Running Board Bracket Assembly for Load Support and Anti-Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bracket assemblies for securing running boards to vehicles are often bulky and costly due to the need to handle both weight-bearing and rotational forces, and they frequently fail to prevent rotational movement of the running board due to single-sided connection designs.
Innovation Solution
A bracket assembly comprising a first longitudinal load bracket and a second anti-torque bracket, where the first bracket supports longitudinal loads and the second bracket, positioned perpendicular to the first, prevents rotational movement by connecting components along a hem line with multiple attachment points, allowing for the use of compact and efficient designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a single substantial bracket is used to support the running board, then the running board can support weight loads, but the bracket cannot adequately prevent rotational movement
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket assembly is divided into two separate brackets: a load bracket that supports weight loads and an anti-rotation bracket that prevents rotational movement. This segmentation allows each bracket to be optimized for its specific function rather than requiring a single substantial bracket to handle both functions simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The anti-rotation bracket extends in a direction perpendicular to the load bracket, adding a dimensional element that specifically addresses rotational forces. This perpendicular orientation creates a moment arm that counteracts rotation without requiring increased size in the load-bearing direction.
2Reliability
If multiple smaller brackets are used to attach the running board, then rotational movement can be prevented, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The load bracket and anti-rotation bracket are merged into a single integrated bracket assembly that is pre-configured with both functional elements. This merging allows the assembly to be installed as one unit rather than requiring separate installation of multiple brackets, thereby maintaining rotational prevention capability while improving assembly speed.
3Reliability
If substantial brackets are used to adequately secure the running board, then both weight and rotational loads are supported, but the cost increases due to more material
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the bracket functions into separate components, each bracket can be made from minimal necessary material for its specific purpose. The load bracket is optimized for weight support while the anti-rotation bracket is optimized for moment resistance, reducing total material usage compared to a single substantial bracket that would need to handle both functions.
Solution Approach 2:
Each bracket is designed with local quality optimized for its specific function: the load bracket has structural properties suited for compressive and tensile loads, while the anti-rotation bracket has geometric properties optimized for resisting rotational moments. This localized optimization reduces overall material requirements while maintaining comprehensive securing capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A bracket assembly including a plurality of components attached along a hem line, a plurality of attachment points along the hem line, a first bracket, and a second bracket. The first bracket connects to the plurality of components at least one of the plurality of attachment points, and supports a longitudinal load applied to at least one of the plurality of components. The second bracket connects to the plurality of components, and supports a lateral load applied to at least one of the plurality of components.