Portable Personal Watercraft
A watercraft includes a number of subassemblies, including an inflatable hull, a drive system, a battery, a seat assembly and a steering and thrust control. Each of the subassemblies of may be of one or more particular designs which are detailed herein. A watercraft in accordance with the teaching herein may use one or more of these designs and each such watercraft is within the scope of this disclosure.
This application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 10/529,852 filed on Mar. 31, 2005 which is a United States National Phase Entry of PCT/CA2003/001494 which was filed on Sep. 29, 2003.
FIELD OF THE INVENTIONThis invention relates generally to marine craft and more particularly to an extremely lightweight, easily transportable highly maneuverable personal watercraft for recreational and other boating purposes.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONRecreational boating has become very popular, not only in the United States, but throughout the world. Most small size personal watercraft are of a size and weight requiring a trailer to transport them to and from the launch site. Depending upon an individual's lifestyle and living accommodations, the use of a trailer may be precluded. For example, apartment dwellers in many locations do not have the space available to them for storing a boat and trailer when not in use.
Other types of recreational boats include the canoe. While a canoe may be transported atop the roof of an automobile, such a watercraft must be paddled, although it is also possible to power a canoe with an outboard motor of some type. A further drawback of the canoe is that it is relatively slow and unmaneuverable and may be somewhat prone to tipping.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONIn accordance with the instant invention, an improved personal watercraft for recreational and utilitarian purposes is provided. The watercraft may have one or more of the following features and advantages.
In accordance with one embodiment of this invention a personal watercraft is constructed to enable it to be readily collapsed. The collapsed watercraft may then be manually carried and easily transported in the trunk of an automobile and without the need for a trailer. Preferably, the watercraft has one or more inflatable sections to permit it to be collapsed.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention a pump is provided to inflate and/or deflate the inflatable sections of the craft. Preferably, the pump is provided as part of the watercraft. More preferably, the pump is in air flow communication with the inflatable sections such that at the press of a button it may be actuated to inflate and/or deflate the watercraft thereby making the packing and unpacking of the craft simple, convenient, and quick.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention the watercraft has a central rigid core in which the battery is stored. Alternately, or in addition, the deflated craft can quickly be folded for storage in the rigid core, This rigid core may also incorporate wheels that are exposed when the craft is deflated or which are inflated when the craft is deflated to facilitate transportation to and from the waterfront. Alternately, or in addition, the motor and propeller or impeller unit can also be translated vertically into this rigid section for driving the unit to shore and for storage and transportation.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention a means to mechanically and electrically connect an electrically actuated or manually actuated anchor to the central rigid core is provided.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention a seating area comprised of one or more, and preferably several, layers of inflatable material (e.g. air impermeable fabric, plastic, rubber or the like) are provided to allow the seating position to be raised or effectively moved forward to allow smaller riders complete access to the controls.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention armrests are provided. The armrests can be optionally inflated to provide more comfortable seating.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention telescoping handles and handles that can bend 90 degrees to accommodate the comfort of different riders are provided for steering the watercraft.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention a marine craft that is small in size, light in weight, very stable in water and extremely maneuverable uses a single centrally located steering control mechanism. Preferably, the steering control mechanism incorporates a trim control. Alternately, or in addition, the steering control mechanism incorporates a mechanically linked rudder which augments the turning forces produced by the rotation of the motor and propeller or impeller unit thereby allowing a small motion in the steering to create a significant change in direction. This augmented rudder allows steering of the craft at very low thrust levels.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention the drive system for this marine craft comprises a safety cage that is constructed to reduce the chance for damage to the propeller or impeller due to contact with rocks or the lake bottom and reduces the danger for swimmers or wildlife which might otherwise come into contact with the propeller or impeller. The safety cage may comprise an open web about the impeller or propeller. Alternately, it may comprise a solid section with an inlet and an outlet wherein the inlet and outlet are constructed to prevent a person from reaching inside (such as by providing a mesh cover to the inlet and the outlet or by sizing the inlet and outlet to prevent a person from reaching inside.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention the water hull that is in contact with the water is configured to minimizes the surface area and hence the drag to the system and maximize the available speed by providing a long contact line between the water while a secondary hull above provides the room necessary for the comfort and safety of the rider and any accessories the rider may desire.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention the water hull comprises one, two or more water hulls having a narrow width, a long length, and a gentle lead in as a classic kayak wherein the water hull is an inflatable member or is an inflatable core with a durable outer surface, such as hard plastic or fiberglass, affixed thereto or formed integrally therewith or coated thereon in contact with the water.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention the water hull comprises one, two or more water hulls having a narrow width, a long length, and a gentle lead in as a classic kayak but which are narrower than a classic kayak as the riders body is supported above the water hull wherein the water hull is constructed to receive the riders feet and some auxiliary equipment such as batteries therein
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention rigid members such as carbon or aluminum rods or tubes are provided to stiffen the inflatable sections or to more rigidly mechanically link (i.e. dimensionally stabilize) various plastic hull sections with other plastic hull sections.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention a plurality of motors and propellers or impellers that are in parallel flow or in flow communication with each other are provided so that the power required from each individual motor is reduced.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention the water flow from two or more propellers each driven by an individual motor are in flow communication with each other so as to reduce the vortex losses in the fluid system thereby increasing the energy transfer efficiency between the electric motors and the water while protecting users from touching said propellers.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention flow straighteners are provided at the outlet to reduce or effectively eliminate vortices induced by the impellers or propellers. The flow straighteners also serve to protect the user from accidental contact with the impellers or propellers.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention the watercraft comprises multiple individual inflation chambers that define a primary hull and a secondary hull. The secondary hull is designed to provide sufficient buoyancy to prevent the watercraft from sinking if the primary hull is damaged. In many jurisdictions, riders are required to wear personal flotation devices. Therefore, if the secondary hull produces neutral buoyancy for the watercraft, the watercraft will only be submerged to a level at which the rider is supported by the personal flotation device if the primary hull is damaged to the point at which it provides no flotation. It will be appreciated that the secondary hull may optionally provide more than neutral buoyancy in such cases. Preferably, the secondary hull is mounted above the primary hull. Alternately, or in addition, the secondary hull comprises a plurality of chambers, preferably, outer, intermediate and inner chambers, such that damage to the outer chambers will still allow the craft to float with the rider. In the event that all chambers are compromised the craft will float
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention a cartridge filled with an expanding foam product such as polyurethane is provided. The cartridge may be engaged in an emergency to inflate some or all of the inflation chambers even if they are compromised and could no longer be filled with air so as to provide a displacement hull to keep the watercraft afloat. Alternately, the cartridge may be engaged upon delivery of the product to the site where it is to remain so as to inflate some or all of the inflation chambers with foam that will provide a displacement hull to keep the watercraft afloat even if the inflatable chambers become compromised by puncturing. Thus the watercraft can be shipped in a collapsed (e.g. folded or deflated state) and then inflated to produce a rigid structure.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention an inner rigid chamber is provided one or more of the battery is housed, the motor unit or units are affixed, the optional manual or electric anchor is affixed, and/or which incorporates structural foam elements which allow the craft to float even if all its inflatable chambers have been compromised.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention an emergency inflation section, which is not normally inflated, is provided and is preferably protected from damage by a rigid (e.g. hard plastic) cover. The emergency inflation section is inflated in case of an emergency by means of a pressurized gas or foam cylinder.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention the watercraft incorporates a small water cannon and/or electronics to allow scoring when a water jet hits a sensor on the watercraft to facilitate various games or tag and warfare simulation. Preferably, means of controlling the firing and the scoring of the watercraft water cannon games is provided.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention a position for the mounting of fishing pole holders is provided.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention the watercraft includes a position for a live well to allow fish caught to be kept alive by having water circulate in the holding tank with an auxiliary pump or automatically when the main motor of the craft is engaged.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention the watercraft comprises an inflatable hull vessel that can be powered by an electric motor, an internal combustion engine, a stirling engine, or a steam engine used to drive a propeller or impeller.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention the watercraft includes a series of super bright LEDs to provide illumination for visibility in the day or at night with minimum power expenditure.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention the watercraft includes a means of affixing a sun shield that may optionally incorporate solar panels to charge the battery or batteries of the unit.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention the watercraft includes a means of mechanically and electrically connecting a fish finder and a means of mounting the associated transducer.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention the watercraft includes an inflatable boat having a battery or an engine module which may be easily coupled and uncoupled from the boat so that the two may be separately carried to and from the launch site but which can then be readily joined. The inflatable watercraft comprises an inflatable hull and may incorporate optional rigid hull sections having in its plan view one or more water hulls which are generally long and gently tapered outward along half to two thirds of the length which is transversely semi circular and curves upwardly toward a point at the bow. Fastened to the upper surface of the hull member are tubular inflatable members which are generally circular in cross section and which are shaped so that when joined end-to-end conform to the periphery of the water hull.
The central rigid member may be either in a mono hull, joins a catamaran design, or is in the center hull of a trimaran and provides the means of inflating and deflating the craft, stowing the craft by folding the deflated members in a prescribed manner, and houses the motor, battery and steering module and optionally provides a place for rigid or inflatable wheels to be affixed to aid transportation. The power module typically comprises a battery or series of batteries and one or more electric motor but may comprise an internal combustion engine, a Stirling engine, or a steam engine whose output shaft directly drives the propeller of impeller in the drive pod located below the boat during normal operation. When the power module comprises an internal combustion engine, a Stirling engine, or a steam engine, the exhaust gasses preferably pass through an exhaust immersed in the water to provide low temperature exhaust gasses thereby improving user safety.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention the steering control column preferably also provides speed control, stopping, forward and reverse as well as trim controls if installed.
By providing a relatively lightweight power module readily separable from the lightweight, rigid hull, inflatable watercraft, an adult, with relative ease, can deflate the watercraft and lift the watercraft into the trunk of a car or van and place the power module separately in the trunk for transportation.
Thus a manually transportable, electric motor driven highly maneuverable personal watercraft is provided. The watercraft may be powered by a motor up to 5 hp, preferably up to 3 hp and more preferably up to 1 hp, It may comprise a series of inflatable tubular fabric chambers and may optionally incorporate rigid, relatively thin fiberglass or other suitable plastic hull components to reinforce areas that make contact with the waterline, batteries, docks and piers, mooring lines, the rider, or anchors.
A seat is optionally provided with multiple chambers, which can optionally be inflated to allow shorter riders to be positioned so that they are tall enough and forward enough to fully operate the controls of the vessel.
The craft may also comprise a central area for placement of a battery or batteries, a pump means for inflating and/or deflating the craft, a space for stowing the deflated components of the craft, a place to affix optional rigid or inflatable wheels which help to transport the device when on shore and/or a place to mount the motor and the steering mechanism.
The electric motor of this craft drives a propeller or impeller that is housed in a safety cage that prevents accidental contact between swimmers or rocks or the lake bottom and the propeller or impeller. This safety cage may also incorporate one or more tubular sections with one or more motors per tubular section to improve the performance of the vessel while maintaining safety.
The thrust and steering system are preferably centrally located and may optionally incorporate means to trim the craft by controlling the direction of the water flow to and or from the propeller or impeller by means of a pivotally mounted horizontal member or members. Steering is accomplished either by turning the electric motor and the propeller or impeller attached thereto or by pivotally mounting a series of vertical members at the outlet of the propeller or impeller to control the direction of flow or by a combination of both of these methods which allows a very rapidly responsive steering system which allows steering with lesser turning of the controls.
A speed control and a battery level indicator are optionally incorporated on the steeling control member. The speed control may be achieved either by turning on and off multiple motors or my using pulse width modulation to reduce the voltage delivered to the electric motor or motors or by having multiple windings on the electric motor or by varying the pitch of the propeller or impeller.
Single hull, catamaran and trimaran designs are disclosed with the ability to accommodate two or more riders on the catamaran or trimaran. An anchor can optionally be deployed from the central area and is electrically or manually raised and lowered.
The craft may optionally incorporate one or more water cannons to allow riders to play various games.
Optionally, a live well for keeping caught fish and several fishing pole holders may optionally be incorporated.
An optional lighting system is incorporated using super bright LEDs to provide excellent visibility and power conservation.
The personal watercraft may optionally be powered by a Stirling engine, steam engine or internal combustion engine driven which would occupy the space allocated for the battery and the electric motor.
Therefore, in accordance with one aspect of the instant invention, there is provided a watercraft having a hull which is adapted for travel in at least one direction of travel, the hull having front end in the direction of travel and a rear end in the direction of travel, the watercraft having at least one member for producing movement positioned below the hull, a longitudinal centre between the front end and the rear end of the hull, the at least one member for producing movement rotatably mounted to the watercraft at a rotatable mount at a single position located at or ahead of the longitudinal centre.
In one embodiment, the distance from the front end to the rotatable mount may be from about 30 to about 50% of the length of the hull.
In another embodiment, the distance from the front end to the rotatable mount may be from about 40 to about 50% of the length of the hull.
In another embodiment, the distance from the front end to the rotatable mount may be from about 51 to about 55% of the length of the hull.
In another embodiment, the watercraft further comprises a steering member having a portion to be gripped by a hand of a user and a steering rod that extends between the steering member and the member for producing movement,
In another embodiment, the steering rod extends generally vertically.
In another embodiment, the member for producing movement comprises a propeller,
In accordance with another aspect of the instant invention, there is provided a propeller housing for a watercraft comprising a body portion defining a chamber having an inlet end and an outlet end in which a propeller is positioned, the propeller and the body portion are configured to interact to cut hair that enters the chamber.
In one embodiment, the body portion comprises a longitudinally extending hollow member having an inner surface and the propeller has blades which are positioned sufficiently close to the inner surface of hollow member to create a cuffing action when the propeller is in use.
In another embodiment, the body portion has a guard positioned at one end of the body portion and proximate the propeller and the propeller has blades which are positioned sufficiently close to the guard to create a cuffing action when the propeller is in use.
In another embodiment, the body portion has a guard positioned adjacent at least one of the inlet and outlet ends, the guard comprises a plurality of planar members which are configured to prevent fingers and toes of a person from contacting the propeller.
In another embodiment, the body portion has a guard positioned adjacent at least one of the inlet and outlet ends, the guard comprises a plurality of planar members which are configured to prevent fingers and toes of a person from extending past the planar members.
In accordance with another aspect of the instant invention, there is provided a propeller housing for a watercraft comprising a body portion defining a chamber having an inlet end and an outlet end in which a propeller is positioned, the body portion has a guard positioned adjacent at least one of the inlet and outlet ends, the guard comprising a plurality of planar members which are configured to prevent fingers and toes of a person from contacting the propeller.
In one embodiment, the planar members are configured to prevent fingers and toes of a person from extending past the planar members.
In accordance with another aspect of the instant invention, there is provided a propeller housing for a watercraff comprising a body portion defining a chamber having an inner wall, an inlet end and an outlet end in which a propeller is positioned, the propeller being spaced from the inner wall to define a gap, the gap having a width that is up to 25% of the diameter of the propeller.
In one embodiment, the width is from 1 to 15% of the diameter of the propeller.
In another embodiment, the width is from 3 to 10% of the diameter of the propeller.
In another embodiment, at least one of the inlet end and the outlet end of the body portion has members configured to at least partially straighten the flow of water flowing therepast.
In another embodiment, the members are planar members and each planar member has a length in the direction of flow that is from 30 to 70% of the transverse width of that planar member.
In accordance with another aspect of the instant invention, there is provided a propeller housing for a watercraft comprising a body portion defining a chamber having an inner wall, an inlet end and an outlet end in which a propeller is positioned, at least one of the inlet end and the outlet end of the body portion has members configured to at least partially straighten the flow of water flowing therepast.
In one embodiment, the members are planar members and each planar member has a length in the direction of flow that is from 30 to 70% of the transverse width of that planar member.
In another embodiment, the members are planar members and each planar member has a length in the direction of flow that is from 40 to 60% of the transverse width of that planar member.
In another embodiment, the members are planar members and each planar member has a length in the direction of flow that is about 50% of the transverse width of that planar member.
In another embodiment, the planar members are pivotally mounted to the body portion about a horizontal axis.
In another embodiment, the planar members are pivotally mounted to the body portion about a vertical axis.
In accordance with another aspect of the instant invention, there is provided a hull for a watercraft which has a potion that is below a waterline when in use, the hull having an exterior surface and comprises a rigid hull member and at least one inflatable member wherein rigid hull member defines the portion of the hull of the watercraft that is below the waterline and the inflatable member is positioned so that at least a portion of the inflatable member is above the waterline and defines a portion of the exterior surface of the hull of the watercraft.
In one embodiment, the hull further comprises a rigid central core having a perimeter.
In another embodiment, the inflatable member extends around the perimeter of the central core.
In accordance with another aspect of the instant invention, there is provided a hull for a watercraft comprises an outer inflatable hull member and a plurality of inflatable members positioned interior to the outer inflatable hull member.
In one embodiment, the plurality of inflatable members, when inflated, proximate the shape of the outer inflatable hull member when the outer inflatable hull member is inflated.
In another embodiment, inflation of the plurality of inflatable members inflation of the outer inflatable hull member.
In accordance with another aspect of the instant invention, there is provided a driver's seat for a watercraft comprising a plurality of individually inflatable chambers.
In accordance with another aspect of the instant invention, there is provided a propulsion system for a watercraft comprising a plurality of propellers positioned in series in a longitudinally extending housing,
In one embodiment, the propulsion system further comprises a plurality of motors each of which is drivingly connected to at least one propeller.
In another embodiment, each propeller is driven by a motor.
In accordance with another aspect of the instant invention, there is provided a watercraft comprising a hull, a plurality of propellers positioned in parallel and a single steering rod rotatably connected to the watercraft and drivingly connected to the plurality of propellers.
In one embodiment, the propellers and mounted in longitudinally extending housings.
In another embodiment, the watercraft further comprises a plurality of motors each of which is drivingly connected to at least one propeller.
In another embodiment, each propeller is driven by a motor.
In accordance with another aspect of the instant invention, there is provided a watercraft comprising a hull and at least one water cannon, wherein the water canon is positioned on a side of the watercraft.
In one embodiment, the watercraft further comprises a water shield member positioned around at least a portion of the area in which an operator sits to protect the operator from water directed at the watercraft from a second watercraft having a water cannon positioned on the side of the second watercraft.
In another embodiment, the watercraft further comprises a water sensor positioned on the water shield member.
In another embodiment, the water shield member is transparent,
In another embodiment, the watercraft further comprises a water sensor.
In accordance with another aspect of the instant invention, there is provided a watercraft having a hull which is adapted for travel in at least one direction of travel, the hull having front end in the direction of travel and a rear end in the direction of travel, the watercraft having at least one member for producing movement positioned below the hull, a steering member drivingly connected to the at least one member for producing movement by a steering linkage, an a headlight provided on at least one of the steering member and the steering linkage.
In one embodiment, the headlight comprises a plurality of superbright LEDs.
In accordance with another aspect of the instant invention, there is provided a watercraft having a hull which is adapted for travel in at least one direction of travel, the hull having front end in the direction of travel and a rear end in the direction of travel, the watercraft having at least one member for producing movement positioned below the hull, a steering member drivingly connected to the at least one member for producing movement by a steering linkage, an a radio provided on at least one of the steering member and the steering linkage.
In one embodiment, the watercraft further comprises at least one speaker.
In another embodiment, at least one speaker. Is provided on the steering member.
In accordance with another aspect of the instant invention, there is provided a hull for a watercraft which has at least one inflatable member and a canister having a mixture therein which produces a hard drying foam when the mixture is released from the canister in flow communication with the at least one inflatable member.
In one embodiment, the at least one inflatable member is adapted to be inflated by air and, if punctured once inflated, is adapted to be filled by the mixture.
In accordance with another aspect of the instant invention, there is provided a hull for a watercraft comprises a rigid hull member composed of a plurality of rigid sections which are foldably connected together and at least one inflatable member wherein rigid hull member defines at least a portion of the hull of the watercraft that is below water when in use and the inflatable member is connected to the rigid sections.
In one embodiment, the rigid hull members are foldably connected together by being connected to the at least one inflatable member.
In another embodiment, the rigid hull members are each independently connected to a different portion of the at least one inflatable member.
In another embodiment, the hull further comprises a rigid central core having a perimeter
In another embodiment, the at least one inflatable member extends around the perimeter of the central core.
In another embodiment, the hull further comprises at least one longitudinally extending rigid members releasably connected to the hull and configured to stiffen the inflatable members.
In accordance with another aspect of the instant invention, there is provided a watercraft having a hull, at least one member for producing movement positioned below the hull, a steering member drivingly connected to the at least one member for producing movement by a steering linkage, wherein the hull has a recess for receiving the at least one member for producing movement.
In one embodiment, the at least one member for producing movement is mounted for vertical movement into and out of the recess.
In another embodiment, the linkage includes a steering rod which is vertically moveable and when the steering rod is listed vertically, the at least one member for producing movement moves into the recess.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGSThe foregoing features and advantages of the invention will become more apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment, especially when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which like numerals in the several views refer to corresponding parts. It will also be recognized by those skilled in the art that various embodiment features may be recombined to produce a watercraft optimized to specialized applications such as fishing, hunting, general recreation, touring, etc.
FIGS. 22(a)-(d) show the inflation and deflation steps for the watercraft in accordance with one embodiment of this invention of this invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION An embodiment of the watercraft that is the subject of the instant invention is shown in a perspective view in
The boat portion 1 preferably includes a rigid hull member 6, which is preferably molded from fiberglass or other suitable plastic material, and may typically be approximately two millimeters thick. It is found that a slope angle of about 10 to 25 degrees with the horizontal expanding towards a point two-thirds towards the stern similar to the design of a kayak for the rigid hull provides excellent stability and minimized flow resistance characteristics.
As best seen in the front view
The inflatable hull 8 preferably consists of a number of independent chambers, such as chambers 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14 is typically bonded to the upper surface of the rigid hull 6 and to the central rigid core 15. These chamber 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14 may be made from a multiple layers of air impermeable material such as air impermeable fabric which may include such synthetic fibers as nylon or other polyesters and laminated with rubberized material, such as NEOPRENE®, which exhibits superior air retention. The rigid hull may comprise polyester. Externally, the polyester core is preferably coated with one or more and preferably two additional layers of NEOPRENE® which provides strength and flexibility. A durable exterior coating of, e.g., HYPALONO® or KELVAR® is then preferably used on the outer layer to provide abrasion resistance and ultraviolet ray protection against the combined effects of water and sun.
As seen in
The rigid hull member 6 is preferably in the shape of a circular arc thereby minimizing the flow resistance in the water.
In an alternate embodiment, the outer hull member 6 may be made of an inflatable material (e.g. a material similar to that of the inflatable chambers). The inflatable chambers 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14 are positioned interior to the hull member 6. Thus, when the internal inflatable chambers are inflated, the outer hull member will inflate and take on a predetermined shape. One advantage of this approach is that a double walled construction is obtained. Further, due to the smaller diameter of the internal inflatable chambers, the required tensile strength of the material used to construct the outer hull 6 is reduced compared to the tensile strength which would be required if outer hull 6 itself was a single chamber that was inflated with a gas.
The drive system 2 of the embodiment of FIGS. 1(a) and (b) preferably comprises an electric motor 16 having a propeller 18. As used herein, the term propeller may be any member used to move water and may include an impeller. Preferably, to enhance safety of the watercraft, at least propeller 18, and more preferably motor 16 and propeller 18 are mounted in a housing. The housing may be of any design. Preferably the housing has a longitudinally extending body member which is hollow (e.g. tubular duct 17), an intake guard 20 and an outlet flow straightener and protective guard 19.
In accordance with one aspect of the instant invention, propeller 18 and the housing are configured to interact with each other so as to cut hair that may enter the housing. In the preferred embodiment of
In accordance with another aspect of the instant invention, at least one or both of guards 19, 20 are dimensioned to prevent fingers and toes of a person from extending into the housing where they will be cut by the propeller 18. The size of the openings provided by guards 19, 20 will vary depending on the spacing between guards 19, 20 and propeller 18. If propeller 18 is adjacent a guard (e.g. guard 19 as shown in
The seat assembly 4 of
The steering and thrust control assembly 5 of FIGS. 1(a) preferably comprises includes two handles for steering 26 and 27 into which a starboard and port super bright LED 28 and 29 are preferably incorporated.
The rotation of the handle 27 preferably controls a pulse width modulation circuit or engages several motor windings to control the speed and direction of the craft. Preferably, clockwise rotation increases the forward speed from the neutral position while counter clockwise rotation from the neutral position preferably increases the backward or reverse speed of the craft. The direction of rotation of the thrust control from the neutral position controls the direction and speed of rotation of the electric motor 16 to whose output shaft the propeller 18 is mechanically affixed.
A series of super bright LEDs 30, 31, and 32 are preferably provided to illuminate the area in the direction in which the craft is being steered. The super bright LEDs 33, 34, and 35 are preferably provided to illuminate the direction in which the hull is traveling. A super bright LED 36 is preferably provided to be visible from the rear of the vessel, such as at the top of the seat assembly 4.
A pair of carry handles 40 and 41 are preferably provided for manually moving the watercraft and may be attached to the central rigid core 15 but may optionally be affixed to the inflatable hull 8 of the vessel.
A pair of water cannons 37 and 38 may be provided as a game. They may be mounted on the inflatable hull 8 or onto the central rigid core 15 and are preferably mounted on one or both lateral sides of the watercraft,
If the motor is electrically operated, then the steering and thrust control assembly may be electrically connected to the battery 3 and the drive system 2 may be rotatably mounted to the watercraft and preferably to the central rigid core 15 such as by means of a shaft 39 which extends between the steering and thrust control unit 5 and the drive system 2.
In accordance with another embodiment, the drive system is rotatable mounted to the watercraft at a position at or somewhat forward of the longitudinal centre of the watercraft (i.e. the centre between the front end and the rear end of the watercraft in a direction of travel of the watercraft). If the watercraft has the shape of a standard boat, then the watercraft has a bow and a stern that are aligned with the direction of forward travel of the watercraft. In an alternate embodiment, the watercraft may be generally round in which case it may have more than one direction of travel. In any such case, in accordance with the instant embodiment, the drive system is rotatably mounted to the watercraft at only one location—even if the watercraft uses a plurality of propulsion units in the water. The distance from the front of the watercraft to the rotatable mount may be from about 30 to about 50% of the length of the watercraft from the front end (e.g. bow) to the rear end (e.g. stern), preferably form about 40 to about 50% and most preferably 51 to 55%. Accordingly, the point of thrust is at or ahead of the centre of the watercraft. This enhances the stability of the watercraft and also permits the watercraft to turn about an imaginary spot in the water. While in accordance with different embodiments of this invention, a plurality of motors or drive units may be used, each is preferably controlled by a single rotatable mount which is located at or slightly ahead of the longitudinal centre of the watercraft.
A hard point 42 may be mechanically affixed to the central rigid core 15 thereby providing a means of affixing a manual anchor or a towline.
In accordance with the foregoing, the resulting watercraft may have a body weighing only about 30 pounds and an engine module weighing 25 pounds and a battery weighing approximately 20 pounds. Because the three are readily separable and joinable, they can be carried as separate units. Moreover, the body portion may be readily placed atop an automobile or van. Because of the material from which the inflatable tubes are made, when placed on a car roof tube-side-down, there is no concern that the finish on the car will be damaged. The length and width of the boat portion can be designed so that it may readily be carried on the swim platform of a cruiser and usable as an auxiliary watercraft for running errands and the like when the larger craft is beached for extended periods.
Another embodiment of the watercraft, which is the subject of the instant invention, is shown in a frontal view in
The inflatable deck 43 is attached to the water hull 44. The inflatable deck 43 comprises a plurality of chambers (e.g. chambers 50, 51, 52 and 53) that are affixed by any means known in the art (e.g. mechanical fasteners, integral manufacturing or adhesion such as bonding or an adhesive) to the central rigid core 54. The water hull 44 is generally a circular arc thereby minimizing the flow resistance in the water. The water line is typically below where the water hull attaches to the inflatable deck. Thus, by having a hydrodynamically sound water hull 44 the shape of the inflatable hull 43 can be made to look like a spacecraft or a boat or a fictional character which might otherwise be hydrodynamically inefficient or even unsound for use as a boat.
At least one and preferably two or more water cannons 55 and 56 may be mounted on the inflatable deck and may be in flow communication with an electric pump which is switched on and off by switches on the steering and thrust control unit 49, Preferably, the water canons are mounted on one or more sides of the watercraft.
The drive system for this watercraft may comprise a heat engine 45 that is connected to a linear to rotary mechanisms 57 onto whose output shaft the propeller 58 is attached. It will be appreciated that a convention motor may be used.
The seat 48 and the LED lighting and controls may be similar to the watercraft shown in
The rotation of the handle 27 in this design controls the fuel flow rate to the heat engine thereby controlling the speed of the propeller and hence the speed of the craft. Typically, clockwise rotation increases the forward speed from the neutral position. A reversing gear engaged by a lever may optionally be installed but is not shown.
A windscreen or water shield 59 is optionally provided for the comfort and safety of the rider and to allow an optional “water” sensor 60 or plurality of sensors (not shown) to be mounted as part of a system to detect a water spray impact by a water cannon of another craft as part of a game described later. The water shield is preferably clear. The water shield preferably surrounds at least a portion of the operator when the watercraft is in use. The water shield is preferably positioned around the rear and optionally the rear and sides of the area in which the operator sits.
A canister of pressurized polyurethane foam 61 and a means to activate it 62 are optionally provided such that the foam canister is connectable in flow communication with chambers 51 and 52 such that chambers 51 and 52 (and optionally other chambers) can be filled by foam either upon delivery of the craft to the customer if a reduction in portability is acceptable or in the case of an emergency where one or more of the chambers of the inflatable hull or water hull become punctured and floatation of the vessel is inhibited.
Another embodiment of the watercraft, which is the subject of the instant invention, is shown in the perspective view in
A pair of inflatable armrests 67 and 68, which may be comprised of a series of internal chambers (not shown), may optionally be included for the comfort of the rider.
A fishing pole holder may optionally be provided.
A means of mounting a fish finder 70 to the steering column 71 is also optionally provided and the means of electrically connecting said fish finder to the battery by means of wires and switches (not shown) is also optionally provided.
A live well 72 that is constantly filled with fresh water from a flow diverted from the pressure side of the propulsion system by means of the hose 73 may optionally be provided. Alternately, a separately controlled electric pump can fulfill this purpose. A small electrically driven air pump 74 may be provided to provide oxygen rich air to tube 75 and force said air through sparger 76 to maintain an oxygen level in the live well 72 sufficient for the fish caught to remain alive.
A small cooler 77, which may be kept cool by means of ice or by means of a refrigeration system such as a peltier effect thermoelectric module is optionally also provided and is powered by the battery 64.
A small generator 70 is also optionally provided to recharge the batteries by wires (not shown) at a rate that is insufficient to drive the propulsion system constantly at full speed. The use of a small generator is made practical by the fact that when fishing or trolling at slow speeds, the small generator provides a net charge to the battery whereas during the trip to and from the fishing locations at high speed, the energy stored in that battery provides the additional energy required by the [propulsion system but which cannot be supplied by the small generator.
A small compartment 78 for keeping bait, tackle, and other materials including an emergency kit is also optionally provided.
A preferred layout for the controls of the embodiment of the watercraft shown in
Another embodiment of the watercraft, which is the subject of the instant invention, is shown in the perspective view
Another embodiment of the watercraft, which is the subject of the instant invention, is shown in the perspective view
Another embodiment of the watercraft, which is the subject of the instant invention, is shown in the perspective view
Another embodiment of the watercraft, which is the subject of the instant invention, is shown in the perspective view
Another embodiment of the watercraft, which is the subject of the instant invention, is shown in the perspective view
Another embodiment of the watercraft, which is the subject of the instant invention, is shown in the perspective view
In accordance with another embodiment of the instant invention, a duct 161 provides improved efficiency for the propeller 161 as do the planar members 162 and 163 which act as flow straighteners which also serve to protect the motor and propeller from damage by contact with rocks or the lake bottom as well as protecting swimmers and animals in the water from contact with the propeller. To provide improved fluid moving efficiency, the outer diameter of propeller 18 and the inner surface of duct 161 are preferably spaced close together to define a narrow gap or annular space therebetween. The width VWP (see
In
In
The deflated water hull 259 and deflated seat 261 can then be folded onto and/or into the hollow rigid cavity 260 to facilitate transportation (see
The wheels 262 and 263 (and their unseen counterparts on the other side) may optionally be inflated to become conventional wheels or to become round balls to further facilitate easy movement on sandy beaches. Said wheels may either be manually inflated and deflated or may optionally be inflated and subsequently deflated by an electric pump permanently attached to the craft not shown.
Two additional optional handles 265 and 266 are preferably exposed when the watercraft is deflated but normally sit above the water line. These handles 265 and 266 allow easy transportation of the craft.
It is to be understood that the invention can be carried out with many inter combinations of the various elements described herein and by specifically different equipment and devices, and that various modifications, both as to the equipment details and operating procedures, can be accomplished without departing from the scope of the invention itself. In particular the use of the motor assembly maybe used with a convention hull, the inflatable hull of any of the configurations may be used with any conventional motor design or any motor design discussed herein, The rigid hull may be used with any inflatable construction disclosed herein, and the inflatable seat may be used with any construction disclosed herein.
Claims
1. A watercraft having a hull which is adapted for travel in at least one direction of travel, the hull having front end in the direction of travel and a rear end in the direction of travel, the watercraft having at least one member for producing movement positioned below the hull, a longitudinal centre between the front end and the rear end of the hull, the at least one member for producing movement rotatably mounted to the watercraft at a rotatable mount at a single position located at or ahead of the longitudinal centre.
2. The watercraft as claimed in claim 1 wherein the distance from the front end to the rotatable mount may be from about 30 to about 50% of the length of the hull.
3. The watercraft as claimed in claim 1 wherein the distance from the front end to the rotatable mount may be from about 40 to about 50% of the length of the hull.
4. The watercraft as claimed in claim 1 wherein the distance from the front end to the rotatable mount may be from about 51 to about 55% of the length of the hull.
5. The watercraft as claimed in claim 1 further comprising a steering member having a portion to be gripped by a hand of a user and a steering rod that extends between the steering member and the member for producing movement.
6. The watercraft as claimed in claim 5 wherein the steering rod extends generally vertically.
7. The watercraft as claimed in claim 1 wherein the member for producing movement comprises a propeller.
8. A propeller housing for a watercraft comprising a body portion defining a chamber having an inlet end and an outlet end in which a propeller is positioned, the propeller and the body portion are configured to interact to cut hair that enters the chamber.
9. The propeller housing as claimed in claim 8 wherein the body portion comprises a longitudinally extending hollow member having an inner surface and the propeller has blades which are positioned sufficiently close to the inner surface of hollow member to create a cutting action when the propeller is in use.
10. The propeller housing as claimed in claim 8 wherein the body portion has a guard positioned at one end of the body portion and proximate the propeller and the propeller has blades which are positioned sufficiently close to the guard to create a cutting action when the propeller is in use.
11. The propeller housing as claimed in claim 8 wherein the body portion has a guard positioned adjacent at least one of the inlet and outlet ends, the guard comprises a plurality of planar members which are configured to prevent fingers and toes of a person from contacting the propeller.
12. The propeller housing as claimed in claim 8 wherein the body portion has a guard positioned adjacent at least one of the inlet and outlet ends, the guard comprises a plurality of planar members which are configured to prevent fingers and toes of a person from extending past the planar members.
13. A propeller housing for a watercraft comprising a body portion defining a chamber having an inlet end and an outlet end in which a propeller is positioned, the body portion has a guard positioned adjacent at least one of the inlet and outlet ends, the guard comprising a plurality of planar members which are configured to prevent fingers and toes of a person from contacting the propeller.
14. The propeller housing as claimed in claim 13 wherein the planar members are configured to prevent fingers and toes of a person from extending past the planar members.
15. A propeller housing for a watercraft comprising a body portion defining a chamber having an inner wall, an inlet end and an outlet end in which a propeller is positioned, the propeller being spaced from the inner wall to define a gap, the gap having a width that is up to 25% of the diameter of the propeller.
16. The propeller housing as claimed in claim 15 wherein the width is from 1 to 15% of the diameter of the propeller.
17. The propeller housing as claimed in claim 15 wherein the width is from 3 to 10% of the diameter of the propeller.
18. The propeller housing as claimed in claim 15 wherein at least one of the inlet end and the outlet end of the body portion has members configured to at least partially straighten the flow of water flowing therepast.
19. The propeller housing as claimed in claim 15 wherein the members are planar members and each planar member has a length in the direction of flow that is from 30 to 70% of the transverse width of that planar member.
20. A propeller housing for a watercraft comprising a body portion defining a chamber having an inner wall, an inlet end and an outlet end in which a propeller is positioned, at least one of the inlet end and the outlet end of the body portion has members configured to at least partially straighten the flow of water flowing therepast.
21. The propeller housing as claimed in claim 20 wherein the members are planar members and each planar member has a length in the direction of flow that is from 30 to 70% of the transverse width of that planar member.
22. The propeller housing as claimed in claim 20 wherein the members are planar members and each planar member has a length in the direction of flow that is from 40 to 60% of the transverse width of that planar member.
23. The propeller housing as claimed in claim 20 wherein the members are planar members and each planar member has a length in the direction of flow that is about 50% of the transverse width of that planar member.
24. The propeller housing as claimed in claim 20 wherein the planar members are pivotally mounted to the body portion about a horizontal axis.
25. The propeller housing as claimed in claim 20 wherein the planar members are pivotally mounted to the body portion about a vertical axis.
26. A hull for a watercraft which has a potion that is below a waterline when in use, the hull having an exterior surface and comprises a rigid hull member and at least one inflatable member wherein rigid hull member defines the portion of the hull of the watercraft that is below the waterline and the inflatable member is positioned so that at least a portion of the inflatable member is above the waterline and defines a portion of the exterior surface of the hull of the watercraft.
27. The hull as claimed in claim 26 further comprising a rigid central core having a perimeter.
28. The hull as claimed in claim 26 wherein the inflatable member extends around the perimeter of the central core.
29. A hull for a watercraft comprises an outer inflatable hull member and a plurality of inflatable members positioned interior to the outer inflatable hull member.
30. The hull as claimed in claim 29 wherein the plurality of inflatable members, when inflated, proximate the shape of the outer inflatable hull member when the outer inflatable hull member is inflated.
31. The hull as claimed in claim 29 wherein inflation of the plurality of inflatable members inflation of the outer inflatable hull member.
32. A driver's seat for a watercraft comprising a plurality of individually inflatable chambers.
33. A propulsion system for a watercraft comprising a plurality of propellers positioned in series in a longitudinally extending housing.
34. The propulsion system as claimed in claim 33 further comprising a plurality of motors each of which is drivingly connected to at least one propeller.
35. The propulsion system as claimed in claim 33 wherein each propeller is driven by a motor.
36. A watercraft comprising a hull, a plurality of propellers positioned in parallel and a single steering rod rotatably connected to the watercraft and drivingly connected to the plurality of propellers.
37. The watercraft as claimed in claim 36 wherein the propellers and mounted in longitudinally extending housings.
38. The watercraft as claimed in claim 36 further comprising a plurality of motors each of which is drivingly connected to at least one propeller.
39. The watercraft as claimed in claim 36 wherein each propeller is driven by a motor.
40. A watercraft comprising a hull and at least one water cannon, wherein the water canon is positioned on a side of the watercraft.
41. The watercraft as claimed in claim 40 further comprising a water shield member positioned around at least a portion of the area in which an operator sits to protect the operator from water directed at the watercraft from a second watercraft having a water cannon positioned on the side of the second watercraft.
42. The watercraft as claimed in claim 41 further comprising a water sensor positioned on the water shield member.
43. The watercraft as claimed in claim 42 wherein the water shield member is transparent.
44. The watercraft as claimed in claim 40 further comprising a water sensor.
45. A watercraft having a hull which is adapted for travel in at least one direction of travel, the hull having front end in the direction of travel and a rear end in the direction of travel, the watercraft having at least one member for producing movement positioned below the hull, a steering member drivingly connected to the at least one member for producing movement by a steering linkage, an a headlight provided on at least one of the steering member and the steering linkage.
46. The watercraft as claimed in claim 45 wherein the headlight comprises a plurality of superbright LEDs.
47. A watercraft having a hull which is adapted for travel in at least one direction of travel, the hull having front end in the direction of travel and a rear end in the direction of travel, the watercraft having at least one member for producing movement positioned below the hull, a steering member drivingly connected to the at least one member for producing movement by a steering linkage, an a radio provided on at least one of the steering member and the steering linkage.
48. The watercraft as claimed in claim 47 further comprising at least one speaker.
49. The watercraft as claimed in claim 48 wherein at least one speaker. Is provided on the steering member.
50. A hull for a watercraft which has at least one inflatable member and a canister having a mixture therein which produces a hard drying foam when the mixture is released from the canister in flow communication with the at least one inflatable member.
51. The hull as claimed in claim 50 wherein the at least one inflatable member is adapted to be inflated by air and, if punctured once inflated, is adapted to be filled by the mixture.
52. A hull for a watercraft comprises a rigid hull member composed of a plurality of rigid sections which are foldably connected together and at least one inflatable member wherein rigid hull member defines at least a portion of the hull of the watercraft that is below water when in use and the inflatable member is connected to the rigid sections.
53. The hull as claimed in claim 52 wherein the rigid hull members are foldably connected together by being connected to the at least one inflatable member.
54. The hull as claimed in claim 52 wherein the rigid hull members are each independently connected to a different portion of the at least one inflatable member.
55. The hull as claimed in claim 53 further comprising a rigid central core having a perimeter.
56. The hull as claimed in claim 54 wherein the at least one inflatable member extends around the perimeter of the central core.
57. The hull as claimed in claim 54 further comprising at least one longitudinally extending rigid members releasably connected to the hull and configured to stiffen the inflatable members.
58. A watercraft having a hull, at least one member for producing movement positioned below the hull, a steering member drivingly connected to the at least one member for producing movement by a steering linkage, wherein the hull has a recess for receiving the at least one member for producing movement.
59. The watercraft as claimed in claim 58 wherein the at least one member for producing movement is mounted for vertical movement into and out of the recess.
60. The watercraft as claimed in claim 58 wherein the linkage includes a steering rod which is vertically moveable and when the steering rod is listed vertically, the at least one member for producing movement moves into the recess.
Type: Application
Filed: Jul 4, 2006
Publication Date: Jun 7, 2007
Inventor: Wayne Conrad (Hampton)
Application Number: 11/428,562
International Classification: B63B 35/73 (20060101);