Watercraft Drive Module Mount With Spring-Loaded Translation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing propulsion systems for small watercraft, such as kayaks and canoes, lack a versatile and user-friendly mounting solution that enhances mobility and convenience while fishing, as current systems require manual paddling or electric motors, which can be physically demanding and limit hands-free operation.
Innovation Solution
A mount system that allows a drive module to translate between an in-use position for propulsion and a raised position, using a frame with a retainer and spring mechanism for easy adjustment, enabling hands-free operation and reduced physical effort, with optional features like a scupper cover for improved efficiency and noise reduction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a propulsion system is mounted to a watercraft, then hands-free operation and reduced physical effort are achieved, but device complexity increases due to mounting requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The propulsion system is divided into a drive module and a separate mount assembly. The mount includes a frame portion attached to the watercraft and a retainer portion that interfaces with the drive module, allowing independent installation and adjustment of each component.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system incorporates a spring mechanism that provides dynamic adjustment capability. The spring allows the drive module to be easily positioned between a lowered operational position and a raised storage position, and can be quickly released when needed.
2Productivity
If the drive module is positioned low for propulsion, then maneuverability is improved, but access for adjustment becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism enables the drive module to be easily raised to an elevated position for access and adjustment, then lowered to the operational position for propulsion. This dynamic positioning resolves the conflict between low position maneuverability and high position accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism provides self-servicing capability by automatically assisting in raising the drive module when the retainer is released, reducing the effort required by the user to adjust the position.
3Volume of moving object
If the drive module is raised for storage, then space efficiency is improved, but propulsion capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically transitions between two distinct positions: a lowered position where the propulsion portion extends below the hull for optimal propulsion capability, and a raised position where the drive module is stored within or above the watercraft for space efficiency.
4Stability of the object's composition
If a retainer mechanism is used to fix the drive module, then stability is improved, but ease of adjustment is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer acts as an intermediary mechanism that provides stable locking when engaged, but can be easily released when needed for adjustment. The spring mechanism works in conjunction with the retainer to provide both stability during operation and ease of adjustment when required.
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 mount system enhances user experience by allowing effortless propulsion and reduced physical strain, maintaining a low draft position for better maneuverability and minimizing noise and turbulence, thus improving fishing experience and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The frame comprises a retainer to fix the drive module in the first position and a first spring to assist translation of the drive module toward the second position
Data Source
AI summary
A mount for mounting a drive module to a watercraft is described herein. The mount in-use with the drive module is also described. The mount in-use with the drive module and the watercraft is also described. The mount includes a frame configured to be attached to the watercraft. The mount is also configured to attach to the drive module to selectively allow the drive module to translate from a first position to a second position. When in the first position, the drive module is capable of propelling the watercraft. The frame has a retainer to fix the drive module in the first position and a first spring to assist translation of the drive module toward the second position. The second position is a relatively raised position compared to the first position.