Adjustable Truck Step With Hinged Wheel Rest
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing truck step systems do not effectively provide easy and stable access to serviceable areas of vehicles, particularly semi-trucks, as they lack adjustable features to accommodate varying wheel sizes and positions, leading to instability and limited accessibility.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle step system comprising a frame with multiple steps, including an adjustable step that can rotate and rest on a truck wheel, allowing for adjustable positioning and secure attachment to the vehicle, ensuring stability and ease of access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed step system is used, then the structure is simple and stable, but it cannot accommodate varying wheel sizes and positions, reducing adaptability
Solution Approach 1:
The step system incorporates an adjustable step with hinges that allow it to rotate and be positioned at different angles and heights. This dynamic configuration enables the step to adapt to various wheel sizes and positions while maintaining structural simplicity through the use of straightforward mechanical joints rather than complex adjustment mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustable step is added to accommodate varying wheel positions, then adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The step system is divided into discrete modular components: a fixed frame with stationary steps, and a separate adjustable step assembly. This segmentation allows the adjustable portion to be independently configured without affecting the overall structural integrity, enabling adaptability while keeping each component relatively simple in design.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable step serves multiple functions: it can be positioned at different angles to accommodate various wheel positions, and it can rest on different surfaces including the ground or the vehicle body. This multi-functionality is achieved through a universal hinge mechanism that provides flexibility without requiring multiple specialized components.
3Reliability
If the adjustable step is made to rotate and attach to the wheel, then accessibility and stability improve, but the ease of operation decreases due to manual adjustment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable step is designed to be self-supporting when positioned correctly. Once the user adjusts the step to the appropriate angle and position, the step's own weight and the hinge mechanism's geometry provide inherent stability without requiring additional locking mechanisms or active support systems. The step serves itself by maintaining its position through proper geometric configuration rather than complex fastening systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides enhanced accessibility and stability by allowing the adjustable step to rotate and securely attach to the truck wheel, accommodating different wheel sizes and positions, thereby improving user access to serviceable areas while maintaining stability during use and storage.
Implementation Method 1
Said adjustable step comprises a one or more hinges. Said adjustable step is rotateably attached to said frame such that said back of said vehicle step can be placed near a wheel, and said adjustable step can rotate on said one or more hinges over and rest on a top portion of said wheel.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle step is disclosed comprising a frame and a plurality of steps. Said vehicle step comprises a first side, a second side, a front, and a back. Said frame supports said plurality of steps. Said plurality of steps comprise, at least, a first step and an adjustable step. Said first step serves as a platform for a user of said vehicle step to gain access to said adjustable step. Said adjustable step comprises a one or more hinges. Said adjustable step is rotateably attached to said frame such that said back of said vehicle step can be placed near a wheel, and said adjustable step can rotate on said one or more hinges over and rest on a top portion of said wheel.