Pontoon Coupling via Self-Adjusting Interlocking Teeth
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for coupling pontoons often require complex configurations and operations due to clearance issues, making assembly difficult and less reliable.
Innovation Solution
A system featuring a locking pin and insert mechanism, where the insert can rotate around the locking pin for self-adjustment, allowing for a simple and robust coupling between pontoons without the need for spacing or pushing means, and optionally using cassettes and coupling pieces for secure alignment and spacing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional coupling systems use pressing or pushing means to remove clearance between pontoons, then the clearance is eliminated, but the configuration and construction become difficult and require many operations
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the complex pressing or pushing means from the coupling system. Instead of using separate spacing means to remove clearance, the patent integrates the clearance removal function directly into the coupling mechanism itself through the interlocking teeth design, where the male teeth protrusions fit into female teeth openings to automatically eliminate gaps without requiring additional pressing components
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the clearance elimination function with the coupling function into a single integrated mechanism. The interlocking teeth system simultaneously performs both coupling and clearance removal in one operation, eliminating the need for separate spacing means and reducing the number of assembly operations required
2Reliability
If traditional coupling systems use spacing means to eliminate clearance, then the connection becomes reliable, but the assembly process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The invention incorporates preliminary action by pre-configuring the interlocking teeth with protrusions and openings that automatically engage to eliminate clearance. The coupling pieces are designed in advance with the exact geometry needed to remove gaps between pontoons, so no additional spacing means or adjustment operations are required during assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The invention removes the time-consuming spacing means from the assembly process. The clearance elimination is achieved directly through the interlocking teeth design, eliminating the need for separate pressing or pushing operations that would otherwise be required to remove gaps between coupled pontoons
3Strength
If coupling pieces are used to eliminate clearance between pontoons, then the connection is secure, but the system requires many operations and complex construction
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the clearance elimination function with the coupling function into a single integrated interlocking teeth mechanism. The male and female teeth are designed to interlock directly, combining structural strengthening with gap removal in one component system, eliminating the need for separate spacing means
Solution Approach 2:
The interlocking teeth coupling pieces serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide structural connection strength, eliminate clearance between pontoons, and guide alignment during assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components needed and simplifies the overall coupling system
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a system for coupling at least two pontoons, the system comprising at least one coupling for mutually coupling two pontoons at a time, for which purpose the coupling can be placed between sides of the two pontoons which are adjacent in the coupled situation, wherein the coupling is arranged between the outer ends of the sides.