Rotating Running Board Structure for Side-Impact Energy Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integration of running boards into vehicle structures to provide efficient energy absorption in various operating conditions, particularly in vehicles without B-pillars, is challenging due to the characteristics of impact barriers.
Innovation Solution
A structural impact assembly featuring a rocker and a running board that is rotatably coupled to the vehicle frame, allowing the running board to move between a deployed position for access and a stowed position where it extends vertically to absorb energy during side impacts, with internal stiffening members and a coupling mechanism to attach to the frame, enhancing energy absorption and structural stiffness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the running board is integrated into the vehicle structure to provide energy absorption, then energy absorption capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The running board is designed to serve dual functions: providing passenger access/egress assistance in normal operation and absorbing energy during side impacts. By making the running board rotatably coupled to the vehicle frame and enabling it to rotate into a vertical position upon impact, the structure performs both accessibility and safety functions without requiring separate dedicated components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The running board transitions from a static structure to a dynamic one by being rotatably coupled to the vehicle frame. This allows the running board to rotate between a horizontal deployed position (for passenger access) and a vertical stowed position (for energy absorption during impacts). The dynamic reconfiguration enables the structure to adapt its geometry based on operational conditions, resolving the contradiction between maintaining accessibility and providing impact protection.
2Strength
If the running board extends vertically above the rocker to absorb impact, then energy absorption is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The running board's rotatable coupling allows it to dynamically switch between a horizontal deployed position that facilitates passenger access and a vertical stowed position that maximizes energy absorption. This dynamic reconfiguration ensures that the structure provides ease of operation during normal use while delivering enhanced safety during impacts.
Solution Approach 2:
The running board alternates between two states: horizontal for passenger access and vertical for impact absorption. This periodic switching between functional states allows the system to provide both ease of operation and energy absorption capability at different times, resolving the contradiction between these two requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the running board is made movable to rotate between positions, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The running board is made movable through rotatable coupling to the vehicle frame, enabling it to adapt between horizontal and vertical positions. This dynamic capability provides operational flexibility for both passenger access and impact absorption while using a relatively simple rotational mechanism rather than complex actuation systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The running board's rotational movement can be passive, allowing the structure itself to respond to impact forces and rotate into the energy-absorbing position without requiring active control systems. This self-service approach enhances adaptability while minimizing the complexity of control mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A structural assembly for use in a motor vehicle includes a rocker and a running board. The motor vehicle includes a vehicle frame and a door. The rocker extends in a longitudinal direction of the motor vehicle. The running board is movably coupled to the vehicle frame between a deployed position and a stowed position in which an upper portion of the running board extends vertically above the rocker. The running board is configured to be positioned underneath the door and substantially flush with a lower portion of the door when the door is in a closed position and the running board is in the stowed position.