RV and Automotive Thermal Feasibility: Insulation and Solar Load
RV, camper, and specialty vehicle projects often need thermal feasibility studies — insulation thickness, HVAC load estimates, and structural attachment of thermal barriers — before committing to composite or sheet-metal builds. Simulation and hand-calcs together prevent costly rework when comfort targets or condensation limits are missed.
Thermal Loads in Mobile Enclosures
Unlike buildings, RVs see solar gain through curved roofs, infiltration at doors, and wide ambient swings. Define occupancy load, appliance heat, and target interior conditions (comfort vs storage-only).
Condensation risk matters: cold exterior + humid interior requires vapor control strategy, not only R-value.
Insulation Selection and Thickness
Compare foam boards, spray foam, and composite sandwich panels on thermal conductivity, weight, and attach method. Thickness trades headroom against load — model 2D/3D heat transfer for critical zones (roof, cab-over).
Structural attachments through insulation create thermal bridges; use standoffs or break layers where condensation forms.
Simulation and Validation Path
Steady-state CFD or FEA thermal models estimate peak skin temperatures and interior conditions under solar + HVAC. Validate with instrumented prototype in sun soak before serial build.
Document assumptions in a report suitable for investor or certification packages.
Automotive Crossover
Similar methods apply to camper vans, refrigerated boxes, and EV auxiliary cabin loads. Ohmframe provides thermal feasibility studies, CFD/FEA, and structural review for mobility and marine clients.
Related Services
Thermal Management
CFD simulation, heat sink design, liquid cooling systems, and thermal interface materials
CFD Simulation
Airflow analysis, thermal mapping, liquid cooling optimization, and fan selection
FEA Analysis
Structural stress, thermal-structural coupling, vibration analysis, and fatigue life prediction