Abstract: Riding a surfboard on sizeable waves is generally very demanding and time-consuming to learn. Beginners tire quickly when paddling against incoming surf and repeatedly fall when first learning to catch and ride waves. A motorized surfboard wirelessly controllable by the instructor, the student, or both facilitates instruction and practice on a floating board moving at variable speeds in a relatively safe, controlled calm-water setting. This system provides an intermediate learning environment between dry land or still water and the vastly more challenging ocean surf. Later, in a surf zone, the board's motor propulsion assists with paddling so that the student can concentrate on wave-riding. Inland-dwelling students can use this system to learn to ride a board on an existing nearby lake, river, or large swimming pool before a holiday trip to the seashore or an artificial-surf pool.

Abstract: Wireless transmitters are integrated with manual marine-propulsion implements associated with small watercraft (paddles, oars, poles, and the like). The transmitters are controlled by hand-operated actuators. The actuators are designed to be manipulated without looking and positioned within convenient reach of an operator's normal hand position on the implement. A corresponding wireless receiver on a target device enables the transmitter signal to control the device. Thus, an operator of a small watercraft can control a useful target device without first shipping or otherwise securing the manual implement, and may simultaneously continue to manually propel or steer the watercraft with the implement. Application examples include a propulsion-assist motor on a stand-up paddled (SUP) surfboard.

Abstract: Practical electric-powered propulsion systems, associated operator-control systems, and modification methods enable conventional surfboards (and similar small watercraft) to be converted for water-jet propulsion. Wireless controls are integrated with wearable marine accessories such as modified neoprene or fabric gloves, armbands, wristbands, hand straps, or gauntlets. Safely immersible, wet-swappable high-power battery packs facilitate extended use of electric propulsion in surf. Compact integrated electronic control units incorporate motor controllers, wireless receivers, and control logic. On-board power, propulsion, and control components are positioned and installed to avoid disrupting the shape of the watercraft body so as to minimize added hydrodynamic drag and perceived differences from a traditional unpowered version of the watercraft in appearance, balance, or performance.