Actuated Running Board Triggered by Platform Deflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing running boards on refuse collection vehicles are ergonomically unsound, prone to manual operation difficulties, and pose safety risks due to manual activation or automatic activation during occupancy.
Innovation Solution
A footboard with a pivotably mounted platform that can switch positions automatically via an actuator-driven gear transmission, activated by brief deflection, using a circular arc mechanism and elastic means for return, allowing hands-free operation and precise control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the running board is moved manually, then the structure remains simple, but it causes physical strain and ergonomic problems for waste collectors
Solution Approach 1:
The running board platform itself serves as the activation switch. When briefly deflected from its rest or working position, the platform automatically triggers the drive system to move it to the required position, eliminating the need for separate manual activation devices and reducing physical strain on operators
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical operation is replaced by an automated drive system (electric motor with gear transmission) that responds to brief platform deflection, converting a purely manual mechanical system into an automated electromechanical system that improves ergonomics
2Extent of automation
If automatic activation is used when reverse gear is engaged, then the running board position is controlled automatically, but it may cause accidents if the running board is still occupied
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static automatic activation (based solely on reverse gear engagement) to dynamic activation that responds to actual platform deflection. The drive is activated only when the platform is briefly deflected from its current position, allowing the system to adapt to real-time operational conditions and avoid unsafe automatic movement
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the platform's physical position and deflection state as feedback to control activation. The drive system monitors whether the platform has been briefly deflected from rest or working position, and only activates accordingly, creating a feedback-based safety mechanism that prevents accidental activation during occupancy
3Ease of operation
If a manual switch is provided for drive activation, then the drive can be controlled, but it is difficult to use when the garbage collector is moving a heavy waste container with both hands
Solution Approach 1:
The platform performs dual functions: it serves as both the operational surface and the activation mechanism. When briefly deflected, the platform automatically triggers the drive system, eliminating the need for separate switches or hand-operated controls that would be inaccessible when hands are occupied
Solution Approach 2:
The platform is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as the standing surface for waste collectors and as the activation switch for the drive system. This universal design allows activation without requiring separate control devices, making operation convenient even when hands are occupied with heavy containers
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention relates to a running board (1), in particular for a refuse collection vehicle, comprising a platform (2) and a frame (3), wherein the platform (2) is pivotably mounted on the frame (3) about an axis of rotation, so that it can assume a rest position and a working position, wherein the platform (2) can be moved from the rest position to the working position and vice versa by a drive, characterized in that the drive can be activated automatically by briefly deflecting the platform (2) from its rest position or working position. This allows the running board (1) to be operated easily, even when the operator is maneuvering a heavy waste container with both hands.