Patent attributes
A retractable step assembly for use with a vehicle includes a mounting bracket for mounting the assembly in an operative position to the vehicle, a step pivotally connected to the mounting bracket so as to pivot about a substantially vertical pivot axis, a guide member provided on the step and movably mounted to the mounting bracket, and a lock assembly. The guide member is configured to rotate about and translate axially along the pivot axis relative to the mounting bracket to allow the step to be moved between a retracted position and an extended position. The lock assembly includes a lock movable between a locked position locking the guide member against movement relative to the mounting bracket, and an unlocked position permitting the guide member to rotate about the pivot axis and translate axially along the pivot axis relative to the mounting bracket.
