Handrail Mount for Filet Tables Using Sliding Sleeves
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a secure and removable mounting mechanism for filet tables and other accessories on dock or pool ladders that can withstand heavy loads without requiring permanent alteration of the ladder or separate hardware, and existing solutions are limited in this specific application.
Innovation Solution
A handrail mount system using two opposing sleeves that slide over existing tubular ladder handrails, secured by a clamp assembly, with support struts and a locking handle latch for filet tables and forward-facing pins for storage boxes, allowing for easy adaptation to various accessories.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a secure mounting mechanism is used to support heavy loads, then the mounting strength is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting mechanism is divided into separate modular components: a clamp assembly that attaches to the handrail, support struts that provide structural reinforcement, and a platform that mounts the accessory. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall strength without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp assembly is designed with a C-shaped profile that conforms to the curved geometry of tubular handrails. This curved design allows the clamp to wrap around and securely hold round handrails, distributing the load effectively while maintaining a relatively simple single-piece clamp structure.
2Ease of operation
If a removable mounting mechanism is used, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly includes pre-positioned locking features and the support struts are pre-aligned to work with the clamp. When the clamp is installed, the locking mechanism engages automatically to secure the connection. This preliminary arrangement of components ensures that once installed, the removable mount achieves reliable locking without requiring complex adjustment or assembly steps by the user.
3Ease of manufacture
If a mounting mechanism without permanent alteration is used, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the strength decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly and support struts are combined into an integrated mounting system where the struts connect the clamp to the platform, creating a unified load-bearing structure. This merging of components allows the system to achieve high mounting strength through the combined action of the clamp's grip on the handrail and the struts' structural support, without requiring permanent modification to the handrail itself.
Data Source
AI summary
A handrail mount for filet tables and other accessories that relies on two opposing sleeves that slide over the already-in-place ladder handrails. Each sleeve comprises a pair of long, narrow, open conduits that face each other, separated by spacers. The conduits define open troughs that slidably receive the tubular handrails. Each sleeve includes a clamp for clamping the ladder handrail in place. A filet table or other object may be secured atop the two opposing sleeves by locking handle latches, and a knife storage box can be hung on the sleeves.