Adjustable Fin System Sliding Dovetail Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing surfboard fin systems lack adjustability without requiring tools, limiting surfers' ability to fine-tune their boards for varying swell sizes and conditions, and often necessitate new boards or modifications for adjustable fin systems.

Innovation Solution

An adjustable fin system featuring a sliding dovetail joint and a planar adjustment member with teeth and valleys, allowing the fin section to be moved relative to the base without tools, and compatible with existing fin plug and box arrangements, enabling easy adjustment and use on current boards.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed fin system is used, then the board structure is simple and stable, but the surfers cannot adjust fin position for varying swell sizes and conditions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadjustability of fin positionVSAvoidcomplexity of fin system

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fin system transitions from a fixed configuration to a dynamic, adjustable configuration. The base is divided into multiple segments that can slide relative to each other along the fin box, allowing the fin position to be adjusted fore and aft. This enables the same fin to adapt to different wave conditions and surfer preferences without requiring multiple fins or complex modification systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The base is segmented into multiple movable sections rather than being a single fixed piece. Each segment can be independently positioned along the fin box using a sliding mechanism with retention features. This segmentation allows for flexible adjustment of fin position while maintaining structural integrity through the interlocking segments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If tool-based adjustment systems are used, then secure attachment is achieved, but ease of operation is reduced requiring tools for adjustment

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of fin adjustmentVSAvoidsecurity of fin attachment

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustment mechanism is designed to be operated directly by the surfer without requiring external tools. The sliding segments incorporate manual retention features such as snap-fit mechanisms or friction-based locks that can be engaged and disengaged by hand. This allows the surfer to adjust fin position quickly and easily while still achieving a secure, reliable attachment that prevents accidental loosening during use.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If existing fin plugs and boxes are modified for adjustability, then adaptability is improved, but ease of manufacture and compatibility are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with existing boardsVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity of adjustable system

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustable base system is designed to be universally compatible with existing fin plugs and boxes on standard surfboards. The sliding segments are configured to fit within conventional fin box dimensions, allowing the adjustable system to be installed on existing boards without modification. This universal design enables one adjustable fin system to work across multiple board models and fin box types, simplifying manufacturing and distribution.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3350072B1Adjustable fin system

Publication Date: 2021.08.18 FLYING FIN SYST

Figure 1(A)~1(C)
Figure 2(A)~2(E)
Figure 3(A)~3(C)

AI summary

A fin for use on a surfboard or another watercraft comprising a fin section that can be releasably coupled to the base of the fin, and the fin section can be slidably adjusted relative to the base in a direction towards the leading edge or the trailing edge of the fin. Following adjustment, the position of the fin section can be secured to the base with one or more locking means.