RV Mat Roller Unit with Caster Storage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional RV mats are cumbersome to set up, maintain, and store due to their heavy and dirty nature, occupying significant space when rolled or folded.
Innovation Solution
A portable RV mat device with a roller unit and storage unit integrated into the RV, allowing easy extension, use, and retraction of the mat, featuring a rotatable bar with caster devices for smooth movement and a brushing device for maintenance, and secure storage within the RV.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a heavy mat is used to cover dirt and extend living space, then the mat provides effective ground coverage and comfort, but the mat becomes cumbersome to lift, move, and store
Solution Approach 1:
The mat system is segmented into a lightweight mat surface and a separate roller mechanism with caster wheels. The roller unit can be independently moved, lifted, and stored without requiring the user to handle the entire heavy mat assembly, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining ground coverage area
Solution Approach 2:
The roller unit acts as an intermediary between the mat and the user. Instead of directly lifting and moving the heavy mat, users interact with the lighter roller unit that can be easily maneuvered via casters, while the mat remains stationary on the ground providing continuous coverage
2Area of stationary object
If a large mat is used to extend living space, then the mat provides sufficient outdoor living area, but the mat occupies significant storage space when rolled or folded
Solution Approach 1:
The mat is nested within the roller unit during storage. When not in use, the mat wraps around the roller bar and is contained within the roller housing, creating a compact nested configuration that minimizes storage volume while allowing the mat to expand to full size when deployed
3Productivity
If a mat is continuously used at RV campsites, then the mat provides consistent outdoor living functionality, but the mat becomes very dirty and requires maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the mat surface from the roller mechanism, allowing the mat to be independently removed, cleaned, or replaced without affecting the roller unit. This segmentation makes maintenance easier while enabling continuous usage of the overall system
Solution Approach 2:
The roller unit provides self-service functionality through the brushing device that can clean the mat surface as it passes through or near the roller, reducing manual maintenance requirements and enabling continuous operation with minimal intervention
4Reliability
If a heavy mat is used for durability and ground coverage, then the mat withstands continuous use, but the mat is difficult to lift into and out of the RV
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the heavy mat from the transport mechanism (roller unit with casters). The roller unit can be easily lifted and transported into the RV separately, while the heavy mat remains on the ground providing continuous coverage and durability during use
Solution Approach 2:
The roller unit serves as an intermediary that can be easily transported into the RV, while the heavy mat stays stationary on the ground. This eliminates the need to lift the heavy mat into the RV, improving ease of transport while maintaining durability
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
Enables easy accessibility, maintenance, and storage of the RV mat, reducing space occupation and maintenance efforts while providing a clean and stable outdoor living space.
Implementation Method 1
a roller unit having a rotatable bar disposed between a first end opposite a second end. The rotatable bar is coupled to a first caster device at the first end and to a second caster device at the second end
Data Source
AI summary
A mat device for a recreational vehicle is disclosed comprising a mat configured to be utilized on a ground surface near the recreational vehicle. The mat device includes a roller unit having a rotatable bar disposed between a first end opposite a second end. The rotatable bar is coupled to a first caster device at the first end and to a second caster device at the second end. The mat is configured to couple to and roll upon the rotatable bar. The mat device includes a storage unit having a top wall opposite a bottom wall, a first side wall opposite a second side wall, and a cap opposite a back wall with a track coupled to an interior of the storage device. The track is configured to receive the first and second caster devices of the roller unit. The storage unit is located on the recreational vehicle.