Tool-Free Surfboard Fin Plug With Resilient Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fin systems for surfboards require time-consuming tool-assisted installation and removal, which is inefficient and inconvenient.
Innovation Solution
A fin plug design with distinct front and rear open cavities and a bridge section, featuring a protrusion and a resiliently protruding ring-shaped member, allows for easy and secure attachment and detachment of fins without tools, using a fin engagement mechanism that includes a nose section and a partially recessed rear tab to pivot and lock into place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If grub screws are used to secure fins to fin plugs, then secure retention is achieved, but installation and removal become time-consuming and require tools
Solution Approach 1:
The fin base is designed with built-in engagement features (protrusions and recesses) that automatically secure the fin to the fin plug upon insertion, eliminating the need for separate grub screws or tools. The fin serves its own fastening function through its structural design.
Solution Approach 2:
The grub screw mechanism is completely removed from the system. Instead of using threaded fasteners, the invention extracts the fastening function and integrates it directly into the fin base structure through molded protrusions and corresponding recesses in the fin plug.
2Reliability
If grub screws are threaded into cavities to secure fins, then secure attachment is achieved, but the process becomes complex and tool-dependent
Solution Approach 1:
The complex threaded fastening system is extracted and replaced with simple geometric engagement features. The protrusions and recesses are molded directly into the fin and fin plug, eliminating screws, threads, and associated tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening function is merged with the fin base structure itself. The engagement protrusions are an integral part of the fin base, combining the fin mounting function with the structural base in a single unified component.
3Ease of operation
If traditional fin plugs with single cavities are used, then fin mounting is achieved, but installation requires time-consuming tool assistance
Solution Approach 1:
The fin base automatically engages with the fin plug through its built-in protrusions that fit into the cavities. Upon insertion, the fin's own structure performs the fastening action, providing both ease of installation and reliable retention without external tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The fin plug is divided into multiple cavities (front and rear), each with specific engagement features. The fin base has corresponding segmented protrusions that fit into these cavities, creating multiple discrete engagement points that collectively provide secure retention.
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
Enables quick, secure, and tool-free attachment and removal of surfboard fins, enhancing convenience and efficiency while maintaining robust retention.
Implementation Method 1
a resiliently protruding ring-shaped member extending into the rear open cavity from an elongate side surface of the rear open cavity
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A
AI summary
A fin plug (10) for installation in a water craft, said fin plug (10) including: a first open cavity (20) adapted to receive a base portion (15) of a water craft fin (50); and, a resilient biasing rod (30) and a protruding member (35) cooperating with the biasing rod, said protruding member being adapted to abut the base portion (15) of said fin (50) when received in said first open cavity (20); wherein said biasing rod and protruding member are adapted to apply a force to the base portion of said fin to inhibit removal of said fin from said first open cavity.