Strut-Actuated Bimini Top With Pinch-Point-Free Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bimini tops often require complex and expensive mechanisms that are prone to pinch points, detracting from a relaxing boating experience and posing safety risks.
Innovation Solution
A simplified mechanism using a frame structure with pivotally connected frame members and a screw-driven actuator, where a flexible canopy connects and coordinates the movement of frame bows, eliminating pinch points and ensuring safe operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a geared mechanism is used to actuate the bimini top, then automatic operation is achieved, but the mechanism becomes complex and expensive to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex gear and rack mechanism from the actuation system and replaces it with a simplified cable-pulley system. The cable is routed through pulleys attached to the frame members, allowing automatic actuation through minimal mechanical components while eliminating the need for expensive geared mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a cable as an intermediary element to transmit the actuating force from the motor to the frame members. This cable-mediated approach simplifies the direct mechanical connection that would otherwise require complex gears and racks, reducing both complexity and manufacturing cost.
2Extent of automation
If a geared mechanism is used to actuate the bimini top, then automatic operation is achieved, but pinch points are created in the mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the gear and rack components that create pinch points from the system. By replacing these with a cable-pulley arrangement, the design eliminates enclosed mechanical interfaces where pinching hazards could occur, while preserving automatic operation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable serves as a safe intermediary that transmits force without creating pinch points. Unlike gear teeth or rack interfaces that can trap fingers or objects, the flexible cable provides a smooth, non-enclosed transmission path that maintains automation while improving safety.
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple mechanism is used, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but the mechanism may not withstand the leverage forces from the entire bimini top
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the force transmission path into multiple cable sections routed through strategically positioned pulleys on each frame member. This segmentation allows the simple cable mechanism to distribute and manage the leverage forces from the entire bimini top structure, preventing any single point from bearing excessive load while maintaining overall system strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the spatial arrangement and routing of cables through pulleys in three-dimensional space to gain mechanical advantage. By changing the dimensional configuration of force application points and cable paths, the simple mechanism achieves the necessary force multiplication and distribution to withstand the bimini top's leverage without requiring complex or expensive components.
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
Provides a robust, safe, and efficient automatic bimini top operation without complex mechanisms, ensuring smooth movement and user safety.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator is connected to the third frame member and includes a first end that is pivotally connected to a fixed location with respect to the pivotal connection of the first frame member to the first mounting bracket. The actuator has a second end that is pivotally connected to the third frame member at a location spaced from the pivotal connection of the third frame member to the first frame member.
Implementation Method 2
The first frame member has a first end pivotally connected to a first mounting bracket. The first frame member has a canopy support that is opposite to the first end. The first frame member is movable between a stored position and a use position. Movement of the first frame member from the stored position to the use position is in a forward direction.
Data Source
AI summary
A bimini top having first second and third frame members. Each having a first end opposite a canopy support. The second frame member is pivotally connected to the first frame member between a pivotal connection of the first frame member and its canopy support. The third frame member is pivotally connected to the first frame member between the pivotal connection of first frame member and the pivotal connection of the second frame member to the first frame member. A flexible canopy is connected to the canopy supports of the first second and third frame members. An actuator pulls on the third frame member to move the frame members from a stored position locating them relatively near each other to a use position locating the canopy supports spread apart from the stored position.