Adjustable Rack for Aquatic Equipment Using Slider-Crank Lifting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage systems for paddleboards and other recreational equipment are inefficient, taking up valuable space, requiring complex installations, and lacking adjustability and safety features, especially when it comes to launching and retrieving equipment from water.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic rack system that translates rotational movement of a hand crank into linear movement, allowing the frame to adjust height relative to water levels, and is designed to securely store and launch a variety of recreational equipment, including paddleboards, kayaks, and surfboards, while minimizing installation complexity and ensuring safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If boards are leaned against a wall for storage, then space utilization is improved, but the boards are vulnerable to damage and require additional securing measures
Solution Approach 1:
The rack divides the board support function into multiple contact points along the board's length, with each segment providing localized support and security. The board rests on multiple horizontal supports rather than a single point, distributing the load and reducing vulnerability at any one location.
Solution Approach 2:
The rack creates a level, stable support system that eliminates the need for additional securing measures by providing continuous contact points along the board. The board is held in a neutral, balanced position without requiring straps or pegs to prevent slipping.
2Area of stationary object
If shelves are permanently affixed high on walls to save space, then storage efficiency is improved, but installation complexity and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The rack is constructed from multiple discrete components including vertical posts, horizontal supports, and connection elements that can be assembled step-by-step. This modular segmentation simplifies installation compared to permanently affixed shelves while maintaining high storage efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The rack design includes self-aligning features and intuitive connection mechanisms that reduce the need for complex installation procedures. The structure supports itself through its geometric configuration, eliminating the need for extensive anchoring to walls or ceilings.
3Reliability
If complex cradles are used to cradle boards along their edges, then board protection is improved, but device complexity and effort to load/unload increase
Solution Approach 1:
The rack provides linear support along the board's edge through multiple discrete contact points rather than a continuous cradle. This segmented approach protects the board's hull while maintaining a simpler structure that is easier to load and unload.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using complex cradles to hold the board, the rack uses simple horizontal supports that the board rests upon. This inverted approach achieves the same protective function with greater simplicity and ease of operation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable shelves are used to accommodate different equipment sizes, then versatility is improved, but adjustment effort and hardware requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The rack uses multiple discrete horizontal supports at different heights rather than a single adjustable shelf. This segmentation allows selective use of different support levels for different equipment sizes without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The vertical posts and horizontal supports are designed as universal components that can accommodate various board lengths and types. The same basic structure serves multiple functions by simply selecting different support heights, eliminating the need for specialized adjustment hardware.
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 dynamic rack system provides a versatile, space-efficient, and safe solution for storing and launching recreational equipment, accommodating different sizes and types of gear, and allowing for easy adjustment to varying water levels, thus enhancing user convenience and equipment protection.
Implementation Method 1
a lifting assembly that translates rotational movement of a hand crank into linear movement of an adjustable frame, thereby allowing for a change in height of the adjustable frame with respect to a water surface of an adjacent body of water
Data Source
AI summary
A rack for aquatic recreational equipment comprises an adjustable frame comprising a left-side member, a right-side member, and at least one horizontal member extending from the left-side member to the right-side member; at least two pairs of opposing arms extending away from the left-side member and the right-side member; a mounting member operatively attached to (i) the adjustable frame and (ii) a dock, said mounting member orthogonally oriented with respect to a plane defined by an adjacent water surface; and a lifting assembly comprising a slider-crank mechanism to translate rotational movement of a rotatable handle to linear movement of the adjustable frame, thereby allowing for a change in height of the adjustable frame with respect to the adjacent water surface.