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 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: 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 ladder assembly for a pick-up truck is pivotally connected with the truck tailgate for movement between a stowed position where the ladder assembly is held against the tailgate and an operable position when the tailgate is lowered and the ladder assembly extends between the tailgate and the ground. A linkage assembly connects the ladder assembly with a mounting plate connected with the tailgate. The linkage assembly spaces the ladder assembly from the tailgate when the ladder assembly is in the operable condition, allows the angle of the ladder assembly relative to the tailgate to vary in accordance with the height of the tailgate relative to the ground, and prevents the ladder assembly from pivoting past a normal position relative to the ground. A handle is also pivotally connected with a side wall of the truck adjacent to the tailgate to assist a user with climbing the ladder assembly into the bed of the truck.

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

Abstract: The present invention is related to a device that is adapted for selective engagement with existing hardware on a vehicle to provide a step. More specifically, the present invention is a device that is engages a towing mechanism used on some sport utility and outdoor vehicles, such as the HUMMER® recovery loop that allows for interconnection with towing hardware, such as chains or straps. One embodiment of the present invention engages the loop to retain it in a generally horizontal orientation to thus provide a step that facilitates access to the roof of the vehicle that is often 5-7 feet from the ground.

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 recreational vehicle step support includes a ground member that rests upon the ground or surface, a telescoping extension member, connected to and supported by the ground member and normal to the ground or surface, a locking member for securing the extension member at varying heights, and a contact member, connected to and supported by the extension member and the contact member supports and stabilizes a recreational vehicle step. The locking member may be a nut. The contact member may be a nut and bolt, or a rest. The rest may be curved or angled. A method for providing support and stability to a recreational vehicle step including the steps of: disengaging a set of recreational vehicle steps from a stored position in preparation for use; adjusting the height of a recreational vehicle step support to match the height of an attachment site; and connecting a recreational vehicle step support to the recreational vehicle steps.

Abstract: A step apparatus for a trailer includes a rod that has a first end and a second end. The rod has a bend therein positioned between the first and second ends so that a first portion and a second portion of the rod is defined. A bracket is configured to be releasably securable to a trailer arm. A pair of plates is attached to and extends outwardly from the bracket. Each of the plates has an aperture extending therethrough. The apertures are aligned with each other. A rigid panel has a top side and a bottom side. A plurality of fasteners is provided. Each of the fasteners is extendable through the panel and into one of a plurality of openings extending through the first portion. The bracket is attached to the trailer arm so that the plates are horizontally orientated. The second portion is extended through the apertures.

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

Abstract: A vehicle step tube comprising a one-piece elongated extrusion having a plurality of vertical ribs extending from the upper surface. The ribs are relatively short in a step portion of the extrusion to form a step platform. The ribs are relatively tall in the non-step portions flanking the step portion. The ribs define transverse recesses in the step portion to enhance traction and aesthetics.

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

Abstract: A boarding and/or entry aid for vehicles for carrying passengers is described, having a rectangular frame (3) and a step plate (2) supported movably in it. The frame (3) has two parallel lateral parts (4), which are joined together at rear ends by an end profile (5) and in a region spaced apart from it by at least one bracing strut. The lateral parts (4), end profile (5) and bracing strut are provided according to the invention with positioning means (14, 15) that engage one another in form-locking fashion (FIG. 1).

Abstract: A vehicle step includes an appearance surface; a pair of step surfaces; a lock for securing the step within a bumper; and a pivoting mechanism for rotating the step. The appearance face forms an external bumper surface when the step is stowed. The pivoting mechanism alternately deploys and stows the step manually or using a motor. A vehicle access method includes configuring a bumper with an affixable portion and connecting thereto a rotatable portion having an appearance surface and two step surfaces. The rotatable portion has a step surface formed on opposite surfaces of a first member, and an appearance surface formed on a surface of an intersecting second member. One step surface and the appearance surface are exposed when the rotatable portion rotates to one position, and the other step surface is exposed when the rotatable portion rotates to another position.

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

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

Abstract: 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 motor vehicle includes a mounting bracket adapted to be fixedly secured thereto. The running board assembly also includes at least one arm pivotally secured to the mounting bracket. A link includes an inner end pivotally secured to the at least one arm and an opposing outer end. The link includes at least one tongue extending out from the outer end and at least one outwardly extending wing. A platform defines a groove for receiving the at least one tongue therewithin to form an interlock and includes a lower channel abutting the at least one outwardly extending wing in a closed box configuration to provide a rigid attachment between the platform and the link.

Abstract: A step for a large pickup truck has a tubular extension member having a square cross section. The extension member is sized to fit within the tubular end of a receiver type hitch. A stepping platform is attached to the top of the extension member. The extension member extends from the side of the receiver type hitch a sufficient distance to function as a step to the tailgate or bed of the truck. A ring on the extension member prevents it from being inserted too far into the hitch. A chain connected to the ring is attachable to the hitch to prevent the accidental removal of the step. The chain and ring can be positioned to allow the step to be moved between extended and non-extended positions.

Abstract: A deployable step and body-side assembly including a step body-side structure, one or more link assemblies, and an actuator. The step body-side structure is attached to the vehicle by the link assemblies. Each link assembly includes a carrier, an extending arm, a first link, a second link, a first rotating arm, and a second rotating arm. The carrier is attached to the step body-side structure and pivotally attached to the extending arm. The extending arm is pivotally attached to the vehicle by the first link and the second link so as to move the step body-side structure in an inboard direction and an outboard direction. The first rotating arm and second rotating arm rotate the step body-side structure, with the carrier pivotally attached to the vehicle by first rotating arm. The second rotating arm is pivotally attached to the first rotating arm, as well as the extending arm, the first link, and/or the second link. The step body-side structure is moved between the stored and deployed positions by an actuator.

Abstract: A retractable vehicle step for use in allowing a user to access a vehicle is provided. The retractable vehicle step includes a mounting bracket that can be configured for attachment with a trailer hitch receiver of the vehicle. A pair of arms are provided and are pivotally attached to the mounting bracket. The pair of arms are movable between an extended position and a retracted position. A step is carried by the pair of arms. The step is configured for being stepped on by the user to access the vehicle.

Abstract: A step assembly is provided for a motor vehicle. The step assembly includes a mounting bracket adapted to be attached to the motor vehicle. The step assembly also includes a step and an arm having a first end pivotal with respect to the mounting bracket and an opposing second end pivotal with respect to the step for pivotally moving the step between a retracted position and an extended position. A latch assembly is coupled to the mounting bracket and operably coupled to the arm. The latch assembly selectively prevents pivotal movement of the arm to retain the step in the retracted position.

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

Abstract: A bracket assembly secures a running board to a rocker panel, which includes a pinch weld depending therefrom. The bracket assembly includes a receiving panel adapted to have the running board fixedly secured thereto. A rocker securing plate extends out from the receiving panel and is secured to the rocker panel. An intermediate securing tab extends outwardly between the receiving panel and the rocker securing plate for securing the bracket assembly to the pinch weld outboard thereof.

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: Stairway for use on a semi tractor trailer or similar trailer. The stairway includes stairs mounted on an outer pipe and the outer pipe is rotatably mounted over an inner pipe. The inner pipe is pinned to a trailer bed in a stake pocket. The outer pipe can be rotated between a first position where the steps are deployed for use and a second position where the steps are locked under the bed of the trailer.

Abstract: In one aspect a pick-up truck comprises a truck body with a rear cargo bed and a stowable access step mounted for movement between a stowed position and an extended position. The access step has a tread portion dimensioned to receive at least one human foot and can be used, at least in the extended position, for stepping up for better access to the cargo bed. Optionally, the stowable access step is configured to form, in the stowed position, a portion of a running board. One or more stowable access steps can be provided on each side of the cargo bed. In another aspect, a stowable access step assembly is provided, having a first mounting structure configured to be fixedly integrated with the bed of a pick-up truck and a second mounting structure mounted for sliding or other movement relative to the first mounting structure. The access step is integral with the second mounting structure and moveable with the second mounting structure between an extended position and a stowed position.

Abstract: A powered running board assembly has a deck and at least two hinges extending from the deck for mounting longitudinally the deck to an underside of a vehicle. Each hinge has a mounting bracket configured to mount to the underside of the vehicle. A pair of links pivotally extending between the deck and mounting bracket. The deck is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. A linear drive assembly operably engages at least one of the hinges to drive the deck between the retracted and extended positions. The linear drive assembly operably extends between opposite pivots of the pair of links. As the drive extends and retracts, the pair of links is expanded and contracted effecting the desired movement of the running board between inboard and outboard positions.

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.

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 step apparatus for a vehicle having a door and a rocker panel includes a step disposed at and in operable communication with the door, wherein the step has a retracted position in response to the door being closed and a deployed position in response to the door being at least partially open. The vehicle has a first ground clearance in response to the door being closed and the step retracted and a second ground clearance in response to the door being open and the step deployed. The first ground clearance, which is defined by the vehicle and is independent of the step apparatus, is equal to or greater than the second ground clearance.

Abstract: A retractable step assembly for use with a vehicle includes a mounting bracket for mounting the assembly in an operative position to the vehicle, a step pivotally connected to the mounting bracket so as to pivot about a substantially vertical pivot axis, a guide member provided on the step and movably mounted to the mounting bracket, and a lock assembly. The guide member is configured to rotate about and translate axially along the pivot axis relative to the mounting bracket to allow the step to be moved between a retracted position and an extended position. The lock assembly includes a lock movable between a locked position locking the guide member against movement relative to the mounting bracket, and an unlocked position permitting the guide member to rotate about the pivot axis and translate axially along the pivot axis relative to the mounting bracket.

Abstract: An integrally molded, one-piece running board (10) is adapted for attachment to a motor vehicle (14). The running board (10) includes a stepping platform (16) having an upper surface (18) and a lower surface (20) extending along a longitudinal axis and laterally between outer and inner edges. A plurality of mounting projections (32) is molded with and extend laterally from the inner edge. The plurality of mounting projections (32) is securable to the motor vehicle for holding the stepping platform (16) thereagainst. A plurality of reinforcing ribs (52) extends between the lower surface (20) of the stepping platform (16) and the plurality of mounting projections (32) to support the running board as a downward force is applied to the upper surface of the stepping platform (16).

Abstract: A universal retractable step for use with the trailer hitch receptacle on automotive vehicles, wherein the step is movable from a stowed position to a utility position while remaining in the same horizontal plane. The step is readily adaptable to fit different trailer hitch receptacle sizes, as well as vehicles of differing heights, while including items to improve stability and security.

Abstract: A hitch-mounted step for a vehicle that extends beyond a deployed fold-down tailgate of a vehicle and allows people and pets to more easily enter and exit the rear cargo area of a vehicle. The hitch-mounted step is easily stored and deployed without the need to remove the step from the receiver hitch.

Abstract: An auxiliary step is primarily designed for facilitating entering and exiting the bed of a pickup truck. The step includes a shank for coupling a supporting post to an existing trailer hitch. A step is rotationally and linearly slidable on the supporting post for universal adjustment relative to the truck bed.

Abstract: A vertically adjustable safety railing system for obtaining safety railing access to the tops of mobile equipment of various heights such as tank trucks. The safety railing apparatus generally includes a plurality of posts, a railing, and activating means in communication with an actuating means. The safety railing having a collapsed condition and a vertically upright condition. The posts are pivotally mounted to mounting plates as well as connected to the railing so that when the posts are rotated to a vertically upright condition, the railing is elevated providing a railing to assist a person walking on top of the tank of a truck. The activating means is engaged by a cover plate hinged to a ladder disposed at the rear of the tank truck. Opening the cover plate to access the ladder places the activating means in a passing condition and actuates the actuating means to pivot the railing system to its upright condition.

Abstract: A passenger ingress and egress system within a transit vehicle having a stairwell employs a movable platform apparatus in combination with at least one door of a sliding or plug type to accommodate variations in passenger ingress and egress platform facilities. The movable platform apparatus disposed under the floor section of the transit vehicle for interface with the low platform is deployed outwardly toward the outer surface of the transit vehicle for interface with the high platform. The travel of such movable platform apparatus can be achieved manually or assisted by a power drive mechanism. A locking means is provided for securing such movable platform apparatus at both deployed and stowed positions and can be manually overridden via a cable connected to the remotely mounted handle. Obstruction detection means is further provided to prevent deployment of the movable platform apparatus upon passenger presence within the stairwell.

Abstract: A pull-out step assembly for a cargo box vehicle is disclosed. The assembly provides one or two steps to access the cargo box of a pickup truck or similar vehicle. The pull-out step assembly can be deployed with the tail gate of the cargo box in a closed or open condition. The pull-out step assembly attaches to the vehicle frame and stores beneath the cargo box when not in use. Also disclosed is a protective box member that covers the step assembly when stored beneath the cargo box.

Abstract: A vehicle step tube comprising a one-piece elongated extrusion having a plurality of vertical ribs extending from the upper surface. The ribs are relatively short in a step portion of the extrusion to form a step platform. The ribs are relatively tall in the non-step portions flanking the step portion. The ribs define transverse recesses in the step portion to enhance traction and aesthetics.

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

Abstract: A powered running board assembly has a deck and at least two hinges extending from the deck for mounting longitudinally the deck to an underside of a vehicle. Each hinge has a mounting bracket configured to mount to the underside of the vehicle. A pair of links pivotally extends between the deck and mounting bracket. The deck is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. A motor assembly operably engages at least one of the hinges to drive the deck between the retracted and extended positions. The motor assembly extends substantially longitudinally. The motor assembly has a gear train and clutch assembly enabling the motor assembly to drive relative to the deck movement when the deck movement is prevented, and enabling manual deck movement when the motor assembly is not energized.

Abstract: A vehicle mounted step assembly for use with trailer hitch. The vehicle mounted step assembly includes a platform portion and a tongue portion. The platform portion is pivotable with respect to the tongue portion between a lowered use position and a raised storage position. The platform portion is also slidable with respect to the tongue portion from a first configuration to a second configuration.

Abstract: The motorcycle foot support assembly has a foot support member, a rotation arm, a monolithic motorcycle-mounting bracket, and a releaseable bracket-to-arm locking mechanism. The rotation arm is attached between the inner surface of the foot support and the motorcycle-mounting bracket. The monolithic motorcycle-mounting bracket has a motorcycle-attachment portion and an arm-attachment portion, the latter portion for engagement with the rotation arm. The releaseable bracket-to-arm locking mechanism has an engagement pin that selectively engages with one of a plurality of predetermined stop holes whereby the releaseable bracket-to-arm locking mechanism may be selectively engaged to stop the relative rotation between the arm-attachment portion and the rotation-arm first end.

Abstract: The movable side step comprises a front frame and a rear frame being connected to a body frame of the lower portion of the vehicle, a guide bar and foothold being connected movably forward and backward to the front frame and the rear frame, and an rotating link and operating member and door connecting rod for operating guide bar and foothold according to the opening/shutting of a door of the vehicle. According to the movable side step, the vehicle may be driven more safely.

Abstract: A retractable step system for providing access to and from an elevated platform of a vehicle. The retractable step system is configured to move between a use position and a stowed position. The retractable step system comprises a pair of longitudinal rails which are extended when the system is in the use position and collapsed when the system is in the stowed position. The system further comprises an auxiliary platform assembly rotatably coupled near the platform, and a step structure coupled to the longitudinal rails for providing a user with an intermediate surface upon which to step.

Abstract: A stand for lifting the rear end of a motorcycle that comprises a supporting base, rolling wheels, and a leverage arm. The stand is placed under the motorcycle in front of the rear wheel and engages the swingarm near the rear axle. Operation is accomplished by pushing the leverage arm forward and downward to the ground. An adjustable bracket allows for adjustment of the stand for motorcycles of various heights or for lifting the same motorcycle to different heights as desired.

Abstract: A step assembly for a vehicle includes a base member and at least one movable member. The base member and the at least one movable member each define a stepping surface on which a vehicle user may elevate himself. The movable member is repositionable with respect to the base member to selectively alter the length of the step assembly.