Vehicle Leveling Jack Mounting Using No-Drill Frame Brackets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle leveling systems require permanent modifications to the vehicle frame, such as drilling holes, which can void warranties and create safety hazards, especially in 'no-drill' zones.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle leveling system that includes extendable jacks with frame engaging features and adjustable brackets that attach to the vehicle's frame without drilling new holes, using manufacturer-provided apertures and adjustable slots to secure the jacks in place without altering the frame's integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If drilling holes into the frame is used to attach jacks, then the jacks can be securely attached for leveling, but the manufacturer's warranty is voided and frame integrity is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces frame engaging brackets as intermediary components that attach to manufacturer-provided apertures in the frame. These brackets serve as mediators between the jacks and the frame, allowing secure jack attachment without drilling new holes. The brackets engage with existing factory-apertured locations, thereby maintaining frame integrity while achieving reliable jack mounting for leveling operations.
2Ease of operation
If stand-alone jacks are placed under the RV, then leveling can be achieved, but the jacks require storage space and manual placement work
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the previously separate components (leveling jacks and mounting system) into an integrated assembly. The jacks are permanently mounted to the frame via the bracket system, eliminating the need for separate storage containers and manual placement operations. The merging of jack and mounting function into a single integrated system simplifies the overall device complexity while maintaining ease of operation for leveling.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting brackets and jacks are pre-installed on the frame during vehicle assembly or conversion. This preliminary action eliminates the need for end-users to perform storage and placement operations. The system is prepared in advance with all mounting components securely attached, so that when leveling is needed, the user simply operates the already-positioned jacks without additional setup work.
3Ease of manufacture
If adjustable brackets are used to engage the frame, then the jacks can be secured without drilling, but additional components are required
Solution Approach 1:
The frame engaging brackets are designed as universal components that can be attached to various frame configurations using manufacturer-provided apertures. Each bracket serves multiple functions: attaching to the frame, positioning the jack, and providing structural support. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized components for each mounting location, thereby managing device complexity while achieving ease of manufacture without drilling.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle leveling system includes a jack adapted to be mounted to a vehicle frame without modifying the vehicle frame. In a particular embodiment, the jack includes a first bracket adapted to urge against the bottom and side surfaces of a member of the frame and configured to be fastened to a member of the frame through a manufacturer-provided aperture in the frame. The jack additionally includes a second bracket to couple the first bracket to the jack. In a more particular embodiment, the first bracket includes a horizontal adjustment feature, and the second bracket includes a vertical adjustment feature.