Leveling Blocks With Integrated Handle For RV Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing leveling systems for large vehicles, such as recreational vehicles and campers, require bulky and costly containers for storage and transport, which obscure the functional design and aesthetics of the leveling blocks, and do not allow for convenient display or storage without additional space.
Innovation Solution
A leveling system comprising stackable and interlocking leveling blocks with integrated openings and protrusions, along with a retractable handle that secures the blocks together for storage, transport, and display, eliminating the need for external containers and allowing visibility of the blocks' design and aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a container, box, case, or bag is used for storing and transporting leveling blocks, then the leveling blocks are protected and easy to carry, but the system weight increases, material cost increases, and additional storage space is required
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is integrated directly into the leveling blocks through openings and threading mechanisms, merging the storage/transport function with the leveling blocks themselves rather than using a separate container. This eliminates the need for additional container materials while maintaining the ability to carry and store the blocks conveniently.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle serves multiple functions: it enables carrying of the leveling blocks, provides a mechanism for securing blocks together during transport, and acts as part of the storage system itself. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate containers while achieving the same protective and organizational benefits.
2Ease of operation
If a container, box, case, or bag is used for storing and transporting leveling blocks, then the leveling blocks are protected and easy to carry, but material cost and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The handle components are integrated into the leveling blocks themselves through openings and threading mechanisms, eliminating the need for separate container manufacturing. This reduces material costs and simplifies the manufacturing process by using the same molding or fabrication processes for the blocks and handle components.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle structure serves multiple purposes including carrying, securing, and storage functions, replacing the need for separate container manufacturing. This multi-functional design reduces overall material requirements and manufacturing complexity while achieving the same protective and organizational benefits.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a container, box, case, or bag is used for storing and transporting leveling blocks, then the leveling blocks are protected, but the functional design, geometry and aesthetics are not immediately visible to potential purchasers
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is integrated into the leveling blocks rather than being a separate container, allowing the functional design and aesthetics of the blocks to remain visible while still providing protection and organization. The blocks can be displayed in their functional configuration with the handle attached, showcasing both form and function simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle can be extended or retracted, allowing the system to adapt between a compact protected state for transport and an expanded state for display. This dynamic capability enables the blocks to be showcased in their functional configuration while still providing protection when needed.
4Ease of operation
If a container, box, case, or bag is used for storing and transporting leveling blocks, then the leveling blocks are organized, but additional shelf space is required for display in retail environment
Solution Approach 1:
The handle integrated into the leveling blocks serves as both the organization mechanism and the display element, eliminating the need for separate container shelving. The blocks can be displayed directly on standard shelving in their functional configuration, reducing the space required compared to dedicated container display units.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle provides organization functionality while also serving as part of the display system itself. This multi-functional design allows the blocks to be organized and displayed using standard retail shelving, reducing the need for specialized display space compared to separate container systems.
5Ease of operation
If the handle is extended to aid in transportation of the system, then ease of carrying is improved, but the system occupies more space when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is designed to be extendable or retractable, allowing it to be extended when needed for carrying and then retracted or collapsed when not in use. This dynamic design enables the handle to provide carrying assistance when required while minimizing the space occupied during storage or display periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle components can be nested or collapsed into a compact configuration when not in use, similar to a nested doll structure. This allows the handle to be stored within or alongside the leveling blocks without occupying significant additional space, while still providing full carrying capability when extended.
Data Source
AI summary
A leveling system includes a plurality of leveling blocks for leveling a relatively large vehicle and a handle for securing the plurality of leveling blocks together for convenient storage and transport of the leveling blocks without a container. Each leveling block includes a pattern of protrusions that extend upwardly from a top surface and a pattern of recesses formed in a bottom surface. Each leveling block has an opening formed therethrough and at least one of the openings is provided with an internal thread. The handle includes an extensible and retractable portion adjacent a proximate end thereof and an external thread at a longitudinal opposite distal end thereof. The handle is guided through the openings of the plurality of leveling blocks and the external thread engages the internal thread provided on the at least one opening to secure the leveling blocks together.