Spherical Bearing Mirror Bracket for Watercraft
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adjustable mirror brackets for watercraft provide limited adjustment and stability, often obstructing the operator's forward view and complicating the positioning of mirrors for viewing individuals being towed, while also compromising the aesthetic appearance due to visible fasteners and components.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable mirror bracket comprising a base member, pivot member, and elongate support arm with a spherical bearing and ball joint, allowing multi-axis adjustment and secure attachment to prevent movement during operation, while concealing fasteners for a clean appearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional hinges or pivots are used to allow mirror adjustment, then the mirror can be adjusted to different positions, but the stability of the mirror is reduced resulting in shaking or movement during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a spherical bearing with a ball member that rotates within a spherical socket, replacing traditional linear hinges. This spherical geometry allows multi-axis rotation and adjustment while maintaining stable contact surfaces, eliminating the shaking and movement problems associated with conventional pivots.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces traditional mechanical hinge systems with a ball-bearing mechanism. The spherical bearing with ball member provides a more stable and reliable connection that maintains mirror adjustability while significantly improving stability during watercraft operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple visible fasteners and components are used to provide adjustability, then the mirror can be adjusted along multiple axes, but the appearance of the mirror is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple adjustment functions into a single spherical bearing assembly. The ball member within the spherical socket provides multi-axis adjustment capability while concealing all fasteners and mechanical components within the bearing housing, resulting in a clean, aesthetically pleasing appearance with no visible hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The design nests the ball member within the spherical socket, and further nests the entire bearing assembly within the mirror mounting structure. This nested arrangement allows complex multi-axis adjustment functionality to be contained within a compact, visually simple form factor.
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 solution provides stable and adjustable mirror support that maintains a clear rearward view without obstructing the operator's forward view, ensuring the mirror remains securely positioned and aesthetically integrated on the watercraft.
Implementation Method 1
a spherical bearing including a stud projecting therefrom, the spherical bearing shaped to fit within the socket of the lower base member
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable mirror bracket is provided for supporting a mirror in a rearward facing position on a watercraft. The mirror bracket includes a base member having a body having a socket formed therein and a spherical bearing within the socket and including a stud projecting therefrom. The mirror bracket also includes a pivot member having a cupped lower end shaped to conform to the hemispherical top end of the base member, a bore formed through the cupped lower end for receiving the stud of the spherical bearing, and an attachment surface formed in an upper end of the pivot member. An elongate support arm is provided and is pivotally attached with a fastener to the attachment surface of the pivot member at the first end of the support arm.