Retractable Hitch Step: Dynamics for Access and Injury Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle hitch steps are not retractable, forcing users to constantly install and remove them, which is cumbersome and poses a risk of injury from accidental contact when left in place.
Innovation Solution
A retractable hitch-mounted step system that includes a movable step supported by left-hand and right-hand side brackets, with a mechanical fastener and spring pin mechanism for easy extension and retraction, allowing the step to be safely stored under the vehicle when not in use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the step is left in place to provide easy access to the vehicle, then ease of operation is improved, but it protrudes from the rear where people can accidentally bang their shins upon it, causing harmful effects
Solution Approach 1:
The step is designed to be movable between an extended position (providing ease of access) and a retracted position (eliminating injury risk). The dynamic configuration allows the step to adapt between two states: extended for use and retracted for safety, resolving the contradiction between accessibility and harm prevention.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the step is constantly placed and removed to avoid injury risk, then harmful factors are reduced, but the operation becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring constant installation and removal, the step is designed as a dynamically configurable component that can be easily moved between extended and retracted positions. This eliminates the cumbersome repeated installation/removal operation while maintaining the ability to avoid injury risk when needed.
3Strength
If the step is made heavy for durability, then strength is improved, but it becomes more difficult to move and install
Solution Approach 1:
The step is designed with sufficient strength for durability while incorporating movable features (slides, tracks, spring pins) that enable easy transition between extended and retracted positions. The structural integrity is maintained through proper material selection and design, while the movable configuration reduces the effort required to reposition the step.
Data Source
AI summary
A deployable step capable of being secured about an exterior portion of a vehicle hitch frame. On the underside portion of the hitch frame is a step capable of being slid beneath the hitch frame when not in use. During a towing event, the deployable step is able to remain secured to the hitch frame without being removed.