Sponsored by: Winnebago Industries
Project Summary
In today’s fast-paced world of logistics and transportation, efficiency is paramount. Winnebago Industries is seeking an innovative solution to automate the front to back leveling process of their towable RV’s. Trailers often require manual adjustments to ensure proper alignment and stability. With auto-leveling technology, and the push of a button, the jack seamlessly adjusts the trailers position to the preferred level.
Design Goal
The goal of the automated support jack is to increase user efficiency by incorporating automated deployment, retraction, and leveling features. This will be accomplished via an innovative front support jack design that will automate the attachment and detachment from the trailer as well as leveling the trailer based on the terrain. This aims to enhance the overall user experience by simplifying the experience, and minimizing the challenges associated with these specific aspects of towable RV handling.
Design Constraints
- AUTOMATED: Deployment, retraction and leveling of the system.
- CONTROL: Operable via a wired controller and push of a button.
- MOBILE: System should be able to be attached and detached from trailer and easily transported. System is less than 50 lbs.
- SUPPORTIVE: System supports the weight of trailer.
- STABLE: System works on different terrain and in different weather conditions.
Illustration of Final Design on a Winnebago Trailer
Members of the Project Team
Student Team:
- Teddy Neururer - Major: Mechanical Engineering
- Paul Ruetten - Major: Mechanical Engineering
- Clay Vanbuskirk - Major: Mechanical Engineering
- Isabelle Wiste - Major: Mechanical Engineering
Industry Representatives: Ullekh Gambhira and Nick Davis
Faculty Advisor: William Besser
Pictured left to right: Teddy Neururer, Clay VanBuskirk, Paul Rutten, Isabelle Wiste