Inflatable Gliding Device Leg Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inflatable devices for gliding on water, such as bodyboards, often lack stability, making them difficult for inexperienced users to control and maintain, especially when short, leading to frequent dismounts and re-mounts.
Innovation Solution
An inflatable device with a flexible first pocket for fluid inflation, featuring stabilization means placed between the legs or secured to the upper part of the legs, and hand positioning means integrated into the pocket, such as handles or deformations, to enhance stability during sliding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If the inflatable device is made short and light for portability, then ease of transport is improved, but stability during gliding deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The inflatable device is divided into multiple independent air chambers (first chamber, second chamber, third chamber) that can be inflated separately. This segmentation allows the device to maintain a compact, lightweight form when deflated for transport, while providing distributed buoyancy and structural stability when inflated during use. The multiple chambers work together to prevent the device from tipping or becoming unstable during gliding.
2Length of moving object
If the inflatable device is made short for portability, then ease of transport is improved, but control and stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The inflatable device incorporates lateral extension elements that protrude sideways from the main body, creating a wider footprint without significantly increasing the overall length. This dimensional change provides better lateral stability and control surfaces for steering, allowing short users to maintain effective control during gliding while keeping the device compact for transport.
3Device complexity
If the inflatable device lacks attachment means, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability of user attachment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment means are integrated directly into the inflatable structure itself, combining the structural function of the inflatable chambers with the attachment function. The inflatable walls and chambers serve dual purposes: providing buoyancy and structural support, while simultaneously forming the attachment points and interfaces for securing the user. This merging eliminates the need for separate, complex attachment mechanisms.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device allows for stable gliding on water with the chest, providing improved control and reduced effort for users, including inexperienced ones, by maintaining position and preventing falls.
Implementation Method 1
an inflatable device capable of serving as a sliding support, in particular on water... which comprises at least one first pocket made of flexible material... capable of being inflated by this fluid
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 4~5B
AI summary
The invention relates to an inflatable device capable of acting as a glide medium for at least one person, which can in particular be used for bodyboard devices for gliding over water or snow. The device includes at least one first bag (1) made of a flexible material, having a means (2) for feeding a fluid therein and capable of being inflated by said fluid, at least one stabilization means (3) connected to the first bag and capable of being arranged between or rigidly connected to the upper portion of the legs of a person, and means (5, 6) for positioning the hands, preferably arranged on the first bag (1). Thus, the proper stabilization of the device beneath the person during a gliding phase is ensured.