Concealable Boat Workstation With Hinged Panel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage and workspace systems on marine vessels face challenges in maximizing usable space without compromising other features, often requiring a trade-off between storage and functionality due to limited space and unpredictable vessel conditions.
Innovation Solution
A concealable storage assembly with a slideable upper drawer unit and a lower drawer unit, featuring a workstation with a hinged work panel that can be configured to cover and uncover storage compartments, sinks, cooktops, and other features, allowing for versatile use without interfering with other structures, and can be installed in various boat structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional fixed workstation is installed in a boat, then work functionality is provided, but the workstation occupies permanent space and cannot be stored when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The workstation is divided into separable components: the monitor unit, keyboard tray, and mounting hardware can be independently installed and removed. This allows the workstation to be segmented into manageable parts that can be stored separately when not in use, resolving the contradiction between providing work functionality and occupying permanent boat space.
Solution Approach 2:
The workstation transitions from a static permanent installation to a dynamic removable setup. The monitor mount includes quick-release mechanisms and adjustable positioning features, allowing the workstation to be easily deployed when needed and stored when not in use, adapting to the changing space requirements of the boat environment.
2Area of stationary object
If a removable workstation is installed in a boat, then space is saved when not in use, but the workstation may become lost or stolen
Solution Approach 1:
The keyboard tray nests within the monitor mount structure, and various components fit together in a nested configuration. This nesting design makes it difficult to separate or remove individual components without the proper mounting hardware, effectively preventing theft while allowing the complete workstation to be stored in compact spaces when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs specialized mounting hardware and security features as intermediaries between the workstation components and the boat structure. These intermediaries provide secure attachment points and anti-theft mechanisms that ensure the workstation remains reliably mounted during use while allowing controlled removal for storage.
3Area of stationary object
If a compact monitor is used in a boat workstation, then space is reduced, but the viewing angle and screen real estate are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The monitor mounting system incorporates multi-axis adjustment capabilities, allowing the monitor to be positioned in multiple dimensions (tilt, swivel, height adjustment). This dimensional flexibility compensates for the smaller screen size by optimizing the viewing angle and position, thereby maximizing the effective use of limited screen real estate while maintaining a compact overall workstation footprint.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage assembly comprising a slideable upper drawer unit and a lower drawer unit disposed in a housing. The upper drawer unit includes a slideable workstation and one or more primary drawers disposed beneath the workstation. A work panel is hingeably attached to a top surface of the workstation whereby the work panel is operable between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position, the work panel covers and conceals at least a portion of the top surface of the workstation, and in the open position the work panel is perpendicular to the top surface of the workstation. The work panel is received in a rear slot of the workstation when it is in the open position. The workstation may include features such as a sink and a cook top. The housing may be received in a seat casing, console, or bench on the boat.