Linear Actuator Running Board with Worm Gear Backlash Elimination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing running board systems for vehicles lack a seamless transition between stowed, cab entry, and box side step positions, often resulting in a cluttered appearance and inadequate access to the vehicle's box, with existing solutions failing to provide efficient and backlash-free linear motion.
Innovation Solution
A running board assembly with a linear actuator system, including a motor, worm gear, and ball screw mechanism, coupled with an electronic control unit, which converts rotary input to linear motion, allowing the running board to move between stowed, cab entry, and box side step positions while eliminating backlash and providing precise control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional running board system is used, then the running board can be positioned for cab entry, but it cannot provide seamless transition to box side step position, resulting in cluttered appearance and inadequate box access
Solution Approach 1:
The running board is designed with dynamic positioning capability, allowing it to move between multiple positions (stowed, cab entry, and box side step) based on user needs. The linear actuator enables the running board to transition smoothly between positions, providing adaptability while maintaining a clean appearance when stowed underneath the vehicle.
Solution Approach 2:
The running board system is segmented into distinct functional positions, with the ability to stop at intermediate positions. The linear actuator with backlash elimination allows precise positioning at different locations, enabling the running board to serve multiple functions (cab entry and box access) while maintaining aesthetic appearance when not in use.
2Ease of operation
If existing running board systems are used, then basic cab entry access is provided, but seamless transition between positions is lacking, resulting in inadequate box access
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides dynamic position transition capability, allowing the running board to move smoothly between stowed, cab entry, and box side step positions. The linear actuator enables on-demand positioning, improving ease of operation for both cab entry and box access while enhancing adaptability to different user needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The running board is designed with multi-functionality, serving as both a cab entry aid and a box side step. The linear actuator system enables the single running board to perform multiple functions by positioning it at different locations, eliminating the need for separate systems and improving overall operational efficiency.
3Manufacturing precision
If traditional actuator systems are used, then basic movement is achieved, but backlash occurs during position changes, resulting in imprecise positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional mechanical actuator system with potential backlash is replaced with a linear actuator that incorporates backlash elimination mechanisms. This substitution ensures precise positioning without the play or gap issues associated with conventional mechanical systems, improving both positioning precision and operational reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
A backlash elimination mechanism serves as an intermediary between the motor and the running board, ensuring that motion is transmitted without play or gap. This intermediary component maintains continuous contact and eliminates backlash, resulting in precise and reliable positioning at all desired locations.
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 system enables a clean, integrated appearance by hiding the running board when stowed, provides efficient user access to the cab, and offers extended side access to the vehicle's box with improved step length, while maintaining precise positioning and eliminating backlash.
Implementation Method 1
The housing assembly includes a zero backlash worm self locking member, to eliminate backlash of the running board when the running board is in the cab entry position, having a worm gear fixedly mounted on an end of a ball screw and a ball nut mounted along the ball screw for movement relative thereto.
Implementation Method 2
The linear actuator assembly converts rotary input to linear motion.
Data Source
AI summary
Running board assembly for a motor vehicle having a passenger cab and a box. The running board assembly includes a linear actuator assembly partly disposed within a housing assembly, a running board operably coupled to the linear actuator assembly and movable relative to the housing assembly between a stowed position tucked underneath the vehicle, a cab entry position generally outwardly from the vehicle to support a user entering or exiting the passenger cab, and a box side step disposed generally outwardly from the vehicle and rearward of the cab entry position to provide a user with side access to the box, and a motor operably coupled to the linear actuator assembly for driving the linear actuator assembly in opposing first and second directions. The linear actuator assembly converts rotary input to linear motion to cause a drive arm having a linkage assembly to move the running board between the positions.