Abstract: For protecting surface floating wave energy converters (WEC's) against surface turbulence, the WEC's are removed from the water surface. For reducing the force required, the WEC's include a hollow member having an apertured outer wall. In the case where the WEC is to be lifted out of the water, the hollow member is normally submerged and full of water, and, during its lifting, water drains through the wall apertures thereby reducing the weight of the member and reducing the force required to lift it. In the case where the WEC is to be submerged, the hollow member is normally empty of water but fills with water through the wall apertures as the member is pulled beneath the surface. The weight of the water reduces the force required to submerge the member.

Abstract: A floatation apparatus attachable to an outrigger extending from a side of a boat such as a shell for rowing includes a buoyant member, and at least one releasably attachable member operably attachable to the buoyant member for releasably attaching the floatation apparatus to the outrigger so that the buoyant member is spaced-apart from the surface of the water when the boat is orientated upright. In one embodiment, the buoyant member is a generally triangular-shaped planar member receivable between a triangular-shaped opening defined by a plurality of elongated members of the outrigger and the side of the boat. Also disclosed are methods for aiding a rower of a boat in the event that the boat capsizes, and methods for inhibiting capsizing of a rowing boat having at least one outrigger extending from each side of the rowing boat for supporting a plurality of oarlocks.

Abstract: A watercraft (100) is disclosed having a rigid hull (110) and outboard stabilizing members (112) attached to the hull sides (116). The hull preferably has a V-shaped bottom (118) and comprises a planing hull. The stabilizing members are preferably foam stabilizers, but may alternatively be inflatable bladder members. The stabilizing members cover a portion of the hull sides, extending part way to the chine (120) defined between the hull sides and the hull bottom. The stabilizing members each include an elongate fin (130) that extends from a bottom surface of the stabilizing member, and disposed in a front portion of the stabilizing member and in the region of the greatest hull dead rise angle. The fins may be formed integrally with the stabilizing members or may attach to the stabilizing members. The fins define a channel between the hull sides and the fins, that is hydrodynamically pressurized during certain watercraft operations, an in particular during low speed maneuvering.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to the stabilization of watercraft, such as kayaks and canoes, and especially to the stabilization of a kayak to allow an individual to stand or move in a kayak without the kayak rocking or rolling over. The pontoon assembly is mounted to a kayak which allows for extending a stabilizing pontoon individually on each side of the watercraft and locking the pontoon at an operative position. Each pontoon can be rapidly raised to a rest position for paddling the kayak or canoe.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to the stabilization of watercraft, such as kayaks and canoes, and especially to the stabilization of a kayak to allow an individual to stand or move in a kayak without the kayak rocking or rolling over. The pontoon assembly is mounted to a kayak which allows for extending a stabilizing pontoon individually on each side of the watercraft and locking the pontoon at an operative position. Each pontoon can be rapidly raised to a rest position for paddling the kayak or canoe.

Abstract: An outrigger and hull provides outriggers mounted with hinges to plates that enable pivotal or rotatable movement of each outrigger between storage and operating positions. Locking members secure the outriggers from substantial movement when in the operating position.

Abstract: A floatation apparatus for an all terrain vehicle, includes a bridging support adapted to extend under the all terrain vehicle from a first side to a second side. The bridging support has a first end and a second end. The bridging support has a first float support extending upwardly and outwardly from the first end which is adapted to suspend a first float member and a second float support extending upwardly and outwardly from the second end which is adapted to suspend a second float member.

Abstract: A collapsible, height-adjustable support device with inflatable floats for mounting articles, particularly cinematographic apparatus, upon and below the water. It is characterized by a central tubular frame (1) with a plurality of detachable support arms (2) perpendicular to the central frame. The support arms also attach to the elongate inflatable buoys (10). Cinematographic apparatus is mounted upon a fixing plate (5) positioned centrally on the central frame member (1). The adjustable height of the mount above and below the surface of the water is facilitated by the angular relationship of the central longitudinally splined frame member (1) and each support arms splined hub. Footpads (4) with releasable locking pins and receiving plates (22) provide attachment of support arms to the floats (10). Anchorage and tether points (14) permit towing and static deployment.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an accessory platform assembly for attachment to kayak. The assembly comprises attachment means for attaching the assembly to the deck of a kayak, a frame attached to the attachment means, the frame holding a platform and allowing the platform to be moved from a closed position to an open position whereby in the open position the deck of the kayak lying below the platform in the closed position is exposed. The assembly optionally includes an outrigger assembly comprising parallel arms attached at one end to the attachment means and having an outrigger floatation device attached to an opposite end of the arms spaced away from the kayak to provide increased stability to the kayak.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device (1) which is used to convert a monohull vessel (2) into a multihull vessel, comprising a support structure (3) which is removably fixed to the vessel (2) and at least one lateral float (4) which is solidly articulated with said support structure (3) around at least one geometrical axis (BB?). The aforementioned float (4) can occupy (i) a first stable deployed position in which it is parallel to the vertical longitudinal geometric plane (PP?) containing the keel line of the vessel (2) and, at the lowest point of the keel line thereof, it is disposed beneath the geometric axis (BB?) and (ii) a second stable collapsed position which is separated at an angle from the first position. The invention also relates to a vessel which is equipped with said device.

Abstract: A floatation apparatus attachable to an outrigger extending from a side of a boat such as a shell for rowing includes a buoyant member, and at least one releasably attachable member operably attachable to the buoyant member for releasably attaching the floatation apparatus to the outrigger so that the buoyant member is spaced-apart from the surface of the water when the boat is orientated upright. In one embodiment, the buoyant member is a generally triangular-shaped planar member receivable between a triangular-shaped opening defined by a plurality of elongated members of the outrigger and the side of the boat. Also disclosed are methods for aiding a rower of a boat in the event that the boat capsizes, and methods for inhibiting capsizing of a rowing boat having at least one outrigger extending from each side of the rowing boat for supporting a plurality of oarlocks.

Abstract: A board-based motorized watercraft may be steered by banking the board section to yaw the motor. The motorized watercraft includes a pair of pontoons connected by a beam for enhanced stability. The motor is mounted between the pontoons to the beam. The board section may rotate with respect to the pontoons and the beam. A steering mechanism couples the rotation of the board section with yawing of the motor, allowing a user to steer the watercraft by leaning to rotate the board.

Abstract: An inflatable fender system for protecting a watercraft from damaging contact with a permanent object, such as a dock, wharf, piling and rafted watercraft. Two elongated flexible substantially airtight tubular fenders are provided having a generally flat cross section when uninflated, rolled into a coil and stored at the stern of the watercraft. Each of the tubular fenders is independently extendable along a substantial portion of the length of the watercraft. A controlled air supply or AC or DC compressor on the watercraft is operably connected to each of the tubular fenders for independently selectively inflating and expanding the tubular fenders from the flat cross section during deployment. A hanger system, preferably including a plurality of hangers connectable in spaced relation between the watercraft and each of the tubular fenders support the tubular fenders during deployment to protect the side and gunnels of the watercraft.

Abstract: A personal watercraft is disclosed comprising a pair of longitudinally connected pontoons suitable for supporting a user on the surface of a body of water. A slip-joint comprising a pair of concentric cylinders, one attached to each pontoon, provides desired lateral fixation between the pontoons while allowing relative longitudinal movement. Floating outriggers are provided to enhance the stability of the watercraft, and a set of hand rails helps the user balance on and operate the device. Paddle elements can be provided on the bottom surface of each pontoon to allow the user to operate the watercraft by using a striding motion similar to that used when cross-country skiing. The watercraft may have a rudder to help steer the craft, and it may also have a removable seat. A sail option is also provided. The pieces of the watercraft are removably connected to allow quick and easy assembly and disassembly, for transport to and from the water.

Abstract: An emergency flotation device includes water-proof housings that are secured to a selected portion of the vehicle such that the housings are mounted medially of the vehicle's tires. Selectively inflatable flotation bags are operably coupled and permanently conjoined to the housings. The flotation bags are deployable downwardly and outwardly wherein lateral portions of the flotation bags wrap beneath and around the tires such that a bottom half of the tires are completely encapsulated by the flotation bags. Each tire receives one flotation bag thereabout. A pneumatic mechanism is included for automatically inflating and deflating the flotation bags. The pneumatic mechanism is disposed within the housings and is spaced from the tires. A mechanism is included for sensing a water level engaged with the tires. The water level sensing mechanism is connected to the pneumatic mechanism for instructing the pneumatic mechanism to inflate and deflate the tires during emergency situations.

Abstract: A floatation apparatus for an all terrain vehicle, includes a bridging support adapted to extend under the all terrain vehicle from a first side to a second side. The bridging support has a first end and a second end. The bridging support has a first float support extending upwardly and outwardly from the first end which is adapted to suspend a first float member and a second float support extending upwardly and outwardly from the second end which is adapted to suspend a second float member.

Abstract: The invention offers a conversion kit for all terrain vehicle, which is adjusted for driving both on the terrain and in the water. For that purpose, pontoons to lengthen the front and rear side of the all terrain vehicle have been constructed, the height whereof in respect of the vehicle in working position can be adjusted according to one's needs. The pontoons can be turned in such position that does not disturb the movement of the all terrain vehicle on dry land.

Abstract: A flotation device for maintaining an aircraft in a floating and stable condition is provided. The flotation device comprises at least one flotation bladder mounted to the aircraft and an inflation mechanism for inflating the flotation bladder. A method for maintaining an aircraft in a floating condition is also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to saddle-riding type watercraft and other small watercraft. In an embodiment, the invention is a small watercraft capable of reducing noise by utilizing the sponson. For example, a small watercraft is provided with a sponson made of synthetic resin, characterized in that within the sponson there has been fixed a weight matched to the frequency of the hull to thereby have a function as a dynamic damper. In an embodiment, the weight is a plate-shaped weight made of metal along the longitudinal direction of the sponson. In an embodiment, the weight is embedded in the sponson along the longitudinal direction thereof.

Abstract: Stabilizing apparatus have particular application in stabilizing smaller water borne objects such as small dinghies, sail craft, pontoons and aquatic sporting equipment at rest on a body of water, or any aquatic vessel including launches. The stabilizing apparatus includes a body having one or more elongate stabilizing pods including at least one cavity for containing a calculated volume of air. The body is attached to a side and towards the rear of the water borne object, in the region of the plane of the waterline of the object. The stabilizing apparatus operates between a non-use, storage position and an extended operating position and includes latching apparatus to maintain the body in either or both those positions.

Abstract: Apparatus to convert an all terrain vehicle into an amphibious off-road vehicle. A buoyant unitary structure is fitted to the all terrain vehicle with releasable fasteners. The buoyant unitary structure includes one or more internal air pockets, and a hollow compartment to accommodate the legs and feet of a user of the amphibious vehicle.

Abstract: A multichambered boat that is constructed upside-down on stationary platforms where flotation chambers are located in the perimeter portion of the multichambered boat. The perimeter chambers have a laterally downward sloping exterior surface that directs fluid downwardly and provides lift to the multichambered boat which creates a smoother ride. A fuel input line that passes through the flotation chamber to the fuel storage tank to provide convenient access for refueling the multichambered boat.

Abstract: A stabilizer is releasably attached to a canoe-like boat and includes two floats that are located outside the periphery of the boat. The floats are attached to bars, and lock mechanisms attach the bars to the boat. The bars are releasably attached end-to-end. Each float includes a main float portion. Each float also includes an adjustable float portion and a strap that secures the adjustable float portion either vertically above or vertically below the corresponding main float portion.

Abstract: Fish-breeding apparatus (10), which comprises a frame, supporting one or a plurality of breeding cages (11) and provided with hollow buoyancy elements (17), and at least one device for controlling the buoyancy of the apparatus by filling, totally or partially, the buoyancy elements with water and emptying them of the water, totally or partially, whenever desired. The buoyancy elements are emptied of water by replacing the water with air. The buoyancy elements are such that when they are empty of water to a predetermined extent, the entire apparatus floats, even when it is fully charged. The frame has depending legs (17), so that even in its lowermost position the bottoms of the breeding cage will be spaced from the sea bed.

Abstract: The invention is an improved aluminum water craft using a plurality of aluminum pontoons to stabilize the craft. The hull of the craft has a truncated “U” shape with a first horizontal section and a second raised bow section. The hull is made from a single piece of construction material and includes a plurality of equally spaced apart concave-shaped reinforcing ribs pressed into the top surface of the construction sheets prior to forming the hull. The ribs provide additional rigidity and strength to the hull. The plurality of pontoons join to form a segmented, un-pressurized, water-tight, air filled floatation collar around the hull of the water craft. The pontoon segments are separated by bulkhead plates. The pontoons are inclined from the horizontal to promote smooth travel over turbulent water. The pontoons are constructed from single sheets of construction material. A plurality equally spaced and parallel reinforcing ribs pressed into the rectangular sheets.

Abstract: An assembly for converting a catamaran into a trimaran, the assembly comprising a center hull, left and right side linkage members, with each linkage member having front and rear lateral portions and an interconnecting longitudinal portion, and a plurality of adaptors with each adaptor having a bottom surface which is adapted to be located in a catamaran hull tops surface recess for a cross piece and a top surface for receipt of the longitudinal portion, wherein each longitudinal portion is adapted to be connected to forward and rear ends of respective catamaran hulls by a coupling means.

Abstract: Canoes are relatively unstable in as much as they tip over easily. Because of this many side runners have been invented to prevent canoes from tipping over so easily. One problem with all available canoe runners is that they are cumbersome and difficult to transport. On a long journey, more than ever, safety and even survival mandate use of a canoe runner. The problem with all available canoe runners is that they are not sufficiently portable to carry within a canoe for portages which frequently continue for miles.

Abstract: A flotation device for floating a watercraft is provided. The flotation device comprises a cover releasably secured to the watercraft. A first collapsible tubing is positioned between the cover and the watercraft for removing at least a portion of the cover. At least one inflatable flotation bladder is positioned between the cover and the watercraft wherein upon inflation of the first collapsible tubing, the first collapsible tubing releases at least a portion of the cover from the watercraft.

Abstract: Watercraft with a solid hull and a solid outer side, where a recess extending essentially in a horizontal plane is formed in the outer side of said watercraft above the water line, in which recess an elastically deformable safety element is permanently installed, which element is folded onto itself in a first operating state and is inflated by means of a pressurized fluid from a source of pressurized fluid in a second operating state, characterized in that at least one undercut projection is formed in the recess in the outer side of the watercraft, and in that the safety element has at least one concavity designed as the negative of the positive shape of the projection, so that the projection engages positively and nonpositively with the concavity.

Abstract: A flotation device for maintaining a watercraft in a floating condition is provided. The flotation device comprises a mounting plate mounted to the watercraft with the mounting plate having a first cover channel, a second cover channel, a first bladder-retaining slot, and a second bladder-retaining slot. A first collapsible tubing is receivable within the first cover channel. An elongated cover is receivable in the cover channels with the first collapsible tubing positioned between the mounting plate and the first edge. A space is defined between the mounting plate and the cover with a directional bladder and a flotation bladder receivable within the space. At least a portion of the directional bladder is receivable within the first bladder-retaining slot and at least a portion of the flotation bladder is receivable within the second bladder-retaining slot.

Abstract: An armor-protected buoyancy module is installed in multiple unit sets on tracked or wheeled vehicles to provide the vehicles with amphibious capability. The buoyancy modules can be lifted by two men without additional material handling equipment. The buoyancy modules are attached to fixed mounting devices that are mounted on the subject vehicle. Existing armor elements may be present to serve as the mounting devices. The armor shell provided for the buoyancy module protects it in both the deployed and stowed configurations.

Abstract: A flotation device for maintaining a watercraft in a floating condition is provided. The flotation device comprising a cover releasably secured to the watercraft. At least one directing bladder is positioned between the cover and the watercraft. At least one inflatable flotation bladder is positioned between the cover and the watercraft wherein upon inflation of the directing bladder, the directing bladder releases at least a portion of the cover from the watercraft.

Abstract: A device for floating a watercraft in a body of water with the watercraft having a water line is provided. The device comprises an inflatable first flotation bladder mountable adjacent the waterline and an inflatable second flotation bladder adjacent the first flotation bladder wherein upon inflation of the first flotation bladder and the second flotation bladder, the first flotation bladder directs the second flotation bladder in a general direction into the water.

Abstract: A floatation device for an all-terrain vehicle or the like. The floatation device includes a float having a bow float, and includes mounting structure for mounting the float to the frame of the vehicle. The bow float may be U-shaped, and the float may include a stern float, or tailgate, to extend across and close the open end of the U-shaped bow float so that vehicle is encircled by the float.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for varying the capsizing torque of a multiple-hull vessel (12), consisting of at least two floats (9) connected together by at least two beams respectively referred to as the front connecting beam (8) and the rear connecting beam (6), characterized in that it comprises a geometric platform (15) supporting a mast assembly (1) and a crew nacelle (10) and in that the said platform (15) is mounted in a transverse sliding manner on the multiple-hull vessel (12) in order to allow, depending on the equilibrium sought by the crew, the movement of the mast assembly (1) and of the crew nacelle (10) from one edge of the multiple-hull vessel (12) to the other.

Abstract: An assembly for converting a catamaran into a trimaan, the assembly comprising a centre hull, left and right side linkage members (14, 15), with each linkage member (14, 15) having front and rear lateral portions (16, 17) and an interconnecting longitudinal portion (18), and a plurality of adaptors (21), with each adaptor (21) having a bottom surface which is adapted to be located in a catamaran hull tops surface recess (20) for a cross piece and a top surface (23) for receipt of the longitudinal portion (18), wherein each longitudinal portion (18) is adapted to be connected to forward and rear ends of respective catamaran hulls by a coupling means (27, 31).

Abstract: A sponson for a watercraft includes a nose; a trailing end; and a base extending between the nose and the trailing end; wherein the base is non-linear in shape in a direction from the nose to the trailing end. The sponson can include an outboard surface extending between the nose and the trailing end; wherein the outboard surface is configured to reduce the water pressure during cornering.

Abstract: The present invention is a vessel floatation aid for vessels of the type including a water line and laterally spaced gunwales. The floatation aid includes an inflatable bladder including an outer membrane attached to a backer strap and the space there between defining said inflatable portion, such that said backer strap and outer membrane together oriented along said longitudinal direction for temporarily providing increased buoyancy; and including upper tabs and lower tabs connected to a backer strap, said tabs adapted for receiving cords for temporarily lashing said floatation aid to a vessel for releasably and temporarily attaching said buoyancy means below and adjacent a gunwale of a vessel, and proximate a waterline.

Abstract: A stabilizer is releasably attached to a canoe-like boat and includes two floats that are located outside the periphery of the boat. The floats are attached to bars, and a lock mechanism attaches the bars to the boat. The bars are releasably attached together.

Abstract: This invention relates to improvements in and relating to stabilising apparatus having particular application in stabilising smaller water borne objects such as small dinghies, sail craft, pontoons and aquatic sporting equipment at rest on a body of water, or any aquatic vessel including launches. The stabilising apparatus includes a body (3) having one or more elongate stabilising pods including at least one cavity(s) for containing a calculated volume of air. The body is attached to the side(s) and towards the rear of the water borne object (2), in the region of the plane of the waterline of the object The stabilising apparatus operates between a non-use, storage position and an extended operating position and includes latching apparatus (13, 14, 15) to maintain the body in either or both those positions.

Abstract: An armor-protected buoyancy module is installed in multiple unit sets on tracked or wheeled vehicles to provide the vehicles with amphibious capability. The buoyancy modules can be lifted by two men without additional material handling equipment. The buoyancy modules are attached to fixed mounting devices that are mounted on the subject vehicle. Existing armor elements may be present to serve as the mounting devices. The armor shell provided for the buoyancy module protects it in both the deployed and stowed configurations.

Abstract: A system to keep any type of vessel afloat in case of entry of water or capsizing by means of providing an unfolding mechanism of inflatable flotation and stabilization elements through the outside of the hull of the vessel, including a variety of devices that are actuated automatically or manually if necessary when a water level or inclination meter inside the vessel detects that water has reached a maximum permitted level or an excessive inclination occurs, which causes the opening of an electrically operated valve to allow pressurized fluid to pass in order to unfold said flotation and stabilization elements. Alternatively, another unfolding mechanism may consist of a pair of cylinders screwed to one another, through the wall of the hull, the interior cylinder of which encloses the flotation and stabilization elements and the exterior cylinder of which includes a cover on its outside face that can be ejected by the pressure exerted from the interior.

Abstract: An amphibious vehicle having inflatable pontoons disposed in recesses formed in the vehicle body. The inflatable pontoons retract into the recesses when deflated to reduce the overall width of the vehicle to below the maximum allowable width for a road vehicle. The inflatable pontoons extend when inflated to beyond the maximum allowable width for road vehicles, thereby improving the stability of the vehicle when it is operated in water. The inside surfaces of the recesses provide support for transferring the uplift force generated by the pontoons to the vehicle body when in water. An elastic member may be used to retract the deflated pontoons into the recess. Decorative doors covering the recesses are forced open by the inflating pontoons to a position above the water line.

Abstract: The present invention is a vessel floatation aid for vessels of the type including a water line and laterally spaced gunwales. The floatation aid includes an inflatable bladder including an outer membrane attached to a backer strap and the space there between defining said inflatable portion, such that said backer strap and outer membrane together oriented along said longitudinal direction for temporarily providing increased buoyancy; and including upper tabs and lower tabs connected to a backer strap, said tabs adapted for receiving cords for temporarily lashing said floatation aid to a vessel for releasably and temporarily attaching said buoyancy means below and adjacent a gunwale of a vessel, and proximate a waterline.

Abstract: A flotation device for maintaining a watercraft in a floating condition is provided. The flotation device comprises an elongated housing mounted to the watercraft. A carrier is slidably received within the housing with the carrier having a first and second cover channel and a bladder retaining slot. A first collapsible tubing is receivable within the first cover channel. An elongated cover is releasably secured within the first cover channel and the second cover channel. A space is defined between the carrier and the cover. A flotation bladder is receivable within the space with the flotation bladder having a bladder edge receivable in the bladder retaining slot.

Abstract: A floating weir assembly for controlling the discharge of fluid from a fluid reservoir. The weir assembly includes a buoyant body preferably comprising a sidewall surrounding a central bottom opening. A weir is provided on the inside surface of the sidewall, and a gauge is provided on the opposite side of the sidewall's inside surface. The sidewall may provide a ballast chamber for holding ballast, such as sand. By adjusting the amount of the ballast, the depth to which the body is submerged can be varied. By distributing the sand circumferentially, the body can be leveled in the fluid to ensure accuracy of the weir. Because the sidewall is partially submerged, undesirable surface matter, such as oil and debris, is prevented from entering the weir. While there are many applications for this floating weir assembly, a preferred application is in the field of sewage treatment systems.

Abstract: A flotation device is provided comprising a carrier mounted to the watercraft with the carrier having a first cover channel, a second cover channel, a first bladder retaining slot, and a second bladder retaining slot. A space is defined between the carrier and an elongated cover having a first edge and a second edge with the first edge releasably receivable in the first cover channel and the second edge releasably receivable in the second cover channel. A cover-removing bladder is receivable within the space and secured to the carrier. A flotation bladder is receivable within the space and secured to the carrier. An inflation mechanism connected to the cover-removing bladder and the flotation bladder inflates both bladders wherein the first edge of the cover is released from the first cover channel of the carrier allowing the flotation bladder to substantially completely inflate.

Abstract: A jet-propelled watercraft for providing access to remote and shallow regions of water. The jet-propelled watercraft includes a hull structure having a floor, side walls, a bow, and a stern; and also including a seating assembly mounted upon the hull structure; and further including a watercraft-propelling assembly for propelling the hull structure upon water; and also including floatation members being attached to the hull structure.

Abstract: A platform structure for a water structure surrounded by water is disclosed. The platform structure includes a set of inflatable sacks held in place by arm members which are hollow tubes rotatably attached to a hinge structure to a side of said water structure. The platform structure is especially designed to protect the water structure as well as other approaching water crafts from the impact of collisions. The arm members of the platform structure can also be used to tug floating platforms and various water crafts with minimal water drag. The platform structure can also be adjusted to function with a hinge structure installed at any of various heights on said water structure. The platform structure also has means to provide it with added stability on the water.

Abstract: A small boat stabilizer is formed by a pair of elongated tubular buoys secured in laterally spaced parallel relation to respective end portions of the boat by spars extending transversely of respective ends of the boat and secured thereto by adapters.