Abstract: An amphibious vehicle has an engine and a drive train connected to drive wheels with tires having a tread configuration that produces a water propulsion effect when the vehicle is driven through water. An auxiliary propulsion unit is selectively positioned in driving relationship to each of the wheels to improve water speed of the vehicle. The propulsion unit includes a gear box with its input connected to the wheel hub; its output connected to a propeller and an anti-torque strut is pivotally connected to the gear box and anchored to the vehicle hull whereby the propeller speed is increased by the gear box a desired amount as compared to axle speed to rotate the propeller at a speed to propel the amphibious vehicle.

Abstract: An energy recovery system for a machine, and particularly an automotive vehicle, includes an energy storage device which selectively receives energy from the prime mover for storage via a predetermined path and delivers stored energy to the prime mover load via the same path. In the preferred embodiment the energy storage device is an elastomeric tube which is disposed for rotational movement about a shaft and secured at the ends to respective end members. Braking units permit selective braking and releasing of the end members relative to fixed supports. A set of planet gears are controlled by the brake actuation to drive a sun gear or be driven by a ring gear to effect energy inflow and outflow, respectively, from the elastomeric tube. The storage device is permitted to store energy or release its stored energy as a function of vehicle control and operational parameters.

Abstract: A contra-rotating propeller system, particularly adapted for high speed water craft, is characterized by a movable support for at least one of two nominally-aligned and independently driven contra-rotating propellers. In a particular embodiment a forward propeller is driven by a forward engine via a forward drive shaft extending aftward and through the keel. The aft propeller is supported behind the forward propeller by a strut which serves as a rudder and as the housing for the aft propeller gear box. The forward and aft engines are preferably in longitudinal alignment to minimize hull width. The aft propeller strut is pivotable under control of the helm to effect steering.