Auxiliary Oar Blade Assembly with Resilient Coupler
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing oar blade devices do not efficiently allow for the attachment of a second blade to an existing oar, limiting their functionality and efficiency in paddling.
Innovation Solution
A new oar blade device comprising a blade with an elongated connector featuring a channel and resilient arms that securely attach to an oar shaft using a coupler, such as a strap or screw, to form a two-bladed oar configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a second blade is attached to an existing oar, then paddling efficiency and functionality are improved, but the complexity of the oar structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The auxiliary blade assembly is divided into separate components: the blade itself, the elongated connector with channel, and the coupler mechanism. This segmentation allows the second blade to be attached to the existing oar through a modular connection system, improving paddling efficiency while managing structural complexity through standardized interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The elongated connector with channel and coupler mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the blade, enables attachment to various oar shafts, allows for secure fastening, and facilitates easy detachment. This multi-functionality addresses the complexity issue by consolidating multiple requirements into a single integrated component.
2Reliability
If a secure attachment mechanism is used to attach the auxiliary blade, then reliability of the connection is improved, but the ease of operation for attachment and detachment decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler mechanism incorporates resilient arms that can dynamically adjust during attachment and detachment operations. The resilient nature allows the mechanism to be secure when attached (maintaining reliability) while remaining flexible enough to accommodate the motions required for easy attachment and detachment (improving ease of operation).
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient arms and coupler mechanism are designed to facilitate self-aligning and self-securing during attachment. The mechanism automatically engages and secures the blade to the oar shaft without requiring complex manual alignment or multiple fastening steps, thereby maintaining reliability while improving ease of operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustable attachment mechanism is provided for various oar diameters, then adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient arms and coupler mechanism are designed with adjustable geometric parameters that allow accommodation of various oar shaft diameters. The resilient arms can flex and adjust their configuration to match different diameter requirements, providing adaptability without requiring multiple specialized components or complex adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The elongated connector with channel and coupler mechanism serves as a universal attachment system that can accommodate various oar diameters through its resilient and adjustable design. This single multi-functional component replaces what would otherwise require multiple diameter-specific attachment devices, thereby improving adaptability while actually reducing overall device complexity.
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
Enables efficient attachment and detachment of the auxiliary blade, reducing energy expenditure during paddling and providing a secure, adjustable attachment mechanism for various oar diameters.
Implementation Method 1
a pair of resilient arms coupled to and extending from opposite longitudinal sides of the main section of the connector. This structure forms a channel extending through the connector
Data Source
AI summary
An auxiliary oar blade assembly is provided for attachment to a shaft of an existing oar opposite an existing blade to provide a two bladed oar. The assembly includes a blade and an elongated connector coupled to and extending from the blade. A channel extends through the connector. The channel is configured for receiving a shaft of an oar therein. A coupler is coupled to the connector securing the connector to the shaft of the oar.