Linkage-driven power step
AssigneeActuant Corporation
InventorBorivoj Krobot
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A movable step apparatus that includes a mounting frame, at least one step, and a rotary drive mechanism is provided. The movable step apparatus also includes a drive link and a follower link. The drive link is operatively connected to the drive mechanism to move the at least one step between retracted and extended positions. The follower link is pivotally connected to the drive link and pivotally connected to the at least one step. The follower link drives the at least one step to extend and retract the at least one step. The movable step apparatus further includes at least one link pivotally connecting the at least one step to the mounting frame to move between the retracted and extended positions.
Claims20
A movable step apparatus, comprising:
- a mounting frame;
- at least one step;
- a rotary drive mechanism;
- a drive link operatively connected to the drive mechanism to move the at least one step between retracted and extended positions;
- a follower link pivotally connected to the drive link and pivotally connected to the at least one step;
- at least one link pivotally connecting the at least one step to the mounting frame to move between the retracted and extended positions;
- and
- wherein the follower link drives the at least one step to extend and retract the at least one step.
A movable step apparatus, comprising:
- a mounting frame including a cylindrical stop that is pivotally connected to the mounting frame;
- at least one step;
- a drive motor;
- a drive link rotated by the drive motor to move the at least one step between retracted and extended positions;
- a follower link pivotally connected to the drive link and pivotally connected to a rear end of the at least one step, and the follower link including a free end with a guide surface that engages the cylindrical stop as the step approaches the extended position;
- at least one link pivotally connecting the at least one step to the frame to move between the retracted and extended positions;
- and
- wherein the follower link drives the rear end of the at least one step so as to extend and retract the at least one step.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.