Combined Devices Patents (Class 280/164.1)
  • Patent number: 11590897
    Abstract: A step apparatus for a vehicle and a vehicle are provided. The step apparatus for the vehicle includes a step; a lifting device connected to the step and configured to be unfolded and folded to adjust a height of the step; and a driver connected to the lifting device and configured to drive the lifting device to be unfolded and folded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2023
    Assignee: T-MAX (HANGZHOU) TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Zhaobo Qing, Huizhong Yang
  • Patent number: 11414016
    Abstract: A step assembly for a tailgate of a vehicle, which includes a retractable rail secured to a housing located within the tailgate. The retractable rail is configured to extend from the housing and the tailgate when in a deployed state, and be entirely received within the housing and the tailgate when in a non-deployed state. A sliding stop device is positioned within the housing and connected to an end of the retractable rail. The stop device includes a tubular member having an aperture formed therein, and a movable arm located in the tubular member that is biased to extend outward from the aperture such that as the retractable rail is moved to the deployed state, the aperture of the sliding stop device is aligned with the opening of the housing, and the movable arm is engaged with the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2022
    Assignee: FCA US LLC
    Inventor: Frederick F Bender
  • Patent number: 11352130
    Abstract: An aircraft landing gear assembly has a longitudinally elongated frame coupled to a lower portion of a fuselage of an aircraft, the frame being capable of supporting at least a portion of the weight of the aircraft. A fairing encloses substantially all of the frame. An optional integrated step can be carried by the frame, and a longitudinally elongated aperture would be formed in the fairing adjacent the step. The step allows a user to place a foot into the aperture and onto the step. An optional door can cover the aperture, and an optional secondary step can be carried by the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2022
    Assignee: Textron Innovations Inc.
    Inventors: Steven Loveland, Paul Charles Griffiths, Allen Brittain
  • Patent number: 11241953
    Abstract: A fuel system is provided that includes a fuel system frame and in some cases access steps. The frame can be mounted to a vehicle frame rail. Bracket assemblies can be coupled to the fuel system frame at a plurality of positions. The fuel tank can be mounted at neck portions thereof and can be supported on the frame rail between the neck portions, e.g., spaced a distance from the neck portions in a longitudinal direction of the fuel system. The access steps can be non-rectangular to provide a wide stepping portion even if the fuel system includes large tanks. The steps can be directly supported by an outside surface of the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2022
    Assignee: Agility Fuel Systems LLC
    Inventors: Momchil Yordanov, Chris Forsberg, Andrew Taylor Gordon, Adam Robertson
  • Patent number: 11135978
    Abstract: A running board for a vehicle is disclosed that includes: a body; a plurality of retainers that are connected to the body so as to collectively define a receiving space; and an insert that is configured for insertion into the receiving space. The body of the running board includes: a deck; an outer flange that extends downwardly from the deck; and an inner flange that extends downwardly from the deck in generally parallel relation to the outer flange. The outer flange includes at least one opening forming a decorative element, and the insert is configured for engagement with the plurality of retainers to thereby secure the insert in generally parallel relation to the outer flange adjacent to the decorative element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2021
    Assignee: Nissan North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Sam Kaddouh
  • Patent number: 10836335
    Abstract: A rear impact guard configured to be coupled to a rear end of a vehicle comprises a bumper support member, a support base, and a horizontal bumper. The bumper support member is configured to be coupled to the rear end of the vehicle. The support base is configured to be coupled to the rear end of the vehicle, configured to be positioned adjacent to a sidewall of the vehicle and below a floor assembly of the vehicle, and is in contact with the bumper support member and extends further forward toward a front of the vehicle than the bumper support member. The horizontal bumper is mounted at a lower end of the bumper support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2020
    Assignee: Wabash National, L.P.
    Inventors: Andrzej Wylezinski, Brian C. Belcher, David P. Kunkel
  • Patent number: 10814790
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to a running board for a motor vehicle, and in particular relates to a running board with a roof access step and a corresponding method of using the same. An example running board includes a deck having a first section and a second section. The first section is configured to move between a first position in which the first section is substantially flush with the second section, and a second position in which the first section is raised relative to the second section. In the second position, the first section of the deck provides a roof access step.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Edward Joseph Leonard Meszaros, David Thomas Patrick, Mark Beilman, Scott Stinson, Stephen Kowal, Andre Kunynetz
  • Patent number: 10676005
    Abstract: A vehicle floor mat for a passenger foot well or a cargo area of an automotive vehicle comprising a mat body, first and second cavities formed in the mat body, and first and second barriers respectively configured for receipt within the first and second cavities when the first and second barriers are horizontally oriented in a stored position. The first and second barriers can be moved from the stored position to an extended position, wherein the first and second barriers are vertically oriented and extend at least partially above a top surface of the mat body. In the extended position, opposing surfaces of the first and second barriers together define a confined region therebetween in which a package can be contained during transportation thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2020
    Assignee: FAURECIA INTERIOR SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Brett Schnur, Maxime Salandre
  • Patent number: 10676031
    Abstract: A retractable vehicle step is attachable to a vehicle or truck. The vehicle step facilitates access to a cargo hold, interior, or roof of the vehicle. Advantageously, the vehicle step may provide 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. Advantageously, the vehicle step may be pulled out from under the vehicle by the foot of a user. 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. Finally, the vehicle step may be configured into at least two different arrangements for attachment to a vehicle utilizing the same components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2020
    Assignee: LUND MOTION PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Horst Leitner, Anthony Smith
  • Patent number: 10377300
    Abstract: A running board assembly of a vehicle is provided herein and includes a running board having two ends, each covered by an end cap having an optic. Two light sources are disposed inside the running board and are each located proximate a corresponding end cap. Each light source is operable to emit light toward the optic of the corresponding end cap based on a signal indicating a selected mode of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Stuart C. Salter, Kamal Bhojwani, Phani Shashank Vuttaluru, Paul Kenneth Dellock, David Brian Glickman
  • Patent number: 10272841
    Abstract: A motor vehicle side step has a running board with a slot in its back side through which bolts extend to clamp an insert and a base of a vehicle mounting bracket to the running board. A tubular top frame extends around the outer side of top step plate and has opposing ends fastened to the running board with the top step plate fastened to the running board and top frame member to form a top step. A second step support frame has two connector plates that bolt to a bottom side of the running board through slots in that bottom side. The second step support frame extends outward and downward from the connector plates to provide a lower support to which a lower step plate is fastened to form a lower step. A top step support extends upward from the second step support frame and connects to the bottom of the top step plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2019
    Assignee: Iddea California, LLC
    Inventor: Timothy J. Wymore
  • Patent number: 10183576
    Abstract: A support system is provided for a vehicle. The support system can include one or more bracket assemblies in which each includes a coupling member and a curved member in which the coupling member is affixed to a structure of the vehicle. A housing can be supported by the one or more bracket assemblies in which the housing encloses a container that stores a material such that the housing protects the container and the material. The support system provides movement between a length of the container so as to reduce deterioration of the support system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2019
    Assignee: WORTHINGTON INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: James B. Rike, Steven J. Tiede, Michael A. Pintz
  • Patent number: 9925866
    Abstract: A tractor is provided. The tractor includes step brackets that are attached to a transmission case forming a vehicle body and that supports a step, a heat shield plate that is projected upward from a front section of the transmission case, fuel tank stays that extend downward from a lower section of the heat shield plate and that are attached to the fuel tank. The tractor also includes fenders serving as mud guards; and mud guard covers attached to the step brackets. The fuel tank stays are attached to the step brackets. The mud guard covers are attached to the fenders and the fuel tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2018
    Assignee: Iseki & Co., LTD.
    Inventor: Kazuhisa Tamura
  • Patent number: 9908406
    Abstract: A support system is provided for a vehicle. The support system can include one or more bracket assemblies in which each includes a coupling member and a curved member in which the coupling member is affixed to a structure of the vehicle. A housing can be supported by the one or more bracket assemblies in which the housing encloses a container that stores a material such that the housing protects the container and the material. The support system provides movement between a length of the container so as to reduce deterioration of the support system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2018
    Assignee: WORTHINGTON INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: James B. Rike, Steven J. Tiede, Michael A. Pintz
  • Patent number: 9902327
    Abstract: A running board for a vehicle includes a base member mountable to a vehicle. The base member has a first end, a second end, and an intermediate portion extending therebetween defining a longitudinal axis. A selectively deployable step member is mounted to the base member. The selectively deployable step member is selectively slidable relative to the base member along the longitudinal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2018
    Assignee: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Parminder Singh, Alex J. Smith
  • Patent number: 9902352
    Abstract: Disclosed is a vehicle side wing anti-collision system, including a telescopic assembly fixed on a vehicle frame; and a collision panel located in a groove of a vehicle side body and provided correspondingly to the telescopic assembly. The groove is provided with a connection hole and the telescopic assembly is extended out of the connection hole towards two sides in a transverse direction of the vehicle to drive the collision panel to extend out of the groove till protruding from the vehicle side body when the collision panel is subjected to a collision. Through the telescopic assembly and the collision panel, protection layers are formed on two sides of the vehicle, and thus the anti-collision ability of the vehicle side wing is enhanced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2018
    Inventor: Cheung Tsang
  • Patent number: 9862309
    Abstract: A vehicle sill illumination assembly has a main body, an illumination panel and a controller. The main body includes a first portion, a second portion and a third portion that together define an inverted U-shaped structure as viewed in cross-section. The first portion has an upright surface. The second portion extends horizontally inboard from an upper edge of the first section. The third portion extends downward from an inboard side of the second portion. The illumination panel is installed to an area of the first portion of the main body such that the illumination panel faces in an outboard direction with the main body installed to a vehicle sill structure. The controller is located within the main body and is configured to control illumination of the illumination panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2018
    Assignee: Nissan North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Sean Oliverio
  • Patent number: 9676337
    Abstract: An automobile running board includes a load-bearing member and an anti-slip member mounted on an upper surface of the load-bearing member. A cross section of the load-bearing member is a downwardly opening C-shaped channel structure which is an integrally formed curved structure, and a lower portion of each of two inner sides of the load-bearing member is provided with a slide rail formed by an upwardly opening C-shaped channel structure. A slide block located within the load-bearing member is provided with a respective recess which may slide along each slide rail. The slide block has a closed periphery as viewed in a lateral cross section of the automobile running board, and a lower end of the slide block is provided with a mounting member to be connected to a car. Two end portions of the load-bearing member are provided with a sealing structure fixed to an inner side of the load-bearing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2017
    Assignee: Zhihui Metal Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Xingwen Du, Zhijian Du
  • Patent number: 9656609
    Abstract: A vehicle step apparatus including an extending and retracting device having a mounting bracket, a step bracket, and an arm assembly. A gear box has a cavity into which at least a portion of a motor shaft of a motor is inserted. A worm wheel is rotatably disposed in the cavity and has a worm wheel body meshing with the motor shaft. An output shaft is mounted to the worm wheel body. A sun gear is fitted over the output shaft. A planet carrier is rotatably disposed in the cavity and connected with the arm assembly. A planet gear is rotatably mounted to the planet carrier and meshes with the sun gear. An adjusting member is mounted in the gear box, and is movable in an axial direction of the motor shaft and abuts against a free end of the motor shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2017
    Assignee: T-MAX (HANGZHOU) INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD
    Inventors: Xinfa Du, Qi Zhang, Yiming Wang
  • Patent number: 9598024
    Abstract: An apparatus comprises a mounting bracket configured to mount to a surface of a body panel of a vehicle, adjacent to an opening in the body panel. A latch mechanism is coupled to the mounting bracket. An elongate member comprising a body and a coupling mechanism is configured to couple to the latch mechanism so that, when secured, at least a portion of the body of the elongate member is positioned within an inside cavity of the body panel of the vehicle. In an embodiment, the body panel is a truck tailgate and the elongate member is a retrieval hook.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2017
    Inventor: Andrew W. S. Kogut
  • Patent number: 9533621
    Abstract: A hitch step is adapted to be attached into a standard receiver-type hitch of a pickup truck, or other similarly equipped vehicle. The device is an attachable step enabling one to gain access to a rear portion of the vehicle. The device is configured to accommodate a variety of vehicles and step widths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Inventor: Mark E. Rees
  • Patent number: 9533620
    Abstract: A step-up front bumper system is designed to be attached to the front frame of a truck, or other similar large vehicle. The purpose of this device is to provide a measure of protection from incidental contact and a step by which access to nearby portions of the vehicle may be gained. The device is configured to accommodate a variety of vehicles and step widths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Inventor: Mark E. Rees
  • Patent number: 9481402
    Abstract: Some embodiments are directed to a vehicle bed system for use with a vehicle that includes a cargo compartment, a tail light, a tail light cover, and a fender. The vehicle bed system can include a bed bottom that defines a bottom surface of the vehicle cargo compartment, and a pair of bed sidewalls that are disposed at opposite sides of the bed bottom. Connectors can directly connect each of the fender, tail light, and tail light cover to one of the bed sidewalls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2016
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Noriyuki Muto, Robert T. Wilson, III
  • Patent number: 9434333
    Abstract: The invention provides devices, systems and methods for absorbing and distributing an impact of a vehicle with another object. The force is absorbed by a bumper bar that extends from the vehicle. The bumper bar distributes the force between a fuel container and a frame or bracket in which the fuel container is attached to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2016
    Assignee: AGILITY FUEL SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Todd Sloan, Chris Forsberg
  • Patent number: 9278614
    Abstract: A mounting assembly for supporting a fuel supply on a vehicle, which is specifically adapted for the operable support and positioning of an auxiliary fuel supply. The vehicle with which the mounting assembly is utilized may vary significantly, but is primarily structured for use on mine haul vehicles, bulldozers, and other heavy duty commercial vehicles, wherein the operation thereof is significantly benefited or enhanced through the provision of an auxiliary, or alternate fuel supply such as, but not limited to, liquid natural gas (LNG), selectively powering the engine of the vehicle as determined by an improved electronic control system. The mounting assembly comprises a containment structure in the form of at least one fuel tank and a housing is structured to enclose the fuel tank. A base supports the housing and provides a pivot point about which the housing may be disposed between a first and second orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2016
    Assignee: Gaseous Fuel Systems, Corp.
    Inventor: Jason E. Green
  • Patent number: 9073486
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a step pad assembly that includes a first step pad, a second step pad, and a telescoping extension. The second step pad is rotatably attached to the first step pad. The telescoping extension is disposed within the second step pad and is configured to extend from the second step pad to an extended position outboard relative to a rear wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2015
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Edward Joseph Leonard Meszaros, David Thomas Patrick
  • Publication number: 20150123373
    Abstract: A cargo step pad comprising a container having a bottom and a plurality of sidewalls defining an opening and a lid coupled to the container and operable between a closed position, wherein the lid extends laterally beyond the opening, and an opened position, wherein at least a portion of a back wall of the container is positioned within a volume defined by the inner surface of the lid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2013
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Edward Joseph Leonard Meszaros, David Thomas Patrick
  • Patent number: 8991843
    Abstract: A materials handling vehicle is provided comprising a frame including an operator compartment having at least one entrance and a floorboard. The vehicle further comprises at least one step capable of being positioned across the entrance a spaced distance from the floorboard such that an operator may stand on the step when the step is positioned across the entrance to gain access to an elevated storage location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Crown Equipment Corporation
    Inventors: James V. Kraimer, Jay G. Pollack, Markus Graf
  • Patent number: 8985606
    Abstract: A side bar and steps attached to the side bar attached to a vehicle or to the side of the vehicle by welds, brazing, or bolting to brackets welded to the side bar or vehicle. A step is constructed by attaching a curved or flat member to the top of an L-shaped support bar that is in turn connected to the side bar or vehicle. The steps are movably affixed to a tab that is welded to the side bar or vehicle. The L-shaped supports have a plurality of engagement points so that the step can be adjusted upward and downward using the different attachment points. In this manner steps can be moved for different users depending on the height of the vehicle or user preference. The L-shaped support bars may be flared outward and provided with a plate for mounting the step thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Inventor: Thomas Fichter
  • Patent number: 8919796
    Abstract: A trailer hitch step, integrally molded of a polymer compound, is capable of accepting a predetermined off-axis vertical load without an objectionable degree of torsional displacement, while also being capable of resiliently absorbing energy from rear impacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: MacNeil IP LLC
    Inventors: Frederick W. Masanek, Jr., David F. MacNeil
  • Patent number: 8919853
    Abstract: A deployable step and handle system for a tailgate. The handle is used to secure the deployable step in the stowed position that eliminates the need for a separate release system. The handle is placed adjacent a top edge of the tailgate to prevent debris from being trapped under the handle when the handle is closed. The ladder has a step surface disposed opposite and at an angle relative to a top surface of a spoiler that provides a step surface. The ladder rails are guided by rail guides as the ladder is moved between a stowed position and a deployed position. A unitary support bracket is used to connect both the handle and a ladder rail to the tailgate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Venkatesh Krishnan, Bhupendra A. Patel, David Manuel Rogers, Thomas M. Herline, Marcus Edward Merideth, Michael Bryan VanBelle, Charles Gregory Bambenek
  • Patent number: 8851494
    Abstract: A combined step/muffler housing for a land vehicle is mounted on a land vehicle immediately subadjacent to a doorway through which a user enters or exits the motor vehicle. The unit includes a housing on which is mounted steps that can have non-slip coatings and the housing contains a muffler which is fluidically connected to the engine of the motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Inventors: Christopher E. Strang, Christine Strang
  • Patent number: 8851495
    Abstract: A trailer hitch step, integrally molded of a polymer compound, is capable of accepting a predetermined off-axis vertical load without an objectionable degree of torsional displacement, while also being capable of resiliently absorbing energy from rear impacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: MacNeil IP LLC
    Inventors: Frederick W. Masanek, Jr., David F. MacNeil
  • Patent number: 8844962
    Abstract: The hitch step assembly has a platform securable to a hitch bar and pivotable from a storage position to a stepping position with respect to the hitch bar. The platform is preferably substantially planar and parallel to the length of the hitch bar at the stepping position. The platform is pivotable to the storage position that exposes a ball mount assembly connected to the hitch bar. Walls extending downward from the platform to substantially enclose the ball mount assembly and prevent its exposure as a trip hazard during use of the hitch step. A locking pin is provided that maintains the platform at the storage position or the stepping position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Cequent Consumer Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Francis Bernart
  • Patent number: 8727364
    Abstract: A trailer hitch step, integrally injection-molded of a thermoplastic polymer compound, is capable of accepting a predetermined off-axis vertical load without an objectionable degree of torsional displacement, while capable of absorbing energy from rear impacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: MacNeil IP LLC
    Inventors: Frederick W. Masanek, Jr., David F. MacNeil
  • Patent number: 8720924
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Inventor: Phillip C. Ruehl
  • Publication number: 20140121859
    Abstract: An intelligent side step apparatus for a vehicle includes a step panel (13) that protrudes and expands to a side of a vehicle body (16) when a getting-off mode signal of a passenger is generated. The step panel (13) moves down to a side of the vehicle body when a getting-on mode signal of a passenger is generated. A step lamp (14) mounted on the step panel (13) is turned on when a night mode signal is generated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2012
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Dong Eun CHA
  • Publication number: 20140097591
    Abstract: The cover member has an outer edge portion configured by the upper end extending portion, the front end extending portion, and the rear end extending portion in which a front end of the upper end extending portion and an upper end of the front end extending portion are connect to each other, and a rear end of the upper end extending portion and an upper end of the rear end extending portion are connected to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: Kubota Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroo Fujimoto, Daisuke Yasunobe, Daisuke Inaba
  • Patent number: 8668041
    Abstract: A construction machine including: a lower propelling body; an upper slewing body having a rear region with an engine room; a slewing device for slewing the upper slewing body; and a platform cover. The slewing device includes a slewing electric motor having an electric-motor output shaft, and a speed reducer having a speed-reducer output shaft rotated more slowly than the electric-motor output shaft, the speed reducer installed forward of the engine room such that the speed-reducer output shaft points downward, the slewing electric motor disposed just above the speed reducer. The platform cover is provided on a top of the slewing electric motor, having an upper surface serving as a platform for maintenance of equipment in the engine room. The platform cover is lower than the engine cover and adjacent to a front side of the engine room.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignees: Kobelco Construction Machinery Co., Ltd., Daikin Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Natsuki Yumoto, Nobuyuki Maekawa, Hideki Kusano
  • Patent number: 8596662
    Abstract: A vehicle pedal includes a main plastic pedal, a decoration, at least an adhesive sheet and an anti-slipping rubber plate, and a rack. The main plastic pedal has at least a pedal portion having plural small recesses respectively bored with a through hole. The decoration also has plural small recesses respectively bored with a through hole, and plural projections formed in the bottom to correspond to the small concaves. Plural positioning blocks are fitted in the through holes of the decoration. The adhesive sheet is glued between the pedaling portion of the decoration and the anti-slipping rubber plate, having plural through holes, with two sides coated with a glue layer. The anti-slipping rubber plate has plural positioning bars inserted through the through holes of the adhesive sheet to be restricted by the positioning blocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Lun An Pan Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Li-Yueh Huang-Tsai
  • Patent number: 8469380
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: T-Max (Hang Zhou) Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Huizhong Yang, Zhaobo Qing
  • Patent number: 8413379
    Abstract: A step unit includes: a step member which is provided with a pair of lower rails extending in an opening and closing direction of a slide door of the vehicle; and a rail plate member which is provided to a cutout formed in a part of either of the lower rails and which continuously connects the lower rails in the opening and closing direction. The step member is molded using a resin material and is provided with an insertion hole which vertically penetrates through the step member at a position corresponding to the cutout; and a support extension section which is extended from a side end of the cutout of the lower rail. The rail plate member is mounted to the step member by being inserted so as to penetrate through the insertion hole from above the step member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Toshihiko Ishida, Tsutomu Takeuchi
  • Patent number: 8403348
    Abstract: A vehicle running board includes a treadle body having a bottom formed with an open slot. A guide plate is received in the open slot and positioned under positioning stop plates inside the open slot. Two sets of fixing members are respectively assembled at the lower side of the treadle body, and each fixing member is composed of a first clamping plate with two bolts, a second clamping plate bored with two insert holes, and two nuts, with the first and the second clamping plates clamping the guide plate. At least two connecting bases are respectively provided for assembling the treadle body at one side of a vehicle body, and each connecting base and each fixing member correspond with each other in setting position. Two protective covers are respectively mounted at two ends of the treadle body, and an anti-skid pad is stuck to the topside of the treadle body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Inventor: Hsiang Ting Wang
  • Patent number: 8371597
    Abstract: An apparatus for assisting a person get into and exit an interior of a truck trailer. The apparatus comprises multiple parts, including a stationary step having a U-shape and a handle movable between an upright and stowed position. In its stowed position, the handle does not extend beyond the rear of the trailer, enabling the trailer to back up to a loading dock without interference from the handle. Two latching mechanisms assist in locking the handle in its upright and stowed positions. In its upright position, the handle enables a person standing on the step to more easily enter and exit the interior of the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: L&P Property Management Company
    Inventors: Dale E. DeCrescenzo, Corey W. Harris
  • Publication number: 20120313343
    Abstract: A step platform that can be used safely for access to a vehicle rear roof or storage compartment, in conjunction with a ball mount and receiver hitch to allow for towing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2011
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventor: BRYAN FLETCHER
  • Patent number: 8322739
    Abstract: A boat trailer step assist includes a first and second support arm in pivotal relation to one another which provide steps that assist a user in entering or exiting a boat when trailered or in the process of being trailered. The support arms are arranged at an angle relative to the trailer tongue, with the first step at the level of the trailer tongue. When not in use, the second support arm pivots downward for compact stowage. When deployed, the support arms are in alignment with one another. A grab handle may be provided to assist the user in climbing or descending the steps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Inventors: Robert Fair, Michael Hacker
  • Patent number: 8231169
    Abstract: A rocker panel is provided for a motor vehicle, having a first oblong rocker panel part, on which a second oblong rocker panel part, having longitudinal axis (A) parallel thereto, is fastened so it is movable in relation thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Frank Leopold
  • Patent number: 8205901
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: T-Max (Hangzhou) Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Huizhong Yang, Zhaobo Qing
  • Publication number: 20120104720
    Abstract: An apparatus for assisting a person get into and exit an interior of a truck trailer. The apparatus comprises multiple parts, including a stationary step having a U-shape and a handle movable between an upright and stowed position. In its stowed position, the handle does not extend beyond the rear of the trailer, enabling the trailer to back up to a loading dock without interference from the handle. Two latching mechanisms assist in locking the handle in its upright and stowed positions. In its upright position, the handle enables a person standing on the step to more easily enter and exit the interior of the trailer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2010
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Applicant: L&P PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANY
    Inventors: Dale E. DeCrescenzo, Corey W. Harris
  • Patent number: 8146935
    Abstract: A device for a high-clearance motor vehicle is provided. Preferably, the device comprises an elongated step; and one or more supports, wherein each of the one or more supports includes: a lift bar; a base; and an actuator; wherein the base holds the actuator and the lift bar is pivotally attached to the base on a distal end and to the step on the opposite end; and wherein, when the device is operated, depending on user selection, the actuator either lowers the lift bar causing the step to be positioned for use or raises the lift bar causing the step to be retracted, and if retracted, the step blocks at least one door of the motor vehicle making it difficult to steal the motor vehicle. Additionally, when the step is retracted, the step impedes “ding” damage from an adjacent motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Inventor: Gary Adams