A damper is a valve or plate that stops or regulates the flow of air inside a duct, chimney, VAV box, air handler, or other air handling equipment. A damper may be used to cut off central air conditioning (heating or cooling) to an unused room, or to regulate it for room-by-room temperature and climate control. Its operation can be manual or automatic. Manual dampers are turned by a handle on the outside of a duct. Automatic dampers are used to regulate airflow constantly and are operated by electric or pneumatic motors, in turn controlled by a thermostat or building automation system.
The major application areas for gas springs and dampers in RV interior design include storage shelves, luggage compartment doors or top cabinet doors. For these and more, the goal is to allow users to open, close and hold in place any doors conveniently and safely. No matter whether it’s the small lid on a top cabinet or a large bench with storage underneath: The ready-to-install LIFT-O-MAT gas springs will provide force-assist and optimum weight balancing. In the case of heavier lids, such as in prop-up bed frames, they will prevent accidental closing through end position locking (anti-crushing protection). Their dampening effects and linear spring curve characteristics will always make sure that parts move smoothly.
In addition, special variants such as the LIFT-O-MAT PTL offered by STABILUS are a technological wonder. This gas spring is hydraulic and possesses a locking mechanism similar to a ballpoint pen, making it the elegant solution for integrating space-saving bar cabinets, TV platforms or terminal strips into the interior of an RV. And such “convenience wizards” can also be found in other gas spring lines from STABILUS. One of them is the locking BLOC-O-LIFT T. With its assistance, even the height of heavy tabletops can be adjusted easily and evenly. The locking function can be released by a hand or foot lever.
Besides gas springs, the hydraulic dampers (STAB-O-SHOC) from the Koblenz-based company play an important role in the interior design of motorhomes and trailers. They will brake excessively fast motions of storage compartment lids and covers. This will not only increase convenience and safety for users but also be easy on the fittings.
