Watercraft Coupling System Using Connector Rods
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing watercraft systems lack the capability to safely and controllably couple multiple watercrafts together, leading to difficulties in maintaining distance and increasing the risk of collision during shared use, which hinders communication and enjoyment for multiple users.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising forward and aft connector rods with straps that allow two or more watercrafts to be stably coupled in a side-by-side arrangement, using rigid materials and stabilization components like nets and cushions to enhance safety and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple watercrafts are operated by multiple individuals simultaneously, then recreational and training activities are enhanced, but the risk of collision increases and communication becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate watercrafts into a single integrated assembly using connector rods and straps. The connector rod system merges the first watercraft and second watercraft into a unified structure that maintains their individual identities while enabling coordinated operation, thereby enhancing multi-user capability while reducing collision risk through controlled positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The connector rod acts as an intermediary element between the first watercraft and second watercraft. This mediator component maintains a controlled distance between the watercrafts while allowing them to be operated together, facilitating communication and cooperation between multiple users without causing collision
2Reliability
If multiple watercrafts are coupled together to maintain distance between users, then communication and safety are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is segmented into distinct functional components: connector rods for structural connection, straps for attachment, and net/cushion for protection. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, improving safety through specialized design while keeping the overall system manageable and not excessively complex
Solution Approach 2:
The connector rod serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural connection between watercrafts, maintains controlled distance, and acts as a mounting point for straps and net. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby improving safety without proportionally increasing device complexity
3Stability of the object's composition
If rigid connector rods are used to stably couple watercrafts, then control and stability are enhanced, but the ease of assembly and disassembly decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector rod system provides stable rigid connection when assembled, but the use of straps with attachment points allows for dynamic assembly and disassembly. The rigid connector rod maintains stability during operation while the strap-based attachment system enables relatively easy assembly and disassembly compared to permanent rigid connections
Data Source
AI summary
Systems for coupling two or more watercrafts, and assemblies comprised of systems and watercrafts. A watercraft coupling system includes a forward connector rod and an aft connector rod that are configured to be attached to forward and aft portions of adjacent first and second watercrafts, and may include additional components such as stabilization straps, nets, and rod cushions for safety and comfort. The system may be used to stably couple two or more watercrafts, such as recreational watercrafts, in a side-by-side arrangement to form a watercraft assembly that may be used by two or more users cooperatively.