Suspended Support Structure for Inflatable Towable Cockpits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing towable inflatable devices provide limited seat support for users, leading to insecure and uncomfortable riding experiences during aquatic activities.
Innovation Solution
A cockpit assembly with an inflatable material and a suspended support structure covered by a UV-treated material, providing a stable and secure seating arrangement for multiple users in various positions, with features like air gaps for shock absorption and traction to prevent sliding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a simple inflatable structure is used, then manufacturing is easy and cost is low, but seat support and user safety are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into multiple segments including backrest, seat, and leg rest portions that can be independently configured. This segmentation allows each component to provide targeted support while maintaining overall structural integrity, resolving the contradiction between reliability and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a third dimension by suspending the support structure within the inflatable cavity rather than using a flat two-dimensional surface. This vertical positioning creates distinct seating zones and improves weight distribution, enhancing seat support without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a suspended support structure is added, then weight distribution and shock absorption improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure utilizes the inflatable cavity's internal air pressure to provide suspension and shock absorption. The air-filled space acts as a pneumatic cushion that distributes weight and absorbs impacts, improving stability without requiring complex mechanical suspension systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state of the support medium from solid to pneumatic by using inflated chambers. This parameter change allows the structure to dynamically adapt to weight distribution while maintaining simplicity, as the air pressure automatically adjusts to loading conditions.
3Reliability
If cover material is added for UV protection, then user safety improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The UV-protective cover material is applied specifically to areas requiring protection rather than the entire structure. This localized application provides necessary UV protection while minimizing the amount of additional material and manufacturing steps required, thus maintaining ease of manufacture.
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
Enhances user safety and comfort by distributing weight evenly, reducing physical impacts, and allowing easy posture changes during rides, offering superior seat support compared to conventional inflatable devices.
Implementation Method 1
an airtight inflatable material
Implementation Method 2
floatation devices
Implementation Method 3
air gaps for shock absorption
Data Source
AI summary
A cockpit assembly for providing enhanced traction and stability for an inflatable material is disclosed. The cockpit assembly includes a cavity defined partially by the inflatable material, a support structure suspended within the cavity, and a cover material configured to cover the cavity. The inflatable material defines portion of side walls of the cavity. The support structure may be configured to be free of any contact with a bottom surface of the cavity and the cover material in a relaxed state.