Retractable Sidestep Spring Deployment for Toolbox Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional running boards on vehicles do not provide a solid surface for easy access to toolboxes in truck beds or roof-mounted equipment, making it difficult and time-consuming to retrieve items from these locations.
Innovation Solution
A retractable sidestep assembly with a latch mechanism and spring deployment system that rotates out from a stowed position to a deployed position, providing an extended, wider step surface for ergonomic access to toolboxes and roof racks, which can be easily deployed and stowed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional running boards are located inward towards the side of the vehicle, then the vehicle structure remains simple, but they do not provide a solid surface for the user to stand on while accessing the toolbox
Solution Approach 1:
The running board is designed as a retractable mechanism that can extend outward to provide a solid standing surface when needed, and retract inward when not in use. This dynamic structure allows the board to transition between a compact state (maintaining simple vehicle structure) and an extended state (providing ease of access to the toolbox), directly resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and operational ease.
2Ease of operation
If traditional running boards are used, then the vehicle design remains simple, but they do not provide easy access to the roof or items secured thereto
Solution Approach 1:
The retractable running board extends the user's reach by projecting outward from the vehicle body, creating a stable platform that allows users to safely access roof racks and mounted items. This dynamic extension capability enables easy access to elevated or distant locations without requiring complex ladders or additional access equipment, thus improving operational ease while maintaining relatively simple vehicle design.
3Ease of operation
If running boards do not extend rearward enough, then the running board structure remains compact, but they do not provide ease of access to the forward part of the truck bed
Solution Approach 1:
The retractable running board can extend rearward beyond the vehicle's side panel to reach the forward portion of the truck bed, providing a solid surface for accessing tools and equipment stored in the front area. When retracted, it maintains a compact profile that does not interfere with the vehicle's overall dimensions. This dynamic extension resolves the contradiction between providing adequate reach and maintaining compact structure.
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 sidestep assembly offers improved ease of access to toolboxes and roof-mounted items by providing a stable, ergonomic step surface that is simple to operate and minimizes the need for complex components, enhancing user convenience and safety.
Implementation Method 1
A spring deployment mechanism having an elongated tube with a spring positioned therein. The spring acts to rotate the step once the latch mechanism has been released
Implementation Method 2
The latch mechanism includes a release button, a push rod, a latch plate, a latch spring and a set of guide pins
Data Source
AI summary
A manually retractable side step assembly for a vehicle includes a rotatable step having a latch mechanism and a spring system that work in concert to rotate the step from a stowed position to a deployed position. In a stowed position, the step is in line with the running board of the vehicle. However, depressing a release button automatically rotates the step 180°, thus exposing an enlarged step area for providing ease of access to a roof rack on a minivan, SUV, or sport wagon, or if used with a pick-up truck, ease of access to a toolbox that is located in the rear of the truck.