RV Stair Assembly Linkage System for Compact Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing folding stair systems for vehicles are cumbersome to deploy, lack stability, and are not aesthetically pleasing, often requiring multiple user movements and manipulation of locking mechanisms, with many designs being free-floating and suspended from the vehicle floor.
Innovation Solution
A foldable stair assembly with a linkage system that includes pivotally connected support brackets, scissor links, and a stabilizer, allowing easy deployment and retraction, increased stability, and a flat vertical secured storage position, featuring a handle for ergonomic operation and an adjustable stabilizer for ground contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a drawbridge-style stair system is used, then the stairs can be supported from the ground, but the system requires significant space for swinging into position which is problematic in tight parking spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The stair system is divided into multiple individual steps that can be independently deployed and positioned, allowing each step to be placed precisely where needed without requiring large swinging arcs. This segmentation enables compact deployment in tight spaces while maintaining ground contact stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional swinging motion (drawbridge style) to a three-dimensional deployment mechanism where steps can be positioned in multiple orientations and locations, enabling compact storage and deployment without requiring large horizontal swinging space.
2Volume of moving object
If an extendable/folding stair system is used, then the stairs can compactly store under the vehicle, but the deployment process becomes cumbersome requiring multiple user movements and manipulation of locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The stair system incorporates self-latching mechanisms and automatic locking features that engage when steps are deployed to their proper positions, eliminating the need for manual manipulation of multiple locking mechanisms. The system essentially locks itself during the deployment process, significantly simplifying user operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanisms are pre-positioned and designed to automatically engage at specific deployment stages, so that users do not need to manually manipulate locks during deployment. The system is prepared in advance to self-lock at the correct positions, reducing operational complexity.
3Length of stationary object
If folding stair designs are used, then the stairs can be stored close to the vehicle, but many designs are free floating with no support structure in contact with the ground resulting in lack of stability
Solution Approach 1:
The stair system is segmented into individual steps that can be independently positioned to contact the ground, providing multiple discrete contact points for stability. This segmentation allows each step to be grounded independently while maintaining compact overall storage dimensions close to the vehicle.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces ground-contact support elements as intermediaries between the stair structure and the ground, providing stable support without requiring the entire stair system to be large or extended. These intermediary contact points enable stability while maintaining compact storage proximity to the vehicle.
4Area of stationary object
If extendable/folding stair systems are used, then the stairs can be deployed with reduced space, but many current designs are not aesthetically pleasing as they are suspended from the base of the RV floor and observed as internally stacked stairs
Solution Approach 1:
The stair system uses individual segmented steps that can be independently positioned and concealed, allowing each step to be neatly stored in a compact configuration that is less visually apparent. This segmentation enables aesthetically pleasing integration into the vehicle body while maintaining compact deployment space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different design qualities to different parts of the stair system, with the storage configuration designed to be aesthetically integrated into the vehicle body panels and exterior surfaces, while the deployed configuration provides functional accessibility. This local differentiation of quality between storage and deployed states resolves the aesthetic concern.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to a staircase assembly for a vehicle, such as a recreational vehicle (RV). The stair case assembly includes a pair of substantially flat, spaced apart, support brackets that are configured to mount to a vehicle, and define a storage space for a linkage system and associated plurality of steps. The linkage system is configured to move the plurality of attached steps from a vertically orientated stored position to a horizontally oriented deployed position extending outwardly from the vehicle allowing a person to easily enter and exit the vehicle.