Deployable RV Retrofit Assembly for Multi-Function Space Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Recreational vehicles face challenges in efficiently utilizing their limited interior space to accommodate essential items like showers, storage facilities, working areas, and sleeping accommodations for multiple people without requiring large vehicles.

Innovation Solution

A deployable RV retrofit system comprising a privacy curtain assembly, a foldable counter assembly, and a seat/bed conversion assembly that can be easily deployed and stored within the vehicle, utilizing multi-purpose components such as a storage receptacle with a collapsible shower curtain, a folding counter, and a seat/bed conversion mechanism to optimize space usage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple essential items (showers, storage, workbenches, beds) are accommodated within the RV interior, then the functionality and comfort of the vehicle is improved, but the interior space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidinterior space
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The RV interior is divided into multiple functional zones (shower area, storage areas, workspace, sleeping areas) that can be independently configured and optimized. This segmentation allows each area to be efficiently designed for its specific purpose while maintaining overall space efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes vertical space and three-dimensional configurations to maximize interior volume utilization. By designing multi-level storage, vertical shelving, and stacked functional elements, the system accommodates multiple essential items without increasing the vehicle's footprint.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Area of stationary object

If a large RV is used to accommodate multiple items and sleeping accommodations, then the space availability is improved, but the vehicle size and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterior spaceVSAvoidvehicle size
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates convertible and transformable furniture elements that can change configuration based on needs. Seats can convert to beds, tables can fold away, and storage compartments can expand or collapse, allowing a single compact vehicle to provide both space efficiency and adequate living area.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple furniture pieces are designed to serve multiple functions. For example, seating areas can become sleeping areas, and storage compartments can serve both storage and structural support roles. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of separate items needed, thereby reducing overall space requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple beds are provided for overnight trips, then the sleeping accommodation capacity is improved, but the interior space and weight increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesleeping capacityVSAvoidweight
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The sleeping area is divided into multiple independent sleeping zones that can be configured separately. Each zone uses lightweight, space-efficient bed designs that can be independently deployed or stowed, allowing flexible accommodation of multiple sleepers without requiring a single large heavy bed structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Convertible seating arrangements with integrated sleeping capabilities allow the same space to serve both daytime seating and nighttime sleeping functions. This eliminates the need for separate dedicated sleeping areas, reducing overall weight and space requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS10913384B2RV retrofit system
Publication Date: 2021.02.09 STORYTELLER OVERLAND LLC
  • US10913384B2 patent drawing
  • US10913384B2 patent drawing
  • US10913384B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A vehicle retrofit system comprising a storage receptacle, a collapsible privacy/shower curtain receptacle, a folding counter assembly, and a seat/bed conversion assembly each of which is configured to be contained and deployed within an interior of a vehicle.