Remote-Drive Retractable Power Step With Separated Motor Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing powered retractable steps face packaging challenges due to limited space in vehicles, particularly when trying to accommodate a motor drive system in typical locations like rear-mounted bumper types.
Innovation Solution
A remote drive system is introduced, allowing the motor to be located in a more suitable position by using various drive mechanisms such as bell crank assemblies, remote motor torque transfer shaft types, remote motor flex shaft types, and remote motor push/pull cable types, which transfer rotational force from the motor to the drive shaft while keeping the motor distant from the drive linkage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the motor is directly mounted to the hinge link mechanism, then the drive system is simple and lower cost, but the packaging size envelope is constrained due to location and orientation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The drive system is divided into separate components: the motor is separated from the hinge link mechanism and positioned remotely in the bumper assembly, while the drive shaft and linkage mechanism remain at the step location. This segmentation allows each component to be optimally positioned for its function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
A drive shaft acts as an intermediary element connecting the remotely positioned motor to the hinge link mechanism. The drive shaft transmits rotational force from the motor to the linkage, enabling the motor to be located away from the step assembly while still providing the necessary mechanical drive.
2Area of stationary object
If the motor is positioned remotely from the step assembly, then available space and attachment provisions in the vehicle can be utilized, but the drive mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The motor assembly is segmented from the step mechanism and positioned remotely in the bumper, allowing independent optimization of both components. The motor can be mounted in available space in the bumper while the step mechanism retains its functional design at the step location.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive shaft serves as a mechanical intermediary that bridges the gap between the remotely positioned motor and the hinge link mechanism. This allows the motor to be located in the bumper where space is available, while still effectively driving the step assembly through the intermediate drive shaft connection.
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
This solution effectively utilizes available space in vehicles by allowing the motor to be mounted remotely, thereby overcoming packaging constraints and enabling the operation of retractable steps with improved efficiency and simplicity.
Implementation Method 1
A remote drive system is introduced, allowing the motor to be located in a more suitable position by using various drive mechanisms such as bell crank assemblies
Implementation Method 2
remote motor torque transfer shaft types, which transfer rotational force from the motor to the drive shaft
Implementation Method 3
remote motor flex shaft types, which transfer rotational force from the motor to the drive shaft
Implementation Method 4
remote motor push/pull cable types, which transfer rotational force from the motor to the drive shaft
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention includes a foldable step assembly for a vehicle. The step assembly includes a linkage arrangement for connection to a vehicle and articulating a step assembly from a deployed position to a stowed position. A drive mechanism is positioned remotely from the step assembly and is operatively in communication with the linkage arrangement for articulating said step assembly between the deployed position to the stowed position.