Tacky Rubber Bilge Plug Holder Prevents Loss and Surface Damage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Bilge plugs are frequently misplaced or lost, and their hard metal can damage surfaces when not in use, posing safety and seaworthiness risks for boats.
Innovation Solution
A waterproof bilge plug saver kit comprising cylindrical pieces made of tacky rubber, designed to securely hold a bilge plug, with optional lanyard or loop for attachment, ensuring the plug is kept safe and preventing damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the bilge plug is made of hard metal for durability, then the plug can effectively seal the bilge hole, but the plug may scratch or damage surfaces on which it is placed when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a soft, non-marring holder as an intermediary between the hard metal bilge plug and the boat surface. The holder cradles the plug and provides a protective interface, preventing direct contact between the metal plug and boat surfaces, thus eliminating scratching while maintaining sealing effectiveness when the plug is installed
2Strength
If the bilge plug is small and dense for effective sealing, then the plug can fit tightly in the bilge hole, but the plug is easily misplaced or lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a nested structure where the bilge plug fits inside a larger holder. This nested arrangement prevents the small, dense plug from being lost by providing an containing structure, while the plug maintains its tight-fitting sealing capability when installed in the bilge hole
3Productivity
If the bilge plug is removed for draining, then liquid can drain out of the boat, but the plug may be lost or misplaced during the draining process
Solution Approach 1:
The holder serves as an intermediary carrying device that securely holds the bilge plug during removal and transport. The plug can be easily removed for draining while the holder prevents misplacement by providing a designated storage location, such as a pocket or attachment point on the boat
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 bilge plug saver effectively prevents loss and damage by securely holding the bilge plug, enhancing boat safety and seaworthiness by keeping the plug accessible and protected.
Implementation Method 1
The material out of which the small and large pieces is made is preferably sufficiently tacky so that the small and large pieces will remain securely together not only because of their snug fit, but also because they will stick to one another
Data Source
AI summary
The bilge plug saver of the present invention includes a large piece and a small piece made of a waterproof material, preferably rubber. The large and small piece fit together to form a waterproof capsule sized and shaped to accommodate a bilge plug within the capsule.