Adjustable Vehicle Side Step with Ratcheting L-Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
High clearance vehicles present a height barrier for easy entry into the passenger compartment, as existing side bars with integrated steps are often too high and not adjustable, disrupting the vehicle's aesthetics and requiring two points of attachment.
Innovation Solution
A moveable side step system with L-shaped supports and adjustable attachment points to the vehicle chassis, allowing the step to be lowered or raised for different users, maintaining a sleek appearance and providing a stable entry point.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a step is built into the side bar, then entry assistance is provided, but the step is too high off the ground to permit easy entry
Solution Approach 1:
The step is made moveable relative to the side bar through a telescoping mechanism with multiple engagement positions. The step can be lowered to a lower engagement position closer to the ground for easier entry, or raised to a higher engagement position on the side bar itself. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction by allowing the step height to be changed based on user needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The side bar is divided into multiple engagement positions along its length, allowing the step to be positioned at different heights. The step can engage at a first position closer to the ground for easy entry or at a second position higher up on the side bar. This segmentation enables the step height to be optimized for different user requirements.
2Ease of operation
If a step is built into the side bar, then entry assistance is provided, but the step visually disrupts the lean line and streamlined appearance of the bar
Solution Approach 1:
The step can be positioned at different heights along the side bar, including a higher engagement position where it is less visually disruptive to the streamlined appearance. When aesthetic appearance is prioritized, the step can be raised to the higher position while still providing entry assistance when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The step is designed as a separate, removable component that can be detached from the side bar when not in use. This allows the side bar to maintain its clean, uninterrupted aesthetic appearance while the step is stored or removed, and the step can be attached when entry assistance is needed.
3Stability of the object's composition
If side bars are permanently affixed, then structural stability is provided, but adjustment for different users is not permitted
Solution Approach 1:
The step is designed with multiple engagement positions along the side bar and can be securely fastened at each position. This allows different users to adjust the step to their preferred height while maintaining structural stability through secure engagement mechanisms. The system transitions from a fixed configuration to an adjustable one that preserves stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The side bar system is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides structural protection, aesthetic enhancement, and adjustable entry assistance. The multiple engagement positions allow the same side bar to accommodate users of different heights and preferences, making the system universally adaptable while maintaining stability through consistent structural design.
4Reliability
If hoop configurations with two points of attachment are used, then secure mounting is provided, but aesthetic appeal is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The step is designed as a separate component that can be attached to the side bar at discrete engagement positions. This eliminates the need for visible hoop configurations that require two attachment points, as the step can be mounted more cleanly at single or fewer attachment points. The mounting hardware can be concealed or minimized to preserve aesthetic appeal while maintaining secure mounting.
Solution Approach 2:
The step uses a telescoping mechanism with engagement positions that allow for secure mounting without requiring visible hoop configurations. The engagement mechanism can be designed to be concealed within the side bar structure or step design, providing secure attachment while maintaining a clean, aesthetically pleasing appearance from external viewing angles.
Data Source
AI summary
A side bar and steps attached to the side attached to a vehicle or to the side of the vehicle by gears, ratcheting teeth or other movable engagement to the side bar or vehicle. A step is constructed by attaching a curved or flat member to the top of an L-shaped support bar that is in turn connected to the side bar or vehicle. The steps are movably affixed to the side bar or vehicle via ratcheting teeth or gearing. The L-shaped supports have a plurality of engagement points so that the step can be adjusted upward and downward using the different attachment points on the gear or ratchet. In this manner steps can be moved for different users depending on the height of the vehicle or user preference. The L-shaped support bars may be flared outward and provided with a plate for mounting the step thereon.