Hinged Multi-Height Deck Mat for Variable Operator Elevation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Center console boat operators of varying heights face discomfort and safety issues due to fixed helm control heights, leading to fatigue and unsafe operation, as existing deck mats do not accommodate different user heights effectively.
Innovation Solution
A multi-height deck mat with a hinge element connecting two platforms, allowing the mat to be adjusted between two configurations to provide different elevations, accommodating operators of different heights and enhancing comfort and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-height deck mat is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but it cannot accommodate operators of different heights leading to discomfort and fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
The deck mat is divided into two separate platforms of different heights instead of a single fixed-height platform. This segmentation allows each platform to be optimized for different operator heights, with the lower platform suitable for shorter operators and the upper platform for taller operators, thereby resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The deck mat incorporates a hinge mechanism that enables dynamic reconfiguration between two stable positions: a stacked configuration where platforms are vertically aligned for compact storage, and a spread configuration where platforms are positioned at different heights for use. This dynamic capability allows the mat to adapt to different operator heights while maintaining structural integrity through the hinge connection.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a multi-height adjustable mat is introduced, then adaptability to different heights is improved, but the device complexity increases with hinge elements and movement mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism enables the mat to transition between two distinct operational states (stacked and spread configurations), providing height adaptability without requiring complex continuous adjustment mechanisms. This binary dynamic system achieves versatility while limiting mechanical complexity to a single hinge joint per platform connection.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functional elements are merged into unified components: the hinge serves both as a structural connector and as the adjustment mechanism; the platforms themselves provide both the standing surface and the height variation. This merging reduces the number of separate parts and simplifies the overall device architecture while maintaining adaptability.
3Ease of operation
If platforms are positioned in a spread configuration, then operator comfort for various heights is enhanced, but the mat occupies more space on the boat deck
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism allows the mat to dynamically change its spatial footprint between configurations. In the stacked configuration, the mat minimizes deck space occupation by vertically aligning platforms. In the spread configuration, it expands to provide comfortable standing surfaces at different heights. This dynamic spatial adaptation resolves the contradiction between operational comfort and space efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
By dividing the mat into separate platforms connected by hinges, the design allows selective deployment of platform surfaces. When in spread configuration, only the necessary platform areas are occupied on the deck, rather than a single large continuous surface, thereby reducing overall space occupation while maintaining operator comfort.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-height deck mat including a first platform having a first top surface, a first bottom surface and a first end surface extending therebetween; a second platform disposed adjacent the first platform and having a second top surface and a second bottom surface and a second end surface extending therebetween; and a hinge connecting the first platform and the second platform for movement of the first and second platforms relative to one another, the hinge element being adjacent the first end surface and the second end surface, whereby the first platform and the second platform can be moved between a first disposition wherein the first end surface is in abutment with the second end surface wherein the deck mat provides a first height; and a second disposition wherein the first platform and the second platform assume a stacked relationship wherein the deck mat provides a second height.