Multilink Slide-Out Stabilizer for Automatic Vertical Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional slide-out structures in recreational vehicles require manual deployment and alignment of jack stands, necessitating additional space and effort for stabilization.
Innovation Solution
A multilink stabilizer assembly that automatically deploys during expansion, converting energy from wall panel expansion into rotational forces to achieve vertical stabilization without manual intervention or additional storage space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional jack stands are used for slide-out support, then stabilization function is provided, but manual intervention and precise alignment are required
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilizer assembly automatically deploys and positions itself during slide-out expansion without requiring manual intervention. The system uses the expansion force itself to drive the deployment mechanism, making the stabilization process self-service and eliminating the need for user placement and alignment of separate jack stands
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilizer assembly is pre-positioned within the slide-out structure and automatically deploys before the slide-out reaches its final extended position. This preliminary deployment ensures stability is established early in the expansion process, eliminating the need for subsequent manual adjustment
2Reliability
If conventional jack stands are used for slide-out support, then stabilization function is provided, but additional storage space is required
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilization function is merged with the slide-out structure itself. The stabilizer assembly is integrated into the expanding wall panel, combining the structural components and eliminating the need for separate, storable jack stands. This integration removes the additional storage space requirement while maintaining stabilization reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The expanding wall panel serves multiple functions: it provides the structural boundary of the slide-out, contains the stabilization mechanism, and drives the deployment of the stabilizer. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated stabilization components that would require separate storage space
3Ease of operation
If multilink stabilizer assembly is deployed automatically during expansion, then manual intervention is eliminated, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilizer assembly uses a dynamic multilink mechanism that automatically transitions from a compact stored position to a deployed stabilizing position. The mechanism uses pinned connections and lever arms that naturally transform the linear expansion motion into the rotational motion needed for stabilization, achieving automatic operation through dynamic mechanical transformation
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilizer assembly is divided into discrete linked segments connected by pins. This segmentation allows each component to move independently through its required path while maintaining simple connection interfaces. The segmented design enables automatic deployment through a sequence of simple rotational movements rather than requiring complex integrated mechanisms
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
Provides seamless and hassle-free stabilization of expandable structures by eliminating the need for manual adjustment and alignment, ensuring stability during deployment and retraction.
Implementation Method 1
converting energy from wall panel expansion into rotational forces to achieve vertical stabilization
Implementation Method 2
the actuator assembly pivots about a horizontal pivot axis between an outer support beam body and an inner support beam body
Data Source
AI summary
A multilink structure provides for a stabilizer system for an expansion section of an expandable structure, such as for a slide-out of a recreational vehicle. The stabilization system can be securely mounted onto either the chassis or the extension track, offering versatility for different configurations. Due to space constraints on the chassis, the stabilizer is engineered to remain horizontally aligned when retracted, maximizing available space. The primary connection point for the multilink stabilizer system is the chassis structure, with the outer wall attached as a secondary support. During deployment, the outer wall ingeniously combines pushing and rotational forces to smoothly extend the stabilizer assemblies outward. Once fully extended, the stabilizer adopts a fully vertical position, providing vital stability and support for the expansion section or slide-out. The stabilization system can eliminate the need for manual adjustment and alignment, thereby offering users a seamless and hassle-free experience.