Abstract: An electric slide step for a recreational vehicle assists users in entering and existing the vehicle. A step housing is mounted to the vehicle beneath the exterior door. The housing has steps that are movable on inclined slides between a retracted position when not in use and an extended position for assisting uses while entering and exiting the vehicle through the exterior door.

Abstract: The invention provides a running board bracket which includes an elongate arm formation which has a first end section which extends vertically and which is movingly engagable with a motor vehicle, an opposing second end section which extends horizontally and which is engagable with a running board and an angled formation between the first and second sections which has an attachment which is engagable with the motor vehicle. Also provided is a method for attaching a running board to a motor vehicle by way of a running board bracket of the aforementioned kind which includes the steps of movingly engaging the first section with the motor vehicle, movingly engaging the attachment with the motor vehicle, and engaging the running board with the second section.

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 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 at least one step 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. The linkage assembly includes a link which is movable in the direction of the link toward extension of the step to contact a stop of the frame that reacts against a gravitational load acting on the step.

Abstract: A truckbed access apparatus consisting of a first hollow support component, a second hollow support component affixable over and about the first support component with a step plate affixed thereto, a first holding pin for holding the first support component to a truck reese hitch unit, a second holding pin for holding the second hollow support component to the first one, a vertically inclined support rod affixed through a hole in the step plate to one side thereof and also to the second hollow support component and with a brace component held to the support rod and also to a threaded hook unit in turn hooked into a hole found in a truck reese hitch unit.

Abstract: A rail vehicle step mounts to the sill step of a rail vehicle. The rail vehicle step comprises a support sized to support a rail worker. A coupling is supported in relation to an end of the support. The coupling is sized and configured to hold the support in fixed relation to the sill step. The support is sized to extend outward beyond the rail vehicle and support a rail worker.

Abstract: The present invention provides a vehicle step device, capable of enhancing operability of a step having an elevating function to enhance ingress/egress ease into and from the vehicle. The step device includes an opening/closing mechanism that operates in synchronization with opening and closing operations of a slide door, and a step moving mechanism that transmits power of the opening and closing operations of the slide door through the opening/closing mechanism to a movable step, thereby moving the movable step. The step moving mechanism includes a slide lever for moving the movable rails forward and backward, X arms each having first and second arms and provided between each movable rail and the movable step, and a vertically moving lever that moves the first end of the first arm with respect to the movable rails to vertically move the movable step.

Abstract: A railcar step mounts to the stirrup of a rail vehicle. The railcar step comprises a support sized to support a rail worker. A coupling is supported in relation to an end of the support. The coupling is sized and configured to hold the support in fixed relation to the stirrup. The support is sized to extend outward beyond the rail vehicle and support a rail worker.

Abstract: A retractable peg system for a motorcycle including a bracket operatively attachable the motorcycle and a peg rotatably coupled to the bracket and rotatable between a retracted safe storage orientation and an extended use orientation. In the extended orientation, the peg is disposed such that a rider may rest a foot on the peg while seated. The retractable peg system further includes a biasing member to substantially maintain the orientation of the peg in its presently retracted or extended orientation absent application of an external force acting on the peg. The components of the retractable peg system may be configured to provide a visually integrated appearance in relation to the motorcycle.

Abstract: An articulated step system for an automotive vehicle includes a step housing attached to the vehicle frame by means of at least one standoff bracket and a tension strut extending generally downwardly from a first end attached to a vehicle body to a second end attached to the step housing. The articulated step has a stowed position generally underlying the body, and a deployed position extending generally outwardly from the body. Movement of the step may be either translational or rotational with respect to the step housing. In one embodiment, the step extends for the full length of the cab of the vehicle, and partially under a load carrying body at the rear of the vehicle.

Abstract: A universal fender step for a boat trailer and the like includes a channel of trapezoidal-shaped cross-section. Longitudinally extending gutters at each of the four corners of the trapezoid shape extend the length of the channel. A slip resistant surface is provided on the top face. The channel is formed as a long beam and then cut to a length needed for a particular step. An end plate is attached to an open end of the channel with four push-pins, screws or other type fasteners which each engage a respective end of one of the gutters. A pair of mounting holes is each positioned in each side wall juxtaposed from each other. These mounting holes accommodate bolts for attaching a side wall to a trailer fender. An elongate hole in the channel's top face permits the positioning of a further mounting bolt with a trailer side rail. A lamp may be mounted to one side wall with the wiring harness extending in a longitudinal gutter and held therein by clips.

Abstract: A side foot board for a vehicle includes a plastic foot board formed thereon with a holding surface provided with at least one stepping member with plural grooves, and the plastic foot board has its underside disposed with a recessed surface. A decorative board mounted on the holding surface of the plastic foot board is provided with a stepping member at a location matching with the stepping member of the plastic foot board, the stepping member has plural grooves, and the decorative board further has its underside formed with projections at locations corresponding with the grooves of the stepping member of its own and fitting with the grooves of the stepping member of the plastic foot board. A rubber anti-skid board is fixed on the stepping member of the decorative board, and a support frame is secured on the recessed surface at the underside of the plastic foot board.

Abstract: A foot rest and foot holding apparatus is disclosed that protects a users foot from ground obstructions. The foot holding apparatus has multiple friction points to reduce movement of a foot in the apparatus. The structure includes serrated inserts that grip the bottom of a shoe to maintain the foot in position. The inserts are replaceable or changeable to accommodate foot placement preference. The foot peg inserts have a serrated top structure for gripping the underside of a shoe and have an inner and an outer component that can be used individually or in combination. The nerf structure is a combination fabric and welded metal brush guard where the foot pegs are mounted.

Abstract: The present invention is a configurable trailer hitch that provides an extended towing position for transferring a tractor force to a load, and a retracted storage position for safely stowing the hitch under a towing vehicle. The trailer hitch has a spring loaded retaining pin which engages a hitch receiver when the trailer hitch is placed in the towing position, and a storage latch adapted to hold the hitch receiver when the trailer hitch is placed in the storage position.

Abstract: A truck cab has a side door (14) via which a person enters and exits the cab by ascending and descending steps (22, 24, 26; 40, 42, 44) on a side of the truck. At least one of the steps is selectively positionable to a deployed position for use by a person ascending or descending the steps and to a non-deployed position when the truck is to be driven. The deployed position is relatively more outboard on the side of the truck than the non-deployed position.

Abstract: A vehicle includes a plurality of doors on one side of the vehicle, a running board system, an actuator, and a control module. The running board system is configured for enabling access to the vehicle and includes a first running board and a second running board. The first running board is configured for enabling access to the vehicle via a front door on the side of the vehicle and the second running board is configured for enabling access to the vehicle via a rear door on the side of the vehicle. Each of the first running board and the second running board is individually deployable upon opening of the front door or the rear door.

Abstract: A vehicle step assembly uses hinged pedestals, attitude links and an energy storage device to position step stringers and an attached step beam in a generally horizontal and elevated deployed position, while permitting a space-saving tucked-in stowed position.

Abstract: A retractable vehicle step is attachable to a rear portion of a vehicle or truck. 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.

Abstract: A vehicle step assembly uses hinged pedestals and attitude links to position step stringers and an attached step beam in a generally horizontal and elevated deployed position, while permitting a space-saving tucked-in stowed position.

Abstract: A step assembly for a vehicle comprising an elongated main body having a substantially straight portion and two end portions; a generally U-shaped step bar having a substantially straight portion parallel to the main body and two bent portions, the bent portions welded to the main body and a step surface having a plurality of apertures that is affixed to the step bar to provide traction to the user. The main body is preferably welded to at least one support bracket. The installation of the step assembly is a two step process that comprises engagably attaching at least one mounting bracket to a vehicle and then engagably attaching the support bracket, which is preferably welded to the main body, to the mounting bracket.

Abstract: A vehicle operation assembly comprising: stairs including a step; and a vehicle operation system positioned behind the stairs such that the step of the stairs is exposed for use in front of the vehicle operation system, the stairs being adapted to permit access to the vehicle operation system. The vehicle operation system may include a sleeper cab heater, a hydraulic system, a diesel generator, or a fuel supplement system such as a hydrogen generating system.

Abstract: An apparatus for assisting entry into high road clearance vehicles having a generally cylindrical side bar adapted for attachment to a vehicle chassis, one or more U-shaped cylindrical bars attached to and suspended from said bar comprised of two end portions and a center bar. The U-shaped bars may be of tubular construction and have a flat surface and are preferably angled from the side bar at an angle of approximately 45 degrees and each U-shaped bar has end portions that meet the center bar at an angle of approximately 0 to 45 degrees. The side bar may be attached to any of a variety of chassis designs and may have a plurality of steps at the doors and at or near the back of the vehicle.

Abstract: An extending and retracting device for a vehicle step includes a mounting bracket adapted to be fixed to a body of a vehicle and a step bracket. An arc sliding member is fixed to the step bracket. A driving arm defines a pair of ends thereof pivotally connected to the mounting bracket and step bracket, respectively. A supporting arm defines an upper end portion thereof pivotally connected to the mounting bracket and a lower end portion of the supporting arm defining at least one arc slot of the lower end portion. The arc sliding member is adapted to fit into the arc slot so as to be slidable in the arc slot such that the lower end portion of the supporting arm is slidably connected to the step bracket.

Abstract: A vehicle is provided having a cargo area, a passenger compartment, and a detachable dual-use platform which is connectable to the cargo area to form a ramp, and to the underside of the vehicle to form a running board. The platform is supported by brackets at either end when used as a running board, and includes an internal locking mechanism. A platform apparatus is also provided for accessing the vehicle, including a first locator portion that is adjacent to the cargo area, and a dual-use platform portion having a step surface on one side and a second locator portion on an opposite side. The locator portions are mutually engageable to secure the platform to the cargo area. A method is also provided for accessing the vehicle, including configuring a platform for alternate attachment adjacently to the passenger compartment as a running board and adjacently to the cargo area as a ramp.

Abstract: An adjustable step arrangement for a vehicle to assist a user to get into and out of the vehicle. The arrangement includes a U-shaped, tube member supported on a guide system. The tube member has two leg portions with a step section extending between them. The leg portions of the tube members have slots in their undersides that slidably receive vertical guide plates attached to the vehicle. The plates have guide channels in them and the leg portions of the tube member are secured to the guide plates by bolts passing through the channels wherein the adjustable step arrangement can be selectively moved either manually or by a powered assembly between its raised and lowered positions. The step arrangement is accessible to the user for assistance getting into and out of the vehicle in both its raised and lowered positions.

Abstract: A retractable step assembly (400) for a cab (C) for a mobile machine includes a leg (450) slideably received in a through-hole (408) in a platform (58) of a cab (C). An upper end (452) of the leg (450) is fixed to a lower end (434) of a stretchable spring (430) whose upper end (432) is fixed. A step (470) is mounted to the lower end (454) of the leg (450). The leg (450) is movable between a retracted position and an extended position in which the step (470) is nearer to the ground than in the retracted position. The step (470) can be stepped on by an operator to move the leg (450) to the extended position to thereby allow the operator to exit the cab (C) by stepping on the step (470). The leg (450) can be unlatched by the operator in the cab (C) to return to the retracted position under action of the spring (430).

Abstract: A folding ladder is provided for a pickup truck tailgate to assist a person getting into and out of the bed of the truck. The ladder includes a frame hooked to the tailgate, an upper ladder section pivotally connected to the frame, and a lower ladder section pivotally connected to the upper ladder section. The ladder is foldable between a storage position adjacent the tailgate and a use position extending downwardly from the tailgate. The ladder sections reside in a single plane when opened to the use position and nest adjacent the tailgate when in the folded storage 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: A bracket assembly including a plurality of components attached along a hem line, a plurality of attachment points along the hem line, a first bracket, and a second bracket. The first bracket connects to the plurality of components at at least one of the plurality of attachment points, and supports a longitudinal load applied to at least one of the plurality of components. The second bracket connects to the plurality of components, and supports a lateral load applied to at least one of the plurality of components.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system for loading and unloading a watercraft from a trailer that enables the process to be accomplished without the need to stand on the submerged ground surface. In some embodiments the trailer includes an adjustable platform that provides an area upon which the operator can stand while loading and unloading the watercraft from the trailer. The present disclosure also provides a method of loading and unloading a boat that includes the step of pushing or pulling the boat while standing on a platform that extends from the trailer.

Abstract: A hinge assembly is provided for moving a step on a motor vehicle between a stowed position and a deployed position. A rail bracket is fixedly secured to the vehicle and includes inner and outer bushings insert molded therein. A step bracket includes inner and outer bushings insert molded therein. The step is fixedly secured to the step bracket. An inner arm includes upper and lower pivot shafts insert molded therein. The upper and lower pivot shafts protrude from the inner arm and are pivotally disposed in the inner bushings of the rail and step brackets, respectively. An outer arm includes upper and lower pivot shafts insert molded therein. The upper and lower pivot shafts protrude from the outer arm and are pivotally disposed in the outer bushings of the rail and step brackets, respectively.

Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention relates to a staircase device adapted to fit a bed of a truck, or other similar vehicle. The staircase provides a mechanism for facilitating the loading and unloading of items onto and off a bed of a truck. An embodiment of the present invention is directed to a vehicle staircase device comprising a first lower platform having a first length and a first width, the first lower platform having a hitch connector adapted to connect to a vehicle; a second platform having a second length and a second width, wherein the first lower platform and the second platform are substantially parallel; and a staircase structure connecting the first lower platform and the second platform.

Abstract: A boat trailer system includes a step that is cantilevered from a rearwardly-extending truss of the trailer's framework.

Abstract: In an indoor structure of a vehicle including a door (12) provided in a door opening (20) at the side of a vehicle and a step (5) for passenger ingress and egress provided on the indoor side of the door opening, the step being located at a lower position than a floor (4) of the vehicle compartment, an expanded floor portion (6) substantially level with the floor (4) is provided on the vehicle rear side of the step (5). Also, a rear leg (24) of a foldable seat (2) is extended outward in the vehicle width direction in the vehicle compartment, and is placed on the expanded floor portion (6).

Abstract: A vehicle with a running board (1), wherein the running board has a carrier (2) which comprises an anti-slip material at least on its surface and on which a luminous means (7) is arranged, which is connected to a voltage transformer (11) in a way it is switchably connected to a vehicle electric system (14). The carrier (2) has one or more recesses (6) in which the luminous means and a cover (3) are arranged so that an illuminable field is ci-eated. The luminous means is preferably a luminous foil or a liquid crystal luminous means.

Abstract: An auxiliary step and hand hold system for accessing a vehicle. The system includes at least one auxiliary step, at least one hand hold shaped to assist a climb into the trailer, and at least one pocket shaped to removably receive the at least one hand hold. The auxiliary step may be a rotating-retractable step that rotates between a use position and a stowed position. The hand hold is shaped to assist a climb into the cargo bay and may be inserted into the pockets in a use position and a stowed position. One or more stationary steps can also be used in connection with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The hand holds, pockets and auxiliary steps may be used alone or in combination to assist with access to a vehicle.

Abstract: A cab for a tractor vehicle is provided with side spoilers that form extensions of the side walls of the cab in a backward direction and that can pivot between a backward-directed position and a sideways-directed position in order to give access to the chassis space behind the cab. A step arrangement is mounted on the inside of one side spoiler in such a way that it can be moved between a raised position, in which it is concealed behind the side spoiler, when this is in its backward-directed position, and a lowered position, in which it has a part with steps located below the lower edge of the side spoiler.

Abstract: A utility ramp having a latching feature to attach the utility ramp to steps mounted on the side of a vehicle. The latching feature provides a means for securing the utility ramp to the steps and allows the utility ramp to be used as a vehicle running board. Further, the utility ramp may include one or more jointed segments to allow the utility ramp to approximate a curved ramp.

Abstract: A retractable vehicle step is attachable to a vehicle or truck. The vehicle step facilitates access to a cargo hold of the vehicle. Advantageously, the vehicle step may be pulled out from under the vehicle by the foot of a user. The vehicle step desirably has a covered and protected biasing mechanism for transitioning between retracted and extended positions of the stepping member.

Abstract: A running board assembly is provided for a motor vehicle. The running board assembly includes a mounting bracket adapted to be fixedly secured to the motor vehicle. The running board assembly also includes a step having a stepping surface. A link includes an upper end coupled to the mounting bracket and an opposing lower end coupled to the step. A light source is fixedly mounted to the link for illuminating the stepping surface to allow users to locate the step.

Abstract: A running board assembly for a three wheel motorcycle including independent first and second support frame members. Each of the support frame members further includes: i) a substantially U-shaped configuration having a rear lateral section, a longitudinal section, and a front lateral section; ii) a connector on the rear lateral section adapted for connection to a motorcycle frame; and iii) a connector on the front lateral section adapted for connection to a motorcycle engine block. A running board member is connected to each of the support frame members.

Abstract: A manually retractable side step assembly for a vehicle includes a rotatable step having a latch mechanism and a spring system that work in concert to rotate the step from a stowed position to a deployed position. In a stowed position, the step is in line with the running board of the vehicle. However, depressing a release button automatically rotates the step 180°, thus exposing an enlarged step area for providing ease of access to a roof rack on a minivan, SUV, or sport wagon, or if used with a pick-up truck, ease of access to a toolbox that is located in the rear of the truck.

Abstract: A running board assembly for a motor vehicle includes a mounting bracket adapted to be fixedly secured to the motor vehicle. The running board assembly includes first and second links each having an upper end pivotal relative to the mounting bracket and an opposing lower end. A deck is pivotally coupled to the lower end of the first and second links for movement between a stowed position and a deployed position. A motor assembly is coupled to the mounting bracket. And a crank drive is operably connected to the motor assembly for pivoting the first and second links to provide controlled movement of the deck between the stowed and deployed positions.

Abstract: A foot rest and foot holding apparatus is disclosed that protects a users foot from ground obstructions. The foot holding apparatus has multiple friction points to reduce movement of a foot in the apparatus. The structure includes serrated inserts that grip the bottom of a shoe to maintain the foot in position. The inserts are replaceable or changeable to accommodate foot placement preference. The foot peg inserts have a serrated top structure for gripping the underside of a shoe and have an inner and an outer component that can be used individually or in combination. The nerf structure is a combination fabric and welded metal brush guard where the foot pegs are mounted.

Abstract: A retractable step for use with a vehicle comprises a stepping member having a stepping deck, a first arm, and a second arm. 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.

Abstract: A retractable step for use with a vehicle comprises a stepping member having a stepping deck, a first arm, and a second arm. 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.

Abstract: A side step for a vehicle has a forward projection that extends into the front fender well of a vehicle and a rearward projection that extends into the rear fender well of the vehicle. Quick release bolt type connectors retain the forward projection in the front fender well and retain the rear projection in the rear fender well such that the side step can be removed from the vehicle for off road driving by unthreading the retaining bolts.

Abstract: A universal fender step for a boat trailer and the like includes a channel of trapezoidal-shaped cross-section. Longitudinally extending gutters at each of the four corners of the trapezoid shape extend the length of the channel. A slip resistant surface is provided on the top face. The channel is formed as a long beam and then cut to a length needed for a particular step. An end plate is attached to an open end of the channel with four push-pins, screws or other type fasteners which each engage a respective end of one of the gutters. A pair of mounting holes is each positioned in each side wall juxtaposed from each other. These mounting holes accommodate bolts for attaching a side wall to a trailer fender. An elongate hole in the channel's top face permits the positioning of a further mounting bolt with a trailer side rail. A lamp may be mounted to one side wall with the wiring harness extending in a longitudinal gutter and held therein by clips.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing an assembly, including a structural member and an appearance feature formed therealong, is provided utilizing first and second molds. The method includes the steps of: injecting magnesium into the first mold to form the structural member; removing the structural member from the first mold; placing the structural member in the second mold; and injecting thermoplastic material into the second mold to overmold the appearance feature along a portion of the structural member.

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 retractable step for entering and exiting rail vehicles. The retractable step has a surface which can be walked upon and is configured to be extended in an essentially linear direction to bridge a gap between the rail vehicle and a platform. The retractable step includes a leading edge and has at least one sensor configured to prevent a collision with objects during an extension operation of the retractable step. The strip is movably connected to the retractable step and extends over an entire length L of the retractable step.