Abstract: An active rocker aerodynamic shield integrated into an automated running board for a motor vehicle. 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 since components can be shared. 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 miming 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.

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.

Abstract: A running board assembly for a motor vehicle includes a mounting bracket adapted to be fixedly secured thereto. The running board assembly also includes at least one arm pivotally secured to the mounting bracket. A link includes an inner end pivotally secured to the at least one arm and an opposing outer end. The link includes at least one tongue extending out from the outer end and at least one outwardly extending wing. A platform defines a groove for receiving the at least one tongue therewithin to form an interlock and includes a lower channel abutting the at least one outwardly extending wing in a closed box configuration to provide a rigid attachment between the platform and the link.