Roller Mount for Marine Seat Backlash Elimination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sliding and rolling seat mounts for boats fail to eliminate backlash, withstand marine forces, and resist corrosion, particularly in seaway conditions, and are not cost-effective for large-scale production.
Innovation Solution
A roller mount design featuring a central longitudinal axis with base and top slides, integral rack gears, and rollers that resist vertical and transverse forces, along with a detent mechanism for secure positioning and easy release, constructed from materials like Acetal for durability and low friction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If rolling element bearings are deployed to prevent binding, then smooth sliding movement is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex rolling element bearings with a simpler cam-based mechanical system. The cam profile is designed to convert rotational motion into the desired linear sliding motion, eliminating the need for complex bearing assemblies while maintaining smooth movement. This substitution reduces device complexity while achieving the same functional outcome.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a cam mechanism as an intermediary between the actuator and the seat mounting system. This cam intermediary translates simple rotational input into the complex sliding motion required, simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining smooth operation. The cam acts as a mediator that converts one type of motion into another.
2Ease of operation
If detent mechanism is designed to release easily, then ease of operation improves, but reliability decreases due to loosening in rough water
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic detent mechanism that adapts its engagement characteristics based on operational conditions. The spring-loaded detent provides strong engagement force during normal operation to prevent loosening in rough water, while the release mechanism allows easy disengagement when intentionally activated. This dynamic behavior resolves the contradiction between easy release and reliable retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the engagement parameters of the detent mechanism by using a spring-loaded system that maintains variable force. The spring constant and pre-load are optimized to provide sufficient holding force against wave-induced motions while allowing controlled release. This parameter optimization enables the detent to be both reliable in seaway and easy to release when needed.
3Measurement precision
If rack teeth are aligned magnetically using permanent magnets and coils, then positioning precision improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the electromagnetic components (permanent magnets and coils) from the rack teeth alignment system. Instead, it uses a purely mechanical alignment mechanism where the cam profile and guide surfaces ensure precise rack tooth engagement without requiring active electromagnetic fields. This removal of electromagnetic subsystems eliminates the associated energy consumption while maintaining positioning precision.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If Acetal resin is used for cam and rollers, then resistance to corrosion and friction improves, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter by selecting Acetal resin, which inherently provides corrosion and friction resistance. The manufacturing precision requirements are managed through optimized cam profile design and tolerance specifications that account for the material's properties. The self-lubricating nature of Acetal reduces friction, and its corrosion resistance eliminates the need for protective coatings, balancing material benefits with manufacturability.
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 solution provides a backlash-free, durable, and cost-effective roller mount that withstands marine forces and corrosive environments, ensuring secure seat positioning and easy adjustment, while resisting binding and vibration.
Implementation Method 1
A plurality of rollers is disposed between the first top slide and the first base slide... Rolling element bearings properly deployed can prevent binding
Implementation Method 2
constructed from materials like Acetal for durability and low friction... The solution provides a backlash-free, durable, and cost-effective roller mount that withstands marine forces and corrosive environments
Implementation Method 3
constructed from materials like Acetal for durability and low friction
Data Source
AI summary
A roller mount for seats is used in connection with a boat and a seat. First and second base slides are mounted spaced apart on a base plate. The base slides have longitudinal rack gears. First and second top slides are mounted for linear movement on the base slides in a longitudinal direction, on a plurality of rollers. A top plate is mounted on the top slides to support the seat. First and second detent plates have longitudinal top rack gears, for selective releasable engagement with the base rack gears to preclude movement of the top slides. First and second locking bars extend longitudinally adjacent the base rack gears. The top rack gears include locking slots extending longitudinally for engagement with the locking bars, to guide the top rack gears into engagement with the base rack gears. The base rack gears and the top rack gears have teeth extending upward and inward at an angle with the base plane. The downward vector force created by the angle will eliminate backlash between the locking bar and the locking slot.