Automated retractable vehicle step

摘要

Powered retractable vehicle step assist systems and methods are provided. The steps systems are configured for installation (e.g., after market installation) and use with a vehicle. The system can include a stepping member movable between a retracted position and a deployed position with respect to the vehicle. The system can further include a vehicle interface configured to electronically communicate with an existing communication bus of the vehicle, such as through a connection with an existing electronics port of the vehicle. A controller of the step system can be configured to process information received from the vehicle interface and, based at least partly on the processing of the information, cause movement of the stepping member between the retracted position and the deployed position.

主权项

1. A powered vehicle step assist system configured for use with a vehicle, the step assist system comprising:
a step comprising a stepping surface that is movable between a first position and a second position with respect to the vehicle, the step including one or more mounts configured to allow attachment of the step to the vehicle; a motor drivably coupled to the step and capable of effectuating movement of the stepping surface from the first position to the second position; and a controller in electronic communication with the motor and configured, in response to data electronically received from an already existing electronics port and generated by an existing vehicle computer system of the vehicle, to cause the motor to effectuate movement of the stepping surface between the first position and the second position.