ACTIVE ROCKER AERO PANEL INTEGRATED INTO AUTOMATED RUNNING BOARD

Abstract

An active rocker aerodynamic shield (12) integrated into an automated running board (14) for a motor vehicle. By using the existing automated running board linkages (24, 26) as a mounting location for the aerodynamic panels (16) of the shield (12), the addition of a dedicated motor, linkage/pivot, and vehicle attachment scheme is no longer needed for the aerodynamic benefit since components can be shared. The moving linkages (24, 26) are used as attachment points for the aerodynamic panel(s) (16) to limit the flow of air to the under-body of a vehicle. When the running board (14) is in its stowed position, the aerodynamic panel (16) is also stowed out of the line of sight and airflow. When the benefit of the aerodynamic panel (16) is desired, the running board (14) moves to the deployed position, orienting the aerodynamic panel (16) in a position to reduce the amount of airflow under the vehicle.

Claims

1. An active rocker aerodynamic shield integrated into an automated running board for a vehicle, comprising: an automated running board including a plurality of links for movement of a step board under predetermined conditions between a stowed position and at least one deployed position; at least one panel forming said aerodynamic shield, said at least one panel operably connected to the automated running board to automatically deploy and retract with the step board for improved aerodynamics under predetermined conditions.

2. The active rocker aerodynamic shield integrated into an automated running board of claim 1, wherein there are at least two panels.

3. The active rocker aerodynamic shield integrated into an automated running board of claim 1, wherein there are at least two panels operably connected to an inboard side of said links.

4. The active rocker aerodynamic shield integrated into an automated running board of claim 1, wherein said at least one panel is the same length as the step board.

5. The active rocker aerodynamic shield integrated into an automated running board of claim 1, wherein said at least one panel extends between said links.

6. The active rocker aerodynamic shield integrated into an automated running board of claim 1, wherein said at least one panel is operably connected to an outboard side of said links.

7. The active rocker aerodynamic shield integrated into an automated running board of claim 1, wherein said at least one panel is operably connected to an outboard side of said links and is the same length as said step board.

8. The active rocker aerodynamic shield integrated into an automated running board of claim 1, wherein said at least one panel is operably connected to an outboard side of said links and extends the same length as said step board.

9. The active rocker aerodynamic shield integrated into an automated running board of claim 1, wherein there are at least two panels operably connected to an inboard edge of said links.

10. The active rocker aerodynamic shield integrated into an automated running board of claim 1, wherein said at least one panel is operably connected to an outboard side of said links and is longer than said step board.

11. The active rocker aerodynamic shield integrated into an automated running board of claim 1, wherein said at least one panel is operably connected to an outboard side of said links and extends past a forward edge of said step board.

12. The active rocker aerodynamic shield integrated into an automated running board of claim 1, wherein said at least one panel substantially extends the length between front and rear wheels of the vehicle.

13. The active rocker aerodynamic shield integrated into an automated running board of claim 1, wherein said assembly operably mounts adjacent to said rocker panel sill.

14. The active rocker aerodynamic shield integrated into an automated running board of claim 1, wherein there are at least two panels operably connected to an inboard edge of said links and extends past a forward edge of said step board.

15. The active rocker aerodynamic shield integrated into an automated running board of claim 1, wherein the links comprise an idler linkage operably coupled to a drive arm, said drive arm operably coupled to a drive linkage that is operably coupled to a motor.

16. The active rocker aerodynamic shield integrated into an automated running board of claim 15, each idler linkage and linkage includes a mounting portion for attachment to the vehicle.

17. The active rocker aerodynamic shield integrated into an automated running board of claim 15, each idler linkage and linkage includes an inner link, an outer link and a lower mount, wherein the lower mount is operably connected to said step board.

18. An active rocker aerodynamic shield integrated into an automated running board assembly for a motor vehicle, comprising: at least one running board including a plurality of links for movement of at least one step board under predetermined conditions between at least one stowed position generally tucked up under the vehicle and at least one deployed position; at least one panel forming said aerodynamic shield, said at least one panel operably connected to the at least one running board to automatically deploy and retract with the at least one step board for improved aerodynamics under predetermined conditions.

19. An active rocker aerodynamic shield for a vehicle, comprising: an automated running board assembly; a running board including a plurality of links for movement of a step board under predetermined conditions between at least one stowed position generally tucked up under the vehicle and at least one deployed position; at least one panel forming said aerodynamic shield, said at least one panel operably connected to the automated running board to automatically deploy and retract with the step board for improved aerodynamics under predetermined conditions, wherein the predetermined conditions are selected from vehicle speed, wind direction, yaw, and combinations thereof.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0011] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of single piece aerodynamic shield coupled to the outboard side of links of an automated running board, depicted in a deployed position, in accordance with the present invention;

[0012] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of FIG. 1;

[0013] FIG. 3 is a front elevation of FIG. 1;

[0014] FIG. 4a is a side elevation view of FIG. 1;

[0015] FIG. 4b is a cross sectional view of the assembly depicted in an exemplary environment of use;

[0016] FIG. 5 is a top plan view of the assembly of FIG. 1 depicted in a stowed position, in accordance with the present invention;

[0017] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of FIG. 5;

[0018] FIG. 7 is a front elevation of FIG. 5;

[0019] FIG. 8 is a side elevation of FIG. 5;

[0020] FIG. 9 depicts said aerodynamic shield and an environment of use;

[0021] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of single piece aerodynamic shield coupled to the outboard side of links of an automated running board, depicted in a deployed position wherein the shield is the same length as a step board, in accordance with the present invention;

[0022] FIGS. 11-13 depict said automated running board in the deployed position;

[0023] FIGS. 14-17 depict said automated running board in a stowed position;

[0024] FIG. 18 depicts said aerodynamic shield of FIG. 10 and an environment of use;

[0025] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of multi-piece aerodynamic shield coupled to inboard edge side of links of an automated running board, depicted in a deployed position, in accordance with the present invention;

[0026] FIGS. 20-22, 27 and 28 depict said automated running board in the deployed position;

[0027] FIGS. 23-25 depict said automated running board in a stowed position;

[0028] FIG. 29 depicts said aerodynamic shield of FIG. 19 and an environment of use;

[0029] FIG. 31 is a perspective view of single piece aerodynamic shield coupled to the outboard side of links of an automated running board, depicted in a deployed position, wherein the shield is longer than a step board, in accordance with the present invention;

[0030] FIGS. 32-34 depict said automated running board in the deployed position;

[0031] FIGS. 35-36 depict said automated running board in a stowed position;

[0032] FIG. 38 depicts said aerodynamic shield of FIG. 31 and an environment of use;

[0033] FIG. 39 is a perspective view of multi-piece aerodynamic shield coupled to inboard edge side of links of an automated running board, depicted in a deployed position, wherein the shield is longer than a step board, in accordance with the present invention;

[0034] FIGS. 40-42 depict said automated running board in the deployed position;

[0035] FIGS. 43-46 depict said automated running board in a stowed position;

[0036] FIG. 47 depict said automated running board in a deployed position and a stowed position;

[0037] FIG. 48 depicts a first panel of said aerodynamic shield of FIG. 31 and an environment of use; and

[0038] FIG. 49 depicts a second panel of said aerodynamic shield of FIG. 31 and an environment of use.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0039] The following description of the preferred embodiment(s) is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses.

[0040] Referring to the Figures generally, there is depicted a deployable system including an aerodynamic shield incorporated with an automated running board. The aerodynamic shield includes at least one panel.

[0041] Referring to FIGS. 1-9, there is depicted an assembly shown generally at 10 including an aerodynamic shield shown generally at 12 integrated into an automated running board shown generally at 14. The aerodynamic shield 12 includes at least one panel 16. The assembly 10 provides a mounting location to the vehicle with existing linkages. Preferably, at least two mounting portions 18a,18b or brackets are provided on links 24 and 26 to connect the assembly 10 to the vehicle 2, e.g., adjacent to the rocker panel to tuck up under the rocker sill when the assembly 10 is in the stowed position.

[0042] The automated running board 14 includes at least one step 20 board and at least one linkage assembly coupled to a motor 22. Preferably, the linkage assembly includes at least an idler link 24, drive link 26 operably connected to the motor 22, and a drive arm 28 operably connected to the idler link 24 and drive link 26. Rotation of the drive arm 28 causes the idler link 24 to extend. As the drive link 26 and idler link 24 extend, the step board 20 and aerodynamic shield 16 are moved to the deployed position (FIGS. 1-4b). As the links 24 and 26 retract, the step 20 and shield 16 are drawn upward to the stowed position underneath the vehicle (FIGS. 5-8).

[0043] The idler link 24 and drive link 26 each preferably include a plurality of links depending on the application, e.g., first link with mounting portions 18a and 18b, respectively, second links 30a and 30b, and third links 32a and 32b.

[0044] Preferably, the second links 30a,30b are inner links. Preferably, the third links 32a,32b are lower mounts. Preferably, fourth links (34a,34b in FIG. 39, etc) are outer links and are used in the assembly 10 (of FIGS. 1-45).

[0045] The aerodynamic shield 12 is a single piece (e.g., single panel 16) aerodynamic shield operably connected to the outboard side of the idler and drive links 24 and 26.

[0046] Optionally, a seal closes any gaps between panel 16 and step board 20 and/or panel 16 and vehicle 2.

[0047] Referring now to FIGS. 10-18, there is depicted the assembly 10 including the aerodynamic shield 12 (including at least one panel 16) integrated into the automated running board 14, wherein the aerodynamic shield 12 is a single piece (e.g., single panel) aerodynamic shield operably connected to the outboard side of the idler and drive links 24 and 26, however, the at least one panel 16a of the aerodynamic shield 12 is longer. Thus, FIGS. 10-18 are identical to FIGS. 1-9 except that the at least one panel 16a has a greater length, preferably, to substantially the same length as the step board 20. Optionally, a seal closes any gaps between panel 16a and step board 20 and/or panel 16a and vehicle 2.

[0048] Referring now to FIGS. 31-38, there is depicted the assembly 10 including the aerodynamic shield 12 (including at least one panel 16) integrated into the automated running board 14, wherein the aerodynamic shield 12 is a single piece (e.g., single panel) aerodynamic shield operably connected to the outboard side of the idler and drive links 24 and 26, however, the at least one panel 16b of the aerodynamic shield 12 is longer. Thus, FIGS. 31-38 are identical to FIGS. 1-9 (and FIGS. 10-18) except that the at least one panel 16b has a greater length, preferably, to be longer than the step board 20 length, most preferably, substantially the length between the wheels of the vehicle. Optionally, a seal closes any gaps between panel 16b and step board 20 and/or panel 16b and vehicle 2.

[0049] Referring now to FIGS. 19-30, there is depicted the assembly 10 including the aerodynamic shield 12 (including at least one panel 16) integrated into the automated running board 14, wherein the aerodynamic shield 12 is a multiple piece (e.g., at least two panel) aerodynamic shield operably connected to the automated running board 14, e.g., to the inboard side of the second and/or third links 30a,30b and/or 32a,32b. The aerodynamic shield 16d is operably connected to the automated running board 14, preferably, to the inboard edge of the links of the automated running board. The shield 16d has at least one first portion 17a (e.g., upper section) operably coupled to at least one second portion 17b (e.g., lower section). Thus, FIGS. 19-30 are substantially identical to FIGS. 1-9 except that the at least one panel 16d is multiple pieces (e.g., first and second portions 17a and 17b) and is operably connected to the inboard side of the links. Optionally, a seal closes any gaps between panels 17a,17b and/or the step board 20 and/or panel 16d and vehicle 2.

[0050] Referring now to FIGS. 39-49, there is depicted the assembly 10 including the aerodynamic shield 12 (including at least one panel 16) integrated into the automated running board 14, wherein the aerodynamic shield 12 has at least one panel 16d, preferably, a multiple piece (e.g., at least two panels 17c and 17d) aerodynamic shield operably connected to the automated running board 14, e.g., to the inboard side of the second and/or third links 30a,30b and/or 32a,32b, however, the at least two panels 17c and 17d of the aerodynamic shield 12 are longer. Thus, several features of FIGS. 39-49 are substantially identical to FIGS. 19-30 (and FIGS. 1-9) except that the first panel 17c and second panel 17d have a greater length, preferably, to longitudinally extend past at least one end of the step board 20 (e.g., forward end or rearward end, preferably, past the forward end). Alternatively, the first and second panels 17c and 17d extend substantially the length of the step board 20. A pair of fourth links 34a,34b is also provide. These fourth links are also preferably substantially identically incorporated on each the the assemblies 10 of FIGS. 1-38. Optionally, a seal closes any gaps between panels 17c,17d and/or the step board 20 and/or panel 16d and vehicle 2.

[0051] Referring to the Figures generally, it is understood that any other shape, geometry, size and dimensions suitable for a running board 20 and aerodynamic shield 14 (e.g., 16, 16a,16b,16c,16d) connected to the assembly 10 is contemplated depending on the application without departure from the scope of the present invention.

[0052] Optionally, the aerodynamic panel has recesses, notches, gaps or openings to accommodate or otherwise make room for and prevent interference with any other components, e.g., links, motor, etc.

[0053] Referring to the Figures generally, by using the existing automated running board linkages as a mounting location for the panels, the addition of a dedicated motor, linkage/pivot, and vehicle attachment scheme is no longer need for the aero benefit. It can be shared with the existing components already being used by the automated running board.

[0054] The use of the moving linkages (Inner Link, Outer Link, & Lower Mount) as attachment points for a panel(s) that is used to limit the flow of air to the underbody of a vehicle. When the running board is in its stowed position. The panel is also stowed out of the line of sight and airflow. When the benefit of the aero panel is desired, the running board moves to the deployed position, orienting the aero panel in a position to reduce the amount of airflow under the vehicle.

[0055] The ability of the aero panel to tuck away under the floor of the vehicle when not needed, provides the needed ground clearance for the vehicle at lower speeds. At higher speeds, when the aero benefits are needed more, the panel can be deployed to reduce air resistance under the vehicle, resulting in lower fuel consumption. The ability to use the existing mechanisms, motor, and attachment, make this a simpler and more cost effective solution.

[0056] It is further understood that more than one running board and/or more than one aerodynamic shield can be used in each assembly.

[0057] The aerodynamic shield has at least one aerodynamic panel. The at least one aerodynamic panel is attached in a predetermined location. The aerodynamic panel is attached generally between the drive and idler links. Alternatively, the aerodynamic panel generally extends substantially the entire length of the step. Alternatively, the aerodynamic panel is longer than the step. Typically, the aerodynamic panel is attached between the drive and idler links and is mounted to the outboard side of these links. Alternatively, the aerodynamic panel mounts to the inboard edge of the links. Alternatively, the aerodynamic shield includes at least two aerodynamic panels that mount to the inboard edge of the links. Any suitable aerodynamic length, pieces, and attachment location(s) depending on the application is/are contemplated without departure from the scope of the present invention.

[0058] The present invention incorporates predetermined hinge kinematics suitable for deploying the board and aerodynamic shield.

[0059] The aerodynamic shield is a predetermined suitable material to meet predetermined parameters. Generally, the aerodynamic shield is an extruded part, typically, an extruded part that is powder coated aluminum, or extruded plastic. The aerodynamic shield material can be a range of materials from thermoplastic olefin (TPO)/Santoprene molding through to a type of bellows. A molded piece could be very rigid. A bellows could be a softer material, such as a very soft rubber or fabric like a sail cloth or tonneau cover of a pick-up truck, etc. The softer the material, the more opportunity for the material to move or ripple in the airstream. Rigid or semi-rigid reinforcements or framing is contemplated without departure from the scope of the present invention.

[0060] Generally, the aerodynamic shield has a small opening (e.g., about 1 inch, etc between the panel and the step), and, a small opening (e.g., about 1 inch, etc gap between the step board and vehicle body) between the panel and the sill of the vehicle (e.g., rocker (sill) position). Optionally, to further address aerodynamics, a seal (e.g., rubber seal, thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber) is provided to seal out air flow through the opening(s). The seal is provided on the top and/or bottom of the aerodynamic seal, on the step, or on the vehicle, e.g., the door.

[0061] The present invention in a deployed position is adaptable to provide a predetermined deployed dimension from the vehicle body depending on the application. By way of non-limiting example, a width dimension from the body to the outward edge of the stepping surface of, generally, at least 150 mm, typically, at least 170 mm, preferably, at least about 190 mm, most preferably, about 195 mm. It is understood that any other dimension is contemplated depending on the application without departure from the scope of the present invention.

[0062] The present invention in a deployed position is adaptable to provide a predetermined deployed dimension from the ground surface depending on the application. By way of non-limiting example, a ground clearance dimension from the ground to the underside of the stepping surface of, generally, at least 200 mm, typically, at least 250 mm, preferably, at least about 300 mm, most preferably, about 310 mm. Preferably, the deployed step height is at least about 300 mm. It is understood that any other dimension is contemplated depending on the application without departure from the scope of the present invention.

[0063] The present invention is adaptable to any vehicle, in particular, to any vehicle having higher ground clearances (e.g., at least about 200 mm, at least about 300 mm, at least about 350 mm, at least about 400 mm, etc) without departure from the scope of the present invention.

[0064] The assembly is adaptable and suitable to withstand predetermined forces acting on the board during the deployment and stow functions.

[0065] An exemplary aerodynamic force analysis is set forth in Table 1. The table includes pressure and forces acting on the shields.

TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 drag Drag vehicle vehicle panel and wind drag air dentity Projected pressue (Pa) force (N) speed speed direction angle coefficient rho at 20 C. area p = Cd * Fd = Cd * (mph) (m/s) (degree) Cd (kg/m{circumflex over ( )}3) (m{circumflex over ( )}2) rho * v{circumflex over ( )}2/2 rho * A * v{circumflex over ( )}2/2 20 8.9408 0 1.1 1.20 0.00 52.76 0.00 20 8.9408 30 1.1 1.20 0.16 52.76 8.58 20 8.9408 60 1.1 1.20 0.28 52.76 14.86 20 8.9408 90 1.1 1.20 0.33 52.76 17.16 35 15.6464 0 1.1 1.20 0.00 161.57 0.00 35 15.6464 30 1.1 1.20 0.16 161.57 26.27 35 15.6464 60 1.1 1.20 0.28 161.57 45.50 35 15.6464 90 1.1 1.20 0.33 161.57 52.54 50 22.352 0 1.1 1.20 0.00 329.74 0.00 50 22.352 30 1.1 1.20 0.16 329.74 53.61 50 22.352 60 1.1 1.20 0.28 329.74 92.86 50 22.352 90 1.1 1.20 0.33 329.74 107.23

[0066] In addition, an exemplary worst case is a 50 mph side wind is producing a force of about 107N on the shield. If the full extent of the vehicle air flow is unknown, the actual effect could be increased with a negative pressure on the backside of the shield; using a design factor of 2.0 assumes that the shield sees a load of 214N. Preferably, the present invention is effective for withstanding at least these pressures and forces acting on the aerodynamic shield, as set forth in this paragraph and Table 1.

[0067] Optionally, the forward end of the assembly incorporates predetermined profiling or reducing of the forward area size of the part to further reduce upwind high pressure, thereby reducing drag. Optionally, to reduce downwind low pressure zones created by wake recirculation of flow deformation, the assembly has predetermined profiling to limit flow separation. Optionally, the gap between the running board and vehicle body is reduced a predetermined amount or eliminated to further reduce drag. Optionally, the forward and rearward ends of the running board are profiled to reduce frontal area and wake, thereby reducing drag.

[0068] Optionally, a slush or mud guard or other feature is incorporated suitable to mitigate effects of slush or mud building up on the board during operation.

[0069] The present invention has at least one deployed position. Additional deployed positions depending on the application are contemplated without departure from the scope of the present invention. The board of the present invention moves generally downward to the deployed position. Alternatively, a horizontal swing linkage arrangement to swing the board outboard is contemplated depending on the application without departure from the scope of the present invention.

[0070] Object detection and suitable compatible actuator is contemplated without departure from the scope of the present invention.

[0071] Suitable electronics are contemplated to sense and communicate when a door is ajar (or switch is actuated) to deploy the step, and when the door is shut (or a switch is actuated) to retract the step to the stowed position.

[0072] Suitable electronics, sensors, communication or any other suitable device is contemplated for determining if predetermined conditions exist, e.g., yaw, vehicle speed, clearance height, etc to deploy or retract the step 20/shield 16 when the predetermined conditions exist.

[0073] Predetermined conditions include, but are not limited to, selected from vehicle speed, wind direction, e.g., average wind direction is unfavorably about 5° yaw, and any other predetermined condition depending on the application, etc. By way of example, the panel is stowed under vehicle and when the vehicle reaches a predetermined speed, e.g., about 30-40 mph, at least about 30 mph, etc, the assembly moves to the deployed position and stays down until the vehicle drops back down to below the predetermined speed or other predetermined conditions for continued deployment are no longer met.

[0074] At least one assembly is mounted per side of the vehicle. However, it is contemplated that more than one per side is mounted, each having the same or different lengths, without departure from the scope of the present invention. The assembly provides a step into the cab or sport utility vehicle front and/or rear cockpits. Optionally, at least one assembly is mounted to the vehicle for a bed step for a bed of a pick-up truck.

[0075] The aerodynamic shield is straight, curved or angled relative to the rocker sill of the vehicle depending on the application. By way of non-limiting example, the shield is angled outboard at the forward end or rearward end. By way of another non-limiting example, the shield is angled downward or has a greater height at the forward end or the rearward end. By way of non-limiting example, the shield is angled outboard at the upper end or lower end. Preferably, the shield is angled outboard with the lower end furthest from the vehicle (e.g., lower end adjacent the upper inward board edge). By way of non-limiting example is shield includes at least inboard curve or outboard curve along its length. Alternatively, the shield is substantially straight in the longitudinal and vertical directions.

[0076] The term outboard used herein generally refers to the direction away from the side of the vehicle. The term inboard used herein generally refers to the direction toward the vehicle.

[0077] While an exemplary automated running board is depicted, it is understood that any alternative automated running board, depending on the application, can be used and the active rocker aerodynamic shield of the present invention is integrated into the automated running board without departure from the scope of the present invention.

[0078] The description of the invention is merely exemplary in nature and, thus, variations that do not depart from the gist of the invention are intended to be within the scope of the invention. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention.