Controlling a powered 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 method of controlling an after-market powered vehicle step system installed on a vehicle, comprising:
electronically obtaining door status information from a digital communication bus of the vehicle, via a pre-existing connector of the vehicle; electronically processing the door status information according to an algorithm to determine that movement of a stepping deck of the powered vehicle step is appropriate; transmitting the door status information to electronic componentry of the powered vehicle step system via a wired connection; and commanding a motor of the powered vehicle step which is drivably coupled to the stepping deck to cause movement of the stepping deck between a retracted position and a deployed position.