Retractable Vehicle Step With Spring Bias for Tailgate Clearance
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicles often lack a retractable stepping assist that can efficiently provide access to cargo beds while maintaining tailgate clearance.
Innovation Solution
A retractable vehicle step system that includes a stepping member, a step bracket, outer and inner arms, a mount, and a spring biasing mechanism, allowing the step to move between a retracted and extended position for enhanced access and clearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed position stepping assist is used to allow access to the cargo bed, then user access is facilitated, but tailgate clearance is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The stepping assist is designed to be retractable rather than fixed, allowing it to move between an extended position (providing step assistance) and a retracted position (clearing the tailgate). The system includes arms that can pivot and a spring mechanism that enables automatic retraction, transforming a static obstruction into a dynamic solution that adapts to different operational states.
2Length of stationary object
If a retractable stepping assist is implemented, then tailgate clearance is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stepping assist incorporates a spring mechanism that automatically retracts the arms after deployment, eliminating the need for manual retraction or complex control systems. The spring-loaded design allows the system to service itself by returning to its retracted state, reducing operational complexity while maintaining the retractable functionality needed for tailgate clearance.
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 system provides a reliable and efficient means of accessing cargo beds while maintaining tailgate clearance, enhancing user convenience and vehicle functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a spring having a first end and a second end, the first end of the spring engaging the spring coupler and the second end of the spring positioned around a protrusion extending from a portion of the mount, wherein the spring is positioned within said interior of the mount and is substantially aligned with a mounting plane of said mount that is configured to be positioned adjacent said portion of the vehicle, the spring configured to apply a biasing force to said inner arm via the spring coupler
Data Source
AI summary
A retractable vehicle step includes: a stepping member configured for movement between retracted and extended positions; a first arm having first and second ends, the first end coupled to the stepping member; a mount pivotally connected to the second end and configured to secure to a vehicle, the mount having a housing including an interior to receive a portion of the first arm, the housing having a height, a length, a first axis extending along the height, and a second axis extending along the length and perpendicular to the first axis; and a biasing member in the interior, the biasing member coupled with the second end of the first arm and configured to apply a biasing force to the first arm, the biasing force applied at a first angle with respect to said second axis that is less then approximately 30°.