Configurable Footwear Fin Pivot Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing swim fins are inflexible and pose a hazard when walking on land due to their fixed fin position, limiting users' ability to change configurations based on activity or preference, and do not accommodate multiple situations effectively.
Innovation Solution
A boot with a pivotably attached fin that can be securely positioned either towards the toe or heel portion, utilizing rods with press-fit assemblies and a tether for adjustable orientation, allowing the fin to be easily switched between configurations for different water sports activities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the fin position is fixed in existing swim fins, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the user cannot adapt to different walking or swimming situations
Solution Approach 1:
The fin is made movable relative to the boot through a pivot mechanism, allowing it to transition between different positions (forward for swimming, backward for walking). This dynamic repositioning capability enables the same fin to adapt to multiple usage scenarios without requiring multiple separate fins.
Solution Approach 2:
The fin assembly is divided into separate components: the boot, the fin, and the connecting rod with pivot mechanism. This segmentation allows the fin to be independently positioned and locked into different configurations, providing versatility while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Ease of operation
If the fin is fixed towards the toe portion, then swimming performance is optimized, but walking on land becomes hazardous and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The fin can be dynamically repositioned from a forward-oriented position (optimized for swimming) to a backward-oriented position (optimized for walking). The pivot mechanism with locking features ensures reliable positioning in either configuration, allowing users to switch between swimming and walking modes as needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the fin is fixed in position, then the device structure is simple, but the user cannot determine a configuration during use for aesthetic or functional variations
Solution Approach 1:
The fin position can be dynamically adjusted during use through the pivot mechanism, allowing users to change configurations for different functional requirements or aesthetic preferences. The locking features provide reliable retention in each position.
Solution Approach 2:
A single fin assembly can perform multiple functions by changing its orientation: forward for swimming, backward for walking, and potentially intermediate positions for other water sports activities. This multi-functionality is achieved without requiring multiple separate fins or complex mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A configurable wearable apparatus for water sports includes a boot and a fin pivotably attached to the boot. In a first configuration, the fin is oriented towards the toe portion of the boot. In a second configuration, the fin is oriented towards the heel portion of the boot. The fin can be attached to the boot by rods having first and second ends. The first end of each rod is attached to the fin and the second end of each rod is attached to a pivot point on the side of the boot. The second end of the rods can be releasably secured to the toe portion or to the heel portion of the boot with press-fit or friction-fit assemblies.