World's First Power Running Boards
AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Jan. 27 -- The innovative adaptation of a new gear motor from Valeo is enabling the smooth operation of the first power running boards ever installed on a vehicle. Valeo is an independent industrial Group fully focused on the design, production and sale of components, integrated systems and modules for cars and trucks. Currently available on the 2003 Lincoln Navigator, the driver side power running board (PRB) quietly deploys a full four inches when either the driver front or rear door opens, facilitating safe and effortless entry and exit. The PRBs then retract when the door closes. The passenger side PRB operates similarly. This design optimizes space for parking, provides better aerodynamics and gives the SUV a sleek, "vehicle in motion" appearance. Valeo's GenX motor, originally designed for vertical applications, was adapted to operate in this horizontal application. GenX is a new generation of motors that Valeo developed for window lift applications. It was developed because automakers wanted a smaller, lighter and quieter motor at reduced cost. GenX weighs 30 percent less than conventional die cast motors, but delivers 13 percent higher torque. The GenX motor achieves its 30 percent mass reduction by means of a plastic gear housing. A patent pending end play device ensures quiet operation. The design permits electronic integration for auto-up controls and possible integration into future door controls. The motor is an integral component of the PRB that deploys and retracts with a patented four bar link mechanism. The motor's proprietary, integrated electronics provide smooth, consistent speed of operation in less than 1.5 seconds. Valeo was able to significantly reduce research and development costs by adapting its latest GenX technology, rather than designing a completely new motor. Valeo's customer is Decoma, which manufactures the PRBs for Ford. Not only was the technology already proven in vertical applications, extensive endurance testing of the horizontal version (i.e. window lift applications), estimates a life four times longer than customer requirements. A pulse width modulation (PWM) speed control compensates for voltage fluctuations and load variations. PWM also uses a "trapezoidal" control for proper starting torque and soft stops, while overcoming any obstructions such as ice or dirt. Compared to conventional motors, the GenX reduces torque/speed variation by more than 25 percent. The motor's software reverses its direction if it detects any obstruction. The software also automatically verifies that the system is in its "storage position" when the vehicle's speed exceeds 5 mph. Valeo is an independent industrial Group fully focused on the design, production and sale of components, integrated systems and modules for cars and trucks. Valeo ranks among the world's top automotive suppliers. The Group has 139 plants, 53 R&D centers, 10 distribution centers and employs nearly 71,000 people in 25 countries worldwide. For further information, see http://www.valeo.com