Kentucky Patent of the Month – November 2022
Tailgates and trailer trucks are great for loading and transporting cargo. Some tailgates are designed with a hinge connection so they can lower and act as a ramp. While this might help reduce the strain during loading and unloading, the act of lowering and raising the tailgate itself can be strenuous. Backsaver International, Inc. (Gorilla-Lift) are experts in preventing this strain.
The company has designed a tailgate lifter that prevents the user from needing to support the full weight of the tailgate. The patented system can be attached to any trailer. The adjustable design ensures lightweight tailgates won’t pop off the ground and heavier tailgates won’t slam. In fact, as long as the adjustment is correct, most tailgates will float up and down as you move them and stay in position when left alone.
The design is readily attached to the trailer by latching the rear post support to the trailer side-rail. This connection is designed to withstand high pound force and excessive cargo weights. Some tailgates themselves weigh in excess of 200 pounds, which means the connector must be biased and tensioned in a way so that users can easily raise and lower the tailgate. A combination of collar and turnbuckle adjustments help to bias the spring as needed for the tailgate. The company’s solution saves both the user’s back and reduces wear and tear on the tailgate.
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