Watercraft Cage Pivot Storage Angle Debris Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing watercraft launch and storage systems fail to provide a safe and secure method for entering and exiting watercraft from docks, often resulting in injuries and damage, as they lack stabilization and proper storage solutions.
Innovation Solution
A watercraft launch and storage assembly with a removable mounting system, a vertically movable step, a pivotally attached watercraft cage that transitions between launch and storage positions, and a pull cord mechanism with a winch for secure positioning, along with additional features like a handle and cleat for user support and debris prevention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a dock is elevated above the water line for structural stability, then the dock remains stable and secure, but the height difference creates difficulty and danger for launching and retrieving watercraft
Solution Approach 1:
A platform is introduced as an intermediary element between the elevated dock and the watercraft. The platform is positioned at a height accessible from the dock and can be lowered close to the water surface, providing a safe intermediate surface for users to transition between the dock and watercraft without directly stepping from high dock to unstable watercraft
Solution Approach 2:
The platform is designed to be dynamically adjustable in height. It can be raised to a convenient level for access from the dock and lowered to minimize the gap to the watercraft, adapting to different operational states to maintain safety and ease of use throughout the launch and retrieval process
2Ease of operation
If a strap and winch system is used to raise and lower the launch platform, then the platform can be positioned at desired heights, but the strap becomes an inconvenience and safety hazard
Solution Approach 1:
The strap component is completely removed from the system. Instead of using a strap connected to a winch, the platform is directly attached to the dock structure through mounting brackets and support arms, eliminating the strap-related safety hazards and inconveniences while maintaining the ability to raise and lower the platform through direct mechanical connection to the dock's lifting mechanism
3Strength
If an expanded metal grating is used on the launch platform, then the platform provides structural strength, but it damages the kayak bottom by scraping and is too large for certain installations
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a large expanded metal grating that contacts the kayak, the platform uses a solid, smooth surface material that is non-abrasive. The platform dimensions are optimized to be compact enough to fit various installation spaces while providing sufficient structural strength through appropriate material selection and thickness, eliminating both the scraping damage and size constraints of grating systems
4Strength
If a large portion of the device mounts to the top of the dock using metal straps and bolts, then the device is securely attached, but it creates trip hazards and burn hazards on hot days
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is segmented into multiple mounting points distributed along the dock structure rather than concentrating all mounting hardware in one location. This distributes the structural load and allows the platform to be positioned away from the dock edge, reducing trip hazards. The mounting brackets are designed to be recessed or flush-mounted to eliminate protruding elements that could cause trips or burns
Data Source
AI summary
This invention is directed to a watercraft launch and storage assembly including: a mounting assembly; a first step; a watercraft cage pivotally carried by the mounting assembly having a launch position and a storage position; a continuous loop included in the watercraft cage for receiving and surrounding at least a portion of a watercraft; and, a watercraft cage plane defined through the watercraft cage that is generally perpendicular to the waterline when the watercraft cage is in the storage position so that when a watercraft is received by the watercraft cage and in the storage position an angle defined between a plane running through the width of the watercraft and the watercraft cage plane is greater than 90° reducing the amount of water and debris that can enter the watercraft in the storage position.