Patent Application
20180370415
The present disclosure pertains to awning systems and related methods and more particularly to modular awning mounts and modular awning systems for recreational vehicles.
A recreational vehicle (RV) can be of a pulled type that is pulled by a towing vehicle or it can be self-propelled with its own engine and drive train. Towed RVs can include a tent trailer, a trailer, and a fifth-wheel trailer. RVs with their own engine and drive train can range in size from small vans to Class A RVs built on heavy duty bus chassis.
Awnings are commonly found on RVs to provide a cover from sun and rain, when deployed at a rest location. A typical conventional awning can be automatically or manually deployed and retracted. Awnings can be positioned along one side or both sides of an RV such that when deployed, each awning can provide an exterior cover for enhanced user enjoyment, especially when the RV is also equipped with an exterior entertainment system.
Aspects of the present invention include a modular awning system for use with a vehicle, such as a recreational vehicle or any movable vehicle. The present invention further includes methods of using and making modular awning systems and components thereof. The modular awning system can be manufactured according to a first size for mounting to a wide range of vehicles and then sizable to a smaller second size to more appropriately fit a particular vehicle.
Components of the modular awning system that can be resized to fit a particular vehicle include a frame and one or more awnings. The frame can include multiple frame components that are manufactured to a respective first size and then sizable, such as trim down or cut down, to a shorter respective second size and then assembled to form a final modular awning system sized to fit a particular vehicle.
Thus, aspects of the present invention are understood to include a semi-custom fit modular awning system that is manufactured to a first size to cover a large range of vehicles and that can then be modified, such as trimmed, shortened, or cut, and then assembled from the modified pieces to an assembled size for a particular sized vehicle.
In some examples, the frame of the modular awning system is manufactured to a first size and is sizable to a smaller second side. However, the awnings can have a plurality of different first sizes with each awning sizeable to a smaller sub-set of second sizes. For example, a modular awning system in accordance with aspects of the present invention can include a single frame built to a first size and sizeable to a second size, such as by trimming or cutting one or more frame pieces. The same modular awning system can then have multiple awnings of different first lengths, with each awning customizable to a smaller sub-set of ranges. This allows the awning to be trimmed to cover a smaller size range, relatively speaking, than for the frame.
In other examples, there can be more than one frame with each frame configured to fit a smaller sub-set of vehicles. As a non-limiting example, a first frame can fit a vehicle of 46 feet to 52 feet vehicle length and second frame can fit a vehicle length of 48 feet to 42 feet, etc. The alternative modular awning system with multiple first frames for smaller sub-set of vehicles sizes can then have multiple awnings of different first lengths, with each awning customizable to a smaller sub-set of ranges. This allows the awning to be trimmed to cover a smaller size range, relatively speaking, than for the frame.
A frame can be mounted directly to a roof of a vehicle, such as to a recreational vehicle, the pulled typed or the self-propelled type, using fasteners and the like. The frame can include brackets for attaching to the vehicle. Brackets can also be used to secure one or more awnings to the frame. For example, a frame can have a first side aligned to a first side of a vehicle and a second side aligned to a second side of the vehicle. A first awning can be attached to the first side frame and optionally a second awning can be attached to the second side frame. The first and second side frames, or first and second elongated mains, can include brackets for use to secure one or two awnings.
First and second fairings may be incorporated to cover, or at least partially cover, the first and second ends of the frame, also first and second ends of each respective awning.
One or more embodiments of the present application can include a modular awning system comprising a first fairing, a second fairing, a frame disposed between the first fairing and the second fairing, and an awning coupled to the frame, wherein the awning and the frame are sizeable to necessary dimensions of a vehicle.
Embodiments can further include a bracket spacer and an awning bracket.
Additionally, embodiments can include wherein the awning is directly mounted to the awning bracket, wherein the awning bracket is directly mounted to the bracket spacer, and wherein the bracket spacer is directly mounted to the frame.
One or more embodiments of the present application can include a modular awning system for a vehicle comprising a front fairing configured to be mounted transversely across the vehicle, a first rear fairing and a second rear fairing, a frame disposed between the front fairing, the first rear fairing, the second rear fairing, and a first awning and a second awning, the first awning and the second awning coupled to the frame. Embodiments can include wherein the first awning, the second awning, and the frame are sizeable to necessary dimensions of the vehicle, wherein the front fairing is configured to cover respective first ends of the first awning and the second awning, and wherein each of the first rear fairing and the second rear fairing cover respectively cover an opposed second end of the first awning and the second awning.
One or more embodiments of the present application can include a modular awning system for a vehicle comprising a first fairing comprising a surface, two ends, and a center section located between the two ends, a second fairing spaced from the first fairing, a frame disposed between the first fairing and the second fairing, and an awning having cover fabric in a stowed-away state, said awning coupled to the frame.
Embodiments can include wherein the frame is sizeable from a first size to a second size, which is smaller than the first size, for use on a recreational vehicle.
The frame with the first size can fit a range of vehicles, including the noted recreational vehicle. However, when the frame is modified to the second size, the frame can fit a smaller range of vehicles than when the frame is in the first size. This allows the frame to be manufactured to a first size and then modifiable to a final size for a semi-custom fit to a particular vehicle.
Also, embodiments can include wherein the awning is sizeable from a first size to a second size, which is smaller than the first size, for use on a recreational vehicle.
Additionally, embodiments can further include a bracket spacer and an awning bracket secured to the awning.
In some embodiments, the awning is directly mounted to the awning bracket.
In some embodiments, the awning bracket is directly mounted to the bracket spacer.
In some embodiments, the bracket spacer is directly mounted to the frame.
Embodiments of the frame are made of at least one of metal, polymer, or composite. A particular metal frame can comprise extruded aluminum channels and extensions.
Also, embodiments can include wherein the awning comprises a motor operatively coupled to the cover fabric to extend or retract the cover fabric. The motor can be operated via a control switch or wirelessly using a remote control or a downloadable application software.
Some embodiments can include wherein the cover fabric is one of cloth or vinyl. The cover fabric is replaceable, such as for a different material, a different pattern, or when worn out.
Additionally, embodiments can include wherein the awning bracket comprises a first wall for mounting to the frame and a second wall, generally perpendicular to the first wall, for mounting the awning.
Also, embodiments can include wherein the awning is a first awning, and further include a second awning attached to the frame, spaced from the first awning. For example, the first awning can be mounted along a first side of the frame and the second awning can be mounted along a second side of the frame. The first and second sides of the frame can align with the first and second sides of a vehicle.
Embodiments can include wherein the frame comprise a first elongated main, a second elongated main, and a crossbar connected to the first elongated main and the second elongated main.
Some embodiments can include wherein the crossbar comprises a plurality of LEDs.
Also, embodiments can include wherein the crossbar is a first crossbar, and further include a second crossbar and a third crossbar. The three crossbars can be spaced from one another and each can connect to the first and second elongated mains.
Embodiments can include wherein the first crossbar, the second crossbar, and the third crossbar are generally parallel to one another. In other examples, fewer than three crossbars or greater than three crossbars can be incorporated.
Embodiments can include one or more solar panels mounted to the frame.
Embodiments can include a satellite or antenna mounted to the frame.
Embodiments can include wherein the frame is sized to fit around a roof mounted device, such as an air conditioning unit.
One or more embodiments of the present application include a modular awning system for a vehicle. The embodiments can include a first fairing configured to be mounted transversely at a front of a vehicle compared to a second fairing; said second fairing comprising a second fairing left part and a second fairing right part, a frame connected to the first fairing and the second fairing, said frame comprising a first elongated main, a second elongated main, and at least one crossbar connected to the first elongated main and the second elongated main, a first awning and a second awning, the first awning and the second awning coupled to the frame.
Embodiments can include wherein each of the first awning, the second awning, and the frame is sizeable from a first size to a second size, which is smaller than the first size, to scale the modular awning system to a vehicle.
Embodiments can include wherein the front fairing comprises a surface to cover respective first ends of the first awning and the second awning.
Embodiments can include wherein the second fairing comprises a surface to cover respective second ends of the first awning and the second awning.
A modular awning system for a vehicle in accordance with aspects of the present invention can comprise a first fairing configured to be mounted transversely at a front of a vehicle compared to a second fairing; said second fairing comprising a second fairing left part and a second fairing right part; a frame connected to the first fairing and the second fairing, said frame comprising a first elongated main, a second elongated main, and at least one crossbar connected to the first elongated main and the second elongated main; a first awning and a second awning, the first awning and the second awning coupled to the frame; wherein each of the first awning, the second awning, and the frame is sizeable from a first size to a second size, which is smaller than the first size, to scale the modular awning system to a vehicle; wherein the front fairing comprises a surface to cover respective first ends of the first awning and the second awning; and wherein the second fairing comprises a surface to cover respective second ends of the first awning and the second awning.
One or more embodiments of the present application include a method for mounting a modular awning system to a vehicle. The method can include shortening a frame from a first frame length to a second frame length to set the frame to the second frame length; the frame comprising a first end and a second end, shortening an awning from a first awning length to a second awning length to set the awning to the second awning length, attaching the awning to the frame and the frame to a roof of a vehicle, and placing a first fairing having a surface at the first end of the frame and a second fairing having a surface at the second end of the frame.
Also, embodiments of the method can include shortening a crossbar from a first crossbar length to a second crossbar length and attaching the crossbar to a first elongated main and a second elongated main.
Also, embodiments of the method can include wherein the crossbar is a first crossbar, further comprising shortening a second crossbar and attaching the shortened second crossbar to first elongated main and the second elongated main.
Additionally, embodiments of the method can further include wherein the awning is a first awning, and further comprising shortening a second awning and attaching the second awning to the frame.
Also, embodiments of the method can include wiring the frame to a power source to power LED lights mounted to the frame.
Embodiments of the method can further include using a remote control to extend a cover fabric from the awning.
These and other features and advantages of the present device, system, and method will become appreciated as the same becomes better understood with reference to the specification, claims and appended drawings wherein:
Aspects of the present disclosure can relate to modular awning mounts, modular awning systems, and related methods. A modular awning system can allow for improved quickness in sizing and installing an awning system. Embodiments may relate generally to vans, such as a [MERCEDES SPRINTER] or [FORD TRANSIT], and recreation vehicles (RV). Embodiments may also be applied to RVs of other dimensions, whether they are towed RVs or self-propelled RVs.
Exemplary embodiments use a representation of a van for illustrative purposes only. One of ordinary skill would readily recognize that the embodiments can be implemented on various types of vehicles, including for large class RVs. Additionally, one of ordinary skill would readily recognize that the embodiments can also be applied to temporary or fixed structures. Applications for embodiments can be found for structures for which shade may be desirable.
The description set forth in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of the presently preferred embodiments of modular awning systems provided in accordance with aspects of the present devices, systems, and methods and is not intended to represent the only forms in which the present devices, systems, and methods may be constructed or utilized. The description sets forth the features and the steps for constructing and using the embodiments of the present devices, systems, and methods in connection with the illustrated embodiments. It is to be understood, however, that the same or equivalent functions and structures may be accomplished by different embodiments that are also intended to be encompassed within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. As denoted elsewhere herein, like element numbers are intended to indicate like or similar elements or features.
Aspects of the present invention further include methods of using the modular awning systems and components thereof and of making the modular awning systems and components thereof as described herein.
In
Between the first fairing 1 and the second fairing left part and right part 2A, 2B is a frame structure 3. The frame structure 3 can comprise of a structure that couples to the first fairing and the second fairing. In some embodiments, the frame structure 3 can have a box frame structure comprising main bars 3A and at least one crossbar 3B. A plurality of crossbars 3B can also be used. The main bars 3A can extend from the first fairing 1 to the second fairing left part and right part 2A, 2B. Embodiments of the frame structure 3 can be made from a suitable material, such as at least one of a metal, a polymer, a composite. In embodiments, the frame structure 3 can be made from a combination of materials, including composite reinforced metals, to provide sufficient strength. In embodiments, the frame structure 3 can be made from bars of different material. For example, the main bars 3A can be made from a steel, such as steel or aluminum, while the at least one crossbar 3B can be made from a polymer or a composite, such as carbon fiber. In some embodiments, the main bars may be made of T-slot extrusion, I-beam extrusion, or L-channel extrusion. The main bars 3A can be sized to fit necessary dimensions of the vehicle, such that the main bars 3A will fit between the first fairing 1 and the second fairing 2A, 2B. The frame structure may also have the crossbar 3B extend across from one of the main bars 3A to another of the main bars 3A. This can provide structural rigidity as necessary. In the exemplary embodiment, the crossbar can extend perpendicularly to the main bars 3A. However, alternative angles may be used, such as a diagonal brace. Combinations of perpendicular and diagonal crossbars may also be used in order to triangulate the frame structure. In addition to the crossbar, there can be a light emitting crossbar, which can include light sources attached to or recessed in the crossbar. The light emitting crossbar may be at a rear end of the frame and may house lights for either indication to other drivers or for illumination purposes. In some embodiments, the light emitting crossbar may comprise light emitting diodes (LED), fluorescent bulbs, or other light sources. In some embodiments, the light emitting crossbar can function as a brake light or turn signal indicators. In some embodiments, the light emitting crossbar can function as a tailgate light to provide illumination around the rear door area. Also, embodiments of the light emitting crossbar can allow for the displaying of illuminated text rearward. The illuminated text can be preprogrammed or programmable.
In some embodiments, there are provided bracket spacers 7 for mounting a plurality of awning brackets 4. The bracket spacers 7, the awning bracket 4, and the frame structure can be coupled through the use of components such as corner brackets 8 or fastening hardware. At least one of or both of the bracket spacers 7 and the plurality of awning brackets 4 can be manufactured in a variety of thicknesses and sizes to accommodate necessary design considerations for mounting of the modular awning system. For example, the awning mechanism may require height adjustment or the shape of a vehicle roof may necessitate a specific height for mounting the awning.
Awnings 5, which can include rollers, housings, mandrel or shaft, necessary motors and electronics, can be mounted to the awning brackets 4. The awning 5 can include a cover that is extendable and retractable, such as by rollers and motors. The cover of the awning can be called a cover fabric. The cover fabric can have a stowed away state or an extended state. The cover can be made of a flexible material, such as cloth, fabric, or vinyl. Alternatively, the awning 5 can be a rollable assembly of metal strips. Alternatively, the frame structure of the main bars 3A and crossbar 3B may be manufactured to allow for direct mounting of an awning 5. In such a case of a proprietary design, the modular awning system can be simplified by not requiring the bracket spacers and/or awning brackets.
In view of the arrangement of the frame structure 3 and the awnings 5, the modular awning assembly 100 can be easily sizeable relative to the length of a desired vehicle. The main bars 3A can be shortened as necessary for the length of a desired vehicle. Additionally, the awnings 5 can also be shortened as necessary for the length of the desired vehicle. In this way, a common supply of components for the frame structure 3 and the awnings 5 can be kept for usage across a variety of sizes of vehicles. The components for the frame structure 3 and the awning 5 can then be shortened as necessary for fitment to a particular vehicle.
The second fairing can be made from a suitable material, such as at least one of a metal, a polymer, a composite. In embodiments, the first fairing 1 can be made from a combination of materials, including composite reinforced metals, to provide sufficient strength. The second fairing right part 2B can be understood as being reflectively symmetrical, or mirroring, the second fairing left part 2A.
One or more embodiments of the present application can be generally built using the materials listed in the following Table 1. The exemplary materials are just one possible embodiment of the components as corresponds to the element numbers identified in
Embodiments of the components listed in Table 1 can be made from a suitable material, such as at least one of a metal, a polymer, a composite. In embodiments, the components can be made from a combination of materials, including composite reinforced metals, to provide sufficient strength. For example, the metal can include steel, aluminum, titanium, or an alloy. For example, the polymer can be a plastic of sufficient strength for vehicle applications. For example, the composite can include carbon fiber. Methods for making the components can include three dimensional printing.
In embodiments of different size awning 5, the frame and awning brackets 4 for the awnings may also be sized differently for the different weight requirements. This may be a consideration for weight savings for the vehicle. For example, a smaller awning 5 with less weight may use smaller awning brackets 4 or awning brackets 4 of a different material.
Other devices or modular pods can also be attached to the frame structure 3 of the modular awning system 100. Specific modules can be sized to fit between the crossbar 3B or provide structural rigidity to that modular awning system 100. In some embodiments, the devices may be mounted directly to the vehicle 900 and the frame structure 3 of the modular awning system 100 can be sized to accommodate the devices. For example, the placement of the crossbar 3B may be adjustable to accommodate device placement.
Methods of making and of using the modular awning systems and components thereof are within the scope of the present disclosure.
Although limited embodiments of modular awning systems, their components, and related methods have been specifically described and illustrated herein, many modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is to be understood that the modular awning systems, their components, and related methods constructed according to principles of the disclosed devices, systems, and methods may be embodied other than as specifically described herein. Furthermore, it is understood and contemplated that features specifically discussed for one embodiment may be adopted for inclusion with another embodiment, provided the functions are compatible. Accordingly, it is to be understood that the assemblies, their components, and related methods constructed according to principles of the disclosed devices, systems, and methods may be embodied other than as specifically described herein. The disclosure is also defined in the following claims.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62524402 | Jun 2017 | US |
