Automated Vehicle Step Extension for SUV Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicles raised off the ground, such as pick-up trucks and SUVs, present difficulties in accessing the vehicle cab due to elevated ground clearance, necessitating additional step assemblies for safe entry and access.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle step system with a bracket-mounted step member and a power mechanism, comprising motors and transmission shafts, that automatically extends and retracts based on door sensor signals, providing a safe and convenient access point.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If vehicles are raised off the ground to increase ground clearance, then vehicle stability and off-road capability are improved, but accessibility to the vehicle cab deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle step assembly is segmented into multiple components: a bracket mounted to the vehicle, a step member that rotates relative to the bracket, and a power mechanism with motor and transmission shaft. This segmentation allows the step to be independently controlled and positioned, providing accessibility without affecting the overall vehicle stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The step assembly acts as an intermediary element between the ground and the vehicle cab. By introducing this intermediate structure with rotational movement capability, users can safely access the vehicle cab without requiring direct contact with the elevated vehicle body, thus resolving the accessibility issue while maintaining vehicle ground clearance.
2Ease of operation
If a fixed step assembly is installed on the vehicle, then accessibility is improved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The step member is designed to rotate between a retracted position (flush with vehicle body) and an extended position (protruding for stepping). This dynamic capability allows the step to provide accessibility when needed while maintaining a streamlined, low-complexity appearance when not in use, reducing visual and functional complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket serves multiple functions: it mounts the step member to the vehicle, provides structural support, and acts as a pivot point for rotation. The power mechanism integrates motor, transmission shaft, and control functions in a compact unit. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
3Ease of operation
If an automatic power mechanism is added to extend and retract the step, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power mechanism is controlled by a sensor that automatically detects when the vehicle door is opened. Upon detection, the motor automatically extends the step member to the required position without user intervention. When the door is closed, the step automatically retracts. This self-service operation minimizes user effort while the on-demand activation reduces unnecessary energy consumption compared to continuous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The power mechanism operates periodically based on door opening/closing events rather than continuously. The motor activates only when needed to extend or retract the step, consuming energy in discrete bursts rather than continuously, thereby reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle step for a vehicle is provided. The vehicle step includes a bracket, a first step member, a second step member, a first power mechanism and a second power mechanism. The first step member and the second step member are separately mounted on the bracket. The first power mechanism is electrically connected to the first step member and configured to drive the first step member to rotate from a first position to a second position. The second power mechanism is electrically connected to the second step member and configured to drive the second step member to rotate from the first position to the second position.