Overhead Sliding Compartment for Van Roof Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a lack of simple and effective methods to modify factory-made vans for recreational use or to purchase vans that can be easily converted into recreational vehicles with adequate space and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A multi-purpose overhead sliding compartment system for vans, comprising a first compartment that increases ceiling height and a second compartment that can be extended over the front of the vehicle, providing additional space for sleeping or storage, with an automatic opener and object detection sensors for safe operation, and made from widely available materials for easy fabrication and installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a factory-made van is modified for recreational use, then additional space and functionality are achieved, but the modification process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The recreational vehicle is divided into modular compartments including a first compartment with a frame and shell, and a second compartment with a movable platform. This segmentation allows each module to be independently manufactured and assembled, simplifying the overall modification process while maintaining full recreational functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The second compartment is designed with multi-functionality, serving as both a sleeping area when the platform is in the first compartment and an extended storage or living space when moved to the rear position. This universal design achieves versatile recreational use without requiring multiple separate modifications.
2Ease of operation
If the van is extended to provide standing-height interior space, then comfort and usability are improved, but the vehicle footprint and parking requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The second compartment is designed to move along the longitudinal axis of the van rather than expanding the vertical height permanently. This dimensional change allows the standing-height space to be created temporarily when needed, while the vehicle maintains its original compact footprint for parking when the platform is retracted to the first compartment.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform is made movable between two positions: within the first compartment to maintain compact dimensions for parking, and extended to the rear to create standing-height interior space for comfort and usability. This dynamic configuration resolves the contradiction between space requirements and footprint constraints.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a multi-purpose compartment system is added to the van, then space flexibility and recreational functionality are enhanced, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-purpose compartment system is segmented into standardized modules with separate frames, shells, and movable platforms. Each module can be manufactured using widely available materials and standard fabrication techniques, reducing overall manufacturing difficulty while maintaining space flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The second compartment nests within or alongside the first compartment when not in use, with the movable platform storing within the van's interior space. This nesting arrangement achieves space flexibility without requiring excessive additional materials or complex fabrication, as the components utilize existing structural spaces.
Data Source
AI summary
A recreational vehicle comprising a van body having a roof with an opening, and a multi-purpose compartment engaged with the roof about the opening. The multi-purpose compartment comprises first and second compartments. The first compartment comprises a frame secured to the roof of the van and a shell engaged with the frame. The second compartment comprises a shell and a platform. The second compartment is moveable from a closed position wherein the second compartment is disposed above the roof and an open position where the second compartment is extended from the roof. A mattress or bed or other items may be placed or stored in the second compartment.