Running Board Assembly Dynamic Current Threshold Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Running boards in vehicles with high ground clearance face challenges in adapting to changing conditions such as dirty or obstructed paths, leading to inefficiency and potential damage or injury, as existing systems lack effective mechanisms for safely managing current draw and obstruction detection.
Innovation Solution
A running board assembly with a controller that monitors current levels and prompts the user to ensure the area is clear of obstructions before allowing increased current draw, allowing the running board to operate safely and efficiently by varying current thresholds based on deployment direction and ambient temperature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the current threshold is strictly enforced to prevent motor damage, then motor reliability is improved, but the running board cannot adapt to changing conditions such as cold weather or dirt accumulation
Solution Approach 1:
The current threshold is made dynamic rather than static. The controller adjusts the current threshold based on operating conditions such as ambient temperature and motor performance. In cold weather or when dirt accumulates on the running board, the system can temporarily exceed the normal current threshold to maintain functionality, while still protecting the motor from sustained overcurrent damage.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the current threshold is increased to allow operation in cold weather or with obstructions, then adaptability is improved, but the risk of motor damage and safety hazards increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors current draw, ambient temperature, and motor performance to dynamically adjust the current threshold. When operating conditions change (e.g., cold weather, dirt accumulation), the system feedback loop allows temporary current threshold adjustments while maintaining safety limits. The controller detects when conditions return to normal and restores the original current threshold, preventing sustained overcurrent damage.
3Reliability
If a strict current limit is applied, then motor protection is improved, but the running board cannot handle temporary obstructions or dirty conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the current parameter threshold based on environmental and operational conditions. When the running board encounters temporary obstructions or dirt accumulation, the controller temporarily increases the current threshold to allow the motor to overcome the resistance. Once the obstruction is cleared or conditions improve, the current threshold returns to normal levels, maintaining motor protection while ensuring operational continuity during transient challenges.
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 prolongs the running board's lifespan, enhances safety by preventing damage from obstructions, and adapts to changing conditions like cold weather or dirt accumulation, ensuring reliable operation.
Implementation Method 1
supplying current to a motor to move a running board
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure relates to a running board assembly for a motor vehicle and a corresponding method. An example method includes supplying current to a motor to move a running board between a retracted position and a deployed position, monitoring a level of the current, and permitting the level of current to exceed a threshold (i.e., overcurrent is permitted) in response to a user input.