Abstract:
A recreational vehicle comprising a chassis having a cab and a back wall attached thereto. An opposed pair of side walls are at least partially defined by a portion of the cab. Moveably attached to the chassis is a pair of slide outs which each extend from the cab to the back wall. Each of the slide outs defines an outer wall, and is selectively moveable between an extended position and a retracted position. When the slide outs are in the retracted position, the outer walls thereof are substantially flush with respective ones of the first and second side walls. When the slide outs are in the extended position, the outer walls thereof protrude outwardly from respective ones of the first and second side walls.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS  
       [0001]    This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/462,132 entitled RECREATIONAL VEHICLE filed Apr. 11, 2003. 
     
    
     
       STATEMENT RE: FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH/DEVELOPMENT  
         [0002]    Not Applicable  
         BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
         [0003]    The present invention relates generally to a recreational vehicle (RV) and, more particularly, to an RV comprising at least one slide-out member spanning nearly the entire length of the RV so as to dramatically increase the usable interior living space of the RV.  
           [0004]    RVs have become increasingly popular among people who travel for extended periods of time, particularly among people who drive to a particular destination such as a national or state park and reside there for extended periods. A typical RV comprises a plurality of wheels, a chassis built atop the wheels, and a plurality of walls built atop the chassis, with a floor and a roof connected thereto. The walls, floor and roof collectively define an enclosed living space. Generally, the living space is equipped with amenities such as a refrigerator, stove, oven, sink, toilet, shower, and furniture. Additionally, an RV either comprises a motor and cab section operative to make the same independently mobile (in the case of a motor home) or is configured so as to be towable by a separate vehicle (in the case of a fifth-wheel or tag-along travel trailer).  
           [0005]    Many RV users desire RVs equipped with certain amenities and providing room to freely move about. RV manufacturers have created space-saving interiors in an attempt to maximize both the amenities contained therein and the room to move about available to the RV user. Nonetheless, many RV users consider such interiors to be cramped and uncomfortable. However, as federal and state law limits the maximum length and width of mobile vehicles, the interior living space available in conventional RVs is necessarily limited. In order to address customer demand and yet meet the legal size requirements, RV manufacturers have developed RVs with extendable structures, often referred to as “slide-outs.” Such RVs typically comprise a body having a wall defining an opening sized according to the length of the slide-out. The slide-out itself typically comprises a plurality of walls, an open side, a floor, and a roof collectively defining an interior space. The slide-out is positioned within the opening of the RV wall such that the open side of the slide-out faces into the interior of the RV body, thus creating a continuous interior living area.  
           [0006]    The slide-out is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. In the retracted position, the slide-out lies within the RV body, the side wall of the slide-out lying flush with the side wall of the RV such that width of the RV conforms to federal and state vehicle size requirements. In the extended position, the slide-out is offset horizontally from the side of the RV such that both the floor of the RV body and the floor of the slide-out become available for use, thus increasing the interior living space.  
           [0007]    Various embodiments of slide-outs have been disclosed in, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,048,016, 6,286,883, and 6,202,362. These conventional slide-outs span only a portion of the side of the respective RV. Thus, the available living space of these RVs is not significantly increased.  
           [0008]    RV manufacturers have limited the length of conventional slide-outs for a variety of reasons. One of these reasons is the additional weight associated with an increase in the length of a slide-out. The weight of a longer slide-out may exceed the maximum weight supportable by the support system by which the slide-out is connected to a conventional RV when the slide-out is in the extended position, causing the slide-out to sag relative to the body of the RV. Ultimately, sagging may cause misalignment between the slide-out and the RV body, thus making the extension and/or retraction of the slide-out problematic and potentially damaging the actuating systems. Furthermore, misalignment can open paths for moisture and/or debris to enter the interior living space.  
           [0009]    Slide-out length is additionally limited because of weight limitations of the mechanism by which the slide-out is moved. Typically, the floor of a conventional slide-out lies above the floor of the RV body when the slide-out is in the retracted position. The slide-out is moved both horizontally and vertically such that, when the slide-out is in its fully extended position, the slide-out floor is flush with the floor of the RV body. An example of this type of horizontally and vertically moving slide-out is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,293,611, filed Aug. 28, 2000 by Schneider et al. As the length of the slide-out is increased, the weight of the slide-out proportionally increases. Vertical movement of the heavier slide-out and, thus, the achievement of a flush fit between the floors of the slide-out and of the RV body become less feasible.  
           [0010]    Yet another reason manufacturers have limited the length of conventional slide-outs is the difficulty of achieving adequate structural integrity in an RV having a large slide-out. In this regard, it should be noted that RVs are subject to load from a wide variety of sources (e.g., vibrational and inertial loading due to driving and weight loads from the various components of the RV and the appliances, holding tanks, propane tanks, furniture, and occupants thereof). Nonetheless, RV users typically expect an RV to be long-lasting and durable, and to provide some degree of protection to the occupants of the RV in the event of a vehicular collision. However, in order to accommodate a slide-out, an opening is formed along the side of the RV body. As the size of the slide-out is increased, the size of the opening in the RV body must be increased as well. A larger opening may compromise the structural integrity of the RV and decrease the durability thereof.  
           [0011]    Finally, slide-out size has been limited due to logistical difficulties of mounting various amenities (e.g., appliances, plumbing fixtures, furniture and the like) within the RV. As the size of the slide-out increases, fixed areas in the RV decrease, thus increasing a need for various amenities to be mounted to the slide-out. This can be problematic, particularly for plumbing fixtures and for appliances operated by propane. In this regard, sinks, toilets, showers, and the like typically require plumbing to provide an inflow of water and outflow of waste water, while stoves and heaters often require piping to link an associated heating element to a propane tank. If these items are mounted on a moveable slide-out, extendable pipes are typically required to maintain the same in fluid connection with, for example, a holding tank or propane tank. However, extendable pipes are generally undesirable because the integrity thereof may be compromised by repeated movement. Furthermore, when an amenity is positioned on the slide-out, special attention must be paid in order to ensure that the amenity cannot interfere with any other amenity or RV component when the slide-out is moved. Thus, RV manufacturers typically limit the size of slide-outs so that critical appliances, plumbing fixtures, furniture and the like can be mounted in a fixed position away from the slide-out.  
           [0012]    Thus, it will be appreciated that there is a significant need for an RV with one or more extended-length slide-outs. Additionally, the extended-length slide-out would not sag relative to the RV body, and the RV body would have adequate structural integrity. Furthermore, the floor of the full-length slide-out would lie flush with the floor of the RV body. Also, the RV would incorporate amenities that are positioned so as to minimize the need for extendable piping.  
         BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
         [0013]    In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a recreational vehicle (RV) comprising a chassis having a plurality of wheels mounted thereto, the wheels being operative to provide movement to the RV in conjunction with a motor, transmission, etc., along with a cab section having various components (e.g., a steering wheel, accelerator pedal, brake pedal, etc.) operative to enable an operator to controllably move the RV. Alternatively, the RV may be configured so as to be towable by a separate vehicle via a fifth-wheel hitch or a tag-along hitch. Also mounted to the chassis are a retractable floor, a plurality of walls (i.e., a front wall, back wall, driver&#39;s side wall and curb-side wall) and a roof collectively defining an interior space comprising at least an interior living space. Each of the side walls further comprises an opening. The interior space may additionally comprise a cab section at the front thereof. The RV further comprises an extended-length slide-out slidably mounted to the driver&#39;s side wall and the curb side wall and extending the majority of the length of the RV from the rear of the cab section to the rear wall of the RV. Each slide-out comprises a floor, a plurality of walls (i.e., a front wall, a side wall and a back wall), and a roof collectively defining an interior living space. Each slide-out further comprises an open side facing the interior of the RV body. Further, each slide-out is movable between a retracted and an extended position. In the extended position, each slide-out is operative to dramatically increase the usable interior living space of the RV. In the retracted position, each slide-out is contained within the RV body such that the width of the RV meets federal and state width requirements for mobile vehicles.  
           [0014]    Further in accordance with the present invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing an RV having extended-length slide-outs. The method comprises the initial steps of modularly fabricating the RV body and each slide-out. Each slide-out is provided with various amenities such as appliances and/or plumbing fixtures. The method of manufacture further comprises the step of slidably mounting the first fully-assembled slide-out on one side of the chassis within the opening of the respective wall. Finally, the method of manufacturing comprises the step of slidably mounting the second fully-assembled slide-out on the second side of the chassis within the opening of the respective wall. 
       
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0015]    These, as well as other features of the present invention, will become more apparent upon reference to the drawings wherein:  
         [0016]    [0016]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a recreational vehicle (RV) constructed in accordance with the present invention, comprising two slide-outs shown in the extended position;  
         [0017]    [0017]FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the RV of FIG. 1, with the two slide-outs thereof shown in the retracted position;  
         [0018]    [0018]FIGS. 3A-3C are top, side and end views of an RV chassis having a pair of slide-outs mounted atop the chassis and illustrating one embodiment of a slide-out actuation system;  
         [0019]    [0019]FIGS. 4A and 4B are end views of the RV showing the support system of the slide-out, wherein the slide-out is in a retracted and an extended position, respectively;  
         [0020]    [0020]FIG. 5 is a detail view of the support system shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B;  
         [0021]    [0021]FIGS. 6A-6D are top and end views of the RV wherein the pair of slide-outs are shown in the retracted and extended positions, and further showing an actuating sub-floor with a floor retention system;  
         [0022]    [0022]FIGS. 7A and 7B are a top and end view of the RV showing support members thereof; and  
         [0023]    [0023]FIG. 8 is a flow chart illustrating a method of manufacturing an RV with extended-length slide-outs. 
     
    
       [0024]    Common reference numerals are used throughout the drawings and detailed description to indicate like elements.  
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION  
       [0025]    Referring now to the drawings wherein the showings are for purposes of illustrating preferred embodiments of the present invention only, and not for purposes of limiting the same, FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a recreational vehicle (RV)  100  having two extended-length slide-outs  106 ,  108 , constructed in accordance with the present invention. The RV  100  comprises a chassis  102  which itself comprises a plurality of beams  134 , longitudinal support bars  135 , and lateral support bars  136  (shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B) interconnected to form an elongate frame. A front and back axle, each having at least two wheels  104  attached thereto, are mounted to the chassis  102 , the wheels  104  being operative to provide rollable movement to the RV  100  in conjunction with a motor, transmission, etc. and also in conjunction with various components (e.g., a steering wheel, an accelerator pedal, brake pedal, etc.) operative to enable an operator to controllably move the RV  100 . Alternatively, the RV  100  may be configured so as to be towable by a separate vehicle via a fifth-wheel hitch or a tag-along hitch. The RV  100  further comprises a retractable interior floor  118  (which will be described in more detail below) having a planar floor section  119 . Additionally, the RV  100  comprises a front wall  110 , a back wall  112 , a driver&#39;s side wall  114 , a curb-side wall  116 , and a roof  120 . Each of the side walls  114 ,  116  comprises an opening into which a slide-out is inserted. Preferably, the openings each extend almost from the back of the cab  132  to the back wall  112 , and from the base of the chassis  102  to the roof  120 . At least one of the walls  112 ,  114 , and  116  further comprises a door (not shown). At least one window is mounted to at least the walls  110 ,  114 , and  116 .  
         [0026]    Each slide-out  106 ,  108  itself comprises a frame (not shown), front wall  122 , back wall  124 , and side wall  126  which are substantially parallel to respective ones of the walls  110 ,  112 ,  114  and  116  of the RV  100 . One or more of the walls  122 ,  124 , and  126  may further comprise a window, while the side wall  126  may further comprise a door. Further, each slide-out  106 ,  108  comprises a floor  128  disposed in generally perpendicular or normal relation to the walls  122 ,  124 , and  126 . Each slide-out  106 ,  108  additionally comprises a roof  130  disposed in generally perpendicular or normal relation to the walls  122 ,  124 , and  126 . Each slide-out  106 ,  108  is slidably connected to the RV  100  in a manner which will be discussed in more detail below.  
         [0027]    The walls  110 ,  112 ,  114 , and  116 , planar floor section  119  of the interior floor  118 , and roof  120  of the RV  100  collectively define an interior space which defines at least an interior living space. The interior space may further comprise a cab  132  into which the steering wheel, accelerator pedal, brake pedal, and the like are positioned, with an engine compartment having a motor, transmission, etc. (not shown) disposed adjacent thereto. Likewise, the walls  122 ,  124 , and  126 , interior floor  128 , and roof  130  of each slide-out  106 ,  108  collectively define a respective interior space. The interior space of the RV  100  and the interior space of each slide-out  106 ,  108  slidably attached to the RV  100  collectively define at least an interior living space.  
         [0028]    As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the slide-outs  106 ,  108  are movable between an extended position (as shown in FIG. 1) and a retracted position (as shown in FIG. 2) in a manner which will be discussed in more detail below. In the retracted position, the front walls  122 , back walls  124 , floors  128 , and roofs  130  of each slide-out  106 ,  108  are positioned within the body of the RV  100 , with the floors  128  each being positioned over at least a portion of the interior floor  118  of the RV. The side wall  126  of each slide-out  106 ,  108  is substantially flush with a respective side wall  114 ,  116  of the RV  100 . Thus, when the slide-outs  106 ,  108  are in the retracted position, the RV  100  meets federal and state width requirements for mobile vehicles and is therefore suitable for being driven.  
         [0029]    When the slide-outs  106 ,  108  are in the extended position, each slide-out  106 ,  108  is offset horizontally from the chassis  102  of the RV  100  such that the side wall  126  of each slide-out  106 ,  108  is separated by a distance from a respective one of the side walls  114 ,  116  of the RV  100 . The floor  128  of each slide-out  106 ,  108  is also offset horizontally, exposing the interior floor  118  and, thus, increasing available floor space. In one embodiment of the present invention, available floor space is increased by approximately thirty percent. Thus, when the slide-outs  106 ,  108  are extended, the interior living space of the RV  100  is dramatically increased.  
         [0030]    Referring now to FIGS. 3A-3C, there is shown an actuation system comprising a plurality of actuation mechanisms  137  operative to move the slide-outs  106 ,  108  between an extended and a retracted position. Each actuation mechanism  137  comprises a linear actuator  138 . Preferably, the linear actuators  138  are ram actuators. However, it should be understood that the linear actuators  138  may comprise any of a number of alternative actuation mechanisms (e.g., hydraulic, pneumatic, electric, or manual mechanisms, or a combination thereof) without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Each actuation mechanism  137  further comprises a sleeve  140  and a ram arm  142  operatively connected to the linear actuator  138 . The sleeve  140  is rigidly connected to a longitudinal support bar  135  of the chassis  102 , while the ram arm  142  is rigidly connected to the floor  128  of a respective slide-out  106 ,  108  and slidably connected to the sleeve  140  so as to be slidable into and out of the respective sleeve  140 . In an exemplary embodiment, each slide-out  106 ,  108  comprises three actuation mechanisms  137  equidistantly spaced along the length of each slide-out  106 ,  108 .  
         [0031]    The actuation system further comprises a supplementary support system comprising a plurality of sliders  144 . Each slider  144  comprises a telescoping slide operative to allow slidable movement while providing mechanical support. More particularly, each slider  144  comprises a collapsible shaft, one end of the shaft being connected to the roof  120  of the RV  100  and the opposite end thereof being connected to the roof  130  of a respective slide-out  106 ,  108 . In an exemplary embodiment, the actuation system comprises three sliders  144  per slide-out  106 ,  108 .  
         [0032]    As described above, the slide-outs  106 ,  108  are movable from a retracted position to an extended position. To extend the slide-outs  106 ,  108 , the linear actuators  138  of the actuation mechanisms  137  simultaneously extend the ram arms  142  out of the sleeves  140 . Conversely, to retract the slide-outs  106 ,  108 , the linear actuators  138  of the actuation mechanisms  137  simultaneously retract the ram arms  142  into respective sleeves  140 . As the slide-outs  106 ,  108  are rigidly attached to the ram arms  142 , the slide-outs  106 ,  108  move with the ram arms  142 . The sliders  144  of the supplementary support system allow this sliding movement while providing mechanical support for the upper portion of the respective slide-out  106 ,  108 .  
         [0033]    Referring now to FIGS. 4A-4C, the RV  100  further comprises a roof support system for each slide-out  106 ,  108 . The roof support system comprises a roof component  146  of the RV roof  120 , an inboard wedge  148 , and an outboard wedge  150 . The roof component  146  comprises a bar  152  having a solid, rectangular cross-section and rigidly attached (e.g., with fasteners, welds, etc.) to the bottom edge of the RV roof  120  and to a flange  154  which extends from an outer edge  156  of the RV roof  120 . The roof component  146  further comprises an abutment member  158  rigidly attached to a bottom surface of the bar  152 . The abutment member  158  further comprises an inboard side  159 , an outboard side  160 , and a seal  170 . The abutment member  158  is additionally attached to the bar  152  via an inboard flange  161  and an outboard flange  162  extending along opposing sides of the bar  152  and rigidly attached thereto. Preferably, the bar  152 , flange  154 , and abutment member  158  span the length of a respective slide-out roof  130 .  
         [0034]    Each inboard wedge  148  spans the length of a respective slide-out roof  130  and is rigidly connected to the top surface thereof. Each inboard wedge  148  comprises a first flange  164  extending upward so as to be substantially flush with the abutment member inboard flange  161  and a second flange  166  extending downward and rigidly connected to the inboard edge  157  of the slide-out roof  130 . Additionally, each inboard wedge  148  comprises an abutment side  168 . Preferably, the angle of the abutment side  168  matches that of the inboard side  159  of the abutment member  158 . Thus, when a respective slide-out  106 ,  108  is fully extended, the abutment side  168  of the inboard wedge  148  abuts the inboard side  159  of the abutment member  158 . Additionally, the inboard flange  161  of the abutment member  158  abuts the first flange  164  of the inboard wedge  148 . Such abutment provides mechanical support for the respective slide-out  106 ,  108  by distributing the weight thereof over a relatively large surface area (i.e., that of the various abutting surfaces) so as to decrease potentially damaging stress concentrations and reduce the likelihood of the slide-out  106 ,  108  sagging relative to the RV body.  
         [0035]    As shown in FIG. 4C, the structure and function of the outboard wedge  150  of each slide-out  106 ,  108  are substantially the same as are the structure and function of the inboard wedge  148 . In this regard, the outboard wedge  150  is mounted to the outboard end of a respective slide-out roof  130 , with the first flange  164  of the outboard wedge  150  extending upward so as to be substantially flush with the abutment member outboard flange  162  and the second flange  166  extending downward and rigidly connected to the outboard side of the slide-out roof  130 . Additionally, each outboard wedge  150  comprises an abutment side  168 , the angle of which preferably matches that of the outboard side  160  of the abutment member  158 . Thus, when a respective slide-out  106 ,  108  is fully retracted, the abutment side  168  of the outboard wedge  150  abuts the outboard side  160  of the abutment member  158 . Additionally, the outboard flange  162  of the abutment member  158  abuts the first flange  164  of the outboard wedge  150 . Thus, the abutment of the various components of the outboard wedge  150  and abutment member  158  provides the same mechanical support to the respective slide-out  106 ,  108  when fully retracted as is provided thereto by the various components of the inboard wedge  148  and abutment member  158  when the slide-out  106 ,  108  is fully extended.  
         [0036]    As also shown in FIGS. 4A-4C, the support system further comprises a seal  170 . The seal  170  comprises a thin member made of a flexible material (e.g., rubber) which spans the length of the respective slide-out  106 ,  108 . The seal  170  is attached to the abutment member  134  via a seal flange  172  and extends from the seal flange  172  to the slide-out roof  130 , making almost constant contact therewith as the respective slide-out  106 ,  108  is moved between an extended and a retracted position. Similarly, the inboard and outboard wedges  148 ,  150  each comprise a channel  174  which spans the length of the respective wedge  148 ,  150 . A seal  176  extends from the channel  174  to the respective abutting side  159 ,  160  of the abutment member  158 . Thus, the seals  170 ,  176  substantially prevent rain, wind, debris, and the like from entering the interior living space of the RV  100 .  
         [0037]    Referring now to FIGS. 6A-6D, the slide-out floors  128  are shown. As seen in FIGS. 6A and 6C, when the slide-outs  106 ,  108  are in the retracted position, the slide-out floors  128  are positioned within the body of the RV  100  over at least a portion of the interior floor  118  such that the interior edge  178  of one slide-out floor  128  lies flush with the interior edge  178  of the remaining slide-out floor  128 . As described above, when the slide-outs  106 ,  108  are moved to the extended position, the floors  128  thereof are also moved to the extended position, thus leaving a gap between the interior edges  178  of the floors  128  and exposing the retracted interior floor  118 .  
         [0038]    As shown in FIGS. 6C and 6D, the interior floor  118  comprises a planar floor section  119  having exterior edges  180  with a plurality of openings  196  spaced along the length thereof and a plurality of actuation mechanisms  182  operative to vertically move the planar floor section  119  from an elevated to a retracted position and, conversely, from a retracted to an elevated position. The interior floor  118  additionally comprises a plurality of sliders  188  operative to provide mechanical support thereto. The RV  100  may additionally comprise a non-retractable cab floor (not shown). Each actuation mechanism  182  comprises a sleeve  184  rigidly connected to a lateral support bar  136  of the chassis  102 , a ram arm  186  rigidly connected to the planar floor section  119  and slidably connected to the sleeve  184  such that the ram arm  186  is slidable into and out of the sleeve  184 , and a linear actuator (not shown). Similarly, each slider  188  comprises a sleeve  184  rigidly connected to the lateral support bar  136  of the chassis  102  and a ram arm  186  rigidly connected to the planar floor section  119  and slidably connected to the sleeve  184  such that the ram arm  186  is slidable into and out of the sleeve  184 . Preferably, the linear actuator of the actuation mechanism  182  is a ram actuator. However, it should be understood that the linear actuator may comprise any of a number of alternative actuation mechanisms (e.g., hydraulic, pneumatic, electric, or manual mechanism, or a combination thereof) without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.  
         [0039]    To elevate the planar floor section  119  of the interior floor  118 , the linear actuators of the actuation mechanisms  182  simultaneously extend the ram arms  186  out of the sleeves  184 . Conversely, to retract the planar floor section  119 , the linear actuators simultaneously retract the ram arms  186  into the sleeves  184 . As the planar floor section  119  is rigidly attached to the ram arms  186 , the planar floor section  119  moves with the ram arms  186 . The sliders  188  mechanically support this vertical movement.  
         [0040]    As best seen in FIG. 6C, when the slide-outs  106 ,  108  are in the retracted position, the planar floor section  119  of the interior floor  118  is retracted such that the slide-out floors  128  are positioned thereabove. As best seen in FIG. 6D, when the slide-outs  106 ,  108  are moved into the extended position, i.e., when the slide-out floors  128  have been moved to the extended position so as to leave a gap between the interior edges  178  thereof, thus exposing the retracted interior floor  118 , the actuation mechanisms  182  vertically move the planar floor section  119  upward such that the exterior edges  180  thereof are flush with respective interior edges  178  of the slide-out floors  128 . Thus, when the slide-outs  106 ,  108  are in the extended position and the planar floor section  119  is in the elevated position, the slide-out floors  128  and planar floor section  119  provide a continuous flush floor space. Advantageously, the retractable interior floor  118  of the present invention precludes the necessity of providing vertical movement to the slide-outs  106 ,  108 . Thus, the size of each slide-out  106 ,  108  is not limited by the maximum weight a vertical slide-out mechanism can support.  
         [0041]    Referring now to FIG. 6D, the RV  100  further includes a floor retention system comprising a plurality of retention mechanisms  190 . Preferably, the retention mechanisms  190  are spaced equidistantly along the length of each slide-out floor  128  such that each retention mechanism aligns with a respective opening  196  on an exterior edge  180  of the planar floor section  119  when the planar floor section  119  is in the elevated position. Each retention mechanism  190  comprises a hollow, cylindrically configured sleeve  194  rigidly connected to the interior edge  178  of a respective slide-out floor  128  and a solid, cylindrically configured pin  192  slideably connected to the sleeve  194  such that the pin  192  is slidable into and out of the sleeve  194 . The retention mechanisms may be actuated by any of a number of ways (e.g., pneumatically, hydraulically, or manually).  
         [0042]    When the slide-outs  106 ,  108  and the planar floor section  119  are in respective retracted positions, the pin  192  of a respective retention mechanism  190  is retained within the sleeve  194  thereof. As shown in FIG. 6D, when the slide-outs  106 ,  108  are in the extended position and the planar floor section  119  is in the elevated position, the pin  192  of a respective retention mechanism  190  extends from the sleeve  194  thereof and slides into the opening  196  with which the pin  192  is aligned. The pins  192  are sized and configured so as to be frictionally engageable to respective openings  196 . Thus, the retention mechanisms  190  are operative to provide mechanical support and, thus, increase the structural rigidity of the RV  100  when the slide-outs  106 ,  108  are in the extended position. In this regard, the retention mechanisms  190  resist displacement between the slide-out floors  128  and the planar floor surface  119  of the interior floor  118  by supporting some of the weight of the slide-out  106 ,  108  that would otherwise be borne by the slide-out actuation system and upper support system described above, thereby decreasing potentially damaging stress concentrations and further reducing the likelihood of the slide-out  106 ,  108  sagging relative to the RV  100 .  
         [0043]    Referring now to FIGS. 7A-7B, the RV  100  may comprise a supplementary structural support system. In an exemplary embodiment, such structural support system comprises a plurality of cables  198  rigidly connected to respective ones of the longitudinal support bars  135  and lateral support bars  136  to provide additional support thereto. As shown in FIG. 7A, each cable  198  extends diagonally across the roof  120  of the RV  100 . One end of each cable  198  is rigidly attached to an end of a respective lateral support bar  136  and/or a longitudinal support bar  135  connected to the lateral support bar  136 , while the other end is rigidly attached on the opposing side of the roof  120  to an end of a second respective lateral support bar  136  and/or a longitudinal support bar  135  connected to the second lateral support bar  136 . Preferably, the cables  198  collectively form a crisscross pattern extending the length of the slide-out roofs  130 . Similarly, as shown in FIG. 7B, cables  198  extend diagonally across the back of the RV  100  and forming a crisscross pattern. Such supplementary support system increases the structural integrity of the RV  100 .  
         [0044]    In an embodiment not shown, the RV  100  may further comprise a visual sensor operative to, when activated (e.g., prior to extending or retracting the slide-outs  106 ,  108 ), scan a predetermined area and detect the presence of any objects within that area. In this regard, the visual sensor is configured so as to scan the interior living space of the RV  100  for objects that could interfere with proper movement of the slide-outs  106 ,  108  and/or retractable interior floor  118 . For example, if a person were standing on the planar floor section  119  of the retractable interior floor  118 , the visual sensor would detect the presence of that person and send a signal to the floor actuation mechanisms  182  and the slide-out actuation mechanisms  137  to prevent the movement of the retractable interior floor  118  and the slide-outs  106 ,  108 , respectively, thus precluding injury to the person and/or damage to any RV component. Preferably, the visual sensor additionally emits an audible signal to indicate that a person or object has been detected.  
         [0045]    Further in accordance with the present invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing an RV  100 . As shown in FIG. 8, the method of manufacturing comprises several independent steps. Step  1 A comprises fabricating a chassis  102 . In this regard, the chassis  102  is fabricated by interconnecting a plurality of beams  134 , longitudinal support bars  135 , and lateral support bars  136  to form an elongate frame. Preferably, the chassis  102  is fabricated from a strong, durable, lightweight material (e.g., steel). The various components thereof are connected by any of a number of ways (e.g., welding, use of fasteners such as nuts and bolts, or other equivalent means). A front and rear axle each having a plurality of wheels  104  are then mounted to the chassis  102 .  
         [0046]    Step  1 B comprises mounting the retractable interior floor  118  to the chassis  102 . In this regard, each actuation mechanism  182  and slider  188  is assembled and then connected via the sleeve  184  to a lateral support bar  136  of the chassis  102  and via the ram arm  186  to the planar floor section  119 . The actuation mechanisms  182  and sliders  188  may be connected to the lateral support bar  136  and the planar floor section  119  via welding, use of fasteners such as nuts and bolts, or other equivalent means.  
         [0047]    Step  1 C comprises mounting the RV walls  110 ,  112 ,  114 , and  116  to the chassis  102 , with the walls  114  and  116  each comprising an opening therein. The roof  120  is then attached to the chassis  102  and to each of the walls  110 ,  112 ,  114 , and  116 . Preferably, the walls and roof are manufactured of a lightweight, durable material (e.g., aluminum or fiberglass) and are fastened with a plurality of fasteners (e.g., nuts and bolts, etc.). A door (not shown) is mounted to at least one of the walls  112 ,  114 , and  116 . At least one window is mounted to at least the RV walls  110 ,  114 , and  116 . The roof component  146  (i.e., bar  152  and abutment member  158 ) may be rigidly connected to the roof  120  as described above. Preferably, the roof component  146  is made of a hard material such as a steel alloy. A plurality of cables  198  may be rigidly connected to respective ones of the longitudinal support bars  135 , lateral support bars  136 , and beams  134  to provide additional support to the chassis  102 . Preferably, the cables  198  are manufactured from a strong, relatively lightweight material such as high tensile steel.  
         [0048]    Preferably, the RV  100  of the present invention is configured as a motor home. In this case, as shown by Step  1 D, a cab floor (not shown) is mounted onto the chassis  102 . An engine compartment comprising a motor, transmission, etc. is installed behind the RV wall  110 , separate from the cab section. A steering wheel, brake and accelerator pedals, and other components typical of motor vehicles are installed within the cab section. The RV  100  may alternatively be configured as a fifth-wheel or tag-along travel trailer, in which case Step  1 D is not included in the manufacturing process.  
         [0049]    Steps  2 A and  2 B are carried out independently of and, preferably, simultaneously with Steps  1 A- 1 D, thus increasing the efficiency of the manufacturing process and decreasing the cost by reducing bottlenecking in the manufacturing process. Step  2 A comprises the independent fabrication of each slide-out  106 ,  108 . In this regard, a slide-out frame is preferably assembled from a strong, durable, relatively lightweight material (e.g., steel). A floor  128 , front wall  122 , back wall  124 , and side wall  126  are mounted thereto by means of welding, the use of fasteners such as nuts and bolts, or another equivalent means. A roof  130  is then attached to the frame and to each of the walls  122 ,  124 , and  126 . The inboard wedge  148  and outboard wedge  150  of the roof support system are rigidly connected to the roof  130 . Preferably, the roof  130  and walls  122 ,  124 , and  126  are made from a durable, lightweight material (e.g., aluminum or fiberglass), while the wedges  148 ,  150  are made of a hard material such as a steel alloy. Each of the walls  122 ,  124 , and  126  may comprise one or more windows, while the side wall  126  may additionally comprise a door.  
         [0050]    Step  2 B comprises the installation of any of a number of amenities within a respective slide-out  106 ,  108 . In this regard, one of the slide-outs  106 ,  108  may be provided with a bathroom comprising a plurality of walls, one of the walls having a door openable into the interior of the RV  100 . The bathroom further comprises a bath/shower, a sink, and a toilet, the bath/shower, sink and toilet each in fluid connection with plumbing operative to provide an inflow of water and outflow of waste water. More particularly, a plumbing fixture (e.g., bath/shower, toilet, or sink) may be configured such that holding tanks (i.e., a storage tank for water and for waste water) are mounted adjacent to and/or beneath the plumbing fixture. For example, a sink may be provided having a holding tank for clean water adjacent thereto and a holding tank for waste water mounted beneath the floor  128  of the slide-out  106 ,  108 . One of the slide-outs  106 ,  108  may additionally be provided with a kitchen having a stove and oven connected to a propane tank, a sink in fluid connection with plumbing operative to provide an inflow of water and outflow of waste water, and a refrigerator which may be connected to a propane tank. Each of these amenities may be mounted adjacent to and/or above a propane tank or a water and waste water holding tank. Likewise, amenities such as furniture, cabinetry, molding, and other features are positioned onto the slide-outs  106 ,  108 . It should be understood that the slide-outs  106 ,  108  make up the vast majority of the interior space of the RV  100 . In this regard, all of the amenities of the RV  100  are mounted to one of the slide-outs  106 ,  108 , while the retractable interior floor  118  and, more particularly, the planar floor section  119  thereof provide additional floor space so as to make the RV  100  more roomy.  
         [0051]    Step  3  comprises the slidable mounting of the first and second fully-assembled and finished slide-outs  106 ,  108  on respective sides of the chassis  102  within the opening of the respective slide-out side wall  126 . In this regard, the slide-out  106 ,  108  is moved beside the RV  100  such that the open side thereof faces the opening of the RV wall. The slide-out  106 ,  108  is then inserted into the opening. The ram arm  142  of the actuation mechanism  137  is connected to the floor  128  of the slide-out  106 ,  108  by means of welding, the use of fasteners, or other equivalent means. Likewise, the sleeve  140  thereof is connected to a longitudinal support bar  135  of the chassis  102 . Finally, the method of manufacturing comprises the step of slidably mounting the second fully-assembled slide-out  106 ,  108  on the second side of the chassis (e.g., on the curb side) within the opening of the respective wall (e.g.,  116 ).  
         [0052]    This disclosure provides exemplary embodiments of the present invention. The scope of the present invention is not limited by these exemplary embodiments. Numerous variations, whether explicitly provided for by the specification or implied by the specification, such as variations in structure, dimension, type of material and manufacturing process may be implemented by one of skill in the art in view of this disclosure.