Adjustable Vehicle Running Board with Aero Position
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fixed running boards on larger vehicles disrupt airflow, reduce ground clearance, and increase aerodynamic drag, while retractable boards do not significantly improve aerodynamics or fuel efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable running board that can be moved between a step position for easy entry/exit, a retracted position for increased clearance, and an aero position to improve aerodynamics, using a linkage mechanism and slideout to optimize vehicle performance based on speed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed running board is used, then passenger accessibility is improved, but aerodynamic drag increases and ground clearance is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The running board is designed to be dynamically adjustable between multiple positions (extended, retracted, and intermediate angles) rather than fixed. The linkage mechanism allows the board to change its configuration based on vehicle speed and operational needs, optimizing both accessibility and aerodynamics at different operating conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the positional parameters of the running board based on vehicle speed. At low speeds, the board extends to provide step assistance; at high speeds, it retracts or angles to minimize aerodynamic drag, thus adapting parameters to operating conditions
2Ease of operation
If a fixed running board is used, then passenger accessibility is improved, but ground clearance is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The running board transitions from a static fixed structure to a dynamic adjustable structure that can retract toward the vehicle body, thereby increasing ground clearance while maintaining accessibility when needed
3Length of stationary object
If a retractable running board is used, then ground clearance is improved, but aerodynamic drag is not significantly reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides dynamic control over the running board's position and angle, allowing it to fully retract or angle backward at high speeds to minimize aerodynamic disruption, going beyond simple retraction to active aerodynamic optimization
Solution Approach 2:
The running board system adjusts multiple parameters including extension distance, angle relative to the vehicle body, and retraction speed based on vehicle velocity, enabling optimal aerodynamic performance at different operating conditions
4Ease of operation
If a fixed running board is used, then passenger accessibility is improved, but device complexity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The running board system is divided into separate functional components: the board itself, the linkage mechanism for position control, the slideout for aerodynamic adjustment, and the control system. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component while maintaining overall functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage mechanism acts as an intermediary between the vehicle body and the running board, providing controlled movement and positioning. This intermediary structure enables complex motion patterns while isolating the complexity from both the vehicle mounting system and the board structure
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable vehicle running board includes a step moveable between a step position, a retracted position and an aero position. A first support bracket has a first end coupled to the step and an opposite second end connected to a mounting bracket. A slide link has a first end slideably connected to the first support bracket and an opposite second end pivotally connected to the step. The first end of the slide link is moveable along a length of the first support bracket and positionable at a first slide link distance from the second end of the first support bracket when the step is arranged in the step position and a second slide link distance from the second end of the first support bracket when the step is arranged in the aero position. The first slide link distance being greater than the second slide link distance.