RV Chassis Cross-Member Layout for Larger Fluid Tanks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Recreational vehicles have limited storage volume for fluid storage vessels due to the height constraints imposed by the chassis cross members, necessitating frequent refilling and draining.
Innovation Solution
The chassis is redesigned with cross members having an increased midsection height, allowing for a taller transport area that accommodates larger fluid storage vessels and additional components like HVAC ducts and pipes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of stationary object
If cross members have uniform height throughout, then structural simplicity is maintained, but storage volume of fluid vessels is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The cross members are designed with varying heights along their length, featuring a midsection height greater than the end heights. This local variation in geometry creates additional vertical space in the midsection area where fluid storage vessels are positioned, thereby increasing storage volume without requiring a complete redesign of all cross member sections. The non-uniform height profile allows vessels to extend higher in the midsection while maintaining lower clearance at the ends where structural connections are required.
2Volume of stationary object
If cross member height is increased, then storage capacity is improved, but structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The cross members feature localized height variation with a higher midsection and lower ends, concentrating the increased storage space where fluid vessels are positioned while maintaining reduced height at the connection points. This design ensures that structural integrity is preserved at the critical connection zones while achieving enhanced storage capacity in the vessel housing zones.
3Duration of action of moving object
If uniform cross member design is used, then manufacturing is simplified, but operational range is limited due to frequent refilling
Solution Approach 1:
The cross member geometry parameters are modified to create a non-uniform height profile, with the midsection height specifically increased relative to the end heights. This parameter change in the cross member design directly increases the available vertical space for fluid storage, thereby expanding storage capacity and extending operational range between refilling events. The manufacturing process accommodates this geometric variation through standard forming and fabrication techniques.
Data Source
AI summary
A recreational vehicle may include a chassis, an axle assembly, a floor, and a vehicle body enclosing living quarters. A fluid storage vessel may be supported in the chassis. The chassis may include a first and a second longitudinal chassis member each having an upper and lower edge, and an inner and outer face. Cross members have a first and second ends connected to the first and second chassis member, respectively. The cross members have an upper and lower edges extending between the ends. The cross members have an end height at the ends and a midsection height that is greater than the end height. A transport area extends longitudinally between two cross members, transversely between inner faces of the longitudinal chassis members, and vertically between upper and lower edges of the cross members. The fluid storage vessel is disposed in at least a portion of the transport area.