Locking Pop-Up Cleat for Two-Hole Flush Deck Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pop-up cleats require complex installation on surfaces like boat decks, necessitating multiple holes and a spring mechanism, and are prone to inadvertent extension, posing a tripping hazard.
Innovation Solution
A locking pop-up cleat design with a base member and hollow lugs, secured by nuts, featuring a spring-loaded locking mechanism that allows for simple two-hole installation and maintains a minimum profile, ensuring the cleat remains retracted until actuated.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If prior pop-up cleats are used, then the cleat can be extended to secure lines, but the installation requires complex drilling of multiple holes and a complicated template for the spring mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The cleat is divided into separate functional components: a base member with mounting holes, a pop-up member with securing elements, and a spring mechanism. This segmentation allows for simplified installation where the base member is first secured to the surface with only two holes, and the pop-up member is then attached to the base member, separating the complex spring mechanism from the installation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The base member is installed first with the spring mechanism pre-assembled and contained within it. This preliminary action eliminates the need for complex template work and multiple drilling operations that would be required if the spring mechanism were installed separately, as the spring is already positioned and contained within the base member before final assembly.
2Ease of operation
If prior pop-up cleats are used, then the cleat can pop-up automatically, but any pulling force or slight press and release force would cause inadvertent extension creating a tripping hazard
Solution Approach 1:
The cleat transitions from a static fixed position to a dynamic pop-up position through a controlled mechanism. The spring mechanism is designed to overcome a specific threshold force or pressure on the actuator, ensuring that only deliberate activation (not inadvertent pressure) will cause the cleat to extend. The mechanism maintains stability in both retracted and extended positions.
Solution Approach 2:
An actuator serves as an intermediary between the user's input force and the spring mechanism. The actuator translates deliberate pressing action into controlled release of the spring force, which then drives the pop-up member into its extended position. This intermediary ensures that the powerful spring force is only released when intentionally activated, preventing inadvertent extension.
3Ease of operation
If fixed cleats are used, then line attachment is simple, but they pose a tripping hazard by being stationary and protruding from the deck
Solution Approach 1:
The cleat is designed to be dynamic rather than static, automatically transitioning from a retracted flush position (when not in use) to an extended protruding position (when needed for line attachment). This dynamic behavior eliminates the constant tripping hazard of fixed cleats while maintaining simple line attachment functionality when the cleat is extended.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleat serves itself by automatically extending when needed through the spring mechanism that responds to deliberate activation, and automatically retracting when not in use. This self-service behavior eliminates the need for manual positioning or constant monitoring, while also eliminating the constant tripping hazard present with fixed cleats.
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
Facilitates easy installation with only two holes, reduces tripping hazards by maintaining a flush profile until use, and provides secure line attachment.
Implementation Method 1
A spring-loaded locking mechanism interfaced between the base plate and the top portion of the securing member. The locking mechanism holds the top portion of the securing mechanism in a retracted position until an actuator of the spring-loaded latching mechanism is pressed, at which time, the top portion of the securing mechanism is released and moved into the extended position by force of the spring.
Implementation Method 2
A spring within each of the two hollow base member lugs urges the two legs towards an extended position.
Data Source
AI summary
A cleat includes a base member with a base plate and two base member lugs. Each lug has a first inner diameter proximal to the base plate and a second, larger inner diameter distal from the base plate and each lug is threaded. A securing member has a top portion that connects two legs.Each leg is held within a lug by a screw and washer, the washer has a diameter that is greater than the first diameter and less than the second diameter. A spring within each lug urges the leg towards an extended position. A spring-loaded locking mechanism interfaced between the base plate and the top portion holds the top portion of the securing mechanism in a retracted position until an actuator of the spring-loaded latching mechanism is pressed, at which time, the top portion of the securing mechanism is released and moved into the extended position.