Collapsible Step Bar Four-Link Mechanism Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional collapsible step bars for vehicles have structural weaknesses and cannot be integrated seamlessly into the vehicle's appearance due to their single-axis structure, which compromises both ergonomic placement and aesthetic integration.
Innovation Solution
A four-link structure comprising a step bar body, bracket, first and second links, and a pin with a spring and locking mechanism allows for smooth rotation between closed and open states, enhancing structural strength and integration while maintaining a smooth appearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single-axis structure is used for the collapsible step bar, then the step bar can be positioned ergonomically, but the chassis and step bar cannot form an integral and smooth appearance
Solution Approach 1:
The step bar structure is segmented into multiple components: the step bar body, bracket, first link, second link, and pin. This segmentation allows the step bar to achieve complex motion paths that enable both ergonomic positioning and seamless integration with the vehicle chassis appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-axis rotation to a four-link mechanism that operates in multiple dimensions. The first and second links provide rotational degrees of freedom about different axes, enabling the step bar to achieve positions that maintain aesthetic integration while preserving ergonomic functionality.
2Device complexity
If a single-axis structure is used for the collapsible step bar, then the structure is simpler, but the structural strength is weaker
Solution Approach 1:
The four-link mechanism merges multiple structural elements (step bar body, bracket, first link, second link) into a unified system. This combination distributes mechanical loads across multiple components and connection points, significantly enhancing the overall structural strength compared to a single-axis design.
Solution Approach 2:
The step bar employs a composite structure combining multiple rigid links connected by pinned joints. This composite arrangement creates a mechanically robust system that leverages the strength of each individual component while maintaining controlled flexibility for ergonomic positioning.
3Ease of manufacture
If the step bar is integrally formed on the chassis, then cost-efficiency is improved, but ergonomic positioning is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the static integral structure with a dynamic four-link mechanism. This dynamic system allows the step bar to adjust its position ergonomically while maintaining aesthetic integration, overcoming the limitations of both integral and traditional collapsible designs.
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 four-link structure provides improved structural strength and seamless integration into the vehicle's design, allowing for ergonomic placement without compromising the vehicle's integral appearance.
Implementation Method 1
a first spring disposed on the pin for providing a force for the rotation of the pin and the first link
Implementation Method 2
a locking member operably disposed on the pin. When the locking member is in a first position, it is adapted to restrict the rotation of the pin. When the locking member is in a second position, it is adapted to allow the rotation of the pin
Implementation Method 3
a damper disposed on the pin, for control of the opening speed of the step bar body
Data Source
AI summary
A collapsible step bar comprising a step bar body, a bracket, a first link, a second link and a pin is provided. The step bar body comprises a first shaft and a second shaft in a front end of the step bar body. The bracket is disposed adjacent the step bar body. The first link comprises a first end and a second end, and the second link comprises a first end and a second end respectively. Both the first ends of the first link and the second link are pivotably disposed on the bracket, and both the second ends of the first link and the second link are pivotably disposed on the first shaft and the second shaft of the step bar body respectively. The pin pivotably connects to the bracket and the first link for control of a rotation of the first link, such that the step bar body is rotatable into a closed state or an opened state.