Adjustable Fin Box Insert for Surfboard Toe and Camber Tuning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Surfing fins are traditionally static and cannot be adjusted once mounted, limiting the ability to customize performance based on wave conditions or user preference.
Innovation Solution
The Kinetic Infinity Mount System (KIMS) allows for dynamic adjustment of fin toe and camber angles, enabling simultaneous or separate adjustments of these angles to optimize performance, and accommodates various fin types using a universal fin box.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fins are made static and fixed in position, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the adaptability to different wave conditions and user preferences is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static fin system into a dynamic one by introducing adjustable mechanisms that allow the fin to change its camber and toe angles. The fin box includes adjustment mechanisms with screws, collars, and gear systems that enable the fin to be repositioned to different angles, making the system adaptable to various wave conditions and user preferences while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple adjustment mechanisms are added to enable dynamic fin positioning, then the adaptability and customization are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal fin box system that can accommodate different fin types (single fin, twin fin, thruster, quad) while providing the same adjustment capabilities. The adjustment mechanism serves multiple functions: it controls camber angle, controls toe angle, and works with various fin configurations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate systems for each fin type, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment mechanism is nested within the fin box structure. The collars fit inside the fin box, the screws thread into the fin box, and the gear system is integrated into the fin box housing. This nesting approach allows multiple adjustment components to be compactly arranged within the existing fin box volume, minimizing the increase in external dimensions and overall system complexity.
3Ease of operation
If adjustment mechanisms are integrated into the fin box, then the ease of operation is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the fin box into separate functional components: the fin box housing, the adjustment mechanism with collars and screws, and the gear system. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using standard manufacturing processes, then assembled together. The collars can be separately machined, the screws are standard fasteners, and the gear system can be produced as modular components, thereby limiting the increase in manufacturing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A Kinetic Infinity Mount System (KIMS) comprises an outer housing, first and second outer gears, first and second inner gears, two pins, screws, two mechanical collars, a fin box, and a fin box insert. The KIMS allows different reusable and removable fins to be mounted onto a surfboard or other waterborne vessels. The KIMS provides dynamic, simultaneous adjustment and setting of a toe angle and a camber angle of the fin. The fin box insert provides more stability for the fin. Users choose from multiple settings of positive or negative toe angle or camber angle for each fin mounted into the surfboard. Camber and toe angles, in both positive or negative directions, can be adjusted simultaneously or separately to the user's preference. The KIMS allows different types of fins by FCS®, Futures®, or similar, rectangular-based fins to be mounted into the fin box and adjusted to desired configuration.