Movable RV Floor Positioning With Cable-Pulley Vertical Translation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Recreational vehicles with toy hauler features face challenges in efficiently converting space between storing toys and creating a comfortable living area, due to the fixed nature of traditional floor systems.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a drive chain, sets of cables, and pulleys that allow the movable floor to be vertically translated within the vehicle, enabling it to be raised for more living space or lowered for toy storage, utilizing channels and pulleys to manage cable routing and tension.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed floor system is used in traditional recreational vehicles, then the structural simplicity is maintained, but the adaptability of space utilization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a movable floor system that can be dynamically repositioned between a first position (maximizing living space) and a second position (maximizing toy storage space). The floor is coupled to cables that can be tensioned and relaxed to move the floor vertically, transforming the fixed floor concept into a dynamic, adjustable system that adapts to different usage requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable floor system serves multiple functions: it creates living space when positioned at the first position, creates toy storage space when positioned at the second position, and can be controlled through a user interface. This single system replaces what would traditionally require multiple fixed configurations or separate storage solutions.
2Volume of moving object
If the floor is positioned at the upper position to create toy storage space, then the toy storage capacity is improved, but the living space comfort deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows dynamic repositioning of the floor between upper and lower positions based on immediate needs. When toy storage is required, the floor moves to the upper position; when living comfort is prioritized, the floor returns to the lower position. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction by allowing optimal configuration for each specific use case.
3Ease of operation
If the floor is positioned at the lower position to create living space, then the living space comfort is improved, but the toy storage capacity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The movable floor system enables the living space to expand when the floor is positioned at the lower position, providing comfort for occupants. When toy storage becomes necessary, the same floor can be moved to the upper position, dynamically converting the space below into a large storage compartment. This resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to optimize for comfort or storage based on current needs.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a movable floor system with cables and pulleys is implemented, then the adaptability of space utilization is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces cables as intermediary elements that connect the movable floor to the vehicle structure. These cables, working with pulleys, serve as the mechanical medium that enables floor movement without requiring complex motors or hydraulic systems. The cable-pulley mechanism provides a relatively simple mechanical solution for achieving movable floor functionality.
5Reliability
If channels are added to manage cable routing, then the reliability of the system is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Channels are introduced as intermediary structures that guide and constrain the cable routing paths. These channels ensure that cables move along predetermined trajectories, preventing tangling or misrouting, and maintaining reliable connection between the floor and control mechanisms. The channels provide structural guidance that enhances system reliability during floor movement.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This system allows for flexible space utilization in recreational vehicles, efficiently accommodating both toy storage and comfortable living arrangements by enabling the floor to be easily adjusted between upper and lower positions.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of pulleys positioned on the movable floor, the plurality of pulleys routing each of the first set of cables from the drive chain to the upper end of the structure and routing each of the second set of cables from the drive chain to the lower end of the structure
Implementation Method 2
actuation of the drive chain in a first direction pulls the first set of cables while providing slack in the second set of cables to thereby translate the movable floor towards the upper end of the structure
Data Source
AI summary
A positioning system for controlling movement and position of a floor or platform within an enclosure. The enclosure may be that of a recreational vehicle and/or may be that of a room of a building, such as a garage or living quarter. The positioning system may include a motor and a plurality of cables configured to vertically slide the floor within the enclosure. The floor may be coupled to the enclosure within a plurality of channels that are connected to the enclosure at corners of the floor.