Vehicle Side Entry System With Multi-Level Steps
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicles with rear passenger sections lack efficient side entry solutions, often requiring passengers to move seats forward for access, which is inconvenient and inefficient, especially in four-by-four off-road SUVs without rear passenger side doors.
Innovation Solution
A side entry system featuring a running board, multiple steps, a roll cage, and a rear bumper configuration that allows standing entry through a rear passenger door, including an adjustable step and a substantially vertical divider to facilitate easy access into the passenger pod without the need to move seats or use a rear passenger side door.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If passengers enter through the rear passenger door without a side door, then rear passenger access is enabled, but the entry height is insufficient for standing entry
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a multi-level step system that adds vertical dimensionality to the entry path. Instead of attempting to raise the entire vehicle body, the solution creates a stepped progression (first step, second step, third step) that gradually elevates passengers to the standing entry height, effectively solving the height problem through dimensional decomposition of the entry path.
Solution Approach 2:
The running board and step system act as intermediary elements between the ground and the passenger pod floor. These intermediate structures provide a transitional pathway that bridges the height gap, allowing passengers to reach standing entry height without requiring the vehicle floor to be lower or the entry point to be higher.
2Ease of operation
If multiple steps are added to achieve standing entry, then entry convenience is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The entry system is segmented into discrete, modular components: a running board, first step, second step, and third step. Each component is a separate element that can be independently positioned and configured. This segmentation allows for simplified manufacturing and assembly while providing the necessary multi-level progression for standing entry.
Solution Approach 2:
The third step is designed as an adjustable component that can move between a retracted position (storing against the vehicle body) and an extended position (providing the final step for standing entry). This dynamic capability allows the system to maintain simplicity during storage while providing enhanced functionality during use, effectively reducing the perceived complexity.
3Productivity
If the vehicle is designed for standing entry, then passenger access efficiency is improved, but the vehicle structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The running board and step system serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the side entry configuration, creates the necessary height progression for standing entry, and offers a stable platform for passengers during entry and exit. The roll cage structure also serves dual purposes of structural reinforcement and safety protection. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components, thereby limiting the increase in overall structural complexity.
4Ease of operation
If an adjustable step is added for additional support, then entry assistance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The third step is designed as an adjustable component that can move between a retracted position (storing against the vehicle body) and an extended position (providing the final step for standing entry). This dynamic capability allows the system to maintain simplicity during storage while providing enhanced functionality during use, effectively reducing the perceived complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable step system is designed to be self-operating through simple user interaction. The step can be manually extended or retracted by the passenger based on their needs, without requiring complex control systems, motors, or electronic components. This self-service approach minimizes the complexity of the adjustment mechanism while maintaining the ability to provide additional entry assistance when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A side entry system for a vehicle having at least four doors includes a running board coupled to an exterior surface of the vehicle. A first step is included at or within a door sill of a rear passenger door. The first step is positioned above the running board. A second step is formed adjacent to the first step and is included in an interior of the vehicle. The second step is positioned above the first step. The running board, the first step, and the second step are configured to assist standing entry into a passenger pod of the vehicle through the rear passenger door. A roll cage is coupled to the vehicle and is attached to a rear bumper of the vehicle. The passenger pod extends aft of a rear taillight of the vehicle and includes a passenger seat positioned at least mostly aft of the rear taillight.