Retractable Side Bar Step Assembly for Lifted Truck Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicles with raised floors present challenges for easy entry and exit, and existing side bars or nerf bars often compromise aesthetics or require structural support, while deployable running boards fail to meet the needs of extremely lifted trucks.
Innovation Solution
A combination side bar and vehicle step assembly that includes a side bar mounted to a vehicle with a retractable step, allowing the step to be deployed below and outboard of the side bar, stowed at a low level, and concealed within the side bar for improved aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If side bars are mounted high to provide ground clearance and aesthetics, then vehicle aesthetics and ground clearance are improved, but user access difficulty increases due to high stepping position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a retractable step mechanism that allows the stepping platform to dynamically change position between a stowed position (high, behind side bar) and a deployed position (low, below side bar). This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction by providing both aesthetic appearance during normal operation and easy user access when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the side bar assembly into two functional components: the fixed side bar structure (aesthetic element) and the retractable step mechanism (functional element). This segmentation allows each component to perform its primary function independently while working together as an integrated system.
2Ease of operation
If deployable running boards are extended to provide low stepping position, then user access ease is improved, but vehicle aesthetics deteriorate due to visible running board structure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nesting design where the retractable step mechanism is concealed within the side bar structure when in the stowed position. The step platform and linkage components are hidden inside the side bar's internal cavity, making the assembly appear as a clean, aesthetic side bar without visible mechanical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The side bar acts as an intermediary structure that mediates between the aesthetic requirement (clean appearance) and the functional requirement (retractable step). The side bar's internal cavity serves as the intermediary space that houses the step mechanism while maintaining external aesthetic appearance.
3Adaptability or versatility
If retractable step mechanism is added to side bar assembly, then user access flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional linkage and mounting components
Solution Approach 1:
The side bar assembly is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as an aesthetic trim piece and as a housing for the retractable step mechanism. The mounting brackets and linkage components are integrated into the side bar structure, allowing the same assembly to provide both visual appeal and functional access assistance.
Data Source
AI summary
A retractable step and side bar assembly that can be used for raised vehicles, such as trucks. The retractable step can be configured to provide for significant reach in a deployed position to allow for a user to enter the raised vehicle. Further, in the stowed position the retractable step can be located within the side bar, thereby providing a low profile as well as an enhanced aesthetic appearance.