Interchangeable Watercraft Modules for Deck Customization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current watercraft designs lack the ability for users or dealers to easily customize the above-deck configuration once the boat leaves the factory.
Innovation Solution
A watercraft design featuring a hull and deck with interchangeable modules that can be easily installed or replaced by users or dealers. These modules include seating and storage options and utilize mating members that removably engage with support members on the deck.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If furniture and functional assemblies are installed at factories and sent to a dealer, then the boat configuration is predetermined and standardized, but there is no ability to install or readily change the arrangement of the above-deck configuration by the dealer and/or the user once the boat leaves the factory
Solution Approach 1:
The above-deck configuration is divided into separate interchangeable modules (seats, storage compartments, live-wells) that can be independently selected and installed. Each module is a discrete unit with standardized mounting interfaces, allowing users to customize their boat configuration by simply swapping modules rather than reconfiguring the entire deck structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The support members and mating members are designed with universal compatibility across different module types. The same support member can accommodate various module configurations through standardized mating interfaces, enabling one set of mounting structures to serve multiple functions and configurations without requiring specialized installation procedures for each module type.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple boat configurations are offered to users for the same size and type of boat, then a wide range of user needs are filled, but the customization can only be done at the factory and cannot be changed by the dealer or user after purchase
Solution Approach 1:
The boat hull and deck structure are pre-equipped with standardized support members at predetermined locations during factory assembly. These support members are prepared in advance with mating interfaces that match the standardized modules, so that when users or dealers want to customize the configuration, they simply need to attach the modules to the pre-installed support structures without performing complex preparation work.
Solution Approach 2:
The interchangeable module system is designed to be user-friendly and dealer-installable without requiring specialized boat manufacturing expertise. The standardized mating members and support members can be easily connected through simple attachment procedures, enabling end-users and dealers to perform the customization themselves rather than requiring factory intervention or professional installation services.
3Productivity
If the furniture and functional assemblies are fixed during factory assembly, then the manufacturing process is simplified and efficient, but the dealer and user cannot easily change the arrangement once the boat leaves the factory
Solution Approach 1:
The above-deck configuration is divided into separate interchangeable modules (seats, storage compartments, live-wells) that can be independently selected and installed. Each module is a discrete unit with standardized mounting interfaces, allowing users to customize their boat configuration by simply swapping modules rather than reconfiguring the entire deck structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static, fixed configuration during manufacturing to a dynamic, reconfigurable system in use. The interchangeable modules can be easily attached and detached from the support members, allowing the boat configuration to adapt to different user needs over time without requiring structural modifications to the hull or deck.
Data Source
AI summary
A watercraft and method of assembling thereof. The watercraft including a hull and a deck supported by the hull. The deck has an upper surface with support members connected to the deck. An interchangeable module rests on the upper surface of the deck. The interchangeable module has at least one of a seat and a storage compartment. The watercraft includes a mating member disposed on the interchangeable module and removably engages the support member.