Articulated Step Chock for High-Clearance Vehicle Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for stabilizing vehicles during emergency rescue operations are limited in versatility, often requiring extensive time and risk due to their inability to adapt to varying vehicle heights and are prone to failure if components are not properly installed, especially in high-clearance vehicles and contaminated environments.
Innovation Solution
A step chock apparatus with a first leg and a second leg, capable of three configurations ('Step up', 'Wedge up', and 'Toe up') that allows for adjustable positioning and secure stabilization of vehicles by providing multiple contact points and angles, utilizing hinges and locking mechanisms for stability and adaptability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If cribbing is stacked to stabilize high-clearance vehicles, then the vehicle height can be accommodated, but the stability decreases due to additional slip surfaces and increased susceptibility to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The step chock employs an articulated structure with movable joints that allows the device to dynamically adapt to different vehicle heights and ground conditions. The legs can pivot and adjust their configuration, transforming from a static stacked structure into a dynamic, self-adjusting stabilization system that maintains reliability across varying heights.
Solution Approach 2:
The step chock is divided into multiple articulated legs that can be independently positioned and configured. This segmentation allows each leg to be optimized for specific contact points on the vehicle, distributing the stabilization function across multiple segments rather than relying on a single tall stacked structure.
2Reliability
If multiple vehicles are used to stabilize a vehicle, then stability can be achieved, but the complexity and resource requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The step chock is designed as a universal stabilization device that can be used on various vehicle types and configurations without requiring additional resources or complex arrangements. A single step chock unit performs the function that previously required multiple vehicles, simplifying the overall system while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The step chock combines multiple stabilization functions into a single integrated device. The articulated legs, support surfaces, and locking mechanisms are merged into one cohesive unit that provides both height adjustment and stability, eliminating the need for separate stabilization components or multiple vehicles.
3Ease of operation
If conventional step chocks are used, then simple placement is possible, but versatility is limited to two positions and one orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The step chock's articulated legs enable dynamic reconfiguration between multiple positions and orientations while maintaining ease of operation. The movable joints allow the device to adapt its configuration based on the specific stabilization needs, providing versatility without complicating the placement process.
Solution Approach 2:
The step chock adds dimensional flexibility by allowing legs to pivot and extend in multiple directions. This transforms the device from a fixed two-position system into a multi-dimensional configuration system that can adapt to various vehicle heights, angles, and ground conditions while retaining operational simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A step chock for stabilizing a vehicle or other object against undesirable movement, such as, during a rescue operation. Embodiments for a step chock includes having two leg portions, one of which angularly rotates with respect to the second with a lever to lock the two leg portions at a specific angle. The step chock is usable in three positions including where the stair-stepped top surfaces of the two leg portions are forced under the vehicle, where the top surfaces of the two leg portions are against the ground and the bottom surfaces are forced under the vehicle, and where the rear surfaces of the two leg portions against the ground and the front surfaces of the two leg portions are forced under the vehicle. Further, the step chock is usable as a fulcrum for a lever and a lever adaptor to lift a vehicle.