Retractable Boat Step Using Buoyancy and Locking Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Recreational boaters face challenges with limited space on boat swim platforms for standing, sitting, and water entry/exit, as existing swim ladders and platforms do not efficiently utilize space or provide a submerged step for assistance.
Innovation Solution
A retractable step made from a floating material that can be locked below the water surface for use and easily retracted into a stored position above the water, allowing the platform to serve as a flat surface for sitting, standing, or storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If a swim platform is added to the back of the boat, then space for standing or sitting is increased, but the platform occupies space that could be used for other purposes and adds weight to the boat
Solution Approach 1:
The step is designed to be movable between a stored position (above water) and a deployed position (submerged), transforming a static platform into a dynamic structure that adapts to different usage scenarios, providing space only when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The step changes its vertical position parameter by moving between above-water and below-water states, allowing the platform area to expand when needed and contract when not in use, effectively managing space and weight requirements
2Ease of operation
If a swim ladder is installed for water entry and exit, then access to water is improved, but the ladder takes up valuable space on the limited swim platform area
Solution Approach 1:
The swim platform functionality is segmented into two distinct components: a stationary platform for standing/sitting and a separate movable step for water access, allowing each component to fulfill its specific function without competing for the same space
Solution Approach 2:
The step component dynamically changes position between stored and deployed states, providing water access functionality only when needed, thereby preserving swim platform space for other purposes during non-use periods
3Strength
If the step is made large enough to provide adequate support for swimmers, then comfort and safety are improved, but the step becomes harder to retract and store when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The step is constructed from buoyant materials that provide natural flotation, creating an upward buoyant force that counteracts the weight of the large step structure, making it easy to retract and store by simply releasing the lock without requiring significant manual effort
Solution Approach 2:
The buoyant material enables the step to essentially self-retract when unlocked, as the buoyancy force automatically propels the step upward to the stored position, minimizing the physical effort required from the user
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 retractable step provides additional space on the boat when not in use, allowing for easier water access and storage without adding length to the boat, while maintaining a level surface for users.
Implementation Method 1
the step is made from a material that floats on the surface of the water. Thus, when the step is unlocked from its deployed position, it floats to the water surface and is readily retrievable
Data Source
AI summary
A retractable step for use with a boat in water comprising at least one moveable arm pivotally coupled with the boat, a step coupled with the arm such that the step is moveable between a stored position above the water surface and a deployed position below the water surface, and a lock configured to hold the moveable arm in a stationary position when the step is in its deployed position, but is releasable to accommodate movement of the step to its stored position.