Self-Locking Water Board Fin Hinge With Translating Wing Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fins for navigation objects, such as waterboards, lack the ability to rotate between two stable angular positions while being compatible with a removable fixing base, which limits their adaptability to varying water depths.
Innovation Solution
A fin design featuring a movable wing relative to a fixing base around an axis of rotation, with rotational locking means carried by two hinge components and an elastic means that deforms in compression or flexion to unlock the wing from the folded position, allowing it to rotate between two stable positions (drift and folded) by translating along the axis of rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the wing is locked in a single folded position using conventional locking means, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the fin cannot adapt to varying water depths by rotating between multiple stable positions
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge component is designed to be movable in translation relative to the fixing base hinge component, transforming a static single-position locking mechanism into a dynamic system that can assume multiple stable angular positions (drift and folded). This translational movement enables the wing to rotate between positions while maintaining reliability through self-locking features.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic means (spring) automatically locks the wing in stable positions and unlocks it when force is applied, without requiring external actuation mechanisms. The system self-regulates between drift and folded positions through the elastic restoration force, eliminating the need for complex external locking controls.
2Ease of operation
If the hinge component is made movable in translation to enable unlocking, then the wing can rotate between stable positions, but the risk of damage to hinge components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic means (spring) is pre-loaded to provide cushioning force that prevents sudden impacts or excessive forces on the hinge components during translation and rotation. This prior cushioning protects the hinge components from damage while enabling smooth operation between stable positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic means acts as an intermediary element between the movable hinge component and the fixed hinge component, absorbing shocks and distributing forces during the translation and rotation process. This intermediary mechanism protects the hinge components from direct stress that could cause damage.
3Stability of the object's composition
If conventional locking means are used without elastic means, then the structure is simpler, but the wing cannot maintain stable locked positions in drift and folded configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic means (spring) automatically maintains the wing in stable locked positions through its restoration force, without requiring external actuators or complex control systems. The spring self-regulates the locking mechanism to maintain stability in both drift and folded configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic means introduces a dynamic element that adapts to different positions, providing stable locking in both drift and folded configurations through its ability to deform and restore. This dynamic mechanism replaces static conventional locking means while improving stability.
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 fin achieves self-locking properties, enabling it to be maneuvered between two stable angular positions, one for sufficient water depth and another for shallow water, ensuring stability and adaptability without risking damage to the hinge components.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic means deforming in compression or in flexion to exert a restoring force on the hinge component attached to the wing
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
Fin intended for a navigation object, in particular an inflatable or rigid-shell water board, comprising a wing (1) which is able to move with respect to a fastening base (3) about an axis of rotation (AI) between a first "stabilizing" position and a second "folded" position, and rotation blocking means (15, 17; 35, 37) for blocking the wing in the folded position, the axis of rotation (AI) being borne by two hinge components (5, 7), one (5) of which is fastened to the wing and the other (7) to the fastening base, the hinge component (5) fastened to the wing also being able to move translationally with respect to the hinge component (7) fastened to the fastening base in order to unblock the wing. The rotation blocking means are borne by the two hinge components in order to block the wing in the folded position and in the stabilizing position, and an elastic means (11, 13) deforms in compression or in bending, against the translational movement of the hinge component (5) fastened to the wing, unblocking the wing from the stabilizing position.