RV Manufacturer: RV Skeleton & Stairway/Platforms

Automotive (RV)

PLATFORMS

This automotive RV manufacturer, the #1 Ranked Travel Trailer by Travel & Leisure, requested two custom platforms from concepts and incomplete drawings.

 

​​TRAILER (FIFTH WHEEL RV) SKELETON  

The internal frame or skeleton was requested in order to build the RV around, using a concept and an incomplete drawing (sent as a .pdf).

TWO PLATFORMS

This platform's function (design) was a one-person operation where the operator would be leaning over the side of the platform to rivet panels onto the side of a travel trailer, while on the production line. The weight limit was 700 lbs. - the equivalent of three people. We used 2" square by 1/ 4" wall thickness steel. This is because constant vibrations from external forces and uneven weight loads could also impact platforms and their ultimate, weight-bearing capabilities.

 

Thinking about your next mezzanine or platform project? Read 8 Questions to ask when scoping: mezzanines, platforms or stairways.​

 

TRAILER (FIFTH WHEEL RV) SKELETON  

They make the shells over this skeleton. There were four different types of shells. Each shell supports the building of the RV which is pretty large at 18 feet by 8 feet wide approximately. Then, they put the aluminum RV cover over it.

TWO PLATFORMS

People would need to reach over the platform to rivet the tops of the RVs. 

 

TRAILER (FIFTH WHEEL RV) SKELETON  

Because you’ve got curved components that are welded, if the skeleton isn’t correct, the aluminum pieces that are pre-cut won’t work. If those skins don’t fit tightly on the skeleton, then the outside shell will allow rain to leak in creating havoc for warranties.

TWO PLATFORMS

Increased floor height allowed for additional storage and activity below the platform. We also considered the placement of angles and posts that might block those other useful activities.

 

One of the "aha" moments was making the platform or mezzanine railings too high or low. The design of this platform had the average 38" to 42" rail height, which is OSHA minimum heights.

 

Say a person is 6' or 5’10" tall. This height might be too low based on the variance of their height and have them reaching too far over the railing. A person standing next to the fencing and working on the platform to install the product might be tempted to ignore the safety factor, reaching too far out to be safe. A good way to offset this risk was having one side be higher than the other. The backside was higher, so the users couldn't fall backwards, over the 5' high back-fencing.

 

TRAILER (FIFTH WHEEL RV) SKELETON  

The concepts had specifications for flooring and castors but didn’t have any individual lengths or heights other than overall length, width, height. We formulated internal measurements and angle components holding up the structure or skeleton.

 

We took that information, converted it into a CAD drawing using AutoDesk, ordered materials and other supplies; and started the platforms & skeleton. Valuable time was saved by teaming up and dividing the “heavy lifting” of final design and completing the fabrication of both, the platforms and skeletons in parallel.

 

Read some of the top questions to consider when you are deciding on whether your vendor can move from concept, or print, to complex assembly.

• Reverse Engineer
• Short-Run

1. Confirm Scope
2. "Go & See" Daily Application
3. 3D Model
4. Confirm Design
5. Manufacture Prints
6. Saw Cut
7. Laser
8. Form & Machine
9. Weld
10. Paint
11. Assemble
12. Prototype Evaluation

“I have been pleased with HB Products (now part of Valence Industrial) and their quality work and excellent response. We will gladly use them again for more of our custom fixtures and fabrication projects.”

 

-Ken, Mfg. Eng. Supervisor

#1 Ranked Travel Trailer By Travel & Leisure