Automated Running Board with Rack-and-Pinion Drive
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional automated running board systems face challenges in achieving a low-profile design with sufficient length and width while maintaining robustness and ergonomic deployment within limited packaging space and minimum ground clearance, especially in vehicles with small overall section height.
Innovation Solution
A selectively automated running board system incorporating a pivot member, arm member, and a motion system, such as a rack and pinion system, to enable linear and rotational movement, allowing the board to deploy and stow efficiently, with a synchronized dual linear drive mechanism using a single motor for both functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If conventional automated running board systems are designed with sufficient length and width, then the board provides adequate support surface area, but the overall section height increases beyond low-profile requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The running board transitions from a horizontal extended position to a vertical stowed position, utilizing the vertical dimension to resolve the conflict between surface area and profile height. When retracted, the board stands vertically against the vehicle body, providing a hidden appearance with minimal aerodynamic drag while maintaining full board functionality when deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs automated motion control to dynamically transition the running board between deployed and stowed positions. The board is not static but actively changes its spatial configuration based on operational requirements, allowing it to achieve both large surface area when needed and small profile height when retracted.
2Reliability
If the running board system is designed for robust deployment within limited packaging space, then the structure remains compact, but the articulation required for ergonomic deployment becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines multiple functions into integrated assemblies: the pivot assembly merges rotation and positioning functions, the arm assembly combines linear motion and support functions, and the motion system integrates motor, rack, and pinion into a unified drive mechanism. This merging reduces overall system complexity while maintaining robust deployment capability within limited packaging space.
Solution Approach 2:
A single motor drives both the linear motion of the arm assembly and the rotational motion of the pivot assembly through the rack and pinion mechanism. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate actuators for each motion type, reducing device complexity while ensuring reliable and synchronized deployment.
3Ease of operation
If the running board deploys to a mid point between ground level and door sill, then ergonomic access is improved, but the packaging space under the vehicle side is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The running board system nests within the vehicle's existing structure when retracted. The board assembly is positioned within the rocker panel area and pivot assemblies are housed within the vehicle body, utilizing otherwise wasted space. This nesting approach provides sufficient packaging volume without infringing on underbody components or increasing overall vehicle height.
4Length of stationary object
If the running board system is designed with minimum ground clearance, then the vehicle maintains good ground clearance, but the board length and width are constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The system resolves the ground clearance constraint by utilizing the vertical dimension for stowing. When retracted, the board occupies vertical space rather than horizontal space, allowing the vehicle to maintain minimum ground clearance while the board still achieves sufficient length and width when deployed horizontally for passenger access.
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
The system achieves a low-profile deployment with improved ergonomics, reduced aerodynamic drag, and a hidden appearance when stowed, minimizing snow and ice accumulation while ensuring robustness and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
a rack and pinion system operable to impart linear inboard or outboard movement to the arm member, wherein the linear inboard or outboard movement of the arm member is operable to impart rotational movement to the pivot assembly
Implementation Method 2
a friction member disposed between the arm member and the sleeve member, wherein the friction member is operable to impart rotational movement to the pivot assembly
Data Source
AI summary
Running board systems are provided. The running board systems employ a motorized drive system that includes a rack-and-pinion system that enables both linear and rotational movement of the running board member, for example, through the use of a pivot member cooperating with one end of the running board member and one end of an arm member. The running board systems are automated and selectively operable to assume deployed and stowed positions. The running board systems can be used in conjunction with various surfaces of a vehicle, such as an aesthetically preferred flush style mounting to the rocker outer sheet metal surface such as but not limited to being mounted underneath a side door sill.