Vehicle Step Assembly Dual-Function Tread Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Emergency vehicles face challenges in maximizing storage capacity while maintaining accessibility and not compromising existing storage space with deployable structures that serve dual functions without occupying valuable space.
Innovation Solution
A deployable step assembly with pivotable arms and a tread that acts as both a step and a door, utilizing biasing elements and stop surfaces to transition between stowed and deployed positions, allowing for increased access to compartments without reducing storage space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If steps or platforms are added to emergency vehicles to allow access to otherwise inaccessible portions, then accessibility is improved, but storage space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The step assembly is designed to be movable between a deployed position (providing access to compartments) and a stowed position (flush with the vehicle body). The pivotable arms and biasing elements enable dynamic transformation from a static space-obstructing structure to a dynamic access-providing structure, resolving the contradiction between accessibility and storage space.
Solution Approach 2:
The step assembly serves multiple functions: it acts as a step for accessing compartments, functions as a door when positioned over the opening, and serves as a structural element that does not permanently occupy storage space. This multi-functionality allows the same structure to provide accessibility while minimizing impact on storage capacity.
2Volume of stationary object
If deployable structures are installed on vehicles to increase storage capacity, then storage capacity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The step assembly is divided into separate functional components: brackets for mounting, pivotable arms for movement, a tread for stepping, and biasing elements for automatic positioning. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while enabling the entire assembly to be mounted on existing vehicle structures without requiring complete structural redesign.
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 step assembly provides convenient access to storage compartments by doubling as a step and a door, enhancing accessibility without diminishing storage capacity or occupying additional space on the vehicle.
Implementation Method 1
A first biasing element acts between the first bracket and the first arm for biasing the tread into the stowed position
Implementation Method 2
The first bracket may comprise a first bearing. The first bearing defines the first axis. The first arm is pivotably attached to the first bearing
Data Source
AI summary
A step assembly for a vehicle has first and second arms pivotably attached to brackets which are mountable on the chassis or body of a vehicle. The arms pivot about coaxial axes defined by the brackets. A tread is mounted on the arms. The tread is pivotable between an open position and a closed position. Respective biasing elements act between each arm and bracket to bias the tread into the closed position. When the step assembly is mounted on the vehicle adjacent to a compartment defined by the vehicle body the tread acts as a door when in the closed position and a step when in the open position.