Universal Fin Box System with Adjustable Insert
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fin mounting systems for surfboards are complex, expensive, and limited in their ability to accommodate various fin types and adjustments, requiring proprietary installation kits and not allowing for easy change in fin angle or use of fins from different manufacturers.
Innovation Solution
A fin box system with a receptacle and insert that allows for forward and backward adjustment, fin angle change, and compatibility with a wide range of fin types, using a simple and inexpensive installation guide that provides multiple functions, including alignment, router template, and resin dam, and secured with grub screws, allowing for flush installation and easy replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional fin mounting systems are used, then fins can be secured to surfboards, but the systems are complex and expensive requiring proprietary installation kits
Solution Approach 1:
The fin mounting system is divided into separate functional components: a receptacle installed in the surfboard, an insert that fits within the receptacle, and a fin that attaches to the insert. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using simple processes, eliminating the need for complex proprietary installation kits while maintaining secure fin attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The receptacle and insert design serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the fin, enables forward and backward adjustment along the slot, allows angle adjustment by rotating the insert, and accommodates fins from different manufacturers. This multi-functionality replaces multiple specialized components with a single versatile system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fin mounting systems are used, then fins can be mounted, but adjustment of fin angle is limited and requires changing inserts
Solution Approach 1:
The insert is designed to be rotatable within the receptacle, allowing dynamic adjustment of the fin angle. The slot in the insert accommodates the fin base while the insert itself can be rotated to change the fin's cant angle relative to the surfboard, providing continuous angle adjustment rather than fixed positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The insert is nested within the receptacle, with the insert fitting inside the receptacle cavity. This nested arrangement allows the insert to be independently adjusted (rotated for angle changes or moved along the slot for position changes) while remaining supported by the fixed receptacle structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fin mounting systems are used, then fins from specific manufacturers can be mounted, but compatibility with fins from different manufacturers is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The receptacle and insert are designed with universal dimensions and features that accommodate fins from different manufacturers. The slot in the insert can accommodate various fin base shapes and sizes, and the overall receptacle dimensions are standardized to work with multiple fin types, making the system universally compatible rather than manufacturer-specific.
Data Source
AI summary
FIG. 1 is an exploded view of the invention that consists of a reusable installation guide or router template, (13), which also doubles as a resin dam to secure receptacle, (9), into substrate (19)-(20). Insert (3) resides in receptacle, (9), and accommodates fin, (1), in angled slot (4). The insert, (3), and fin (1), are secured via grub screws, (10), tightened by Allen key (11). This design will accommodate a wide variety of proprietary fins available from numerous manufacturers who bundle their fin mounting systems to be used only with their fins. The fin can be removed, moved laterally within the slot, and canted by changing the insert. The fin is not part of the instant invention.