Shaped Pedestal Mount with Manual Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Recreational boat apparatus and accessories face increased instability due to higher forces from improved boat designs and competitive events, necessitating a more secure yet easily removable mounting system.
Innovation Solution
A low profile base plate with an upwardly open cavity and corresponding tapered and untapered walls engages a base assembly, secured by a manually operable locking mechanism for snug and secure engagement, ensuring stability and ease of removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional mounting systems are used, then the apparatus can be easily removed, but the mounting becomes insecure under increased forces from modern boat designs
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system transitions from a static connection to a dynamic locking mechanism that can be easily engaged and disengaged. The lever arm acts as a mechanical advantage device that allows quick transition between locked and unlocked states, enabling secure mounting during operation and convenient removal when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the state of connection between mounted and dismounted positions through a mechanical locking mechanism. The lever arm transforms the mounting state from insecure (conventional) to secure (locked position) by engaging teeth with corresponding slots in the base plate, and can be reversed by actuating the lever.
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is implemented, then mounting stability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the lever arm for actuation, the teeth for engagement, and the base plate with slots for positioning. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while keeping the overall mechanism simple and maintainable.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-locking through the engagement of teeth with slots, requiring no additional fasteners or complex securing elements. The mechanical advantage provided by the lever arm allows the system to maintain its locked state automatically once engaged, reducing the need for continuous external intervention.
3Ease of operation
If the base plate extends above the deck surface, then removal is easier, but it creates an obstacle on the deck
Solution Approach 1:
The base plate is designed with a low profile that minimizes obstruction when the apparatus is removed. The locking mechanism uses vertical engagement through teeth and slots that allow secure mounting without requiring the base plate to extend significantly above the deck surface, thus reducing obstruction while maintaining ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A base member attached to a supporting surface has an open top cavity in the general shape of a shoe and a base assembly housing, which is attached to the lower end of a rigid pedestal which supports an apparatus at its upper end, is foot shaped in part to nestle in the base member shoe area. A manually operable securing device releasably secures the housing snugly in the base member so that the pedestal is readily attached and removed as necessary.