Pivoting Wakeboard Tower with Cam Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing towing structures for wakeboarding do not provide sufficient stability and visibility for the pilot while efficiently managing the towing operation and storage of the tower.
Innovation Solution
A towing apparatus with a structural assembly pivotally connected between two bases on a water sports vessel, featuring a locking mechanism and biasing means to facilitate easy rotation between towing and storage positions, ensuring stability and efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the towing structure is made rigid and stable, then the performer's aerial characteristics are improved, but the structure becomes difficult to store and handle
Solution Approach 1:
The towing structure employs a dynamic folding mechanism with pivotally connected bases and structural assemblies that can transition between extended and retracted configurations. This allows the structure to be rigid and stable during towing operations while becoming compact and easy to store when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The towing structure is divided into multiple separable components including first and second bases, structural assemblies, and curved sides that can be independently positioned and locked. This segmentation enables the structure to provide stability when assembled while allowing easy disassembly and storage when needed.
2Illumination intensity
If the towing structure is extended to improve visibility and performance, then the performer's aerial characteristics are enhanced, but the structure occupies more space and is harder to maneuver
Solution Approach 1:
The towing structure utilizes dynamically adjustable components that can extend to improve visibility and performance when needed, then retract to minimize space occupation. The pivotally connected bases and structural assemblies allow the structure to transition between extended and retracted states.
Solution Approach 2:
The towing structure employs vertical extension through upwardly extending bases and structural assemblies to improve visibility without significantly increasing horizontal footprint. This allows the structure to achieve its functional height while minimizing the space it occupies on the water surface.
3Ease of operation
If the towing structure is made adjustable for storage, then ease of operation is improved, but the stability during towing may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The towing structure incorporates dynamic adjustment mechanisms with pivotally connected components that can be easily repositioned for storage while maintaining structural integrity during towing. The system transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic adjustable one that preserves stability in both states.
Solution Approach 2:
The towing structure includes pre-positioned locking assemblies and biasing means that automatically engage to secure the structure in its towing configuration before operation begins. This preliminary securing action ensures stability is established before the towing operation commences.
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
Enhances the aerial performance of wakeboarders by providing improved visibility and efficient handling of the towing structure, allowing for easy transition between towing and storage positions while maintaining structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
a cam pivotally connected to the hook for movement of the hook between a locked position and a released position
Implementation Method 2
spring means having one end attached to at least one of the structural assembly and the base, wherein an opposing end of the cable means is attached to an opposing end of the spring means so as to rotatably bias the structural assembly toward the closed position
Data Source
AI summary
A towing apparatus comprises a structural assembly extending between opposing first and second bases for pivoting between operating and stored positions. A locking assembly includes a pin in each base and a hook carried at opposing ends of the structural assembly. A cam is pivotally connected to the hook for movement between locked and released positions. In the locked position, the hook is secured to the pin for preventing rotation of the structural assembly. In the released position, the hook is spaced from the pin to permit rotation of the structural assembly. The hook is rotatable with the cam from the released position to adjacent the pin by rotation of a shaft and slidable along the pin into the locking position by a continued shaft rotation. A cable is attached between the base and a spring within the structural assembly for biasing the structural assembly toward the operating position.