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 retractable vehicle step assist system configured for use with a vehicle, the step assist system comprising:
a stepping member having a stepping surface and movable between a retracted position and a deployed position with respect to the vehicle; at least one support member connectable with respect to an underside of the vehicle and connected to the stepping member, the support member configured to at least partially support the stepping member with respect to the vehicle; a motor operably coupled to the support member and capable of effectuating movement of the stepping member from the retracted position to the deployed position; a vehicle interface configured to connect with an already existing electronics port of the vehicle and to electronically receive data via the existing electronics port, the data generated by existing electronics of the vehicle; and a controller in electronic communication with the motor and configured, in response to the data received from the already existing electronics port, to cause the motor to effectuate movement of the stepping member between the retracted position and the deployed position, wherein the data comprises door opened/closed status information originating from door electronics that do not incorporate any wireless sensors to detect door opened/closed status.