Drop-down Running Board Actuation via Standalone Sensor
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current drop-down running boards for vehicles are time-consuming to install and require connection to the vehicle's existing wiring system, with varying methodologies across different assembly lines due to different door ajar signal interpretations.
Innovation Solution
A drop-down running board system utilizing sensors to detect door positions, with separate sensor parts mounted on the door and vehicle, sending signals to an actuator to move the running board between deployed and retracted positions independently of the vehicle's door ajar signal, allowing for installation without direct connection to the vehicle's wiring system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the running board is connected to the vehicle's door ajar signal in the existing wiring system, then the running board can be actuated based on door position, but the installation process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a standalone control unit that acts as an intermediary between the door position sensor and the running board actuator. This control unit receives door position signals independently from the vehicle's existing wiring system and directly controls the running board actuation, eliminating the need for complex integration with the vehicle's computer system and reducing installation time
2Reliability
If the running board connects to the vehicle's door ajar signal, then door position-based actuation is achieved, but installation methodology varies across different vehicle assembly lines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the running board control system from the vehicle's existing wiring system by using a standalone control unit. This segmentation allows the running board system to operate independently with its own sensor and control logic, making the installation methodology consistent across different vehicle assembly lines without requiring integration with vehicle-specific computer systems
3Device complexity
If a separate sensor system is used for door position detection, then installation complexity is reduced, but additional components are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal door position sensor that can be installed on various door types and configurations across different vehicle models. This sensor serves multiple functions by detecting door open/closed states and providing signals to the standalone control unit, eliminating the need for vehicle-specific wiring integration while maintaining compatibility across different vehicle platforms
Data Source
AI summary
A drop-down running board assembly includes at least one linkage assembly connected to a vehicle having at least one door, and a sensor having a first part and a second part, one part of the sensor is mounted to a door, the other part of the sensor mounted to the vehicle. A step portion is connected to the linkage assembly. There is also an actuator connected to the linkage assembly such that the actuator moves the linkage assembly and the step portion to a deployed position when the door is opened and the first part of the sensor is moved away from the second part of the sensor, and a retracted position when the door is closed and the first part of the sensor is positioned substantially adjacent the second part of the sensor.