Selectively Deployable Step Member for Vehicle Accessibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicles with high ground clearance, such as pickup trucks and SUVs, present difficulties in accessing various parts like roof racks and engine compartments due to the inflexibility of traditional running boards.
Innovation Solution
A selectively deployable running board with a base member and a sliding step member, optionally powered by an electric motor, that can be adjusted along a longitudinal axis for enhanced accessibility, featuring a latch system and control module for deployment and locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional fixed running board is used, then the structure is simple and stable, but accessibility to high-clearance vehicle portions is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The running board incorporates a sliding mechanism that allows the step member to move along the longitudinal axis between multiple positions. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the running board to adapt to different access needs (roof rack, engine compartment, passenger entry) while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure based on a fixed base member with guide rails and positioning features.
2Ease of operation
If an adjustable running board is provided, then accessibility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The running board is divided into a fixed base member and a movable step member. The base member provides structural support and mounting, while the step member contains the adjustment mechanism. This segmentation allows the complexity to be isolated to a specific component rather than the entire system, making the adjustment mechanism more manageable and maintainable.
Solution Approach 2:
The step member can slide along the longitudinal axis to different positions and lock into place using engagement features such as teeth and pawls or latching mechanisms. This dynamic positioning capability provides ease of operation for accessing different vehicle portions while keeping the mechanical complexity relatively low through the use of simple guide rails and positioning features.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the step member is made selectively deployable, then versatility increases, but reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The step member is designed to be selectively deployable along the longitudinal axis with defined stowed and deployed positions. The guide rails and engagement features (teeth, pawls, or latches) ensure that when deployed, the step member locks into stable positions, providing structural stability. The system transitions between static (stowed or locked deployed) and dynamic (adjusting) states, maintaining reliability in both configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
A running board for a vehicle includes a base member mountable to a vehicle. The base member has a first end, a second end, and an intermediate portion extending therebetween defining a longitudinal axis. A selectively deployable step member is mounted to the base member. The selectively deployable step member is selectively slidable relative to the base member along the longitudinal axis.