Running board
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A running board or footboard is a narrow step fitted under the side doors of a
History
Rail
Anyone who still wanted to go from compartment to compartment while the train was moving had to scramble over the externally mounted running board.[2] The German "Trittbrettfahrer" (riding on the running board) now has the proverbial meaning "free-rider (non-paying users)".
The term also applied to the walkways on top of railway/railroad
Automobile
In the early 20th century, all automobiles were equipped with running boards.[citation needed] The necessity of using them was caused by the fact that first cars were designed with a narrow, high body bolted to the chassis. Most roads were unpaved and tall narrow wheels and tires were needed to get through the ruts, mud, and snow. [citation needed] A running board served as a step to a vehicle's cabin, and sometimes could be wide enough to serve as a place to sit or even lie down for an adult.[citation needed]
During the 1920s and 1930s, car design was evolving rapidly to become more sleek and aerodynamic, which largely eliminated the need for running boards. The first automobile designed without running boards was the 1929 Ruxton,
Running boards may also be used to stand on while the vehicle is moving. The name running board is also given to safety appliances for walking on top of rail cars.
See also
References
- ^ US 5193829 "Sub frame support system and running board for a vehicle"
- ^ "What Are Running Boards?". Auto. August 30, 2022.
- ^ "How To Install Running Boards?". Auto. August 30, 2022.
- ^ "The Mythical Ruxton - The greatest American car that never really was". Collier Automedia. 2021-01-21. Retrieved 2021-02-25.