For all the FlipPac faults the utilitarian shape is not one of them. As stated elsewhere in this thread the boxy profile allows for maximum space efficiency and the relatively vertical walls are advantageous to cargo storage and interior customization. Trying to make the camper look like a typical fiberglass shell with a profile that follows the cab roofline would give up too much space. I also see problems with a sleeping area that would be too narrow to adequately accommodate two adults. While a design that improves aerodynamics would be welcome I would not want to give up much if any interior volume as a result. Again as has been said elsewhere: “Form follows Function”
While I can see the attractions to a roof that opens to the rear, I think it may cause more issues than benefits. There is a lot to be said for the compact footprint and ease of set up that the current front opening FlipPac provides. With a rear opening design it may not be possible to tie the roof support poles directly to the vehicle. Having to secure support poles to the ground adds complexity. Think uneven sloping rocky ground and high winds.
Another issue, assuming a six foot (or less) truck bed length, is the length of the sleeping area, either the front would have to extend over the cab or the rear would have to extend past the rear bumper (like the Wildernest) in order to have a long enough sleeping area. Additionally, getting in and out of the sleeping area would be more difficult because of the tailgate area.
Barn doors would be nice but again I think this would add too much complexity and cost.
I'm not trying to put a damper on anyone's ideas, just playing devil's advocate. I think Tacodoc started a needed discussion and we should use it to brainstorm ideas.
Some improvements I'd like to see in a new design:
- Eliminate the torsion bar. Maybe replace it with some type of gear system?
- Relocate the lid latches to the inside and use alignment pins. The present external locations limit awning-mounting options. Internal latches would also provide better security.
- Make the shell sidewalls completely flat so windows or solid access panels can be easily added.
- Source high quality windows.
- Reinforce the shell / provide built-in mounting locations for easy installation of awnings and roof racks.
Cliff
Hire Cliff, he's really got it figured out
The only thing I can add... streamline all exterior parts so they don't get hung up on tree branches, etc. Integrate work lights into the body of the camper for the same reasons. Perhaps add some waterproof speakers
linked to this
While barn doors are cool, I refuse to give up my tailgate, it's the most valuable attribute of a pickup. We rarely use chairs or tables thanks to it.
I would consider replacing my flip pac and tailgate if it had all of Cliff's suggestions and was built as a lightweight slide in camper.
After living out of the flip pac for a month, I don't see much room for improvement other than torsion bar and materials.
I have always said it was the ugliest thing I've ever done to a vehicle, but much like wearing crocks...you can't hate the comfort, convenience, and light weight
I lost my love affair with the idea of an Earthroamerlike rear cantilever design for a flip pac. Problems associated with high winds and flexy suspension would only be amplified w/rear open design, regardless of how you anchor it.
All that being said, it will be neat to see what they do. UM's craftsmanship and attention to detail would certainly improve upon the flip pac, even if it was a only a near clone. Something radically different would probably be cool too.
