Boat Windshield Sub-Frame Assembly with Replaceable Glass
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current boat windshield framing systems, primarily using extrusions and multiple components, face limitations in providing complex shapes, easy assembly, and integration of additional features, while also being costly and restrictive in design flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A method involving molding or casting to create a single-piece sub-frame assembly with integrated functional features, allowing for arbitrary shapes and reduced frame size, which can be securely mounted onto a boat deck, and incorporating releasable mechanical mounting systems for easy glass replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional extrusion and multiple component assembly methods are used, then structural strength and reliability are maintained, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate components (frame members, mounting brackets, reinforcement elements) into a single molded or cast sub-frame assembly. This integration eliminates the need for assembling multiple extruded parts while maintaining structural integrity through the unified design, directly reducing device complexity without compromising reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The sub-frame assembly is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: providing structural support, enabling mounting to the boat deck, and incorporating integrated features like gasket retention and glass support. This multi-functionality consolidates what would traditionally require separate components, reducing overall assembly complexity while maintaining reliability
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional extrusion methods are used, then manufacturing precision is maintained, but adaptability and design freedom are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from extrusion (which produces constant cross-section profiles) to molding or casting processes that allow variable cross-sections and complex three-dimensional shapes. This parameter change in the manufacturing process enables arbitrary frame shapes and integrated features while maintaining dimensional precision through controlled molding/casting techniques
Solution Approach 2:
The invention moves from two-dimensional extruded profiles to three-dimensional molded or cast forms. This dimensional transition allows complex spatial configurations, curved surfaces, and integrated features that cannot be achieved with traditional extrusion, significantly enhancing design freedom and adaptability while maintaining manufacturing precision
3Productivity
If multiple components are assembled, then ease of repair and replacement are improved, but device complexity and assembly time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the windshield system into a permanent sub-frame assembly and a replaceable glass panel. The sub-frame itself is integrated as a single unit for rapid installation, while the glass is designed as a separate replaceable component through releasable mechanical mounting, enabling easy repair without compromising assembly productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system transitions from permanent fixed connections to dynamically reversible mechanical fastenings. This allows the glass to be easily removed and replaced while the sub-frame remains permanently mounted to the boat, balancing assembly efficiency with repairability
4Adaptability or versatility
If integrated features are added to the frame, then device complexity increases, but functional capability and versatility improve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functional features (mounting brackets, reinforcement ribs, gasket retention channels, drainage paths) directly into the sub-frame assembly during the molding or casting process. This integration adds functional capability while actually reducing overall device complexity by eliminating separate components and assembly steps
Data Source
AI summary
A boat windshield sub-frame assembly comprising a sub-frame and a glass mounted in the sub-frame, the glass being releasably mounted to the sub-frame using a releasable mechanical mounting between the glass and the sub-frame. The releasable mechanical mounting may comprise a screw and a quarter-turn, a rivet, a magnetic or Velcro™ arrangement, a pin and anchor or a snap-clip fastener, for example. A fastener may be bonded to the glass, and the sub-frame may comprise a bore or other opening to receive a fastener from the glass. However, the glass and sub-frame are not bonded together. The glass is rather releasably fastened to the sub-frame to make it replaceable.