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      2. Applications

      RVs, Campers & Motorhomes

      Application Intro

      Recreational vehicles (RVs), campers, and motorhomes represent the pinnacle of combining mobility with the comforts of home. As these vehicles evolve, integrating advanced technologies to enhance functionality, comfort, and efficiency has become paramount. Among these technologies, linear actuators play a critical role.

      Their primary purpose in RVs, campers, and motorhomes is to automate movements and adjustments, thereby enabling the efficient use of space and offering enhanced convenience to users. These actuators are integral in applications ranging from extending and retracting slide-out sections that increase living space, to adjusting beds, seats, and tables, and even automating access panels and windows.

      Why Linear Actuators Are Used

      The use of linear actuators in RVs is driven by their ability to provide precise control, reliability, and energy efficiency. They offer several advantages over manual adjustments and other forms of mechanical movements:

      1. Space Efficiency: By automating the extension and retraction of living spaces and storage compartments, linear actuators maximize the usable space within the limited confines of an RV.
      2. Convenience and Accessibility: With the push of a button, users can adjust furniture, access compartments, and modify living spaces, making the RV experience more comfortable and accessible for all users.
      3. Durability and Maintenance: Linear actuators are designed for reliability and long life, requiring minimal maintenance, which is crucial for vehicles that may be used in varying and often harsh conditions.

      Common Types of Linear Actuators Used

      In RVs, the most commonly used linear actuators include:

      1. Electric Linear Actuators: These are favored for their simplicity, ease of control, and low maintenance. They are widely used for adjusting furniture, extending slide-out sections, and other applications where precise control is required.
      2. Hydraulic Linear Actuators: Known for their high force capability, these actuators are used in applications requiring significant power, such as leveling the RV or lifting heavy panels.

      Products & Use Cases + Certifications +

      1. Slide-Out Rooms: Electric linear actuators are extensively used to extend and retract slide-out sections, significantly increasing the living space inside RVs without compromising their mobility.( Our product use in this application: PA-13) 

      2. Ventilation Systems: Actuators are used to open and close vents and windows, providing automated control over the vehicle's ventilation and reducing manual effort.

      3. TV Lifts and Entertainment Systems: For efficient space usage, electric linear actuators can hide away TVs and other entertainment systems when not in use and bring them out at the touch of a button.

      4. Adjustable Beds, Desks and Seating: Actuators allow for the adjustment of beds and seating, catering to the comfort preferences of different users. This includes converting areas from daytime use to nighttime use, such as turning a seating area into a bed.

        1. Our product use in this application: PA-04

        2. Certifications - 
        3. Features: IP?? Ex. sth about the mm/

      5. Pop-Up Roofs: In campers where space is at a premium, electric linear actuators can be used to raise the roof, creating more headroom and space when stationary. 

        1. Our product use in this application: PA-04

        2. Certifications - 
        3. Features: IP?? 

      1. Access Panels and Storage: Electric linear actuators automate the opening and closing of access panels and storage compartments, making it easier to load and unload gear without manual lifting.

      2. Awning Deployment: They can automate the extension and retraction of awnings, providing shade and protection from the elements with minimal effort.( Our product use in this application: PA-04 Mini + PA-40) 

      3. Kitchen Appliances and Surfaces: In some high-end models, actuators are used to adjust kitchen surfaces, counters, and even to reveal hidden appliances, maximizing space efficiency. ( Our product use in this application: PA-14 Mini + PA-35) 

      4. Window Shades and Blinds: For privacy and control over the amount of natural light, electric linear actuators can automate the adjustment of window shades and blinds. 

      Requirements

      Due to the impact an actuator failure can have on the usability of a camper, particularly if a roof lift is affected, reliability is one of the main factors. Along with that goes water ingress.

      Units & Selling Points 

      PA-04

      • 18-month warranty
      • IP66 - Resistant to rain and dust and is designed so that it can be used outdoor
      • Hall effect sensor, which allows you to synchronize multiple actuators to work at the same time
      • Control box like our PA-40, you can operate them with a push of a bottom while sitting comfortably inside your vehicle.

      PA-13

      • IP66 rating for water and dust resistance
      • Wide-ranging operational temperature for potentially harsher environments
      • High force rating of 3000 lbs

      PA-14 Mini

      • Small size
      • Low operating noise,
      • Perfect for indoor applications
      • Paired with the PA-35 Wi-Fi Control Box, you can raise and lower the power outlet with your smartphone anywhere inside the vehicle.

       

      Common Issues

      Forest River issue:

      1. Testing problem N1 - Burnt motor from water. The water got in from the motor top and killed the motor. There was no signs of water on the shaft side.  manual override cap  uninstalled when this happened! Without this cap there will be no IP protection.
      2. Testing problem N2 - Overloading - Broken actuator - Not coverd by warranty

      Four Wheel Campers issue:

      - 3 years before customer was not interested in using linear actuators to motorize their pop-up mechanism as they intend to keep using gas strut.


      Airstream issue: 

       - Problem with Control box - Is it possible for someone to try any other control box with this column? It is more than likely that the control box was not programmed correctly and if that is the case, I can just get that back and send it back after reprogramming.

       

      Other common issues with actuators:

      1. Electrical Issues : Electric actuators depend on the vehicle's electrical system for power. Issues like blown fuses, weak batteries, or poor wiring connections can prevent actuators from operating correctly. These problems are relatively straightforward to diagnose with a multimeter and by checking the electrical system.
      2. Overloading: Actuators have specific weight and force limits. Overloading an actuator beyond its capacity, such as by putting too much weight on a slide-out, can lead to motor burnout or structural damage. This is a known issue and is typically highlighted in the manufacturer's specifications for the actuator.
      3. Environmental Damage : Actuators used in outdoor applications are exposed to the elements. Although they are designed to be somewhat weather-resistant, prolonged exposure to extreme conditions (e.g., water ingress, dirt, or severe temperatures) could potentially cause them to fail prematurely. It's inferred that regular maintenance and checks are essential to mitigate these risks.
      4. Mechanical Wear and Tear: With time and use, mechanical parts wear out. Gears, bearings, or other moving parts within the actuator can become worn, leading to reduced performance or failure. This is a known and expected issue associated with any mechanical device and can be mitigated with regular maintenance and lubrication.
      5. Limit Switch Failures: Electric actuators often use limit switches to stop the motor at predefined points. Failure of these switches can cause the actuator to move beyond its intended range, potentially causing damage. This is a known issue and can be diagnosed by testing the switches and replaced if necessary.
      6. Communication Failures: In systems where actuators are part of a more sophisticated network (e.g., smart RV systems), communication issues between the actuator and the control system can occur. This might be due to software glitches, signal interference, or compatibility issues, and is inferred based on general principles of electronic communication systems.
      7. Manual Override Difficulties: Most actuators come with a manual override option in case of electrical failure. However, accessing or using the manual override can sometimes be difficult, especially if the actuator is in a hard-to-reach area or if the mechanism is not user-friendly. This issue is inferred based on the ergonomic and design challenges associated with compact and complex environments like RVs.

      Reference Customers

       

      Forest River and sub-brand Palomino

      - https://www.forestriverinc.com/ - https://palominorv.com/

      1. Products/Applications:
        1. Roof Lift
        2. PA-14-8-150-B / PA-09-FR - Custom
        3. Product link to video  -

      Four Wheel Campers:

      1. Products/Applications:
        1. Pop-up Camper.
        2. PA-04-30-400


      Airstream:

      1. Products/Applications:
        1. FLT-11 
        2. Adjustable table
        4. https://www.airstream.com/travel-trailers/classic/ 


      Cube Series RV

      1. Products/Applications:
        1. PA-04 (black) - 24VDC - 1041mm stroke - 750N - HALL - H-typ
        2. Hall Effect Control Box - 24VDC-24 VDC-4-Sync
        3. Folding wall mechanism
        4. Product link -




      Competitor actuators used in this applications:

      • Timotion:

      Electric Actuator systems in Recreational vehicles

      Electric Actuator systems in Recreational vehicles

      • Linak:

      Couple camping with Ultimate's 25 X camper trailer

      - Product used - LA36 

       

      LINAK® electric actuators open and close rear hatch in the MORELO motorhome

      • Ewellix:  

      Is not promoting any specific actuator for RVs but the link to commercial vechicles actuators is the following: https://www.ewellix.com/en/industries/mobile-machinery/commercial-vehicle

      Extra links information:  

      Internal Links:

      • PA Article in RVs --> https://www.progressiveautomations.com/blogs/products/linear-actuators-in-recreational-vehicles
      • PA Article - Bed camper Use Case - PA-04  https://www.progressiveautomations.com/blogs/stories/diy-adjustable-bed-for-campervan-conversion?_pos=4&_sid=6c8bd12f2&_ss=r 
      • PA Article - Window actuator ( not specific for rvs) - https://www.progressiveautomations.com/blogs/how-to/how-linear-actuators-work-in-power-windows?_pos=6&_sid=6c8bd12f2&_ss=r 
      • PA Article - Custom van bed platform -  Use Case - PA-04 https://www.progressiveautomations.com/blogs/how-to/full-sprinter-van-conversion-raising-a-bed-to-uncover-the-living-room
      • PA Article - Applications in RVs -->https://www.progressiveautomations.com/blogs/news/rv-applications-of-linear-actuators 
      • Automotive Landing page - https://www.progressiveautomations.com/pages/automotive 
      • Case study - Club series - https://www.progressiveautomations.com/pages/cube-series-camper 
      • Customer application video - Folding wall mechanism Club series -

      External link: 

      • Competitor - Firgelliauto  - Applications in RV https://www.firgelliauto.com/blogs/automotive/rv-actuators-101-a-guide-to-their-uses-operation-and-types 
      • Competitor - Firgelli  -Video on RV applications: Video
      • Competitor -   Applications in RV - https://www.timotion.com/en/news-and-articles/whats-new-in-rv-tech 
      • Competitor  Case study- https://www.linak.com/segments/techline/case-stories/camper-trailer-fit-out-with-linak-actuator-enhances-functionality/ 
      • Competitor  Case study-  https://www.linak.com/segments/techline/case-stories/linak-electric-actuators-to-open-liftgate-in-luxury-motorhome/
      • Truck Magazine: https://www.truckcampermagazine.com/camper-mods/projects/5-recliner-style-chair-solutions-for-campers/
      • Competitor - Pop up tents Application - https://www.antuatorlinear.com/news/electric_linear_actuators_for_pop_top_roof_tents 
      • DYI - Application on lifting beds - https://www.tiktok.com/@vanlife_campercamper/video/7090149231679278341 - 
      • Competitor - Solar panels on trailers - https://www.timotion.com/ru/news-and-articles/electric-linear-actuators-on-solar-trailers 
      • Competitor - Ajustable tables - https://www.timotion.com/en/news-and-articles/technologies-in-rv-living

      Summery Table: 

      Application Category Image Product Model Used Competitors Model Our Products' Selling Points
      Slide-Out Rooms Beginner's Guide to Types of Slide-Outs PA-13

      LA23 

      		 Superior durability and customized force options. Hold up to 3500 Lbs and High IP Rating for versatile unit able to withstand dust, water, and harsh environments.
      Ventilation Systems Using Actuators to open Skylights  

      Ewellix:

      CAHB-10 xx A

      Linak :

      tvLA12 / LA14

       

      		 Energy-efficient with quiet operation
      TV Lifts and Entertainment Systems Come see how an outdated RV was transformed into a Mountain Modern Motorhome! #RVremodel #RVrenovation #camperremodel #camperrenovation #campermakeover #RVmakeover #mountainmodernlife #rusticmodern #mountainmodern #tinyhome #beforeafter  

      TiMotion:

      TA16 /TA38

      Ewellix:

      CAHB-20

      CAHB-21

      CAHB-22

      		 Compact design, silent operation
      Adjustable Beds, Desks, and Seating Recliner Seating In A Truck Camper PA-04

      TA10 / TA23 

      LA18 / LA23 /LA24

      		 Customizable stroke lengths and load capacities. Hall effect sensors. 
      Pop-Up Roofs TAXA unveils ultra-lightweight Mantis camper with pop-up roof that ... PA-04 LA36  Easy installation and robust performance
      Access Panels and Storage    

      MAX 7 - Ewellix

      CAHB-10 xx A 

      		 Enhanced durability and secure operation
      Awning Deployment  Linear Actuators In Recreational Vehicles - Progressive Automations PA-04 Mini + PA-40   Weather-resistant and long-lasting performance
      Kitchen Appliances and Surfaces Photo of an automated retractable power outlet PA-14 Mini + PA-35 - Linak  - LA31 - LA23 High precision and smooth operation for luxury applications
      Window Shades and Blinds     CAHB-20 xx E/S Quiet operation and easy integration with smart systems