TUCSON, Ariz. — Bigweld Design, a new product design and manufacturing company focused on solving common problems in the RV and trailer industry, has launched its first product: AIRLoq, a keyless entry system designed specifically for aluminum Airstream trailers manufactured from mid-2008 through 2024.
Keyless entry has been commonplace in automobiles, homes and other RVs for years. But Airstream’s distinctive door lock configuration made it difficult to adapt existing RV and other keyless entry products to Airstream trailers. AIRLoq was developed specifically to address that gap, according to a company release.
“People have wanted keyless entry in their Airstream trailers for a long time, but there simply wasn’t a good solution available for this particular situation,” said Rich Luhr, founder of Bigweld Design. “We looked for the simplest way to solve the problem without modifying the door handle, drilling holes, or requiring professional installation.”
AIRLoq replaces the existing deadbolt and is designed for easy installation using only a screwdriver. The system includes a four-digit keypad entry, with up to 11 programmable codes, including temporary codes that can be created for family members, friends, or service technicians, and deleted when no longer needed. If the unit’s batteries die, the lock can be charged with a portable battery pack through a USBC port, or opened with an included key.
Luhr said the company deliberately chose not to include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or a smartphone app. “These technologies significantly impact battery life and typically require companies to use third party software that doesn’t always result in a great customer experience.” As a result, AIRLoq needs only 4 AA batteries, which can last up to two years. Plus, there is no risk of obsolescence, or need for app support and updates.
“We wanted AIRLoq to be simple and effective for the way people actually use their RVs,” said Luhr. “If you’re standing at your trailer door, you don’t need a phone app to unlock it. And if someone else needs access, you can simply give them a four-digit code.”
Early customer response to AIRLoq has exceeded Bigweld Design’s expectations. The company reports strong sales during the product’s first two weeks on the market, with early customers citing convenience, ease of installation and the freedom of leaving their keys behind.
Only 2,000 AIRLoq units will be produced. Bigweld Design’s intent is to meet the needs of the existing market for compatible Airstreams, rather than establish an ongoing mass-production product line.
Bigweld Design is taking a different approach to working with the RV industry’s retail and service channels. Its founders are RV owners, product designers, and business owners who are creating a partner-friendly model. “We made a conscious decision that we would not compete with our retail partners,” Luhr explained. “We won’t be selling our products on Amazon, directly to consumers on our website, or through influencers.”
Instead, the company plans to sell AIRLoq and its subsequent products through dealers, retailers, installers, service centers, and OEMs. “We’ll provide a high level of support through documentation, training, installation resources, a help center, and warranty support,” Luhr said. “And we’ll always offer attractive margins and an enforceable MAP (Minimum Advertised Price) policy that are designed to give dealers confidence that they will not be undercut by others.”
AIRLoq is currently available from AIR GEAR (airgear.store) and will soon be available through other authorized retailers. Dealers, OEMs, RV techs, and others interested in offering AIRLoq, or future Bigweld Design products can get in touch through the company’s website, bigweld.design.
About Bigweld Design
Bigweld Design is a product design and manufacturing company focused on solving interesting RV and trailer industry problems by developing simple, innovative solutions. Founded by RV owners, product designers, and business owners, the company’s approach to supporting its retailers and other partners is unique among RV product manufacturers. AIRLoq is the company’s first product, with additional products in development for the broader trailer market. Get in touch through bigweld.design.
