Vehicle Step Plate Tread Rows for Easier Dirt Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing step systems with corrugated tread plates face difficulties in efficient cleaning due to dirt particles accumulating between the profile elements, making it hard to maintain the surface effectively.
Innovation Solution
The step system features profile elements arranged in rows with a directional arrangement, allowing for easier cleaning by sweeping along the alignment of the profile elements, and incorporates a brush structure with varying brush elements to effectively remove dirt and debris from the tread surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If corrugated tread plates with profile elements are used to provide anti-slip effect, then passenger safety is improved, but cleaning efficiency deteriorates due to dirt accumulation between profile elements
Solution Approach 1:
The profile elements are segmented into distinct rows with spacing between them, allowing cleaning tools to access and remove dirt particles from between the elements. This segmentation maintains the anti-slip function while enabling effective cleaning operations.
Solution Approach 2:
A brush structure is introduced as an intermediary cleaning tool that fits between the profile elements. The brush elements act as a mediator to reach and remove dirt particles from hard-to-access areas between the raised profile elements, solving the cleaning difficulty without modifying the anti-slip profile itself.
2Strength
If profile elements are raised to create corrugation for anti-slip performance, then traction is improved, but dirt particle removal becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The profile elements are arranged in segmented rows with intentional spacing, creating accessible channels for dirt removal while maintaining the raised structure necessary for traction. This segmentation allows cleaning tools to reach between elements without compromising their height or anti-slip function.
Solution Approach 2:
The profile elements are arranged in a row-based pattern that adds a spatial dimension for cleaning access. By organizing elements in parallel rows with gaps, the design creates a three-dimensional structure that maintains surface traction while providing pathways for dirt particle removal in the inter-row spaces.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If continuous use of tread systems is extended to improve service life, then durability is improved, but accumulation of dirt and debris increases over time
Solution Approach 1:
The row-based profile element structure performs a preliminary organizing function by directing dirt and debris into defined spaces between rows during normal operation. This preliminary arrangement makes subsequent cleaning more effective and facilitates regular maintenance, supporting continuous operation over extended service life.
Solution Approach 2:
The tread system is designed to maintain its cleaning accessibility throughout its service life. The row-based structure ensures that cleaning channels remain open and functional continuously, allowing regular removal of accumulated dirt and debris without degradation of the cleaning capability over time.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a step system for a vehicle. This system comprises a step plate (1) which is movable below a running board edge (2) of the vehicle along an extension axis (X) extending perpendicular to the running board edge (2) from a retracted position to an extended position and vice versa, wherein the step plate (1) has a load-bearing tread surface (3) on which an anti-slip profile is formed, wherein the anti-slip profile has a plurality of profile elements (4), each profile element (4) being raised relative to a tread surface base (5) and having a greater length along a respective profile element longitudinal axis (6) than along a profile element transverse axis (7) extending perpendicular to the profile element longitudinal axis (6) and parallel to the tread surface base (5).In order to make the footplate (1) easier to clean and more efficient, it is proposed that the profile elements (4) be arranged in rows (8).