Tire Step System and Method
Patent Number: US 9163456 Grant Date: 2015-10-20 Filing Date: 2014-03-07
Overview
Filed March 7, 2014 and granted October 20, 2015, this patent describes a mechanically robust step system designed to provide safe, repeatable access to service areas of heavy vehicles by mechanically interfacing with a vehicle tire. Inventors based in Shamrock, TX pursued a practical solution combining a wheeled frame, multiple fixed steps with OSHA-consistent spacing, handrails, and a hinged adjustable step that rotates to rest on the top portion of a tire. The adjustable element employs telescoping inner and outer tubing with indexed adjustment holes and fasteners for both horizontal and vertical positioning, and a bracket that secures against the tire sidewall for lateral stability. A wheel assembly on the frame facilitates transport and compact storage when the adjustable step is retracted.
The firm’s patent drafting captures the mechanical details and adjustability options that make the design versatile across different tire sizes and truck heights, while framing claims to protect the hinging engagement, telescoping adjustment, and the combination of portability with tire-mounted support.
Key Features
- Hinged adjustable step that engages a tire top for added support
- Telescoping inner/outer tubing with indexed fasteners for horizontal and vertical adjustment
- Wheeled frame and handrails for transport, storage, and user safety
By securing the mechanics of tire-engaged access, this innovation advances safer, more efficient maintenance operations for trucking and fleet service industries.
Invention Details
Abstract: A vehicle step is disclosed comprising a frame and a plurality of steps. Said vehicle step comprises a first side, a second side, a front, and a back. Said frame supports said plurality of steps. Said plurality of steps comprise, at least, a first step and an adjustable step. Said first step serves as a platform for a user of said vehicle step to gain access to said adjustable step. Said adjustable step comprises a one or more hinges. Said adjustable step is rotateably attached to said frame such that said back of said vehicle step can be placed near a wheel, and said adjustable step can rotate on said one or more hinges over and rest on a top portion of said wheel.
Background: BACKGROUND (1) The current disclosure relates generally to an improved tire step system and method. Examples of truck steps can be found in U.S. Patent or U.S. Pat. No. 5,669,463, Ser. No. 10/905,670, D376,784, Ser. No. 12/404,639, U.S. Pat. No. 6,044,928. None of the known patents are seen to anticipate the current claims. SUMMARY (2) A vehicle step is disclosed comprising a frame and a plurality of steps. Said vehicle step comprises a first side, a second side, a front, and a back. Said frame supports said plurality of steps. Said plurality of steps comprise, at least, a first step and an adjustable step. Said first step serves as a platform for a user of said vehicle step to gain access to said adjustable step. Said adjustable step comprises a one or more hinges. Said adjustable step is rotateably attached to said frame such that said back of said vehicle step can be placed near a wheel, and said adjustable step can rotate on said one or more hinges over and rest on a top portion of said wheel.
Patent Document
Related: Mechanical Engineering | Safety Systems | Transportation | Shamrock, Texas | Shannon Warren, Patent Attorney