Recreational Vehicle Sliding Door Handle With Pivotable Actuating Element

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing recreational vehicle sliding door handle and locking systems lack an improved design and functionality that is both aesthetically pleasing and functionally efficient, particularly in terms of lightweight construction and easy installation.

Innovation Solution

A handle and/or locking device for recreational vehicle sliding doors, featuring a handle shell, an actuating element, and a mounting plate, where the actuating element is pivotably mounted between the handle shell and the mounting plate, allowing for a symmetrically designed lock or handle that is flat, lightweight, and easy to install.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional push-locks or pressure actuators are used for sliding doors, then locking functionality is achieved, but the design becomes complex and heavy

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocking functionalityVSAvoidstructure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking device is divided into separate functional components: a handle shell for user interaction, a mounting plate for attachment, and a spring element for actuation. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall structure while maintaining reliable locking functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The complex internal mechanisms of traditional locks are extracted and replaced with a simple spring-based actuating element that pivots between positions. The essential locking function is achieved through this simplified mechanism rather than through complex gear systems or multiple moving parts.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Reliability

If traditional locking mechanisms are used, then secure locking is achieved, but the weight increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocking reliabilityVSAvoidhandle device weight

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism transitions from heavy mechanical components to a lightweight spring-based system. The spring element provides the necessary actuating force through elastic potential energy storage and release, eliminating the need for heavy counterweights or complex mechanical advantage systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If complex mechanics are used to achieve reliable locking, then locking security is improved, but installation becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocking securityVSAvoidinstallation ease

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The handle shell and mounting plate are designed as integrated components that can be installed as a single unit. The mounting plate includes pre-formed attachment features that combine structural support with mounting functionality, eliminating the need for separate mounting brackets and simplifying installation procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Shape

If a flat design is implemented, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but the area for component placement is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprofile flatnessVSAvoidmounting area

Core Design Contradiction:

ShapeVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The design utilizes the third dimension (depth/thickness) to accommodate components while maintaining a flat external appearance. The spring element and actuating mechanisms are arranged in a compact, space-efficient configuration that exploits vertical clearance within the handle shell without increasing the overall profile thickness.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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

The solution provides a handle and locking device that is suitable for lightweight construction, offers a simple structure without complex mechanics, and allows for easy installation, while ensuring reliable functionality and intuitive operation.

Implementation Method 1

at least one spring element is provided which is connected on the one hand to the handle shell and on the other hand to the actuating element, and that the spring element is prestressed such that the non-actuated actuating element is held in the non-actuated position

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Implementation Method 2

the actuating element is pivotably mounted on a pin provided on the handle shell

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS20250067095A1Recreational vehicle with a sliding door and a handle and/or locking device

Publication Date: 2025.02.27 THOR TECH CORP

AI summary

A handle and/or locking device for a sliding door of recreational vehicles, in particular a motorhome or caravan, with a grip recess, an actuating element and a mounting plate, wherein the mounting plate is connected to the handle shell in a fixed position relative to the handle shell, wherein the actuating element is pivotably mounted between the handle shell and the mounting plate, and wherein the handle shell has a recess which allows actuation of the actuating element. Furthermore, a sliding door and a recreational vehicle are specified.