Modular RV Frame Extension With Integrated Trailer Hitch Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing modular systems for frame extensions in recreational vehicles are complex and require various adapters and reinforcements, leading to increased costs, weight, and logistical challenges, particularly when accommodating different vehicle models and trailer hitch configurations.
Innovation Solution
A modular system utilizing an endless profile with standardized properties, featuring a cross member and trailer hitch device, allowing for the creation of multiple frame extensions with reduced variance and simplified assembly, storage, and logistics, by using a single endless profile with a small number of adapters and connecting elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If individual frame extensions are provided for each vehicle model with different requirements, then the functionality and adaptability are improved, but the device complexity and variety of components increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single standardized frame extension that can serve multiple vehicle models and purposes. The frame extension includes standardized connection points for both chassis attachment and trailer hitch mounting, allowing it to function universally across different recreational vehicle configurations without requiring model-specific variants.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame extension is segmented into functional modules: the main frame structure, chassis connection points, and trailer hitch mounting points. This segmentation allows the same basic structure to be configured for different vehicles by selectively activating or connecting different modules, reducing the need for completely different frame extensions for each vehicle model.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex adapters and reinforcements are used to expand or replace frame extensions for different purposes, then the functionality is improved, but the weight and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The frame extension incorporates universal mounting points and standardized connection interfaces that allow the same structure to accommodate different functions (chassis support, trailer hitch, garage compartment) without requiring additional adapters or reinforcements. The standardized design eliminates the need for weight-added complex attachments.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a wide variety of frame extensions with standardized properties are produced from continuous profiles, then the adaptability is improved, but the manufacturing complexity and logistics challenges increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes a universal frame extension design with standardized dimensions, connection points, and mounting interfaces. This single standardized design can be manufactured in large quantities using continuous profiles, eliminating the need to produce and manage inventory of multiple different frame extension variants, thereby simplifying manufacturing and logistics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple functions (chassis support, trailer hitch mounting, garage compartment support) into a single frame extension design. By combining these functions into one universal structure, the system reduces the number of separate components that need to be manufactured, stored, and assembled, simplifying both production and logistics.
Data Source
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AI summary
A modular system (2) for forming a frame extension (1) of a recreational vehicle frame (70) with standardized properties, comprising at least one continuous profile (3) for forming the frame extension (1), wherein at least two different frame extensions (1) with standardized properties can be configured from the at least one continuous profile (3). It is proposed that at least one cross member (56) be provided, which is formed at least substantially from a continuous profile (3), wherein the cross member (56) is arranged at a rear (10) of the recreational vehicle in the assembled state, and that a device (75) for a trailer coupling (60) is provided, which is connected at least to the cross member (56) in the assembled state. Furthermore, an arrangement (76) with a cross member (56) and such a device, (75), a frame extension (1), and a recreational vehicle (100) are specified.