Abstract: A retractable step and side bar assembly that can be used for raised vehicles, such as trucks. The retractable step can be configured to provide for significant reach in a deployed position to allow for a user to enter the raised vehicle. Further, in the stowed position the retractable step can be located within the side bar, thereby providing a low profile as well as an enhanced aesthetic appearance.

Abstract: The present invention includes a foldable step assembly for a vehicle. The step assembly includes a linkage arrangement for connection to a vehicle and articulating a step assembly from a deployed position to a stowed position. A drive mechanism is positioned remotely from the step assembly and is operatively in communication with the linkage arrangement for articulating said step assembly between the deployed position to the stowed position.

Abstract: A vehicle is provided that includes an imaging device located on the vehicle and oriented to capture images, memory storing one or more pet profiles, and a controller processing the captured images to detect a pet and determining at least one of an estimated pose of the pet and a gait of the pet, wherein the processor determines a bone structure of the pet from the at least one estimated pose and gait and compares the bone structure to the one or more pet profiles to detect an authorized pet, the controller controlling one or more vehicle related features based on the detected authorized pet.

Abstract: A camper trailer assembly includes a trailer that has a hitch and a pair of wheels for towing by an all terrain vehicle. A pair of panels is hingedly coupled to a box of the trailer and each of the panels is positionable to extend laterally away from the box such that each of the panels defines a pair of sleeping areas. A canopy is attached to the box and the canopy is urgeable into a raised condition when the panels are in the deployed position such that the canopy and the box define a camper. A lifting unit is movably integrated into the box and the lifting unit urges the canopy into the raised condition when a hand crank is cranked in a first direction. The lifting unit urges the canopy to collapse into the box when the hand crank is cranked in a second direction.

Abstract: Powered retractable vehicle step assist systems and methods are provided. The steps systems are configured for installation (e.g., after market installation) and use with a vehicle. The system can include a stepping member movable between a retracted position and a deployed position with respect to the vehicle. The system can further include a vehicle interface. A controller of the step system can be configured to process information received from the vehicle interface and, based at least partly on the processing of the information, cause movement of the stepping member between the retracted position and the deployed position.

Abstract: Various vehicle systems are proposed for facilitating access to and utilization of motor vehicle cargo spaces. The vehicle systems may include deployable stairgate systems, deployable step systems, cargo bed swing door systems, etc. The vehicle systems allow the cargo spaces to be accessed from a variety of positions relative to the cargo space.

Abstract: A retractable vehicle step includes: a stepping member configured for movement between retracted and extended positions; a first arm having first and second ends, the first end coupled to the stepping member; a mount pivotally connected to the second end and configured to secure to a vehicle, the mount having a housing including an interior to receive a portion of the first arm, the housing having a height, a length, a first axis extending along the height, and a second axis extending along the length and perpendicular to the first axis; and a biasing member in the interior, the biasing member coupled with the second end of the first arm and configured to apply a biasing force to the first arm, the biasing force applied at a first angle with respect to said second axis that is less then approximately 30°.

Abstract: Various vehicle systems are proposed for accessing and utilizing vehicle cargo spaces on vehicles equipped with a tailgate assembly. The vehicle systems may include deployable and/or rotatable stairgate systems, deployable step systems, etc. designed for the accessing the vehicle cargo spaces. The proposed systems may include various deployment mechanisms that enable the stairgate/step systems to slide, pivot, rotate, swing, and/or otherwise adjust for providing ease of access and increased flexibility when stepping up to access the vehicle cargo space.

Abstract: An apparatus, a system, and a method for providing a smart multi-tier power running board (PRB) with ground sensing technologies. The apparatus includes one or more support bars, one or more steps, an actuator connected to one end of each support bar of the one or more support bars, one or more sensors, and a controller coupled to the actuator and the one or more sensors. The controller is configured to: obtain data indicative of a request to move the one or more support bars from a stowed position to a deployed position; determine, based on sensor data detected by the one or more sensors, the deployed position for moving the one or more support bars; and control, based on the determined deployed position, the actuator to move the one or more support bars from the stowed position to the deployed position.

Abstract: A boarding system for a vehicle includes at least one pivotable sealing cover, which is pivotable from a walk-on first position into a non-walk-on second position, wherein the sealing cover is flush with an outer side of the vehicle in the non-walk-on second position.

Abstract: A stair assembly for utility vans can include a top step and a lower step, each spanning horizontally between a pair of side rails. A mounting flange is disposed atop each side rail. An aperture is defined through the mounting flanges to allow for a pin to be employed to pivotally mount the stair assembly to a mounting plate in a van. When deployed, a portion of the bottom surface of the top step rests atop the top surface of the bumper of the van. The stair assembly can be folded upward into the van such that the door of the van can be closed without removing the stair assembly.

Abstract: A multi-purpose vehicle includes reconfigurable bumper ends each including a vehicle bumper end body configured to securely attach to a vehicle bumper and extend along a side of a vehicle on which the vehicle bumper is mounted. A socket formed within the vehicle bumper end body is configured to receive an insert portion of a bumper end insert. Bumper end inserts may include a step insert or a safety indicator insert.

Abstract: A structural assembly for use in a motor vehicle includes a rocker and a running board. The motor vehicle includes a vehicle frame and a door. The rocker extends in a longitudinal direction of the motor vehicle. The running board is movably coupled to the vehicle frame between a deployed position and a stowed position in which an upper portion of the running board extends vertically above the rocker. The running board is configured to be positioned underneath the door and substantially flush with a lower portion of the door when the door is in a closed position and the running board is in the stowed position.

Abstract: A motor vehicle according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, a running board assembly including a deck, and a linkage assembly configured to guide movement of the deck. The vehicle further includes a motor configured to move the linkage assembly to adjust a position of the deck, and a sensor configured to obtain information indicative of activity adjacent an exterior of the motor vehicle. Additionally, the vehicle includes a controller configured to interpret the information from the sensor to determine a length of at least a portion of a leg of a person. The controller is configured to instruct the motor to adjust the position of the deck based on the determined length.

Abstract: Vehicle systems for accessing and utilizing vehicle cargo spaces on vehicles equipped with a tailgate assembly having a door subassembly may include deployable step systems, deployable lift panel systems, deployable cargo extender systems, etc. The vehicle systems may be either separate from or integrated with the door subassembly of the tailgate assembly. An exemplary vehicle system may include a deployable step that is movable between a stowed position and a deployed position in order to present a step surface to a user for accessing the vehicle cargo space.

Abstract: A linkage for an electric running board is provided. The linkage includes a dual-output motor, a first linkage group including a first output terminal and a second output terminal, and a second linkage group; and the first output terminal of the dual-output motor is connected to the first linkage group, and the second output terminal of the dual-output motor is connected to the second linkage group. Furthermore, the electric running board is provided. The electric running board includes a running board assembly and the linkage, and the running board assembly is connected to the linkage.

Abstract: A ladder system includes a 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 a bumper coupled to the ladder and configured to apply a force to a bumper stop when the ladder is in the lowered position to keep the ladder bracket from sliding along the rail. 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: The convertible stairs for wheelchair accessibility combine a tiltable staircase with a vertically movable platform. The tiltable staircase includes rotating stairs which can be angularly adjusted between a stepped configuration and a planar, ramp-like configuration. Proximal ends of first and second staircase frames are pivotally secured to the platform such that selective raising and lowering of the platform causes the tiltable staircase to tilt up and down. When the stairs of the staircase are rotated into the planar, ramp-like configuration, the platform may be fully raised to tilt the staircase upward, creating a horizontal surface for the wheelchair to cross from the platform to an upper floor or level. To exit the upper floor or level, the wheelchair user reverses the process, returning to the platform which is lowered to the lower floor or level, also lowering the staircase. The stairs may then be rotated back to a stepped configuration.

Abstract: A retractable step and side bar assembly that can be used for raised vehicles, such as trucks. The retractable step can be configured to provide for significant reach in a deployed position to allow for a user to enter the raised vehicle. Further, in the stowed position the retractable step can be located within the side bar, thereby providing a low profile as well as an enhanced aesthetic appearance.

Abstract: An electric pedal for an automobile comprises a driving support, a driving mechanism, and a pedal. The driving support and driving mechanism are both mounted on the same side of a bottom of an automobile body. The driving support comprises a first transmission mechanism and a first connecting rod, a front end of the first connecting rod is fixedly connected to the pedal, and the first transmission mechanism drives the first connecting rod to be extended and retracted. The driving shaft of the driving mechanism is directly fixedly connected to the first transmission mechanism and drives the first transmission mechanism to be extended and retracted, such that the first connecting rod is extended and retracted.

Abstract: A step is connectable to a receiver tube on a trailer hitch. The step includes a main body having a first surface and an opposing second surface. A resilient cover extends over the second surface. A mounting plate is connected to the main body. A mounting flange is connectable to the mounting plate. A hitch tube is connected to the mounting flange, with the hitch tube being configured to be connectable to the receiver tube on the trailer hitch. The main body is configured to be transitional relative to the hitch tube between a first position and a second position, with at least a portion of the main body moving away from the hitch tube as the main body transitions from the first position toward the second position.

Abstract: A retractable vehicle step is attachable to a vehicle or truck, such as at the rear portion. 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. Further, the vehicle step may be pulled out from under the vehicle by the foot of a user.

Abstract: An integrated roof step to enable an individual to access the roof of a vehicle. The integrated roof step includes a support member configured to support an object; a socket configured to be disposed in a door frame of a vehicle body, wherein the socket is configured to at least partially receive the support member such that a door of the vehicle is closable without the support member interfering with the vehicle door; and a mount configured to movably secure a portion of the support member to the socket.

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.

Abstract: The present invention includes a foldable step assembly for a vehicle. The step assembly includes a linkage arrangement for connection to a vehicle and articulating a step assembly from a deployed position to a stowed position. A drive mechanism is positioned remotely from the step assembly and is operatively in communication with the linkage arrangement for articulating said step assembly between the deployed position to the stowed position.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to a running board for a motor vehicle, and in particular relates to a linkage assembly for the running board and a corresponding method of using the same. An example running board assembly includes a deck and a linkage assembly configured to guide movement of the deck. The linkage assembly includes a first link and a second link further from the deck than the first link. The second link is curved such that the second link exhibits a concave contour from a perspective of the deck.

Abstract: A vehicle spat device includes: a spat that rotatably supported by a first rotation shaft and configured to be displaced between a deployment position and a storage position; and a link unit transmitting power of an actuator to the spat. The link unit includes a drive link rotating integrally with a drive shaft when the actuator is driven, and an intermediate link connected to the spat via a second rotation shaft and connected to the drive link via a third rotation shaft. The drive link rotates around the drive shaft between a first position where the spat is disposed at the storage position and a second position where the spat is disposed at the deployment position. In the drive link, the first position is a position rotated from a first neutral position in a first rotation direction.

Abstract: An electric pedal for an automobile comprises a driving support, a driven support, and a pedal. The driving support comprises a first automobile connecting rod, a driving motor, a second automobile connecting rod, a gear box, and a rotating mechanism. The first automobile connecting rod, the driving motor, and the second automobile connecting rod are separately fixed to the automobile to which the electric pedal is mounted, and the driven support comprises a driven automobile fixing plate and a driven rotating mechanism. The electric pedal for an automobile can be switched into a fixed side pedal, and in this case, the driving motor needs to be stopped, or the driving motor or the gear box fails.

Abstract: A rotating retractable step system positioned within a cutout of a wall is presented. The rotating retractable step system comprises a foot pedal and a support shaft. The foot pedal is configured to be stowed in a vertical orientation within the cutout of the wall, and to rotate between the vertical orientation and a horizontal orientation. The support shaft is associated with the foot pedal, such that movement of the support shaft extends the foot pedal outwardly away from the cutout, or retracts the foot pedal towards the cutout.

Abstract: A vehicle-mountable accessory for a vehicle includes an access platform or landing for accessing a portion of the vehicle. The accessory is removably coupled to the vehicle. The access platform may be pivotably operable between a stowed configuration for travel and a deployed configuration that provides access to the vehicle. A deployable step or set of stairs nest under or inside of the body of the access platform and slideably deploy from the access platform to provide additional access to reach the access platform. The stairs are returned to a nested configuration for travel. The set of stairs may also pivot during deployment to improve vertical access to the access platform. The accessory includes a storage unit for storage and support of various equipment, tools, and accessories. A piece of equipment, such as a generator, can be securely mounted on top of the storage unit.

Abstract: Powered retractable vehicle step assist systems and methods are provided. The steps systems are configured for installation (e.g., after market installation) and use with a vehicle. The system can include a stepping member movable between a retracted position and a deployed position with respect to the vehicle. The system can further include a vehicle interface. A controller of the step system can be configured to process information received from the vehicle interface and, based at least partly on the processing of the information, cause movement of the stepping member between the retracted position and the deployed position.

Abstract: An articulating footrest mechanism pivotally attached to a vehicle that is adapted for transportation and recreation of all types. The articulating footrest mechanism has a top and bottom horizontal arm, or two top and two bottom horizontal arms pivotally attached to a vehicle frame section at footrest level and adapted to move freely in a circumferential nature around fulcrums located at midpoint of each arm. The articulating footrest mechanism includes two or four vertical footrest arms connected to the top and bottom horizontal arm ends with fasteners inserted through fulcrums that comprise of roller bearings or lubricated sleeves. Footrests such as bicycle pedals, motorcycle style pegs or ATV type platforms of any size or shape fix to the left and right vertical footrest arm or arms to support the weight of a human being thereon.

Abstract: Powered retractable vehicle step assist systems and methods are provided. The steps systems are configured for installation (e.g., after market installation) and use with a vehicle. The system can include a stepping member movable between a retracted position and a deployed position with respect to the vehicle. The system can further include a vehicle interface. A controller of the step system can be configured to process information received from the vehicle interface and, based at least partly on the processing of the information, cause movement of the stepping member between the retracted position and the deployed position.

Abstract: An article of manufacture for providing a universal auto step for a vehicle hitch has an attachable step, and a hitch drawbar having a shaft and a lock to a hitch receiver. The attachable step includes a top surface having a front edge, a rear edge, a left-side edge and a right-side edge, a set of side members coupled to the front side edge, the left-side edge, and the right-side edge, the set of side members oriented perpendicular and downward from the top surface, and an attachment tab coupled to the rear edge and extending downward. The top surface rests upon a top surface of the hitch drawbar when coupled to the hitch drawbar.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates systems and methods involving movable/adjustable guardrails. An example system includes a frame weldment and a rail assembly attached to the frame weldment. The rail assembly includes a first post and a second post. The base portion of the first post is rotatably coupled to a first pivot point of the frame weldment and the base portion of the second post is rotatably coupled to a second pivot point of the frame weldment. The system also includes a top rail rotatably coupled between a top portion of the first post and a top portion of the second post. The system yet further includes an actuator configured to controllably adjust a configuration of the rail assembly between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration with respect to the frame weldment.

Abstract: Powered retractable vehicle step assist systems and methods are provided. The steps systems are configured for installation (e.g., after market installation) and use with a vehicle. The system can include a stepping member movable between a retracted position and a deployed position with respect to the vehicle. The system can further include a vehicle interface. A controller of the step system can be configured to process information received from the vehicle interface and, based at least partly on the processing of the information, cause movement of the stepping member between the retracted position and the deployed position.

Abstract: A retractable step and side bar assembly that can be used for raised vehicles, such as trucks. The retractable step can be configured to provide for significant reach in a deployed position to allow for a user to enter the raised vehicle. Further, in the stowed position the retractable step can be located within the side bar, thereby providing a low profile as well as an enhanced aesthetic appearance.

Abstract: A workpiece support is provided for a pickup truck tailgate. The tailgate includes a retractable step including a pair of step support members. The attachment brackets include a workpiece support bar and a riser that are attached to the step support members and to each other at a right angle. The workpiece support bar and riser may be fixedly attached to each other or attached by a pivot connector. Detachable connectors are provided to connect a workpiece support bar and riser detachably to the step support members.

Abstract: An assembly for a vehicle according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, a step assembly that is movable back-and-forth between a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration, the step assembly is adjustable between a tailgate deployed position and a tailgate stowed position while the step assembly is removably coupled to a tailgate of a vehicle. In the second configuration, the step assembly is adjustable between a vehicle deployed position and a vehicle stowed position while the step assembly is removably coupled to an area of the vehicle other than the tailgate.

Abstract: A ladder system includes a fixed support, a ladder bracket supported by the fixed support, 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. 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 cover device for a side sill of a passenger vehicle includes a sill cover which has a cover element securable on the side sill and a mobile cover element which is disposable in a length region of the side sill below a door opening of the passenger vehicle. The mobile cover element is displaceable between a covering position and an entry position by a drive unit and the drive unit, configured as a pre-assembled structural unit, has a motor and is disposed in a region of the cover element by a holding device. The motor is disposed on an outside of the cover element and protrudes into an interior of the sill cover with a motor shaft.

Abstract: Disclosed is an arrangement including a staircase as well as walkway systems. The staircase includes a transitional member, and the walkways incorporate grate supports in order to facilitate the connection to adjacent structures. The arrangement also utilizes angled members which are configured with a reinforced flange existing in a dimension that has higher load requirements than the other flange. A novel step configuration is also disclosed.

Abstract: A side rail kit for a golf cart includes a frame bracket mountable to a frame of the golf cart. A pair of step brackets are mountable to the frame bracket. The step brackets extend from the frame member when the step brackets are mounted to the frame bracket. A distal end portion of each of the step brackets is spaced from the frame bracket when the step brackets are mounted to the frame bracket. A step rail is mountable to the step brackets.

Abstract: An automated driving vehicle, including facing seats, a floor deck and a luggage deck. The facing seats includes a front seat assembly having at least a front seat and a front backrest, and a rear seat assembly having at least a rear seat and a rear backrest, the front and rear seat assemblies being disposed to cause the seated passengers to respectively face rearward and forward directions of the vehicle. The floor deck is provided to allow the passengers to rest their feet, the floor deck having no level difference. The luggage deck is for at least one piece of luggage to be placed thereon, and includes a front luggage deck disposed forward of a front end of the floor deck in the forward direction of the vehicle, and a rear luggage deck disposed rearward of a rear end of the floor deck in the rearward direction of the vehicle.

Abstract: A step assembly to be attached to a crossbar of a vehicle, the step assembly including a base subassembly including first and second side brackets configured to be coupled to an upper surface of a crossbar of a vehicle, and a stair subassembly including a plurality of step members arranged between first and second side members, wherein proximal ends of each of the first and second side members are configured to be rotatably coupled to the respective first and second side brackets such that the stair subassembly is selectively rotatable between a deployed position and a stored position.

Abstract: A removable vehicle seat convertible from a seat configuration into a ladder or a ramp configuration and methods of converting the same. The seat may include a seat cushion having a back surface and a back end removably engaged with a floor of an interior of the vehicle in the seat configuration. The back surface may face and be positioned on a ground surface in the ladder or ramp configurations. The seat may include a seat back having a bottom end pivotally attached to the seat cushion. The bottom end may be oriented towards the back end. The seat back may be lockable in place relative to the seat cushion at an angle equal to or less than ninety degrees with at least one locking member. The seat may include a ladder or a ramp attached to the seat back usable to access or load the vehicle once converted.

Abstract: An articulating step assembly for a vehicle which includes a mount for attachment to a vehicle, a step member and an articulating linkage connecting the mount and the step for stowing and deploying the step. A motor is attached to the linkage to provide raising and lowering of the step. A weather sealed non-contact switch located on the assembly for actuating the motor and linkage in response to movement of the step in a predetermined direction for deploying the step.

Abstract: A drive arrangement configured to pivot a tailgate pivotally coupled to a vehicle body, between an open position and a closed position and including a freewheel mechanism, a drive shaft, and a motor. The freewheel mechanism may be rotatably coupled to the vehicle body and defining an opening provided with an inner periphery that includes a first cam element and a second cam element. The drive shaft may be fixed to the vehicle body and extending into the opening. The drive shaft may define an outer periphery that includes a third cam element and a fourth cam element. A motor may be coupled to the freewheel mechanism and may be configured to rotate the freewheel mechanism so that the first cam element engages the third cam element to pivot the tailgate from the closed position towards the open position.

Abstract: A removable step assembly for a helicopter includes a main tube, which supports a forward step and a rear step, as well as a bushing housing. The main tube is mounted to a helicopter by the bushing housing, an associated bushing, and by an adapter assembly that is secured to the cabin of the helicopter.

Abstract: An adjustable position automated running board step for a vehicle. A step member is attached to a linkage. The linkage is operable for moving the step from a deployed to a stowed position. An adjustable lead screw linkage is provided, which allows adjustable stop points between the stowed and the deployed positions. A typical stow position stows the step in a suitable position at the rocker interface and also provides a more easily tunable lowest position. The invention includes a method whereby the step can be infinitely positioned in a predetermined range between the lowest step position and the stow position by means of electronic control. The electronic control of the “mid variable position” could be programmable by either the customer or the manufacturer. For example, there exists the opportunity to have a “his and hers” selection by a number of methods such a key fob or instrument panel selection.