Freestanding Adjustable Canopy for Kayaks Using Rear-Mounted Cord Locks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing canopies for small watercraft like kayaks and canoes are not height-adjustable, obstruct the occupant's view, and restrict vehicle operation, making them impractical for providing shade without compromising usability.
Innovation Solution
A freestanding, adjustable canopy system with a frame support and canopy support that attaches to the vehicle via angled members and a cord-and-cord-lock system, allowing for height adjustment and secure attachment without obstructing the view or restricting vehicle operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a canopy is attached to the sides of the vessel with poles and anchor points, then shade coverage is provided, but the occupant's ability to enter, exit, and operate the vessel is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The canopy support structure is extracted from the sides of the vessel where it would interfere with operation, and repositioned to attach only at the rear of the vessel. This removes the obstruction to entering, exiting, and operating the vehicle while maintaining the shade-providing function.
Solution Approach 2:
The canopy structure transitions from a side-mounted configuration to a rear-mounted configuration, utilizing the longitudinal dimension of the vessel differently. By positioning the attachment points at the rear and extending the canopy forward over the occupant, it provides shade without interfering with side operations.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a canopy frame is positioned to provide shade, then sun protection is achieved, but the occupant's view is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The canopy is repositioned from a configuration that would be in front of or beside the occupant to one that attaches at the rear and extends forward. This spatial reconfiguration places the canopy structure behind the occupant's line of sight while still providing overhead shade protection.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid canopy frame is used to provide stable shade, then structural stability is improved, but the canopy cannot be adjusted for different conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The canopy structure incorporates adjustable support members with telescoping or extendable features, allowing the height and position of the canopy to be dynamically changed. This enables adaptation to different user preferences, vehicle types, and environmental conditions while maintaining structural stability through secure attachment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The canopy system is designed with universal attachment features and adjustable components that allow it to be configured for different vehicle types (kayaks, canoes, boats, vehicles) and different shade requirements, making it versatile while maintaining stability through its adaptable structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A height-adjustable canopy assembly that is capable of creating a desired shaded area without restricting a vehicle occupant's ability to enter, exit, control, and enjoy the vehicle. The canopy assembly includes a frame support that is secured to the vehicle via attachment points disposed between a seat and a rear portion of the vehicle. The frame support couples with a canopy support, which is adapted to span along a longitudinal length of the vehicle. A canopy cover attaches to the canopy support, providing a shaded area on the vehicle. The canopy support is adjustable with respect to the vehicle, in particular via a series of cord and cord locks that allow the occupant to quickly raise and lower the canopy support to change the shaded area to a desired set of dimensions.