US20050248172A1 - Vehicle slide out assembly actuating mechanism and method of operation - Google Patents
Vehicle slide out assembly actuating mechanism and method of operation Download PDFInfo
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- US20050248172A1 US20050248172A1 US11/184,141 US18414105A US2005248172A1 US 20050248172 A1 US20050248172 A1 US 20050248172A1 US 18414105 A US18414105 A US 18414105A US 2005248172 A1 US2005248172 A1 US 2005248172A1
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- fluid
- slide out
- cylinder
- ports
- ram
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60P—VEHICLES ADAPTED FOR LOAD TRANSPORTATION OR TO TRANSPORT, TO CARRY, OR TO COMPRISE SPECIAL LOADS OR OBJECTS
- B60P3/00—Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects
- B60P3/32—Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects comprising living accommodation for people, e.g. caravans, camping, or like vehicles
- B60P3/34—Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects comprising living accommodation for people, e.g. caravans, camping, or like vehicles the living accommodation being expansible, collapsible or capable of rearrangement
Definitions
- This invention relates to vehicles having expandable room sections, and more particularly to a slide out assembly actuating mechanism and method of operation for use in vehicles, wherein the slide out assembly includes two or more fluid actuators for moving a slide out section between an extended and retracted position.
- the slide out section includes a raised platform, usable as seating, a sleeping platform, and the like, which is enclosed on all but one side.
- the slide out section is retracted and stored in the interior of the vehicle or trailer, with the exterior wall of the slide out section approximately flush with the exterior of the vehicle or trailer.
- the vehicle is first parked and leveled.
- the slide out room section is then slid outward from the vehicle to an extended position, increasing the interior space of the vehicle.
- the slide out room section is moved between the extended and retracted position by an actuating mechanism driven by an electric motor, such as a rack and pinion system.
- the rack is typically fixed to the slide out section and a rotatably driven pinion is fixed to the vehicle body.
- Another known actuating mechanism incorporates hydraulic actuators that are actuated to extend and retract the slide out section.
- slide out actuating mechanisms including two or more hydraulic or pneumatic actuators
- fluid is pumped into each actuator at the same rate in order to extend the actuator rams together.
- Forces exerted on the slide out can increase the pressure in one of the cylinders and reduce the flow of fluid into that cylinder which causes the ram of the one actuator to be extended less then the other actuators. This unbalanced condition can cause the slide out section to skew and become jammed. Therefore, a need exists for a vehicle slide out assembly actuating mechanism that synchronizes two or more fluid actuators to avoid skewing the slide out.
- the present invention provides a slide out actuating mechanism for selectively extending and retracting a slidable section of a slide out assembly fixed to a vehicle body.
- the slide out actuating mechanism includes at least two double acting fluid actuated actuators. Each actuator has a cylinder and an extendible ram. Each cylinder is fixed relative to one of the vehicle body and the slidable section, and each ram is fixed relative to the other of the vehicle body and the slidable section. At least one flow divider having at least two fluid ports directs fluid to and from the cylinders.
- One of the fluid ports is in fluid communication with one of the cylinders and the other of the fluid ports is in fluid communication with the other cylinder, wherein the flow divider maintains the flow of fluid flowing through the ports at substantially equal flow rates to synchronize movement of the rams when moving the rams relative to the cylinders.
- a general objective of the present invention is to provide a vehicle having a slide out section which extends without skewing. This objective is accomplished by providing an actuating mechanism having two or more hydraulic actuators which are extended and retracted at approximately the same speed using one or more flow dividers to direct hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic actuator encountering more resistance than the other hydraulic actuators.
- FIG. 1 is a side view of a vehicle having a slide out section incorporating the present invention mounted thereon in a retracted position;
- FIG. 2 is a side view of the vehicle of FIG. 1 in which the slide section is in an extended position;
- FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the vehicle of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of the slide out section of FIG. 3 partially extended;
- FIG. 5 is a view of the platform with a portion removed to reveal the actuator supporting one side of the slide out section;
- FIG. 6 is a view of the bracket supporting the rail connected to the actuator
- FIG. 7 is an end view of the bracket of FIG. 6 ;
- FIG. 8 is a side view of the bracket of FIG. 6 ;
- FIG. 9 is a top view of the bracket of FIG. 6 ;
- FIG. 10 is an end view of the rail of FIG. 6 ;
- FIG. 11 is an side view of the rail of FIG. 6 ;
- FIG. 12 is a top view of the rail of FIG. 6 ;
- FIG. 13 is a hydraulic diagram of the slide out actuating assembly
- FIG. 14 is a schematic of the electronic control unit for use with the slide out actuating assembly of FIG. 13 ;
- FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the latch fully retracted
- FIG. 16 is a perspective of the latch fully extended
- FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the slide out actuating assembly incorporating the present invention.
- FIG. 18 is a hydraulic diagram of an alternate slide out actuating assembly
- FIG. 19 is a sectional view of the flow divider shown in FIG. 18 ;
- FIGS. 20-23 are sectional views of the flow divider shown in FIG. 18 ;
- FIG. 24 is a partially exploded perspective view of an alternative vehicle slide out actuating mechanism.
- the present invention provides a slide out assembly attached to a known trailer or recreational vehicle which provides distinct advantages over the prior art as will be described and appreciated hereafter.
- the trailer or recreational vehicle (generally referred to as the vehicle) is equipped with a slide out section used to provide additional interior room space.
- the invention can also apply to expandable sections or compartments provided on other vehicles for use in construction, military, medical, education, mobile broadcast and other applications, to expand the inside volume of the vehicle.
- FIG. 1 illustrates the vehicle body 10 having mounted thereon an expandable, telescopic slide out room section 12 incorporating the present invention in its fully retracted position.
- FIG. 2 is a similar view with the slide out section 12 fully extended.
- the vehicle 10 includes exterior walls 14 surrounding a stationary floor 16 covered by a vehicle roof 18 to define a vehicle interior 20 .
- An opening 22 formed in one of the exterior walls 14 receives the slide out section 12 supported above the stationary floor 16 .
- the slide out section 12 includes a pair of sidewalls 24 extending from a movable exterior wall 26 .
- the exterior wall 26 When the slide out section 12 is fully retracted, the exterior wall 26 is substantially flush with the vehicle exterior wall 14 , and closes the vehicle exterior wall opening 22 .
- the pair of slide out section sidewalls 24 extend inwardly through the opening 22 towards the vehicle interior 20 from opposing side edges of the slide out section exterior wall 26 .
- a top plate 28 proximal a top edge of the slide out section exterior wall 26 extends generally parallel to the vehicle stationary floor 16 through the opening 22 towards the vehicle interior 20 .
- a fascia plate 30 proximal an interior edge of the top plate 28 extends upwardly from the top plate 28 toward the vehicle roof 18 .
- Elastomeric seals such as rubber seals, are fixed between the slide out section when the slide out section is fully extended and fully retracted. The seals protect the vehicle interior 20 from adverse weather conditions.
- the slide out section 12 is supported above the vehicle stationary floor 16 by a pair of U-shaped brackets 32 .
- Each bracket 32 has a base 34 fixed to the vehicle stationary floor 16 using methods known in the art, such as bolting.
- a pair of legs 36 extend upwardly from the base 34 to form the U-shape.
- Rollers 38 are rotatably mounted to one of the legs 36 , and have axes 40 which are substantially perpendicular to the slide out section direction of travel
- the rollers 38 support an elongated rail 42 fixed to each slide out section sidewall 24 .
- Each rail 42 has a C-profile which wraps around the rollers 38 , and is fixed to one of the slide out section sidewalls 24 .
- the rail 42 slidably moves in a longitudinal direction as the slide out section 12 moves between the retracted and extended positions.
- a hitch 44 having a ball 46 is fixed to the rail 42 , and extends substantially parallel to the roller axes 40 .
- a rail having a C-profile engaging rollers is disclosed, rails having other profiles such as a square, circular, U-shape, and the like, can be used without departing from the scope of the invention.
- the rail can be supported by a low friction surface, such as UHMW, bearings, lubricated surface, and the like without departing from the scope of the invention.
- a platform 48 such as suitable for use as a bench, bed base, and the like, is fixed between the slide out section sidewalls 24 above the vehicle stationary floor 16 .
- the platform 48 is U-shaped having a rear edge 50 fixed to the slide out section exterior wall 26 , a pair of opposing side edges 52 fixed to the slide out section sidewalls 24 , and a front edge 54 .
- a front plate 56 extends downwardly from the platform front edge 54 toward the vehicle stationary floor 16 .
- the platform 48 has removable portions (such as shown in FIG. 5 ) to provide access to a slide out actuating assembly 58 .
- the slide out actuating assembly 58 is housed beneath the platform 48 , and includes a pair of double actuating hydraulic actuators 60 which urge the slide out section 12 between the extended and retracted positions.
- Each actuator 60 has a cylinder 62 fixed to one of the brackets 32 and an extendible ram 64 fixed to the ball 46 of one of the rails 42 .
- Extension of the ram 64 drives the slide out section 12 from the extended position to the retracted position.
- retraction of the ram 64 pulls the slide out section 12 from the retracted position to the extended position.
- retracting the rams 64 to extend the slide out section 12 minimizes the required space beneath the platform 48 for housing the slide out actuating assembly 58 by minimizing the length of the hydraulic actuators 60 when the least amount of space underneath the platform 48 is available for housing the slide out actuating assembly 58 .
- the hydraulic actuators 60 are actuated by a hydraulic circuit 66 which drives the actuator rams 64 at approximately the same speed to avoid skewing.
- the hydraulic circuit 66 includes an extension circuit 68 which supplies hydraulic fluid to one end 70 of each hydraulic actuator 60 to extend the rams 64 , and a retraction circuit 72 which supplies hydraulic fluid to the other end 74 of each hydraulic actuator 60 to retract the rams 64 .
- a pump 76 supplies fluid to the desired circuit 68 , 72 depending upon the operator selected pump direction.
- the pump 76 is electrically connected to an electronic control unit 78 which controls the pump operation, and thus the movement of the slide out section 12 .
- the extension circuit 68 and retraction circuit 72 are substantially identical with the difference being which end 70 , 74 of the hydraulic actuator 60 is supplied with hydraulic fluid. Accordingly, the following description is made with reference to the retraction circuit 72 with the understanding that the description also applies to the extension circuit 68 .
- the retraction circuit 72 includes a main supply line 80 having a pressure relief valve 84 and a pilot operated check valve 86 .
- the pressure relief valve 84 is automatically opened to allow fluid to flow into a reservoir 87 when fluid pressure in the main supply line 80 exceeds a predetermined value.
- the pilot operated check valve 86 operates to allow fluid to flow toward the actuators 60 and prevent the fluid from flowing in the reverse direction.
- a pilot line 88 connects the check valve 86 in the retraction circuit supply line 82 to an extension circuit supply line 80 .
- a positive pressure in the extension circuit supply line 80 sensed by the pilot line 88 opens the check valve 86 to allow hydraulic fluid to flow in the reverse direction away from the actuators 60 past the check valve 84 .
- the retraction circuit check valve 86 is opened to allow hydraulic fluid draining from the hydraulic actuator ends 74 to flow past the retraction circuit check valve 86 back toward to the pump 76 .
- the fluid flowing back to the pump 76 is then pumped into the extension circuit supply line 82 .
- the retraction circuit supply line 82 supplies hydraulic fluid to a flow divider 90 which splits the hydraulic fluid between left and right branch lines 92 , 94 .
- Each branch line 92 , 94 feeds the end 74 of one hydraulic actuator 60 .
- Drain lines 96 divert the flow of hydraulic fluid from each branch line 92 , 94 around the flow divider 90 to the supply line 82 when evacuating fluid from the end 74 of the hydraulic actuator 60 .
- the flow divider 90 diverts hydraulic fluid through the branch lines 92 , 94 to the hydraulic actuators 60 depending upon the hydraulic pressure in the actuators 60 using a pilot operated spool valve 98 .
- a pilot line 100 in the left branch line 92 exerts a pressure against the spool valve 98 to urge the spool valve 98 toward the right against a pressure exerted by a second pilot line 102 in the right branch line 94 which urges the spool valve 98 to the left.
- Orifices 104 upstream of the spool valve 98 in each branch line 92 , 94 prevent the flow of hydraulic fluid above a predetermined flow rate.
- the predetermined flow rate is less than the flow rate capacity of the spool valve 98 .
- Moving the spool valve 98 to the right increases the flow of hydraulic fluid to the left branch line 92 while decreasing the flow of hydraulic fluid to the right branch line 94 , and vice versa.
- one branch line 92 , 94 has a hydraulic fluid pressure which is greater than the other branch line 94 , 92
- more hydraulic fluid is diverted to the branch line 92 , 94 having the greater pressure at the expense of the other branch line 94 , 92 .
- diverting hydraulic fluid to the branch line 92 , 94 having a higher pressure using the flow divider 90 causes the actuator rams 60 to move at the substantially same speed automatically by directing hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic actuator 60 which is encountering more resistance than the other hydraulic actuator 60 , thus avoiding skewing.
- the flow divider ensures the elastomeric seal is uniformly compressed to provide a tight seal around the vehicle opening 22 .
- the electronic control unit 78 receives inputs from limit switches 106 , 108 to determine whether the slide out section 12 is in the extended or retracted position.
- a limit switch 106 , 108 is positioned adjacent each end 70 , 74 of each actuator 60 to determine whether all of the actuator rams 64 are fully extended or fully retracted.
- the electronic control unit 78 includes a radio frequency signal receiver (not shown) which receives inputs from a radio frequency transmitter (not shown). The inputs can initiate and cancel the operation of the slide out assembly.
- the electronic control unit 78 also controls two latches 110 which lock the slide out section 12 in either the extended or retracted positions.
- the latches 110 are fixed to the top plate 28 of the slide out section 12 , and have extendable pins 112 which can be extended perpendicular to the slide out section sidewalls 24 into holes 114 , 116 formed in the vehicle 10 .
- the latches 110 are actuated automatically by the electronic control unit 78 to lock the slide out section 12 in the desired position, once the limit switches 106 , 108 signal the electronic control unit that the slide out section 12 is in the desired position.
- a first set of holes 114 formed in the vehicle interior 20 receive the pins 112 when the slide out section 12 is in the retracted position.
- a second set of holes 116 formed in the vehicle 10 between the first set of holes 114 and the vehicle exterior wall opening 22 receive the pins 112 when the slide out section 12 is in the extended position.
- Each latch 110 is electrically connected to the electronic control unit 78 , and includes a reversible motor 118 which axially drives the pin 112 between a latch position and an unlatch position.
- the motor 118 includes a Hall-effect sensor which senses each rotation of the motor spindle. Upon completion of a predetermined number of rotations indicating a known length of extension or retraction of the pin 112 , the electronic control unit 78 cuts power to the motor 118 to stop axial movement of the pin 112 .
- the slide out actuating assembly 58 can be a closed, self-contained system which is easily installed beneath the platform in the vehicle.
- the actuators 60 are connected by hoses 120 to a valve block 124 containing the hydraulic circuitry.
- the pump 76 and the reservoir 88 are attached to, and in fluid communication with the valve block 124 .
- the electronic control unit 78 is electrically connected to the pump 76 , limit switches 106 , 108 , and latches 110 using wires 126 .
- the slide out section 12 is extended from the retracted position to the extended position by retracting the latch pins 112 from the first set of holes 114 , and energizing the pump 76 to force fluid through the retraction circuit 68 to retract the actuator rams 64 .
- the slide out section 12 is pulled outwardly toward the extended position.
- the pump 76 is deenergized and the latch pins 112 are extended into the second set of holes 116 to lock the slide out section 12 in the extended position.
- the slide out section 12 is retracted from the extended position to the retracted position by retracting the latch pins 112 from the second set of holes 116 , and energizing the pump 76 to force fluid through the extension circuit 72 to extend the actuator rams 64 .
- the slide out section 12 is pushed inwardly toward the retracted position.
- the pump 76 is deenergized and the latch pins 112 are extended into the first set of holes 114 to lock the slide out section 12 in the retracted position.
- the pump 76 and hydraulic circuitry 66 is modified by adding additional hydraulic valves to provide pressurized hydraulic fluid to other hydraulic actuators.
- the pump can supply hydraulic fluid to hydraulic actuators which slidably move a second slide out section, such as a kitchen section.
- the pump can supply hydraulic fluid to leveling feet which level the vehicle when parked.
- a fluid actuating mechanism 200 includes two or more fluid actuators 202 , 204 , such as hydraulic actuators, having extendible rams 206 , 208 extendible from cylinders 207 , 209 .
- the actuators 202 , 204 are actuated by a fluid circuit 210 schematically shown in FIG. 18 .
- the fluid circuit 210 in this embodiment includes a dual spool flow divider 212 that synchronizes the extension and retraction of the actuator rams 206 , 208 regardless of the pressure of the fluid in the actuators 202 , 204 .
- a pump 214 supplies fluid, such as hydraulic fluid, air, and the like, to the actuators 202 , 204 through the flow divider 212 which divides the fluid to extend the rams 206 , 208 together,
- the pump 214 supplies the fluid directly to the actuators 202 , 204 , and the actuators 202 , 204 exhaust fluid through the flow divider 212 which combines the fluid from the actuators 202 , 204 to synchronize the rams 206 , 208 as they retract.
- Check valves 216 , relief valves 218 , and a cross flow valve 220 can be provided according to standard hydraulic circuit design parameters.
- the flow divider 212 includes a body 222 having a spool cavity 224 .
- the spool cavity 224 includes a central portion 226 in fluid communication with a center port 228 .
- the center port 228 is in fluid communication with the fluid pump 214 .
- fluid is pumped by the fluid pump 214 through the center port 228 into the central portion 226 of the spool cavity 224 .
- the fluid exits the spool cavity 224 through left and right fluid ports 230 , 232 in fluid communication with the spool cavity 224 .
- Left and right spools 234 , 236 are disposed in the spool cavity 224 on opposing sides of the central portion 226 of the spool cavity 224 .
- Each spool 234 , 236 is slidably movable in the spool cavity, and controls the flow of fluid through the one of the fluid ports 230 , 232 by varying the size of the entrance to the fluid ports 230 , 232 in response to a pressure difference between a pressure at one of the fluid ports 230 , 232 and a pressure at the center port 228 .
- Circumferential seals 238 , 240 surrounding each spool 234 , 236 sealingly engage the spool cavity wall 242 to prevent fluid from passing between the respective spools 234 , 236 and the spool cavity wall 242 .
- each spool 234 , 236 defines a path past the respective seals 238 , 240 when the respective spool 234 , 236 is properly positioned relative to one of the fluid ports 230 , 232 . Only the internal passageway 244 through the left spool 234 providing a fluid path between the central portion 226 and the left fluid port 230 is shown. However, it is understood that the right spool 236 includes a substantially identical internal passageway 244 providing a fluid path between the central portion 226 and the right fluid port 232 .
- Each internal passageway 244 includes a radially extending passageway 245 , 246 on opposing sides of the seals 238 , 240 that are fluidly connected by an axial passageway 247 to bypass the seals 238 , 240 of the respective spools 234 , 236 .
- Interlocking arms 258 , 260 prevent the center spring 256 from separating the spools 234 , 236 beyond a predetermined distance.
- the flow divider 212 synchronizes the extension and retraction of the rams 206 , 208 by controlling the flow of fluid through the fluid ports 230 , 232 based on the determination of the flow and the related differences in fluid pressure in the cylinders 207 , 209 .
- fluid flowing from the pump 214 towards the cylinders 207 , 209 enters the central portion 226 of the spool cavity 224 through the center port 228 , passes through the spool passageways 244 , and flows toward the cylinders 207 , 209 through the fluid ports 230 , 232 .
- FIGS. 20-23 In FIGS. 20-23 ,
- the spools 234 , 236 remain in their respective central positions when the pressure and fluid flow in the cylinders 207 , 209 is equal. However, when the pressure on, for example, the left cylinder 207 exceeds that which is exerted on the right cylinder 209 , such as shown in FIG. 21 , the fluid flow towards the left cylinder 207 will be less than the fluid flow towards the right cylinder 209 . Consequently, the pressure drop past the left spool 234 will be less than the pressure drop past the right spool 236 .
- the fluid pressure in the central portion 226 of the spool cavity 224 will push the right spool 236 to the right (i.e., Vl ⁇ Vr ⁇ Pp ⁇ Pl ⁇ Pp ⁇ Pr ⁇ right spool to the right) to reduce the entrance into the right fluid port 232 , or if the pressure difference is sufficient, completely blocking the right fluid port 232 , to balance the flow of fluid through the fluid ports 230 , 232 and synchronize the extension of the rams 206 , 208 .
- This equally applies to the opposite (i.e., greater pressure in the right cylinder resulting in Vl>Vr ⁇ Pp ⁇ Pl>Pp ⁇ Pr ⁇ left spool to the left).
- the flow divider 212 controls the flow of fluid to synchronize the rams 206 , 208 when fluid flows in the reverse direction from the cylinders 207 , 209 to pump 214 .
- the spools 234 , 236 are in their central positions, fluid flowing from the cylinders 207 , 209 towards the pump 214 enters the spool cavity 224 through the fluid ports 230 , 232 , passes through the spool passageways 244 into the central portion 226 of the spool cavity 224 , and flows toward the pump 214 through the center port 228 .
- FIG. 22 shows the flow divider spools 234 , 236 in their respective central positions with flow coming from the cylinders 207 , 209 having equal pressure and fluid flow.
- the pressure in the right cylinder 209 exceeds that which is exerted in the left cylinder 207 , such as shown in FIG. 23 , the flow from the left cylinder 207 to the pump 214 will be less than the flow from the right cylinder 209 to the pump 214 . Consequently, the pressure drop past the right spool 236 will be greater than the pressure drop past the left spool 234 .
- the fluid pressure imbalance coming from the cylinders 207 , 209 causes the right spool 236 to move toward the left (i.e., Vr>Vl ⁇ Pr ⁇ Pp>Pl ⁇ Pp ⁇ right spool to the left) to reduce the entrance at the right fluid port 232 , or if the pressure difference is sufficient, nearly or completely blocking the right fluid port 232 , to balance the flow of fluid through the fluid ports 230 , 232 and synchronize the retraction of the rams 206 , 208 regardless of the fluid pressure at the fluid ports 230 , 232 , and thus in the cylinders 207 , 209 .
- This equally applies to the opposite (i.e., greater pressure in the left cylinder resulting in Vr ⁇ Vl ⁇ Pr ⁇ Pp ⁇ Pl ⁇ Pp ⁇ left spool to the right).
- each actuator 310 , 312 includes a cylinder 314 , 316 fixed to an outer rail 318 , 320 by a cylinder bracket 322 , 324 .
- Each cylinder bracket 322 , 324 is welded to the respective outer rail 318 , 320 , and a pin 326 , 328 fixes the cylinder 314 , 316 to the respective bracket 322 , 324 .
- Each outer rail 318 , 320 is fixed relative to a vehicle body by a forward outer rail bracket 330 , 332 fixed to a forward end 334 , 336 of each outer rail 318 , 320 and the vehicle body and a pair of rearward outer rail brackets 338 , 340 fixed to a rearward end 342 of each outer rail 318 , 320 and the vehicle body.
- the forward and rearward outer rail brackets 330 , 332 , 338 , 340 are pinned or bolted to the respective outer rail 318 , 320 and bolted or welded to the vehicle body.
- the cylinders 314 , 316 can be fixed to vehicle body without departing from the scope of the invention.
- An inner rail 342 , 344 slidably received in each outer rail 318 , 320 is slidably movable between an extended and retracted position.
- Each inner rail 342 . 344 is fixed to a ram 346 , 348 extending from one of the actuator cylinders 314 , 316 by a pin 350 .
- the slide out portion is fixed to each inner rail 342 , 344 by an inner rail bracket 352 , 354 fixed to a forward end 356 , 358 of the respective inner rail 342 , 344 extending from the respective outer rail 318 , 320 .
- Each inner rail bracket 352 , 354 is bolted to the forward end 356 , 358 of the respective inner rail 342 , 344 and the slide out portion.
- the rams 346 , 348 can be directly fixed to the slide out portion, such as by bolts, pins, and the like, or as described above, without departing from the scope of the invention.
- the cylinders 314 , 316 can be fixed relative to the slide out portion and the rams 346 , 48 can be fixed relative to the vehicle body wherein actuation of the actuators 310 , 312 slidably moves the slide out section relative to the vehicle body without departing from the scope of the invention.
- Actuation of the hydraulic actuators 310 , 312 extends the rams 346 , 348 to slidably move the inner rails 342 , 344 , and thus the slide out portion, relative to the vehicle body.
- the hydraulic actuators 310 , 312 are synchronized using a flow divider, as described above to ensure the rams 346 , 348 extend together, and do not skew the inner rails 342 , 344 or slide out section causing them to jam regardless of the forces exerted on the inner rails 342 , 344 and slide out portion.
- a slide out actuating mechanism in another alternative embodiment, includes a fluid circuit having two flow dividers.
- Each flow divider controls either the function of extending the rams or the function of retracting the rams to synchronize the movement of the sides of the slide out section.
- each flow divider can be fine tuned specifically for the particular function the flow divider controls.
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- Transportation (AREA)
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Abstract
A slide out actuating mechanism for selectively extending and retracting a slidable section of a slide out assembly fixed to a vehicle body includes at least two double acting fluid actuated actuators. Each actuator has a cylinder and an extendible ram. Each cylinder is fixed relative to one of the vehicle body and the slidable section, and each ram is fixed relative to the other of the vehicle body and the slidable section. At least one flow divider having at least two fluid ports directs fluid to and from the cylinders. One of the fluid ports is in fluid communication with one of the cylinders and the other of the fluid ports being in fluid communication with the other of the cylinders, wherein the flow divider maintains the flow of fluid flowing through the ports at substantially equal flow rates to synchronize movement of the rams when moving the rams relative to the cylinders.
Description
- This application is a divisional application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/695,268 filed on Oct. 28, 2003, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/301,120 filed on Nov. 21, 2002, which claims the priority benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/332,161 filed on Nov. 21, 2001.
- Not Applicable
- This invention relates to vehicles having expandable room sections, and more particularly to a slide out assembly actuating mechanism and method of operation for use in vehicles, wherein the slide out assembly includes two or more fluid actuators for moving a slide out section between an extended and retracted position.
- In order to increase the available interior space of recreational vehicles or trailers, it is known to provide a raised platform slide out section as part of the structure of the vehicle or trailer. The slide out section includes a raised platform, usable as seating, a sleeping platform, and the like, which is enclosed on all but one side. During transit, the slide out section is retracted and stored in the interior of the vehicle or trailer, with the exterior wall of the slide out section approximately flush with the exterior of the vehicle or trailer. To use the slide out section, the vehicle is first parked and leveled. The slide out room section is then slid outward from the vehicle to an extended position, increasing the interior space of the vehicle.
- In prior art constructions, the slide out room section is moved between the extended and retracted position by an actuating mechanism driven by an electric motor, such as a rack and pinion system. The rack is typically fixed to the slide out section and a rotatably driven pinion is fixed to the vehicle body. These prior art constructions are adequate for many applications, however, they can be inefficient and are noisy.
- Another known actuating mechanism incorporates hydraulic actuators that are actuated to extend and retract the slide out section. In slide out actuating mechanisms including two or more hydraulic or pneumatic actuators, fluid is pumped into each actuator at the same rate in order to extend the actuator rams together. Forces exerted on the slide out, such as by friction, an obstruction, and the like, can increase the pressure in one of the cylinders and reduce the flow of fluid into that cylinder which causes the ram of the one actuator to be extended less then the other actuators. This unbalanced condition can cause the slide out section to skew and become jammed. Therefore, a need exists for a vehicle slide out assembly actuating mechanism that synchronizes two or more fluid actuators to avoid skewing the slide out.
- The present invention provides a slide out actuating mechanism for selectively extending and retracting a slidable section of a slide out assembly fixed to a vehicle body. The slide out actuating mechanism includes at least two double acting fluid actuated actuators. Each actuator has a cylinder and an extendible ram. Each cylinder is fixed relative to one of the vehicle body and the slidable section, and each ram is fixed relative to the other of the vehicle body and the slidable section. At least one flow divider having at least two fluid ports directs fluid to and from the cylinders. One of the fluid ports is in fluid communication with one of the cylinders and the other of the fluid ports is in fluid communication with the other cylinder, wherein the flow divider maintains the flow of fluid flowing through the ports at substantially equal flow rates to synchronize movement of the rams when moving the rams relative to the cylinders.
- A general objective of the present invention is to provide a vehicle having a slide out section which extends without skewing. This objective is accomplished by providing an actuating mechanism having two or more hydraulic actuators which are extended and retracted at approximately the same speed using one or more flow dividers to direct hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic actuator encountering more resistance than the other hydraulic actuators.
- The foregoing and other objects and advantages of the invention will appear from the following description. In the description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which there is shown by way of illustration a preferred embodiment of the invention.
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FIG. 1 is a side view of a vehicle having a slide out section incorporating the present invention mounted thereon in a retracted position; -
FIG. 2 is a side view of the vehicle ofFIG. 1 in which the slide section is in an extended position; -
FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the vehicle ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of the slide out section ofFIG. 3 partially extended; -
FIG. 5 is a view of the platform with a portion removed to reveal the actuator supporting one side of the slide out section; -
FIG. 6 is a view of the bracket supporting the rail connected to the actuator; -
FIG. 7 is an end view of the bracket ofFIG. 6 ; -
FIG. 8 is a side view of the bracket ofFIG. 6 ; -
FIG. 9 is a top view of the bracket ofFIG. 6 ; -
FIG. 10 is an end view of the rail ofFIG. 6 ; -
FIG. 11 is an side view of the rail ofFIG. 6 ; -
FIG. 12 is a top view of the rail ofFIG. 6 ; -
FIG. 13 is a hydraulic diagram of the slide out actuating assembly; -
FIG. 14 is a schematic of the electronic control unit for use with the slide out actuating assembly ofFIG. 13 ; -
FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the latch fully retracted -
FIG. 16 is a perspective of the latch fully extended; -
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the slide out actuating assembly incorporating the present invention; -
FIG. 18 is a hydraulic diagram of an alternate slide out actuating assembly; -
FIG. 19 is a sectional view of the flow divider shown inFIG. 18 ; -
FIGS. 20-23 are sectional views of the flow divider shown inFIG. 18 ; and -
FIG. 24 is a partially exploded perspective view of an alternative vehicle slide out actuating mechanism. - The present invention provides a slide out assembly attached to a known trailer or recreational vehicle which provides distinct advantages over the prior art as will be described and appreciated hereafter. In the preferred embodiment, the trailer or recreational vehicle (generally referred to as the vehicle) is equipped with a slide out section used to provide additional interior room space. However, it should be understood that the invention can also apply to expandable sections or compartments provided on other vehicles for use in construction, military, medical, education, mobile broadcast and other applications, to expand the inside volume of the vehicle.
-
FIG. 1 illustrates thevehicle body 10 having mounted thereon an expandable, telescopic slide outroom section 12 incorporating the present invention in its fully retracted position.FIG. 2 is a similar view with the slide outsection 12 fully extended. - As shown in
FIGS. 3-12 , thevehicle 10 includesexterior walls 14 surrounding astationary floor 16 covered by avehicle roof 18 to define avehicle interior 20. Anopening 22 formed in one of theexterior walls 14 receives the slide outsection 12 supported above thestationary floor 16. - The slide out
section 12 includes a pair ofsidewalls 24 extending from a movableexterior wall 26. When the slide outsection 12 is fully retracted, theexterior wall 26 is substantially flush with the vehicleexterior wall 14, and closes the vehicle exterior wall opening 22. The pair of slide outsection sidewalls 24 extend inwardly through theopening 22 towards thevehicle interior 20 from opposing side edges of the slide out sectionexterior wall 26. Atop plate 28 proximal a top edge of the slide outsection exterior wall 26 extends generally parallel to the vehiclestationary floor 16 through theopening 22 towards thevehicle interior 20. Afascia plate 30 proximal an interior edge of thetop plate 28 extends upwardly from thetop plate 28 toward thevehicle roof 18. Elastomeric seals, such as rubber seals, are fixed between the slide out section when the slide out section is fully extended and fully retracted. The seals protect the vehicle interior 20 from adverse weather conditions. - The slide out
section 12 is supported above the vehiclestationary floor 16 by a pair ofU-shaped brackets 32. Eachbracket 32 has a base 34 fixed to the vehiclestationary floor 16 using methods known in the art, such as bolting. A pair oflegs 36 extend upwardly from the base 34 to form the U-shape.Rollers 38 are rotatably mounted to one of thelegs 36, and haveaxes 40 which are substantially perpendicular to the slide out section direction of travel Therollers 38 support anelongated rail 42 fixed to each slide outsection sidewall 24. - Each
rail 42 has a C-profile which wraps around therollers 38, and is fixed to one of the slide outsection sidewalls 24. Therail 42 slidably moves in a longitudinal direction as the slide outsection 12 moves between the retracted and extended positions. Ahitch 44 having aball 46 is fixed to therail 42, and extends substantially parallel to the roller axes 40. Although a rail having a C-profile engaging rollers is disclosed, rails having other profiles such as a square, circular, U-shape, and the like, can be used without departing from the scope of the invention. Moreover, the rail can be supported by a low friction surface, such as UHMW, bearings, lubricated surface, and the like without departing from the scope of the invention. - A
platform 48, such as suitable for use as a bench, bed base, and the like, is fixed between the slide out section sidewalls 24 above the vehiclestationary floor 16. Theplatform 48 is U-shaped having arear edge 50 fixed to the slide outsection exterior wall 26, a pair of opposing side edges 52 fixed to the slide out section sidewalls 24, and afront edge 54. Afront plate 56 extends downwardly from theplatform front edge 54 toward the vehiclestationary floor 16. Preferably, theplatform 48 has removable portions (such as shown inFIG. 5 ) to provide access to a slide out actuatingassembly 58. - The slide out actuating
assembly 58 is housed beneath theplatform 48, and includes a pair of double actuatinghydraulic actuators 60 which urge the slide outsection 12 between the extended and retracted positions. Eachactuator 60 has acylinder 62 fixed to one of thebrackets 32 and anextendible ram 64 fixed to theball 46 of one of therails 42. Extension of theram 64 drives the slide outsection 12 from the extended position to the retracted position. Likewise, retraction of theram 64 pulls the slide outsection 12 from the retracted position to the extended position. Advantageously, retracting therams 64 to extend the slide outsection 12 minimizes the required space beneath theplatform 48 for housing the slide out actuatingassembly 58 by minimizing the length of thehydraulic actuators 60 when the least amount of space underneath theplatform 48 is available for housing the slide out actuatingassembly 58. - Referring now to
FIGS. 13-17 , thehydraulic actuators 60 are actuated by ahydraulic circuit 66 which drives the actuator rams 64 at approximately the same speed to avoid skewing. Thehydraulic circuit 66 includes anextension circuit 68 which supplies hydraulic fluid to oneend 70 of eachhydraulic actuator 60 to extend therams 64, and aretraction circuit 72 which supplies hydraulic fluid to theother end 74 of eachhydraulic actuator 60 to retract therams 64. Apump 76 supplies fluid to the desiredcircuit pump 76 is electrically connected to anelectronic control unit 78 which controls the pump operation, and thus the movement of the slide outsection 12. - The
extension circuit 68 andretraction circuit 72 are substantially identical with the difference being whichend hydraulic actuator 60 is supplied with hydraulic fluid. Accordingly, the following description is made with reference to theretraction circuit 72 with the understanding that the description also applies to theextension circuit 68. - The
retraction circuit 72 includes amain supply line 80 having apressure relief valve 84 and a pilot operatedcheck valve 86. Thepressure relief valve 84 is automatically opened to allow fluid to flow into areservoir 87 when fluid pressure in themain supply line 80 exceeds a predetermined value. - The pilot operated
check valve 86 operates to allow fluid to flow toward theactuators 60 and prevent the fluid from flowing in the reverse direction. Apilot line 88 connects thecheck valve 86 in the retractioncircuit supply line 82 to an extensioncircuit supply line 80. A positive pressure in the extensioncircuit supply line 80 sensed by thepilot line 88 opens thecheck valve 86 to allow hydraulic fluid to flow in the reverse direction away from theactuators 60 past thecheck valve 84. For example, when thepilot line 88 connecting the retractioncircuit check valve 86 and the extensioncircuit supply line 80 senses a positive pressure in the extensioncircuit supply line 80, the retractioncircuit check valve 86 is opened to allow hydraulic fluid draining from the hydraulic actuator ends 74 to flow past the retractioncircuit check valve 86 back toward to thepump 76. The fluid flowing back to thepump 76 is then pumped into the extensioncircuit supply line 82. - The retraction
circuit supply line 82 supplies hydraulic fluid to aflow divider 90 which splits the hydraulic fluid between left andright branch lines branch line end 74 of onehydraulic actuator 60. Drain lines 96 divert the flow of hydraulic fluid from eachbranch line flow divider 90 to thesupply line 82 when evacuating fluid from theend 74 of thehydraulic actuator 60. - The
flow divider 90 diverts hydraulic fluid through thebranch lines hydraulic actuators 60 depending upon the hydraulic pressure in theactuators 60 using a pilot operatedspool valve 98. Apilot line 100 in theleft branch line 92 exerts a pressure against thespool valve 98 to urge thespool valve 98 toward the right against a pressure exerted by asecond pilot line 102 in theright branch line 94 which urges thespool valve 98 to the left.Orifices 104 upstream of thespool valve 98 in eachbranch line spool valve 98. - Moving the
spool valve 98 to the right increases the flow of hydraulic fluid to theleft branch line 92 while decreasing the flow of hydraulic fluid to theright branch line 94, and vice versa. As a result, when onebranch line other branch line branch line other branch line branch line flow divider 90 causes the actuator rams 60 to move at the substantially same speed automatically by directing hydraulic fluid to thehydraulic actuator 60 which is encountering more resistance than the otherhydraulic actuator 60, thus avoiding skewing. In addition, the flow divider ensures the elastomeric seal is uniformly compressed to provide a tight seal around thevehicle opening 22. - The
electronic control unit 78 receives inputs fromlimit switches section 12 is in the extended or retracted position. Preferably, as shown inFIG. 13 , alimit switch end electronic control unit 78 includes a radio frequency signal receiver (not shown) which receives inputs from a radio frequency transmitter (not shown). The inputs can initiate and cancel the operation of the slide out assembly. - Referring to
FIGS. 4 and 14 -16, theelectronic control unit 78 also controls twolatches 110 which lock the slide outsection 12 in either the extended or retracted positions. Thelatches 110 are fixed to thetop plate 28 of the slide outsection 12, and haveextendable pins 112 which can be extended perpendicular to the slide out section sidewalls 24 intoholes vehicle 10. Preferably, thelatches 110 are actuated automatically by theelectronic control unit 78 to lock the slide outsection 12 in the desired position, once thelimit switches section 12 is in the desired position. - A first set of
holes 114 formed in thevehicle interior 20 receive thepins 112 when the slide outsection 12 is in the retracted position. A second set ofholes 116 formed in thevehicle 10 between the first set ofholes 114 and the vehicle exterior wall opening 22 receive thepins 112 when the slide outsection 12 is in the extended position. - Each
latch 110 is electrically connected to theelectronic control unit 78, and includes areversible motor 118 which axially drives thepin 112 between a latch position and an unlatch position. Preferably, themotor 118 includes a Hall-effect sensor which senses each rotation of the motor spindle. Upon completion of a predetermined number of rotations indicating a known length of extension or retraction of thepin 112, theelectronic control unit 78 cuts power to themotor 118 to stop axial movement of thepin 112. - Advantageously, as shown in
FIGS. 13 and 17 , the slide out actuatingassembly 58 can be a closed, self-contained system which is easily installed beneath the platform in the vehicle. Theactuators 60 are connected byhoses 120 to avalve block 124 containing the hydraulic circuitry. Thepump 76 and thereservoir 88 are attached to, and in fluid communication with thevalve block 124. Theelectronic control unit 78 is electrically connected to thepump 76,limit switches wires 126. - In use, referring to
FIGS. 4 and 13 , the slide outsection 12 is extended from the retracted position to the extended position by retracting the latch pins 112 from the first set ofholes 114, and energizing thepump 76 to force fluid through theretraction circuit 68 to retract the actuator rams 64. As therams 64 are retracted, the slide outsection 12 is pulled outwardly toward the extended position. When thelimit switches 106 are tripped indicating that bothrams 64 are fully retracted, thepump 76 is deenergized and the latch pins 112 are extended into the second set ofholes 116 to lock the slide outsection 12 in the extended position. - The slide out
section 12 is retracted from the extended position to the retracted position by retracting the latch pins 112 from the second set ofholes 116, and energizing thepump 76 to force fluid through theextension circuit 72 to extend the actuator rams 64. As therams 64 are extended, the slide outsection 12 is pushed inwardly toward the retracted position. When thelimit switches 108 are tripped indicating that bothrams 64 are fully extended, thepump 76 is deenergized and the latch pins 112 are extended into the first set ofholes 114 to lock the slide outsection 12 in the retracted position. - In another embodiment of the invention, the
pump 76 andhydraulic circuitry 66 is modified by adding additional hydraulic valves to provide pressurized hydraulic fluid to other hydraulic actuators. For example, the pump can supply hydraulic fluid to hydraulic actuators which slidably move a second slide out section, such as a kitchen section. In addition, the pump can supply hydraulic fluid to leveling feet which level the vehicle when parked. - In another embodiment of the present invention, a fluid actuating mechanism 200 includes two or more
fluid actuators extendible rams cylinders actuators fluid circuit 210 schematically shown inFIG. 18 . Thefluid circuit 210 in this embodiment includes a dualspool flow divider 212 that synchronizes the extension and retraction of the actuator rams 206, 208 regardless of the pressure of the fluid in theactuators pump 214 supplies fluid, such as hydraulic fluid, air, and the like, to theactuators flow divider 212 which divides the fluid to extend therams rams pump 214 supplies the fluid directly to theactuators actuators flow divider 212 which combines the fluid from theactuators rams valves 216,relief valves 218, and across flow valve 220 can be provided according to standard hydraulic circuit design parameters. - Referring to
FIGS. 18 and 19 , theflow divider 212 includes abody 222 having aspool cavity 224. Thespool cavity 224 includes acentral portion 226 in fluid communication with acenter port 228. Thecenter port 228 is in fluid communication with thefluid pump 214. When extending therams fluid pump 214 through thecenter port 228 into thecentral portion 226 of thespool cavity 224. The fluid exits thespool cavity 224 through left andright fluid ports spool cavity 224. Left andright spools spool cavity 224 on opposing sides of thecentral portion 226 of thespool cavity 224. - Each
spool fluid ports fluid ports fluid ports center port 228.Circumferential seals spool respective spools - An
internal passageway 244 formed through eachspool respective seals respective spool fluid ports internal passageway 244 through theleft spool 234 providing a fluid path between thecentral portion 226 and theleft fluid port 230 is shown. However, it is understood that theright spool 236 includes a substantially identicalinternal passageway 244 providing a fluid path between thecentral portion 226 and the rightfluid port 232. Eachinternal passageway 244 includes aradially extending passageway seals axial passageway 247 to bypass theseals respective spools - Centering
springs 248, 250 engaging oneend spool spools central portion 226 of thespool cavity 224 against the urging of acenter spring 256 interposed between thespools arms center spring 256 from separating thespools spools spool cavity 224, thesprings spools central portion 226 of thespool cavity 224 and thefluid ports - The
flow divider 212 synchronizes the extension and retraction of therams fluid ports cylinders FIG. 20 , when thespools pump 214 towards thecylinders central portion 226 of thespool cavity 224 through thecenter port 228, passes through thespool passageways 244, and flows toward thecylinders fluid ports FIGS. 20-23 , -
- Vp=volume flow from/towards pump;
- Vr=volume flow from/towards cylinder, right;
- Vl=volume flow from/towards cylinder, left;
- Pp=pressure at pump side;
- Pr=pressure at cylinder side, right; and
- Pl=pressure at cylinder side, left.
- The
spools cylinders left cylinder 207 exceeds that which is exerted on theright cylinder 209, such as shown inFIG. 21 , the fluid flow towards theleft cylinder 207 will be less than the fluid flow towards theright cylinder 209. Consequently, the pressure drop past theleft spool 234 will be less than the pressure drop past theright spool 236. As a result, the fluid pressure in thecentral portion 226 of thespool cavity 224 will push theright spool 236 to the right (i.e., Vl<Vr→Pp−Pl<Pp−Pr→right spool to the right) to reduce the entrance into the rightfluid port 232, or if the pressure difference is sufficient, completely blocking the rightfluid port 232, to balance the flow of fluid through thefluid ports rams - Likewise, the
flow divider 212 controls the flow of fluid to synchronize therams cylinders FIG. 22 , when thespools cylinders pump 214 enters thespool cavity 224 through thefluid ports spool passageways 244 into thecentral portion 226 of thespool cavity 224, and flows toward thepump 214 through thecenter port 228. -
FIG. 22 shows the flow divider spools 234, 236 in their respective central positions with flow coming from thecylinders right cylinder 209 exceeds that which is exerted in theleft cylinder 207, such as shown inFIG. 23 , the flow from theleft cylinder 207 to thepump 214 will be less than the flow from theright cylinder 209 to thepump 214. Consequently, the pressure drop past theright spool 236 will be greater than the pressure drop past theleft spool 234. The fluid pressure imbalance coming from thecylinders right spool 236 to move toward the left (i.e., Vr>Vl→Pr−Pp>Pl−Pp→right spool to the left) to reduce the entrance at the rightfluid port 232, or if the pressure difference is sufficient, nearly or completely blocking the rightfluid port 232, to balance the flow of fluid through thefluid ports rams fluid ports cylinders - In an alternative embodiment shown in
FIG. 24 , two or moredouble acting actuators FIG. 18 , move a slide out portion (not shown). InFIG. 24 , eachactuator cylinder outer rail cylinder bracket cylinder bracket outer rail pin cylinder respective bracket outer rail outer rail bracket forward end outer rail outer rail brackets rearward end 342 of eachouter rail outer rail brackets outer rail cylinders - An
inner rail 342, 344 slidably received in eachouter rail inner rail 342. 344 is fixed to aram actuator cylinders pin 350. The slide out portion is fixed to eachinner rail 342, 344 by aninner rail bracket forward end inner rail 342, 344 extending from the respectiveouter rail inner rail bracket forward end inner rail 342, 344 and the slide out portion. Of course, therams cylinders rams actuators - Actuation of the
hydraulic actuators rams inner rails 342, 344, and thus the slide out portion, relative to the vehicle body. Thehydraulic actuators rams inner rails 342, 344 or slide out section causing them to jam regardless of the forces exerted on theinner rails 342, 344 and slide out portion. - In another alternative embodiment of the present invention, a slide out actuating mechanism includes a fluid circuit having two flow dividers. Each flow divider controls either the function of extending the rams or the function of retracting the rams to synchronize the movement of the sides of the slide out section. Advantageously, by providing a flow divider for each function, each flow divider can be fine tuned specifically for the particular function the flow divider controls.
- While there has been shown and described what are at present considered the preferred embodiment of the invention, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention defined by the appended claims. Therefore, various alternatives and embodiments are contemplated as being within the scope of the following claims particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming the subject matter regarded as the invention.
Claims (17)
1. A slide out actuating mechanism for selectively extending and retracting a slidable section of a slide out assembly fixed to a vehicle body, said slide out actuating mechanism comprising:
a first double acting fluid actuated actuator having a first cylinder and an extendible first ram, said first cylinder being fixed relative to one of said vehicle body and said slidable section, and said first ram being fixed relative to the other of said vehicle body and said slidable section;
a second double acting fluid actuated actuator having a second cylinder and an extendible second ram, said second cylinder being fixed relative to one of said vehicle body and said slidable section, and said second ram being fixed relative to the other of said vehicle body and said slidable section; and
at least one flow divider including at least two fluid ports, one of said fluid ports being in fluid communication with one end of said first cylinder to move said first extendible ram in one direction relative to said first cylinder and the other of said fluid ports being in fluid communication with one end of said second cylinder to move said second extendible ram in said one direction relative to said second cylinder, wherein said flow divider includes a pilot operated spool valve that equalizes the flow of fluid flowing through said ports at substantially equal flow rates regardless of the fluid pressure in said first and second cylinders to synchronize movement of said first and second rams when moving said rams relative to said first and second cylinders to move the slide out section relative to said vehicle body.
2. The slide out actuating mechanism as in claim 1 , in which said slide out assembly includes a first pilot operated check valve to allow fluid into said first cylinder to move said first extendible ram in said one direction, said first pilot operated check valve being operated by a first pilot line in fluid communication with another end of said first cylinder to allow fluid out of said one end of said first cylinder and past said one of said ports when moving said first extendible ram in a direction opposite said one direction.
3. The slide out actuating mechanism as in claim 2 , in which said slide out assembly includes a second pilot operated check valve to allow fluid into said second cylinder to move said second extendible ram in said one direction, said second pilot operated check valve being operated by a second pilot line in fluid communication with another end of said second cylinder to allow fluid out of said one end of said second cylinder and past the other of said ports when moving said second extendible ram in a direction opposite said one direction.
4. The slide out actuating mechanism as in claim 1 , in which said slide out assembly includes at least two outer rails fixed relative to the vehicle body and at least two inner rails, each of said inner rails slidably engaging one of said outer rail and fixed relative said slidable section, wherein said first and second double-acting actuators extend and retract said inner rails to extend and retract said slidable section.
5. The slide out actuating mechanism as in claim 1 , in which said slide out section is slidably supported above a stationary floor of said vehicle body by a rail fixed to said slide out section and engaging rollers rotatably mounted to a bracket fixed to said stationary floor.
6. The slide out actuating mechanism as in claim 5 , in which said extendible ram is connected to said rail, wherein movement of said ram slidably moves said rail relative to said stationary floor.
7. The slide out actuating mechanism as in claim 1 , in which said flow divider includes at least two spools disposed in a spool cavity formed in a flow divider body, and each of said fluid ports is in fluid communication with said spool cavity, wherein each of said spools moves in response to a pressure difference between a pressure at one of said fluid ports and a pressure at a third port forming part of said flow divider and in fluid communication with said spool cavity.
8. The slide out actuating mechanism as in claim 1 , in which the slide out actuating mechanism includes only one flow divider to synchronize movement of said first and second rams when extending and retracting said rams relative to said first and second cylinders to move the slide out section of the slide out assembly.
9. The slide out actuating mechanism as in claim 1 , in which said fluid is allowed past said ports by flowing through said ports.
10. The slide out actuating mechanism as in claim 1 , in which said fluid is allowed past said ports by bypassing said ports.
11. A method of operating a slide out assembly forming part of a vehicle, wherein the slide out assembly includes an actuating mechanism including at least two hydraulic actuators, each of said hydraulic actuators having an extendible ram extendible from a cylinder, said extendible rams being fixed to at least one of a stationary floor and a slide out section, and said cylinders being fixed to the other of said stationary floor and said slide out section, said method comprising:
maintaining a substantially equal flow of fluid flowing into each of said cylinders when extending and retracting said rams regardless of the fluid pressure in each of said cylinders to synchronize movement of said rams, wherein the flow of fluid into each of said cylinders when moving each of said rams in one direction is maintained substantially equal by a flow divider upstream of said cylinders, and the flow of fluid out of said cylinders past said flow divider is blocked by a pilot operated check valve that opens when fluid is pumped into said cylinders to move said rams in a direction opposite said one direction.
12. The method as in claim 11 , in which said flow of fluid into each of said cylinders is controlled by at least one flow divider.
13. The method as in claim 12 , in which said flow divider includes a pilot operated spool valve.
14. The method as in claim 11 , in which said fluid flows past said flow divider when said check valves are opened by flowing around said flow divider.
15. The method as in claim 11 , in which said fluid flows past said flow divider when said check valves are opened by flowing through said flow divider.
16. A slide out assembly for selectively extending and retracting a slidable portion of a vehicle relative to a stationary portion of the vehicle, said slide out assembly comprising:
a first support member supported by and movable relative to the stationary portion of the vehicle and secured to the slidable portion of the vehicle to extend and retract with the slidable portion of the vehicle, said first support member being extendible and retractable by a first double acting fluid actuated actuator having a first cylinder and an extendible and retractable first ram, said first cylinder being fixed relative to one of said stationary portion and said first support member, and said first ram being fixed relative to the other of said stationary portion and said first support member;
a second support member supported by and movable relative to the stationary portion of the vehicle and secured to the slidable portion of the vehicle to extend and retract with the slidable portion of the vehicle, said second support member being extendible and retractable by a second double acting fluid actuated actuator having a second cylinder and an extendible and retractable second ram, said second cylinder being fixed relative to one of said stationary portion and said second support member, and said second ram being fixed relative to the other of said stationary portion and said second support member;
at least one flow divider including at least two fluid ports, one of said fluid ports being in fluid communication with one of said first and second cylinders and the other of said fluid ports being in communication with the other of said first and second ports, wherein said flow divider is responsive to pressures within said cylinders to equalize the flow of fluid flowing through said ports in response to pressures in said cylinders so as to synchronize movement of said first and second support members when moving said slide out portion of said vehicle;
a first pilot operated check valve interposed between said one of said fluid ports and said one end of said first cylinder to allow fluid into said first cylinder to move said first extendible ram in one direction, said first pilot operated check valve being operated by a first pilot line in fluid communication with another end of said first cylinder to allow fluid out of said one end of said first cylinder and through said one of said fluid ports when moving said first extendible ram in a direction opposite said one direction; and
a second pilot operated check valve interposed between said other of said fluid ports and said one end of said second cylinder to allow fluid into said second cylinder to move said second extendible ram, said second pilot operated check valve being operated by a second pilot line in fluid communication with another end of said second cylinder to allow fluid out of said one end of second cylinder and through the other of said fluid ports when moving said second extendible ram in a direction opposite said one direction.
17. The slide out actuating mechanism as in claim 16 in which the slide out actuating mechanism includes only one flow divider to synchronize movement of said first and second rams when extending and retracting said rams relative to said first and second cylinders to move the slide out section of the slide out assembly.
Priority Applications (2)
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US11/184,141 US20050248172A1 (en) | 2001-11-21 | 2005-07-19 | Vehicle slide out assembly actuating mechanism and method of operation |
US11/289,209 US20060163859A1 (en) | 2001-11-21 | 2005-11-29 | Stabilizing jack |
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US33216101P | 2001-11-21 | 2001-11-21 | |
US10/301,120 US6655723B2 (en) | 2001-11-21 | 2002-11-21 | Hydraulic slide out assembly and method of operation |
US10/695,268 US6932403B2 (en) | 2001-11-21 | 2003-10-28 | Vehicle slide out assembly actuating mechanism and method of operation |
US11/184,141 US20050248172A1 (en) | 2001-11-21 | 2005-07-19 | Vehicle slide out assembly actuating mechanism and method of operation |
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US11/184,141 Abandoned US20050248172A1 (en) | 2001-11-21 | 2005-07-19 | Vehicle slide out assembly actuating mechanism and method of operation |
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2003
- 2003-10-28 US US10/695,268 patent/US6932403B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
2004
- 2004-10-25 WO PCT/US2004/035097 patent/WO2005044621A2/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2004-10-25 CA CA002543377A patent/CA2543377A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2004-10-25 EP EP04796146A patent/EP1685000A4/en not_active Withdrawn
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2005
- 2005-07-19 US US11/184,141 patent/US20050248172A1/en not_active Abandoned
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US6227607B1 (en) * | 1997-10-15 | 2001-05-08 | James E. Dewald, Jr. | Latching mechanism for latching a slide out room to main living area |
US6572170B2 (en) * | 1997-10-15 | 2003-06-03 | Vt Holdings Ii, Inc. | Latching mechanism for latching and releasing a slide-out room |
US6202362B1 (en) * | 1997-10-24 | 2001-03-20 | Mcmanus Patrick W. | Slide out room with flush floor |
US20010015129A1 (en) * | 1998-09-24 | 2001-08-23 | Eugene Altman | Hydraulic leveling control system for a loader type vehicle |
US6305739B1 (en) * | 1999-10-18 | 2001-10-23 | Fulterer Gesellschaft M.B.H | Pull-out device and a camping car provided with such device |
US6575514B2 (en) * | 2000-11-22 | 2003-06-10 | Vt Holdings Ii, Inc. | Hydraulic synchronizer mechanism for a slide-out room |
US6471275B1 (en) * | 2000-12-05 | 2002-10-29 | Kwikee Products Co., Inc. | Electronic slide-out room synchronization system |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2005044621A3 (en) | 2005-07-07 |
WO2005044621A2 (en) | 2005-05-19 |
CA2543377A1 (en) | 2005-05-19 |
US6932403B2 (en) | 2005-08-23 |
EP1685000A4 (en) | 2008-01-02 |
US20040130173A1 (en) | 2004-07-08 |
EP1685000A2 (en) | 2006-08-02 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |