US Patent 10508484 Auto-lock folding prop rod

An auto-lock prop rod for a vehicle includes a folding rod having at least two section rod sections, wherein the folding rod includes a first rod section having a first end pivotally connected to an engine compartment opening and a second rod section having a first end pivotally connected to a hood. At least one pivotable joint is mechanically connected between a second end of the first rod section and a second end of the second rod section, wherein the at least one pivotable joint is configured to axially rotate to a locked position when the hood is moved from a closed position to an fully open position.