Multi-Angle Extendable Trailer Step Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer hitch step assemblies lack adjustability in height and angle, leading to inconvenient and potentially dangerous access to trailers, especially for recreational vehicles, as they do not accommodate varying user positions or tasks effectively.
Innovation Solution
A multi-angle, extendable, and selectively height-adjustable step assembly that includes a mounting bracket, a pivotable and extensible extension member, and a step with a non-slip surface, allowing for adjustable positioning and length to support users safely and conveniently, featuring a range of motion and locking mechanisms for secure attachment to trailers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-step assembly is mounted to the trailer hitch, then the structure is simple and cost-effective, but the step cannot be adjusted to different heights or angles for various user needs
Solution Approach 1:
The step assembly incorporates a telescopic extension member with multiple extendable sections that can be adjusted to different lengths, and a pivotable connection that allows the step to be positioned at various angles. This dynamic adjustability enables the step to adapt to different user heights and access requirements while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through the use of standard mechanical components such as telescopic sections with locking mechanisms and pivot joints.
2Ease of operation
If the step is made extendable and adjustable to multiple positions, then user access is improved, but the mechanism becomes more complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The extension member is divided into multiple telescopic sections that can be independently extended and locked at different positions. Each section uses simple locking mechanisms such as pins or clips that engage with corresponding slots or notches, allowing the step to be extended in discrete increments without requiring complex continuous adjustment mechanisms. This segmentation provides multiple fixed positions that are sufficient for most access needs while keeping each individual locking mechanism simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The step assembly incorporates spring-loaded or gravity-assisted locking mechanisms that automatically engage when the telescopic sections are extended to a desired position, eliminating the need for manual locking operations. The pivot connection also features automatic locking at predetermined angles through detent mechanisms, allowing users to simply position the step and have it self-lock into place, thereby simplifying operation.
3Reliability
If a multi-position step is used, then safety is improved by providing proper foot support, but the device requires more components and assembly steps
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket, extension member, pivot connection, and step surface are integrated into a single unified assembly that functions as one cohesive unit. The mounting bracket incorporates both the pivot connection point and the attachment mechanism for the telescopic extension member, eliminating the need for separate components. This merging reduces the total number of parts that need to be assembled and maintained while ensuring that all safety-critical functions are provided by the integrated structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The step assembly is designed to perform multiple functions within a single device: it provides a stable mounting interface to the trailer hitch, enables telescopic extension to multiple lengths, allows pivoting to various angles, and offers a non-slip standing surface. By combining these functions into one multi-functional assembly rather than using separate devices for each function, the overall component count is reduced while maintaining comprehensive safety and adjustability features.
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 solution enhances safety and convenience by providing a customizable step that minimizes the risk of injury and damage, allowing users to access trailers with optimal support and ease, regardless of the task or position, while maintaining functionality and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
The extension member may selectively pivot with respect to the mounting bracket through a range of motion comprising a first position and a second position
Data Source
AI summary
This invention relates to mounted, adjustable steps for vehicles and, in particular, to a multi-angle, extendable, and selectively height-adjustable step that can be mounted to a trailer such as a boat trailer, a camping trailer, trailers for all-terrain vehicles and motorcycles, and the like. The adjustable step assembly of the present invention includes a mounting bracket, an extension member, and a step. The extension member includes a first end and a second end. The first end of the extension member being pivotably connect to the mounting bracket to facilitate selective pivoting with respect to the mounting bracket through a range of motion including a first position and a second position being higher than the first position. The step may be connected to the second end of the extension member and configured to provide at least a first stepping area and a second stepping area when the extension member is selectively positioned in the first and second positions, respectively. In one embodiment, the first and second stepping areas are substantially equivalent in surface area and aspect ratio.