Radar Arch Bimini Top Integration Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing bimini top installations on boats create obstructions and obstacles on the deck, and radar arches are underutilized, leading to a discontinuity in design and inefficient use of space.

Innovation Solution

A radar arch with a spring-loaded roller and a drive mechanism to pivot a bimini arm between extended and retracted positions, integrated with a bimini top assembly, allowing the bimini top to be securely attached to the radar arch, providing a more streamlined design and eliminating obstructions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If separate pole members are used to support the bimini top, then the bimini top can be effectively provided, but obstructions and obstacles are created on the deck

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebimini top support effectivenessVSAvoiddeck accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the radar arch structure with the bimini top support function by integrating pole members into the radar arch design. The radar arch serves dual purposes: supporting radar equipment and providing structural support for the bimini top canopy, thereby eliminating separate obstructive pole members while maintaining bimini top functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The radar arch is designed to perform multiple functions: supporting radar antennas and equipment, providing structural support for the bimini top canopy, and serving as a mounting framework for deck lights and speakers. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated support structures that would create obstructions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a radar arch is added to the boat, then antenna and radar system attachment is enabled, but additional obstructions are created on the deck

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveantenna and radar attachment capabilityVSAvoiddeck accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the radar arch structure with the bimini top support framework, creating a unified structure that provides both radar mounting capability and bimini top support without requiring separate obstructive elements. The integrated design allows the radar arch to serve as part of the bimini top pole system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If separate bimini top and radar arch structures are used, then each function is fulfilled, but design discontinuity and inefficient space use occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional capabilityVSAvoiddesign coherence
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates the radar arch and bimini top support structures into a single unified framework. The radar arch legs serve as the vertical support members for the bimini top, and the horizontal crossbars of the radar arch provide the mounting structure for the canopy, creating a cohesive design that eliminates visual discontinuity and optimizes space utilization

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

The integrated solution enhances the utility of radar arches by incorporating a bimini top without adding obstructions, creating a more efficient and aesthetically cohesive design on boat decks.

Implementation Method 1

A radar arch may be provided with a spring-loaded roller storing a canopy at its top end

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring-loaded: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS11667353B2Bimini arch
Publication Date: 2023.06.06 LIPPERT COMPONENTS INC
  • US11667353B2 patent drawing
  • US11667353B2 patent drawing
  • US11667353B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A combination radar arch and bimini top includes a radar arch securable on a boat deck over a boat cabin and a bimini top assembly secured to the radar arch. The bimini top assembly includes at least one bimini top base secured on the radar arch, a bimini arm pivotally connected to the bimini top base, and a spring-loaded roller assembly secured to the radar arch and including a canopy connected between the radar arch and the bimini arm. The bimini top base has a drive mechanism coupled with the bimini arm that is configured to displace the bimini arm between a retracted position and an extended position.