Patent ID: 7354090
Filing Date: 2008-04-08
Classification: B60N,B60P

Abstract:
1. A supportive device for attachment to the tailgate of motor vehicles, including pick-up trucks having a tailgate being rotatable between open and closed positions, with the tailgate having a top surface and a vertically-extending rear edge in its open position, wherein said supportive device provides enhanced utility of the tailgate when in the open position for recreational and work-related applications, said supportive device comprising: at least one proximal panel having a planar upper surface; a distal panel having a planar upper surface, a distal end, and an opposed proximal end, with said proximal end having a bracing configuration shaped for overlaying a portion of the tailgate top surface; hinging means adapted for pivotally connecting said at least one proximal panel and said distal panel so that said distal panel is capable of moving relative to said at least one proximal panel from a compact storage position to at least one opened position, said hinging means located in a position above the tailgate top surface a spaced-apart distance from the vertically-extending rear edge of the tailgate that in combination with said bracing configuration creates the sheer load against said hinging means and the tailgate needed to allow self-supporting use of distal panel under heavy load; and fastening means adapted for attaching said at least one proximal panel to the top surface of the tailgate whereby when said at least one proximal panel is attached to the top surface of the tailgate, said planar upper surface of said distal panel provides a weight-bearing extension for the open tailgate without the use of any additional mechanical support connected to said distal panel.