled to and supports the rail element (40) and the stair elements (42). The center support system (46) has a stowed state and a deployed state.

Abstract: A retractable running board assembly is mounted to the frame of a vehicle. The running board is selectively extendable between a retracted position, which is close to the vehicle's frame, and a lower, laterally-outward extended position that facilitates easy entrance into and exit from the vehicle. A plurality of longitudinally spaced, selectively-actuated links connect the running board to the frame. A selectively-operable driving mechanism concertedly actuates each of the links to extend and retract the running board. When the driving mechanism is not operated, each link resists actuation and holds the running board in a fixed position relative to the frame.

Abstract: Folding step for a camper (1) or the like, characterized in that it comprises at least two treadboards (3,5), namely a first treadboard (3) and a second treadboard (5) and possibly following treadboards, whereby the first treadboard (3) can be provided in a moving manner on the suspension frame (8) of the camper (1) or the like, and whereby the second treadboard (5) is provided in a moving manner on the first treadboard (3), whereas any following treadboards are provided in a moving manner on one or several of the preceding treadboards, such that the step (2) can be folded at least partly and can be moved in or under the framework (4) of the camper (1) or the like.

Abstract: A telescopic ladder apparatus can be deployed from a closed receptacle on the stern portion of a boat. The ladder is formed with telescopic side rails supporting transverse treads that can collapse into a stored position in which the treads are placed adjacent one another. The side rails are mounted to a slide mechanism that is mounted in the receptacle for sliding movement relative to the boat. The slide mechanism supports the side rails for a linear sliding movement to permit the deployment of the ladder externally of the receptacle to be telescopically extended toward the water. The side rails are pivotable downwardly to position the ladder into a generally vertical deployed position from the generally horizontal stored position. The receptacle housing the telescopic ladder and slide mechanism is opened for access to the ladder through a generally vertically oriented door that provides a clean aesthetic appearance for the boat.

Abstract: A retractable step assist for a vehicle comprises a step, an actuator, an optical fiber sensor, and a safety. The step is movable between a retracted position and a deployed position that is downward and outboard from the retracted position. The actuator is mechanically connected to the step to position the step. The optical fiber sensor has an output that varies when pressure is applied to the optical fiber sensor. The safety is triggered by this output from the optical fiber sensor. The safety is configured to terminate retraction of the step when the optical fiber sensor senses pressure from an object pinched by the step deck.

Abstract: An overhead area access staircase stowage system (7) includes a servicing unit (10) having a stowage unit and a staircase (12) proximate to the stowage unit. The staircase (12) has a stowed state (18) and a deployed state (20). The staircase (12) includes multiple stair elements (40) and a state actuating system (60). The state actuating system (60) transitions the stair elements (40) between the stowed state (18) and the deployed state (20).

Abstract: A retractable step for use with a vehicle comprises a stepping member having a stepping deck, a first arm, a second arm, a motor and a stop. The first arm has a first end pivotally attached to the vehicle, and a second end pivotally attached to the stepping member. The second arm also has a first end pivotally attached to the vehicle, and a second end pivotally attached to the stepping member. The motor is drivingly connected to the first arm such that a rotation of the motor causes rotation of the first arm about its first end and moves the stepping member from a retracted position to an extended position, or vice versa. The stop is located within the range of motion of the second arm such that the second arm bears against the stop when the stepping member is in the extended position. The first and second arms are situated such that the first arm is loaded in compression and the second arm is loaded in tension when the stepping member is in the extended position and a load is placed upon it.

Abstract: A truck ladder assembly for attachment to the underside of a truck trailer bed having a deployable ladder portion slidable from a folded storage position to an extended operational position in which the ladder portion defines a landing in spaced extended relation from the truck bed with extensible hand rails extending there from. The truck ladder is selectively secured to the underside of the trailer bed allowing for multiple repositioning and deployment of the ladder assembly.

Abstract: This device will allow the user access to a platform and also use the device as an additional step. It will be easy to move and easy to stow. Unlike a footstool it can be easily stowed under cabinets or chairs. A hole in the center section, which is the step, allows the user to easily move it from location to location. Hinges on the sides of the steps allow the step to be raised and lowered at will and a stop mechanism is provided to allow the step to be raised and stay in position.

Abstract: A retractable step for use with a vehicle comprises a stepping member having a stepping deck, a first arm, a second arm, a motor and a stop. The first arm has a first end pivotally attached to the vehicle, and a second end pivotally attached to the stepping member. The second arm also has a first end pivotally attached to the vehicle, and a second end pivotally attached to the stepping member. The motor is drivingly connected to the first arm such that a rotation of the motor causes rotation of the first arm about its first end and moves the stepping member from a retracted position to an extended position, or vice versa. The stop is located within the range of motion of the second arm such that the second arm bears against the stop when the stepping member is in the extended position. The first and second arms are situated such that the first arm is loaded in compression and the second arm is loaded in tension when the stepping member is in the extended position and a load is placed upon it.

Abstract: A ladder system through which a ladder is retained on a deck of a watercraft by a track arrangement and positioned at a first location in an opening for an enclosure where the ladder is substantially vertical to the side of the watercraft to permit ingress/egress of a person between a body of water and the deck. The ladder is connected to a rail of the track arrangement by a first and second hinges that permits the ladder to be rotated from the vertical position along the side of the watercraft to a position inside of the enclosure. The ladder may thereafter be moved from the opening to a location adjacent the gate and behind the enclosure to conceal and stow the ladder such that the exterior surface of the watercraft along the enclosure is substantially uniform from stem to stern.

Abstract: A retractable step for use with a vehicle comprises a stepping member having a stepping deck, a first arm, a second arm, a motor and a stop. The first arm has a first end pivotally attached to the vehicle, and a second end pivotally attached to the stepping member. The second arm also has a first end pivotally attached to the vehicle, and a second end pivotally attached to the stepping member. The motor is drivingly connected to the first arm such that a rotation of the motor causes rotation of the first arm about its first end and moves the stepping member from a retracted position to an extended position, or vice versa. The stop is located within the range of motion of the second arm such that the second arm bears against the stop when the stepping member is in the extended position. The first and second arms are situated such that the first arm is loaded in compression and the second arm is loaded in tension when the stepping member is in the extended position and a load is placed upon it.

Abstract: A retractable step for use with a vehicle comprises a stepping member having a stepping deck, a first arm, a second arm, a motor and a stop. The first arm has a first end pivotally attached to the vehicle, and a second end pivotally attached to the stepping member. The second arm also has a first end pivotally attached to the vehicle, and a second end pivotally attached to the stepping member. The motor is drivingly connected to the first arm such that a rotation of the motor causes rotation of the first arm about its first end and moves the stepping member from a retracted position to an extended position, or vice versa. The stop is located within the range of motion of the second arm such that the second arm bears against the stop when the stepping member is in the extended position. The first and second arms are situated such that the first arm is loaded in compression and the second arm is loaded in tension when the stepping member is in the extended position and a load is placed upon it.

Abstract: A retractable step for use with a vehicle comprises a stepping member having a stepping deck, a first arm, a second arm, a motor and a stop. The first arm has a first end pivotally attached to the vehicle, and a second end pivotally attached to the stepping member. The second arm also has a first end pivotally attached to the vehicle, and a second end pivotally attached to the stepping member. The motor is drivingly connected to the first arm such that a rotation of the motor causes rotation of the first arm about its first end and moves the stepping member from a retracted position to an extended position, or vice versa. The stop is located within the range of motion of the second arm such that the second arm bears against the stop when the stepping member is in the extended position. The first and second arms are situated such that the first arm is loaded in compression and the second arm is loaded in tension when the stepping member is in the extended position and a load is placed upon it.

Abstract: An extensible and retractable step assembly is provided that has a base and a first step. The step is attached to one end of the base and rotates up on the base. The step has first and second stepping surfaces for reaching different heights. The step assembly may be inserted before or after the cabinet is installed.

Abstract: A retractable step for use with a vehicle comprises a stepping member having a stepping deck, a first arm, a second arm, a motor and a stop. The first arm has a first end pivotally attached to the vehicle, and a second end pivotally attached to the stepping member. The second arm also has a first end pivotally attached to the vehicle, and a second end pivotally attached to the stepping member. The motor is drivingly connected to the first arm such that a rotation of the motor causes rotation of the first arm about its first end and moves the stepping member from a retracted position to an extended position, or vice versa. The stop is located within the range of motion of the second arm such that the second arm bears against the stop when the stepping member is in the extended position. The first and second arms are situated such that the first arm is loaded in compression and the second arm is loaded in tension when the stepping member is in the extended position and a load is placed upon it.

Abstract: An step assembly (10) is described having a step (12) that moves between down and up positions by pivoting about a longitudinal axis connected to a vehicle chassis (24). One or more link assemblies (22) move the step between these positions. A support bracket (20) connects to the chassis and pivotally supports the step. The link assembly includes a first link (32) having one end fixedly attached to a drive shaft (14) in a radial manner and another end rotatably connected to a second link (34). The connection between the first and second links is located outward of the pivotal connection between the step and the support bracket. In one embodiment, in the up position, the point of rotation between the first and second links is located outward of the drive shaft axis of rotation. A stop is available to limit further rotational travel by the first link.

Abstract: An articulating step assembly comprising: a side member which includes a guide slot having a first end and a second end; a drop linkage, wherein a portion of the drop linkage is slidably positioned within the guide slot; a pivot linkage, wherein the pivot linkage includes a first end and a second end, and wherein the first end of the pivot linkage is pivotally coupled to the side member and the second end of the pivot linkage is pivotally coupled to the drop linkage; and a step associated with the drop linkage, whereupon articulation of the step from a retracted position to an extended position slidably displaces the portion of the drop linkage positioned within the guide slot from the first end toward the second end thereof and pivots the pivot linkage relative to each of the side member and the drop linkage.