Convertible SUP Paddle With Folding Blade for Seated Paddling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing standup paddle board (SUP) paddles are challenging for beginners to use for extended periods, especially in adverse weather conditions, as they require standing and balancing, and there is a need for a versatile paddle that can be used while sitting or lying down.
Innovation Solution
A convertible SUP paddle with a fixed blade and a collapsible, expandable fan blade system that can be converted between standup and kayak-style paddling, allowing for efficient use in various positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional SUP paddle with a single fixed blade is used, then the paddle is simple in structure and easy to manufacture, but it is difficult for beginners to use for long periods and cannot be used when sitting or lying down
Solution Approach 1:
The paddle blade is divided into two separate segments: a fixed blade for standup paddling and a collapsible fan blade for kayak-style paddling. This segmentation allows the paddle to adapt to different paddling positions while maintaining structural simplicity in each configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The paddle incorporates a dynamic, collapsible fan blade that can be extended or retracted based on the paddling mode. This dynamic element enables the paddle to transition between standup and kayak styles, providing versatility without permanently increasing structural complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a collapsible fan blade is added to enable kayak-style paddling, then the paddle becomes versatile for different positions, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The collapsible fan blade is nested within the hollow shaft of the paddle when not in use. This nesting approach allows the additional blade to be stored compactly without significantly increasing the overall size or complexity of the paddle structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The paddle shaft serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for standup paddling, houses the collapsible fan blade for kayak-style paddling, and acts as a storage compartment when the fan blade is retracted. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components.
3Ease of operation
If the fan blade is stored within the shaft housing, then the paddle remains compact for standup paddling, but the blade cannot be used when needed
Solution Approach 1:
The fan blade is designed with a quick-release mechanism that allows it to be rapidly extended from the shaft housing when kayak-style paddling is needed. This dynamic deployment enables the user to switch between paddling modes quickly without compromising the ease of standup paddling.
Solution Approach 2:
The fan blade is pre-positioned within the shaft housing in a ready-to-deploy state. This preliminary positioning allows for rapid deployment when needed, ensuring that the transition from standup to kayak-style paddling is quick and intuitive.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are systems and methods for a convertible standup paddle board (SUP) paddle. The convertible SUP paddle includes a first paddle end with a first, fixed blade, a second paddle end with a handle for gripping, and a shaft connecting the first paddle end to the second paddle end. Incorporated and housed within the handle end of the paddle shaft is a second, folding blade comprised of a plurality of overlapping/interlocking fan blades. The second folding blade is collapsed for SUP styles paddling and expanded for kayak-style paddling. Means for expanding, collapsing and locking the fan blades in either an expanded or collapsed format are also disclosed.