Modular Watercraft Storage Supports With Small-Footprint Base Mounts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional storage systems for personal watercraft are often impractical due to their large footprint, high cost, and lack of weather resistance, and they require existing structures that may not be available in all locations, leading to issues with aging, deterioration, and security.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising permanently attached base members and removably attached support assemblies that can be modularly configured to store watercraft off the ground, using corrosion-resistant materials and a compact footprint, allowing for easy reconfiguration and transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional storage systems use large supporting structures to support watercraft weight, then structural strength is improved, but device complexity and space occupation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is divided into separate base members and support assemblies. The base members remain permanently installed in the ground while support assemblies can be independently attached and removed. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function without requiring a complex integrated structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The support assemblies are designed to be removably attached to base members, allowing the system to dynamically adapt between different storage configurations. Users can attach support assemblies when needed and remove them when not in use, transforming a static complex structure into a dynamic, on-demand system.
2Ease of manufacture
If wood is used for supporting structures, then ease of manufacture is improved, but weather resistance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses base members made from weather-resistant materials such as metal or treated composite materials that can withstand outdoor conditions. These materials are combined with removable support assemblies, creating a composite system that leverages the durability of weather-resistant materials while maintaining ease of assembly and disassembly.
3Device complexity
If storage systems require existing structures like docks, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The base members are designed to be self-installed into the ground using simple permanent attachment methods, eliminating the need for existing structures like docks or walls. The system serves itself by creating its own support foundation, allowing deployment in various locations without requiring pre-existing infrastructure.
4Reliability
If permanently attached support structures are used, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the support structure into permanently installed base members and removably attached support assemblies. This segmentation allows the permanent portion to provide stable, reliable support while the removable portion enables easy reconfiguration and adaptation to different storage needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The support assemblies are designed with removable attachment mechanisms that allow users to easily attach and detach them from the permanent base members. This dynamic design maintains the stability provided by permanent installation while enabling operational flexibility for reconfiguration and transport.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for storing a watercraft above a surface portion is disclosed. The method includes permanently attaching a first base member to the surface portion at a first location, permanently attaching a second base member to the surface portion at a second location that is spaced at a distance from the first location, removably attaching a first support assembly to the first base member, and removably attaching a second support assembly to the second base member. The distance is less than a length of the watercraft.