Patent ID: 6375207
Filing Date: 2002-04-23
Classification: B60R

Abstract:
A retractable running board assembly comprising:a step having an elongated stepping surface extending generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of a vehicle; at least two spaced apart mounting brackets configured for connection to an underside of the vehicle and generally parallel to the longitudinal axis thereof; a first elongated shaft rotatably mounted to each of the mounting brackets and extending longitudinally parallel to said step; a second elongated shaft rotatably mounted to each of said mounting brackets and spaced from and generally parallel to said first shaft; a step pivot arm assembly extending between opposing first and second ends extending transverse to said longitudinal axis with said first end fixedly mounted to said step; a first pivot link having a first end fixedly secured to said first shaft and an opposing second end rotatably journaled to said second end of said step pivot arm assembly: a second pivot link having a first end fixedly secured to said second shaft and an opposing second end rotatably journaled to said pivot arm assembly between said first and second ends thereof wherein rotation of one of said shafts effects lateral movement of said step transverse to said longitudinal axis between an extended outboard position and a retracted inboard position; a motor, mounted for support on one of said mounting brackets, said motor operatively coupled to one of said shafts whereby energizing said motor selectively effects said movement of said step between said extended outboard position and said retracted inboard position; and at least two spaced apart and generally parallel pivot arm assemblies operatively coupled to said first and second shafts and fixedly mounted to said step.