Retractable Boat Bow Rock Guard for Debris Protection and Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rock guards for boats can interfere with maintenance and are not effectively adaptable to different trailer types, as they often require permanent installation and do not allow for easy access to the boat's bow for cleaning.
Innovation Solution
A retractable rock guard system comprising a mesh sheet mounted on a spool that can be deployed and retracted, allowing for protection from road debris while maintaining accessibility to the boat's bow for maintenance, and adaptable to various trailer structures through adjustable brackets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a permanent rock guard panel is installed between the boat and vehicle, then protection from road debris is improved, but maintenance access to the boat is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The rock guard panel is made movable rather than fixed, allowing it to be positioned in different locations. The panel can be moved to block debris during transport and removed or repositioned during maintenance, resolving the contradiction between protection and access.
Solution Approach 2:
The rock guard system is divided into separate components including the panel, brackets, and fasteners. This segmentation allows the panel to be independently removed or repositioned without affecting the entire mounting structure, enabling maintenance access while preserving protection capability.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a fixed rock guard panel is used, then debris protection is improved, but adaptability to different trailer types is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting brackets are designed with universal features that allow them to be attached to various trailer types. The brackets can accommodate different rail configurations and positions, enabling the same rock guard panel to protect boats on different trailer platforms.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system incorporates adjustable and movable brackets that can be repositioned along the trailer rails. This dynamic capability allows the rock guard to be adapted to different trailer types and configurations without requiring a custom-designed panel for each trailer.
3Ease of operation
If a retractable rock guard system is implemented, then maintenance access is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a simple retractable mechanism with movable panels that can be easily positioned or removed. This dynamic design provides maintenance access without requiring complex automation, using instead straightforward mechanical movement that balances functionality with simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A rock guard comprises a flexible sheet of mesh selectively wound around a spool to be selectively retracted and deployed in front of a trailer or its contents, such as a boat. A pair of brackets mount to a rail of trailer and carry the spool. A top distal edge of the sheet can be flexible and arcuate in the deployed configuration to form an arc matching a gunwale of the boat.