Lever Tool for Watercraft Fin Insertion and Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing removable fin systems for watercrafts are difficult to insert and remove due to clogging from salt water, sand, and dust, making it challenging for users to perform these tasks without damaging the fin, fin box, or the watercraft.
Innovation Solution
A handheld lever-type torque generating tool with gripping and leverage point catches, and fin engagement elements that apply forces to facilitate easy insertion and removal of fins from fin boxes, using a combination of downward and upward forces to leverage the tool's design for improved fin handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fins are made removable for easy replacement and adjustment, then adaptability and ease of repair are improved, but insertion and removal become difficult due to clogging from salt water, sand, and dust
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a tool as an intermediary device between the user and the fin system. This tool includes a fin engagement element that interfaces with the fin and a lever arm that provides mechanical advantage. The tool mediates the interaction by translating user input into controlled forces that overcome the clogged fin box resistance, enabling easy fin replacement without direct manual manipulation of the stuck fin.
Solution Approach 2:
The fin system is segmented into separate components: the fin itself, the fin box, and the engagement mechanism. The tool further segments the engagement process by separating the fin engagement element from the lever arm, allowing independent optimization of each component. This segmentation enables the engagement element to precisely interface with the fin while the lever arm provides the necessary mechanical advantage.
2Device complexity
If traditional manual methods are used to insert and remove fins, then device complexity is reduced, but the risk of damage to fin, fin box, or watercraft increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tool incorporates protective features that cushion against damage before it occurs. The fin engagement element is designed with rounded edges and appropriate hardness to prevent scratching or damaging the fin surface during engagement. The lever arm provides controlled force application that prevents sudden movements which could damage the fin box or watercraft hull. These cushioning features are built into the tool design to protect all components during the fin replacement process.
3Ease of operation
If more force is applied to remove clogged fins, then insertion and removal become possible, but the risk of damage to fin, fin box, or watercraft increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tool employs dynamic force application through its lever arm mechanism. The lever arm allows the user to apply force progressively, adjusting the magnitude and direction of force as needed during the fin removal process. This dynamic control enables the user to overcome the clogged fin box resistance while maintaining control to prevent sudden releases or excessive forces that could cause damage. The lever arm can be positioned at different angles to optimize force application based on the specific situation.
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 tool enables easier and safer insertion and removal of fins, reducing the risk of damage to the fin, fin box, or watercraft, while improving maneuverability and maintenance efficiency for users of all ages and skill levels.
Implementation Method 1
A tool, in accordance with some embodiments, may be a handheld lever-type torque generating tool
Implementation Method 2
A handheld lever-type torque generating tool with gripping and leverage point catches, and fin engagement elements that apply forces
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a tool for watercraft fin insertion and removal. The tool includes: a first external elongated layer, a second external elongated layer, aligned with, and positioned at a substantially parallel plane to the plane of, the first external layer. An internal layer is positioned between, and stretches across a portion of the area of, the external layers. Upon positioning the tool such that the inner surfaces of the external layers are adjacent to the outer surfaces of the watercraft fin, a curved fin engagement elements on the edge of the internal layer, complements at least a portion of the leading edge or the trailing edge of the watercraft fin.