Extension Arm for RV Ceiling Vent Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Older individuals face difficulties in reaching and operating ceiling vents and fans in recreation vehicles due to balance issues and the need for ladders or step stools, which can lead to injuries and occupy valuable storage space.
Innovation Solution
An extension arm with an elongated shaft and operable ends, featuring tangs and notches for engaging switches and cranks, allows users to operate ceiling vents and fans without ladders, using a coupling with reinforcement tangs and an O-ring for secure operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a ladder or step stool is used to reach ceiling vents and fans, then accessibility to operate switches and cranks is improved, but the risk of falls and injuries increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an extension arm as an intermediary tool that allows users to reach and operate ceiling-mounted switches and cranks without standing on a ladder or step stool. The extension arm transmits rotational force from the user's hand to the operational mechanism, eliminating the need for elevated positioning and thereby removing the fall hazard while maintaining operational capability.
2Ease of operation
If a ladder or step stool is stored in the RV, then accessibility to ceiling vents and fans is improved, but valuable storage space is occupied
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential function of a ladder (providing extended reach) and implements it through a compact extension arm that can be stored within the RV's existing space constraints. The extension arm is significantly smaller and more space-efficient than a traditional ladder while delivering the same functional benefit of reaching ceiling-mounted controls.
3Ease of manufacture
If the extension arm uses simple tangs for engagement, then manufacturing complexity is reduced, but the reliability of engagement with switches and cranks decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite construction for the extension arm, combining different materials to optimize both manufacturing ease and engagement reliability. The tangs are reinforced with additional material layers or coatings that enhance their strength and durability while maintaining compatibility with standard manufacturing processes. This composite approach ensures reliable engagement with switches and cranks without significantly increasing manufacturing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of operating at least one of a fan and a vent in a ceiling of a recreational vehicle using an extension arm, the extension arm including an elongated shaft with an operable end, comprising grabbing the extension arm with one's hand; engaging one of a turn switch, a turn crank, and a knob of one of the fan and vent in the ceiling of the recreational vehicle with the operable end; and at least one of operating the fan and vent by rotating one of the turn switch, the turn crank, and the knob with the operable end by rotating the extension arm with one's hand.