Universal Cover With Segmented Panels For Boat Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing covers for outdoor objects like vehicles and furniture are either too large and unsightly or require multiple configurations, leading to increased manufacturing and storage costs, and may not fit custom or changed configurations without needing a new cover.
Innovation Solution
A cover design featuring a lower layer of traditional material and an upper layer of stretchable material, with optional panels and limiters, that can accommodate various sizes and features by folding or expanding to minimize sagging and provide a form-fitted appearance and performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single cover is sized to cover the largest object configuration, then it will fit all configurations, but it will not be optimum for any configuration and provide many entry points leading to poor performance and unsightly appearance
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is divided into multiple panels that can be independently adjusted. Each panel can be folded or unfolded to accommodate different object configurations, allowing the cover to maintain form-fitting appearance and performance across various sizes and shapes without creating entry points for debris and elements.
2Reliability
If a cover is made form-fitted to an object, then it provides better performance and visual appearance, but it increases the number of different cover configurations needed for different object models, increasing manufacturing and storage costs
Solution Approach 1:
The cover incorporates adjustable panels that can dynamically change configuration through folding and unfolding mechanisms. This dynamic structure allows a single cover design to adapt to multiple object configurations, maintaining form-fitting performance without requiring multiple different cover models for different object sizes and shapes.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover design uses universal adjustable panels that can accommodate various object models, shapes, and configurations. This multi-functional approach allows one cover design to serve multiple purposes across different object types, reducing the need for multiple specialized cover configurations and lowering manufacturing and storage costs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a cover is made too large to fit all object configurations, then it will cover all objects, but it may sag and allow water to pool or collect, leading to water penetration and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is segmented into multiple adjustable panels that can be configured to match the actual size and shape of the object. This prevents excessive material from sagging and creating water pooling areas, while still providing complete coverage. The panels can be folded or unfolded to eliminate gaps and ensure proper water runoff.
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 cover maintains a nice appearance and good performance across different configurations and sizes, reducing costs and the need for multiple cover versions, while allowing for easy adaptation to changes in the object's features.
Implementation Method 1
an upper layer of stretchable material
Data Source
AI summary
A cover for an object, such as a boat, that can accommodate at least one optional feature of the object. The cover has at least one area that can be expanded to accommodate an optional feature of the object or collapsed if the object does not have an optional feature.