Deployable Vehicle Step Assembly With Two-Way Latch Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Utility vehicles, such as agricultural vehicles, are elevated above the ground, making it difficult for operators to access and exit comfortably, and existing step assemblies do not provide intuitive and efficient deployment mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A movable frame step assembly with a latch mechanism and a two-way actuation lever that allows the frame to transition between stowed and deployed positions, facilitated by a latch mechanism that can be unlocked in both pulling and pushing directions, and optionally assisted by gas springs, hydraulic or pneumatic actuators, or electric actuators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the utility vehicle is elevated above the ground, then the vehicle has improved stability and ground clearance, but it becomes difficult for operators to access and exit comfortably
Solution Approach 1:
The step assembly is designed to be movable between a stowed position (close to the vehicle body) and a deployed position (extended outward). The frame can be manually or automatically positioned to provide steps at optimal heights and angles, making the high vehicle accessible while maintaining stability during operation
2Ease of operation
If the step assembly is deployed to provide easy access, then operator accessibility is improved, but the assembly increases in size and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The step assembly is divided into modular components including a frame, multiple steps, a latch mechanism, and actuation levers. Each component serves a specific function and can be independently manufactured and assembled, reducing overall complexity while providing deployed accessibility
Solution Approach 2:
The step assembly transitions from a compact stowed configuration to a deployed working configuration. This dynamic capability allows the assembly to provide easy access when needed while maintaining a compact profile during transport, effectively managing the complexity-size tradeoff
3Reliability
If a latch mechanism is added to secure the step assembly, then reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed to automatically engage and disengage based on the position of the step assembly. When the frame reaches the deployed or stowed position, the latch self-activates to secure it, eliminating the need for manual locking operations and reducing operational complexity while maintaining high reliability
4Ease of operation
If a two-way actuation lever is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation lever serves multiple functions: it can be pulled from the ground to deploy the steps, pushed from the vehicle to stow the steps, and provides tactile feedback indicating the locked position. This multi-functional design consolidates multiple operations into a single intuitive component, improving ease of use while managing complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A step assembly for providing ingress to and egress from a utility vehicle. The step assembly includes a movable frame, a latch, and an actuation lever. The movable frame supports a plurality of steps and is configured to be movable relative to the utility vehicle between a stowed position and a deployed position. The latch is configured to selectively lock the movable frame in the stowed position and the deployed position. The actuation lever is operatively coupled to the latch and configured to unlock the movable frame from the stowed position to allow movement of the movable frame towards the deployed position. The actuation lever is also configured to unlock the movable frame from the deployed position to allow movement of the movable frame towards the stowed position.