Adjustable Pole Support for Stand-up PWC
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Solution Overview
Problem
Stand-up personal watercraft are less stable and more physically demanding to ride compared to runabout models, requiring a support device for the steering pole that can be easily connected and disconnected, adjusted for various rider sizes, and provides sufficient support regardless of adjustment.
Innovation Solution
A pole support system for stand-up personal watercraft that is latched to the pole and deck, featuring adjustable length through sliding tubes with apertures and a pin mechanism, allowing vertical positioning and accommodating different rider sizes, with latches for easy installation and removal, and incorporating polymeric dampers for load absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a pole support device is added to support the pole above the deck, then rider stability and support are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pole support device is divided into separate components: a pole support member, latches for attachment, and adjustment mechanisms. This segmentation allows the device to provide stable support while maintaining ease of installation and removal, resolving the contradiction between stability and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The pole support device incorporates adjustable length capability through sliding tubes with apertures and pin mechanisms, allowing the support structure to adapt to different rider sizes and preferences. This dynamic adjustability provides stable support for various users without requiring a complex fixed-structure design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the pole support device is made adjustable to accommodate various rider sizes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism uses nested sliding tubes where one tube moves within another. Apertures are positioned at specific intervals along the tubes, and pins insert through aligned apertures to lock the desired length. This nested design provides multiple adjustment positions while maintaining a compact structure that does not significantly increase overall device complexity.
3Ease of operation
If the pole support device is designed for easy connection and removal, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed with pre-positioned engagement features that ensure reliable connection before the rider begins using the device. The latches incorporate spring-loaded or cam-actuated components that provide positive engagement and audible confirmation of proper attachment, ensuring reliability while maintaining ease of operation through simple lever or button actuation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The pole support system enhances the stability and usability of stand-up personal watercraft by allowing adjustable support for various riders, easy installation and removal, and effective load absorption, improving the riding experience across different conditions.
Implementation Method 1
incorporating polymeric dampers for load absorption
Data Source
AI summary
A personal watercraft has a pole having a forward portion pivotally connected to the deck. Handlebars are operatively connected to the rearward portion of the pole. A pole support is connected to the pole at one end and to the deck at the other in order to support the pole above the deck. The pole support is preferably connected to the pole and the deck with latches. The length of the pole support can be adjusted in order to accommodate different sizes of riders.