Modular Running Board Adaptation for Variable Wheel Bases
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional running boards are not adaptable to vehicles with different wheel bases, as they are typically designed for specific wheel base lengths, limiting their usability across various vehicle configurations.
Innovation Solution
A modular running board system comprising interchangeable long and short boards connected via a coupling piece, allowing for flexible attachment to vehicles with different wheel bases, including those with two, four, or two and a half doors, using flanges for secure mounting and modular steps for easy access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional running boards are manufactured for a specific wheel base length, then they provide proper fit and function for that specific vehicle type, but they cannot be used with vehicles having different wheel base lengths
Solution Approach 1:
The running board is divided into multiple modular sections (first long board, second long board, short board) that can be independently selected and combined. Each section is designed with standardized coupling pieces that allow them to be assembled in different configurations to match various wheel base lengths, transforming a single fixed-length board into a adaptable modular system.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling pieces are designed as universal connectors that can join different board sections together in multiple configurations. The same coupling piece can connect two long boards for extended wheel bases, or connect a long board to a short board for intermediate wheel bases, creating a multi-functional connection system that serves various vehicle types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single running board design is used for all vehicle types, then device complexity is reduced, but it cannot properly accommodate vehicles with different wheel base lengths
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of manufacturing one complex adjustable board, the system segments the running board into multiple standardized sections that can be produced using simpler, more consistent manufacturing processes. Each section is designed for optimal fit and function, allowing mass production of individual components that are then assembled to match specific vehicle requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows adjustment of the running board length by changing the combination of standardized sections rather than manufacturing completely different boards for each vehicle type. This parameter change approach maintains manufacturing simplicity while achieving adaptability through modular reconfiguration.
3Reliability
If running boards are customized for each specific wheel base length, then optimal fit and function are achieved, but inventory requirements and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The running board system segments the total length into standardized modular sections (first long board, second long board, short board) that can be combined in different quantities and arrangements. This segmentation allows a limited inventory of standard sections to create multiple final configurations, reducing the need to manufacture and store complete running boards for every possible wheel base length.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular sections are designed to nest together through standardized coupling pieces, where smaller sections can be combined with larger sections to create intermediate lengths. This nesting approach allows a compact inventory of basic sections to generate a wide range of final running board lengths, minimizing inventory variety while maintaining proper fit for different vehicles.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular running board adaptable for use with various types of vehicles having different wheel bases. In a first embodiment, the running board includes a first long board and a second long board connectable to a pick-up truck having crew cab or quad cab with four full doors. In another embodiment, the first long board is connected to a short board, and both the long board and short board are connected to a pick-up truck having an extended cab, with two full doors and two half-doors. In either of the first two embodiments, a coupling piece is used for connecting the first long board to the second long board, or the first long board to the short board. In yet another embodiment, only the first long board is connected to a vehicle, such as a pickup truck having a regular cab with two full doors only.