Retractable Vehicle Step System via OBD Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated retractable vehicle running boards require complex and costly installations, often necessitating professional technicians and involving significant modifications to the vehicle, including disassembly and after-market componentry.
Innovation Solution
An automated retractable vehicle step system that interfaces with existing vehicle electronics via accessible ports, such as the OBD port, to detect door openings and closings without the need for wireless sensors or extensive wiring modifications, allowing for a 'do-it-yourself' installation and reducing complexity and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If traditional automated retractable running boards are installed, then automated step assistance is achieved, but installation complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the vehicle's existing door latch mechanism as an intermediary to trigger step deployment. Instead of installing separate sensors in the door, the system leverages the mechanical movement of the existing latch to actuate the step through a linkage mechanism, thereby achieving automated function without adding complex sensing and wiring systems
Solution Approach 2:
The step system is designed to be universally compatible with various vehicle types by interfacing with existing standard vehicle components (door latches, electrical connectors). The electrical connector interfaces with existing vehicle wiring harnesses, allowing the same step assembly to be installed on different vehicle models without custom fabrication
2Extent of automation
If traditional automated retractable running boards are installed, then automated step assistance is achieved, but installation cost increases due to professional technician requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate modular components: the mechanical step assembly with linkage, the electrical connector, and the control module. This segmentation allows each component to be independently installed and adjusted, enabling DIY installation without requiring professional technicians to perform complex integrated installations
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle owner can perform the installation themselves using basic tools. The electrical connector plugs into existing vehicle connectors without requiring wiring modifications, and the mechanical linkage attaches to existing door latch mechanisms, eliminating the need for professional installation services
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If wireless sensors are used to detect door openings, then automated detection is achieved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electronic/wireless sensing systems with a mechanical detection and actuation system. The door latch mechanism's physical movement directly triggers the step deployment through mechanical linkage, eliminating the need for wireless sensors, batteries, and complex electronic control systems while achieving the same automated detection function
4Ease of operation
If extensive wiring modifications are performed, then electrical connectivity is achieved, but installation complexity and vehicle damage risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector is designed to interface with pre-existing vehicle wiring harnesses and connectors that are already in place. By utilizing these pre-prepared connection points, the system avoids the need for new wiring runs, wire splicing, or electrical system modifications during installation
Data Source
AI summary
Vehicle step assist systems and methods are provided. The steps systems are configured for installation (e.g., after market installation) and use with a vehicle. The system can include a stepping member. The system can further include a vehicle interface configured to electronically communicate with an existing communication bus of the vehicle, such as through a connection with an existing electronics port of the vehicle. A controller of the step system can be configured to process information received from the vehicle interface and, based at least partly on the processing of the information, perform certain operations.