Paddleboard Rudder Control via Segmented Remote Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current standup paddleboard rudder systems are expensive, limited to high-end boards, and require users to stay fixed on the board to operate, making them impractical for recreational and fitness users, especially in windy conditions or when navigating obstacles.
Innovation Solution
A removable and portable paddleboard rudder system with a rudder motor housing and a remote hand control unit that includes a controller housing with buttons and a transmitter, allowing users to control the rudder from any position on the board using a servo or geared motor, with attachment to the board via a tooth and fasteners, and optional features like Bluetooth connectivity for GPS steering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a built-in rudder system with foot-actuated lever is used, then rudder control is achieved, but the user must stay fixed in one location or change from a more desirable position, reducing ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The rudder control system is divided into separate components: the rudder mechanism attached to the board and the control device that can be positioned anywhere on the board. This segmentation allows the control device to be placed in the most convenient location for the user rather than requiring the user to be at a fixed position near a foot-actuated lever.
Solution Approach 2:
A control device with transmitter and receiver components acts as an intermediary between the user and the rudder mechanism. The transmitter in the control device communicates wirelessly with the receiver in the rudder motor housing, enabling remote control of the rudder from any position on the board.
2Reliability
If a built-in rudder system is integrated into the board, then rudder control is provided, but the cost increases significantly to two to three times that of other brands
Solution Approach 1:
The rudder control system is designed as separate attachable components rather than being integrated into the board's manufacturing process. This allows the rudder system to be added as an aftermarket accessory, keeping the base board cost competitive while providing optional rudder control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device is designed to be universal and can be attached to various positions on different boards. The attachment means with tooth and fin box compatibility allows the same control system to work with multiple board models, reducing per-unit cost through standardized components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a removable rudder system is used, then portability and adaptability improve, but the connection stability between components may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment means is pre-configured with a tooth that fits into a fin box, and fasteners are prepared in advance to secure the connection. This preliminary preparation ensures that when the components are assembled, they achieve stable and reliable connection without requiring complex assembly procedures or specialized tools.
Data Source
AI summary
A paddleboard rudder control system comprising: an attachment means, the attachment means comprising; a tooth configured to slide into a fin box of a paddleboard; a plurality of fasteners configured to attach the attachment means to a bottom of the paddleboard when the tooth is slid within the fin box of the paddleboard; a rudder motor housing removably attached to the attachment means; a rudder motor located within the rudder motor housing; and a rudder in rotatable communication with the rudder motor.