Patent attributes
A step device and method for stepping on or off a tailgate without structurally altering the tailgate. In exemplary embodiment, the step device includes a tailgate step frame and a step assembly pivotally coupled to the tailgate step frame. The tailgate step frame includes at least one frame element in contact with the tailgate and a plurality of strap mounting assemblies for releasably coupling the step device to the tailgate. Each strap mounting assembly compressively fits on the tailgate thereby anchoring the step device to the tailgate. In one aspect, each strap mounting assembly further includes a strap element coupled to the at least one frame element and configured to conform to the predetermined shape of the tailgate. One strap mounting assembly may be interchanged for another of either different shape or dimensions to accommodate a desired compressive fit on any tailgate.
