CPC B60R 3/02 (2013.01) | 20 Claims |
1. A deploying stepway for a vehicle, the deploying stepway comprising:
a step assembly comprising a plurality of steps and a step frame that is pivotally coupled to and supports the plurality of steps, wherein the step frame comprises a pivot assembly positioned along a length of the step frame, wherein the step assembly includes a proximal portion defined on one side of the pivot assembly and a distal portion defined on the other side of the pivot assembly, wherein the pivot assembly is configured to permit the proximal portion and the distal portion to selectively pivot relative to one another about the pivot assembly; and
a guide frame configured to be secured to the vehicle and to selectively receive and support the step assembly;
wherein the deploying stepway is configured to be selectively transitioned among a plurality of stepway configurations that comprises:
a stair configuration in which the step assembly extends from the guide frame at a declined stair angle and in which the proximal portion and the distal portion of the step assembly are at least substantially aligned with one another;
a ladder configuration in which the distal portion of the step assembly is pivoted about the pivot assembly relative to the proximal portion of the step assembly and extends from the guide frame at a declined ladder angle; and
a stowed configuration in which the proximal portion and the distal portion are at least substantially aligned with one another and at least a substantial portion of the step assembly is received within the guide frame.
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