Modular Deck and Helm Support Structure for Watercraft Weight Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current watercraft designs are hindered by the unnecessary weight of a single, thick deck that supports both the helm assembly and reboarding platform, limiting driving capabilities due to excessive structural weight.
Innovation Solution
A modular deck structure comprising multiple connected portions, allowing for differential material usage and distribution of weight, with a separate helm support structure that is compact and lighter, reducing overall watercraft weight by redistributing load-bearing components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a single thick deck is used to support the helm assembly, then structural strength is improved, but watercraft weight increases and driving capabilities are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The deck is divided into multiple separate portions (first deck portion, second deck portion, third deck portion) instead of using a single thick deck. Each portion can be optimized independently for its specific function, reducing unnecessary material while maintaining structural strength where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
Different deck portions have different thicknesses and material properties tailored to their specific load requirements. The helm support structure is reinforced locally where needed, while other areas use lighter construction, avoiding the need for a uniformly thick deck throughout.
2Force
If a large front portion of the deck is used to support the helm assembly, then load-bearing capacity is improved, but unnecessary weight is added to the watercraft
Solution Approach 1:
The helm support function is separated from the main deck structure through a distinct helm support structure that connects to specific deck portions. This allows the load-bearing capacity to be concentrated where needed rather than distributing weight across a large front portion of the deck.
Solution Approach 2:
The helm support structure is extracted as a separate component from the main deck, allowing it to be optimized independently. The support structure can be made of lighter materials or thinner sections since it only needs to bear the helm load, not the entire watercraft weight.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a unitary deck construction is used, then structural integrity is improved, but adaptability to different load requirements is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The deck is segmented into multiple portions that can be independently designed and optimized for different load requirements. Each portion can use different materials, thicknesses, and structural configurations tailored to its specific function while maintaining overall structural integrity through proper connection design.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular deck portions can serve multiple functions or be configured for different applications. The same basic deck portion design can be adapted for various load requirements by adjusting material properties, thickness, or support structure configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
A watercraft has a hull and a deck disposed above the hull. A helm assembly disposed above the deck has a steering column and a handlebar. A pedestal is disposed on the deck at least in part rearwardly of the handlebar. A support structure bears the helm assembly. The support structure surrounds at least in part the steering column. The support structure has at least one rear connection portion connected to the pedestal. The support structure has at least one front connection arm connected to at least one of the deck and the hull forwardly from the at least one rear connection portion. A watercraft with a deck having at least two portions is also presented.