Creating a boat for everyone is not easy. Challenged with building a cross-over that met all the dealers requests was a tall order. With features such as walk-thru transom with flipping step seat, bow entry step with anchor locker, deep seated cockpit and of coarse a well-shaped wake for every wake boarder from beginner to experienced. A huge list of features infused with modern and elegant designs makes this boat feel like its strait from a car show floor.
Again using cameras affixed to booms I was able to record our test vessels performance. With cameras located in the same position during each test run we were able to modify the running surface and see side-by-side how we were manipulating the running and wake characteristics. These recordings were a much more scientific approach than the previous method of trying to remember the cause and effect of each change over months of adjustments. We were able to create a very symmetrical and consistent wake by balancing everything from hook and rocker to drive shaft angles.
The fully integrated liners ergonomics were tested in full scale using these models. I was able to create these from the 3D CAD model using parts I cut on a 3-axis router. We were then able to manipulate the CAD model into what worked best in reality. As a result we built a very deep and comfortable cockpit that used every bit of space effectively.
The dashboard was created using an old technique of vinyl cladding vacuum formed ABS plastic. The challenge was creating one with no exposed fasteners. All the components of this dash assembly can be removed via plastic wing-nuts with interfering threads through an access panel located just above the drivers feet. This dash is also very low profile allowing optimum visibility over the bow at all times.
Tasked with developing a very simple hinge that was very inexpensive and able to hold a seat open while passengers used the storage below I developed this. The hinge also had to be a double action to allow clearance for the thickness of the cushion itself. This design is unique in that it uses the cushions substrate as the second pivot point without requiring additional hardware.