WATER SPORTS APPARATUS COMPRISING A WATER VEHICLE AND USE OF A WATER VEHICLE

Abstract

A water sports apparatus (20) including a water vehicle (30) having a motorized, in particular electric, drive (36), wherein the water vehicle (30) is designed without an onboard steering device, wherein the water sports apparatus (20) includes a tether (40) for towing a water sports enthusiast (62) or a second water sports apparatus (64) along behind the water vehicle (30), wherein the water vehicle (30) includes a fastening device (38) for fastening the tether (40), wherein the tether (40) is fastened or can be fastened by one end to the fastening device (38), wherein the fastening device (38) is arranged in a stern-side half of the water vehicle (30), and wherein a handle (50) for a water sports enthusiast (62) or for a second water sports apparatus (64) is arranged, in particular fastened or fastenable, on another end of the tether (40).

Description

PRIORITY CLAIM

The present application claims priority to DE 10 2022 132 643.8, filed Dec. 8, 2022, and to EP 23 154 777.9, filed Feb. 2, 2023.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

Field of Invention

The present disclosure relates to a water sports apparatus comprising a water vehicle having a motorized drive, wherein the water vehicle is designed without an onboard steering device. Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to the use of an unmanned water vehicle designed without an onboard steering device and to the use of a water sports apparatus.

Brief Description of Related Art

In water sports, there are various possibilities for moving in and on the water. Traditional forms of locomotion are muscle-powered, such as swimming, rowing, or canoeing. Furthermore, there are various means of locomotion which use the wind as a source of energy, for example sailing with a sailboat or windsurfing with a sailboard. Furthermore, there are many motorized water sports apparatuses which are driven, for example, by means of fuel or electrically.

On account of the progress made in battery technology, for example lithium-ion battery technology, electrically driven, battery-assisted water sports apparatuses are undergoing rapid development.

For example, DE 10 2019 116 689 A1 by the applicant discloses a water vehicle having a jet propulsion module, wherein the water vehicle comprises modules that can be interconnected, wherein a stern module and a bow module are provided which can be releasably connected by means of a first connection mechanism, and additionally a jet propulsion module and a power supply module are provided so as to be releasably connectable to the stern module. In this way, an electrically motorized surfboard, bodyboard or canoe, for example, is produced.

In addition, problems with regard to flexible and safe operation arise due to new water vehicles or new uses of known water vehicles. This was addressed, for example, by the control of a water vehicle in DE 10 2020 108 245 A1 by means of a specially designed remote controller.

Therefore, the prior art constantly throws up the challenge of developing innovative forms of propulsion for water sports apparatuses, other water vehicles, and water sports enthusiasts that are advantageous with regard to costs, efficiency, weight, travel comfort, maneuverability, and/or conservation of resources.

This also applies to water sports apparatuses or water sports enthusiasts that or who are towed through the water or over the water. For example, it is known to tow a water sports enthusiast on a conventional surfboard by means of a motor boat or to tow a water sports enthusiast on water skis by means of a specialized installation, such as a water ski installation.

Against the background of this prior art, an object is to optimize the towing of a water sports apparatus that is suitable for being towed along behind or of a water sports enthusiast with regard to costs, weight, conservation of resources, and/or safety.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Such object can be achieved by means of a water sports apparatus comprising a water vehicle having a motorized drive, which can be an electric drive, wherein the water vehicle is designed without an onboard steering device, wherein the water sports apparatus is further developed in that the water sports apparatus comprises a tether for towing a water sports enthusiast and/or a second water sports apparatus along behind the water vehicle and in that the water vehicle comprises a fastening device for fastening the tether, wherein the tether is fastened or can be fastened by one end to the fastening device, wherein the fastening device is arranged in a stern-side half of the water vehicle, wherein a handle for a water sports enthusiast or for a second water sports apparatus is arranged, such as fastened or fastenable, on another end of the tether.

A basic concept of the present disclosure comprises a water sports apparatus or water sports enthusiast, for example a water sports enthusiast on a conventional surfboard or a water sports enthusiast on conventional water skis, being towed by a water vehicle with a motorized drive but without an onboard steering device. Said water vehicle can, for example, be equipped with a jet drive and thus have small dimensions and a low weight, such that the water sports enthusiast can have a powerful drive with a high degree of mobility and low consumption of resources. A water vehicle without an onboard steering device can entail reduced technical effort during construction, reduced weight, and lower acquisition and maintenance costs. The water sports apparatus thus can constitute a cost-effective and easily transportable propulsion variant for being towed along behind.

In an embodiment, small and thus nimble water vehicles can be provided for use in the water sports apparatus. In embodiments, the water vehicle can be in the form of a surfboard or bodyboard, wherein the water vehicle can be a surfboard having a motorized drive or a bodyboard having a motorized drive. In one embodiment, the motorized drive can be a jet drive, for example an electric jet drive.

In one embodiment, the water vehicle can be designed as described in the patent application DE 10 2019 116 689 A1. For example, the water vehicle can comprise multiple interconnectable modules, wherein a stern module, a bow module, a jet propulsion module, and a power supply module can be provided, wherein the stern module and the bow module can be releasably connected by means of a connection mechanism. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the bow module and stern module can be configured such that the bow module and stern module can float in each case individually and in combination. The water vehicle can still float if the power supply module is received in the water vehicle.

An onboard steering device within the context of this disclosure is a device by means of which the travel direction of the water vehicle can be changed by mechanically changing the position of at least one component. In other words, by adjusting the position of at least one component of the onboard steering device, the travel direction of the water vehicle changes. An onboard steering device thus can be a rudder or guide rudder, for example. An onboard steering device can also be a jet nozzle that is rotatable or movable in order to change the direction in which water is ejected in the case of a jet drive. The water vehicle of the water sports apparatus does not comprise an onboard steering device.

The fastening device for the tether is arranged in a stern-side half of the water vehicle. In embodiments, the fastening device can be arranged in at least one of the stern-side third, the stern-side quarter and the stern-side fifth of the water vehicle. This can have the technical advantage that the water vehicle effectively tows the water sports enthusiast or the second water sports apparatus without the tether being attached to the water vehicle in such a way that the water vehicle turns.

The water sports enthusiast can be, for example, the operator, i.e. the person operating the water sports apparatus.

In an embodiment, the water sports apparatus can comprise an emergency stop device for stopping the water vehicle, wherein the emergency stop device can comprise an emergency detector, wherein the emergency stop device stops the drive when the emergency detector is tripped. For example, the tripping of the emergency detector can be the removal of a safety element from a recess of the handle provided for said safety element. This can increase the safety of the water sports enthusiast operating the water sports apparatus, and can prevent damage caused by a water vehicle that is still being propelled if the water sports enthusiast intentionally or unintentionally releases the handle.

The emergency detector can be, for example, configured to detect whether there is an emergency. An emergency can be, for example, a state in which the water vehicle should be stopped, for example because the water sports enthusiast has accidentally fallen into the water or because the water sports enthusiast has lost control of the water sports apparatus.

In one embodiment, the tripping of the emergency detector can be satisfied by fulfilling an emergency stop condition. In other words, the tripping of the emergency detector is synonymous with the satisfaction of an emergency condition.

In one embodiment, an emergency to be detected, and thus also an emergency condition, can be that a predetermined distance between the handle and a predetermined location on the body of the water sports enthusiast, such as the wrist or a location on the belt, is exceeded.

The emergency stop device can stop the drive when the emergency detector is tripped, i.e. the motor is stopped. Then, the water vehicle is not moved further forwards or backwards by the motor. The motor is stopped and does not react to any further drive control signals either, for example an actuation for increased or reduced speed, until the emergency stop is canceled.

The safety element can be, for example, a magnet for interacting with a magnetically operatively connected counterpart or a button, a plug, a stopper, a hook, or a clip for cooperating with a respective mechanically operatively connected counterpart.

In an embodiment, the emergency detector can be arranged on or in the handle, wherein the emergency detector comprises a magnet having an effective range and a first reed switch, wherein the magnet is releasably arranged on the handle and wherein the first reed switch is arranged within the effective range of the magnet, wherein the first reed switch is contained in an emergency stop electrical circuit, wherein the first reed switch is configured to open the emergency stop electrical circuit if the magnet is moved away from the first reed switch. This can allow for reliable and water-tight, in particular saltwater-tight, switching of the emergency stop device. This can be useful in the safety-relevant technology of an emergency stop device.

The magnet here can constitute a safety element in the above-mentioned sense.

The condition that the magnet be moved away from the first reed switch can be the condition that the effective range of the magnet is moved away from the first reed switch, i.e. that the magnet achieves a sufficiently large distance from the reed switch for the magnetic field of the magnet to no longer be effective on the reed switch.

In an embodiment, the magnet can be coupled to a fastening line and the fastening line is or can be fastened to a water sports enthusiast, such as to a wrist or item of clothing of the water sports enthusiast. In this way, if the water sports enthusiast is moved away from the first reed switch arranged on or in the handle, for example because they have fallen into the water, the magnet coupled to a fastening line can also be moved away from the handle. This can reliably and safely trip the emergency stop device.

In an embodiment, the fastening line can be a spiral cord.

Safe and energy-independent operation can be achieved by the emergency stop device having a battery arranged in the handle or in the water vehicle for supplying voltage to an emergency stop electrical circuit.

For example, the battery can be a non-rechargeable battery or an accumulator. In an embodiment, the battery can be a lithium-ion accumulator. For example, the operating voltage of the battery can be 3.2 volts or 3.7 volts. In another embodiment, the operating voltage of the battery can be at least one of between 1.0 volt and 5.0 volts, between 3.0 volts and 5.0 volts, and between 3.0 volts and 4.0 volts. In another embodiment, the operating voltage of the battery can be at least one of between 9.0 volts and 15.0 volts, between 11.0 volts and 13.0 volts, and 12.0 volts.

In an embodiment, the battery can be configured to be inductively rechargeable. For example, the emergency stop device can comprise a battery charging device that is arranged in or on the handle or in or on the battery, wherein the battery can be inductively charged by means of the battery charging device. This can allow for convenient operation without charging contacts that are exposed to water during use of the water sports apparatus.

In an embodiment, the emergency stop device can comprise at least two batteries arranged in the handle or in the water vehicle for supplying voltage to an emergency stop electrical circuit.

In one embodiment, the emergency stop electrical circuit can be an emergency stop electrical circuit that comprises a first reed switch. For example, the battery can be connected to a first reed switch of an emergency detector by means of an emergency stop electrical circuit.

In an embodiment, the drive can be controllable by means of drive control signals, wherein a remote controller that can be operated by the water sports enthusiast is provided for operating the water vehicle, wherein drive control signals are transmittable to the drive by means of the remote controller, wherein the drive control signals can be at least partially wirelessly transmittable. In an embodiment, the handle can comprise a recess for receiving the remote controller in the handle, wherein, for example, the remote controller can be releasably fastened to the handle. In an embodiment, the remote controller can be pushed into the handle.

Drive control signals can be sent to the drive conveniently and reliably by means of a remote controller. Drive control signals can be, for example, the switching on of the drive, switching off of the drive, a higher speed, or a lower speed. Since the water vehicle is a water vehicle without an onboard steering device, in an embodiment the drive control signals are not steering signals, wherein steering signals define a lateral direction.

In one embodiment, the remote controller can comprise a trigger, such as a pressure-sensitive pushbutton switch or a trigger of the like for a firearm, for operating the remote controller. For example, the remote controller can be pushed into the handle, wherein substantially only the trigger of the remote controller is visible from outside. In one embodiment, the handle can comprise a latching element into which the remote controller can be latched.

In other embodiments, drive control signals can be transmitted from the remote controller to the drive in a completely wireless manner or in a completely cable-based manner or in a partially wireless manner and partially cable-based manner.

In one embodiment, the drive control signals can be transmitted via two wireless transceiver devices, as described, for example, in DE 10 2020 108 245 A1.

In an embodiment, the emergency stop device can comprise an emergency stop effecting unit, which can be arranged on or in the water vehicle or in the handle, wherein the emergency stop effecting unit is configured to detect whether the emergency detector has been tripped and to stop the drive when the emergency detector is tripped. For example, the emergency stop effecting unit can be configured to detect whether the emergency stop electrical circuit is open.

The emergency stop effecting unit is the technical means for effecting a technical consequence for the drive based on the tripping of the emergency detector. Due to the fact that the emergency stop effecting unit detects whether there is an emergency, i.e. whether an emergency condition is satisfied, a reliable and safe emergency switch-off can be ensured.

In one embodiment, opening of the emergency stop electrical circuit can follow on from the tripping of the emergency detector. Therefore, in one embodiment, the emergency stop effecting unit can detect whether the emergency stop electrical circuit is open and, in another embodiment, whether the emergency stop electrical circuit is closed. In further embodiments, the tripping of the emergency detector can be detected in that a predetermined voltage is applied in the emergency stop electrical circuit or a predetermined voltage pulse is applied or a predetermined voltage pattern occurs.

The emergency stop effecting unit can be configured to stop the drive if the emergency detector detects that an emergency condition is satisfied.

In an embodiment, the emergency stop effecting unit can comprise an electromagnet, wherein the electromagnet is contained in the emergency stop electrical circuit, wherein the emergency stop effecting unit comprises a reed sensor for the magnetic field of the electromagnet in order to detect an open emergency stop electrical circuit, wherein the emergency stop effecting unit is configured to stop the drive when the emergency stop electrical circuit is open. In an embodiment, the electromagnet can be connected to the first reed switch by means of an emergency stop signal cable. For example, the emergency stop signal cable can extend through the handle and along the tether and to the water vehicle. In this way, the information about the presence of an emergency, detected by means of the emergency detector, can be transmitted from the handle to the water vehicle, wherein water-tight and reliable transmission to the drive can be ensured by means of the combination of the electromagnet and reed sensor as the emergency stop effecting unit.

In one embodiment, the cause-effect relationship can be as follows: Because the electromagnet contained in the emergency stop electrical circuit is de-energized, because the first reed switch is open, because the magnet has been moved away from the first reed switch, the electromagnet loses its magnetic properties. The reed sensor can be configured to detect this change from “magnetic” to “non-magnetic”.

In one embodiment, the reed sensor can be arranged in or on the water vehicle. For example, the reed sensor can be arranged in a housing.

In an embodiment, the reed sensor of the emergency stop effecting unit can be configured to transmit an emergency stop signal via a reed sensor signal cable to the drive, for example to a drive control unit.

The electromagnet can be fastened in a particularly stable and reliable manner in an embodiment, wherein the electromagnet can be fastened to or in the water vehicle by means of a retaining lip, which for example can consist of a flexible material, such as rubber. On account of this design measure, secure fastening and simple replacement of the electromagnet can be possible. For example, the electromagnet can be fastened to or in the water vehicle by means of two above-mentioned retaining lips.

In an embodiment, the remote controller can be arranged in the handle, wherein the remote controller is connected to a drive control signal cable that extends along the tether, wherein the drive control signals are transmittable from the remote controller to the drive by means of the drive control signal cable, wherein the emergency stop effecting unit is arranged in the handle, wherein the emergency stop effecting unit is configured to prevent transmission of the drive control signals from the remote controller to the drive depending on whether the emergency detector is tripped, for example, whether the emergency stop electrical circuit is open. In this embodiment, the emergency stop device can therefore be configured to block the remote controller and its functioning if the emergency stop device was tripped. In this way, a cable-based remote controller can be easily provided with an emergency stop device without an emergency stop signal cable connection being required between the handle and the water vehicle. Instead, it can be possible to retrofit a conventional water vehicle with very little effort.

In one embodiment, the drive control signals can be transmitted from the remote controller to the water vehicle by means of the drive control signal cable, wherein the drive control signals are transmitted wirelessly on a transmission section on the water vehicle. In one embodiment, the drive control signal cable can be connected to a wireless sending unit on or in the water vehicle and the wireless sending unit can be configured to send the drive control signals to a wireless receiver unit arranged on or in the water vehicle, wherein the wireless receiver unit is configured to receive the drive control signals sent by the wireless sending unit and to transmit said signals via cables to the drive or to a drive controller of the water vehicle. On account of a wireless transmission step, contact connections that can be attacked by salt water can be avoided. In embodiments, the remote controller can be designed as described in DE 10 2020 108 245 A1.

In another embodiment, the remote controller can be arranged in the handle, wherein the drive control signals can be sent from the remote controller to a receiver unit arranged on or in the water vehicle by means of a wireless drive control signal connection, wherein the receiver unit is configured to transmit the drive control signals to the drive, for example via cables, wherein the emergency stop effecting unit is arranged in the handle, wherein the emergency stop effecting unit is configured to prevent transmission of the drive control signals from the remote controller to the drive depending on whether the emergency detector is tripped, for example whether the emergency stop electrical circuit is open.

In one embodiment, the emergency stop effecting unit arranged in the handle can comprise a second reed sensor, wherein the second reed sensor is configured to detect whether the emergency stop electrical circuit is open, or to detect whether the emergency stop electrical circuit is closed. In another embodiment, the emergency stop effecting unit arranged in the handle can be contained in the emergency stop electrical circuit.

In other embodiments, multiple sensors for detecting an open emergency stop electrical circuit can be provided in the emergency stop effecting unit, for example a sensor in or on the water vehicle and a sensor in or on the handle. In embodiments, each individual sensor can be configured to stop the drive.

In another embodiment, the emergency stop effecting unit can be configured to receive a continuous emergency stop safety signal, wherein the emergency stop safety signal is sent from a safety signal sending unit contained in the emergency stop electrical circuit, and wherein the emergency stop effecting unit is configured to stop the drive when no emergency stop safety signal has been received for a predetermined period of time. This can reduce the design effort, since signal cables can be dispensed with. In an embodiment, the emergency stop safety signal is sent at least partially wirelessly.

This embodiment can work in a similar manner to a dead man's switch, which can allow the technical apparatus, in this case the drive, to function as long as a regular dead man's signal, in this case the emergency stop safety signal, is received. In this connection, a continuous emergency stop safety signal can be a signal that is sent at a frequency of at least one of at least once per second, at least twice per second, and at least ten times per second. The shorter the predetermined period of time selected for no emergency stop safety signal being received, the safer can be the operation of the water sports apparatus.

Furthermore, in an embodiment, the water vehicle can have an upper face, wherein the fastening device of the water vehicle comprises a connection region of the tether to the fastening device for fastening the tether, wherein the fastening device is mounted in an elevated position on the upper face of the water vehicle in such a way that a predetermined lever effect is producible on the water vehicle by means of the tether.

When the speed increases, for example upon start-up of a previously stationary water vehicle, this can make it possible for the bow of the water vehicle to be held above the surface of the water. One embodiment of the fastening device that allows for such a lever effect can offer greater travel comfort and greater safety, for example during start-up of the water vehicle.

In one embodiment, the fastening device can be the device of the water vehicle that is arranged farthest away from the surface of the water.

In another embodiment, the handle can comprise an integrated control element controllable by the water sports enthusiast, wherein the control element is configured to transmit drive control signals to the drive via a signal cable, wherein the signal cable extends from the control element inside the tether or outside along the tether in a direction toward the water vehicle. In an embodiment, the control element can comprise a lever and a deflection of the lever can be detected by means of a Hall sensor of the control element in order to generate the drive control signals. In this embodiment, the water vehicle can thus be controlled, e.g. accelerated or braked, via a control element that is integrated into the handle. The control element can be, for example, a throttle lever, further for example a thumb throttle lever, which regulates the power of the drive. The Hall sensor can register the deflection of the throttle lever and generate drive control signals, which are transmitted via the signal cable, which is for example the drive control signal cable.

In an embodiment, the tether can comprise a transmitter unit configured to transmit control signals, which can be drive control signals, wirelessly to a receiver unit of the water vehicle, wherein the transmitter unit is configured to rest against the receiver unit of the water vehicle. In embodiments, the transmitter unit can be configured to be detachably fixed to the receiver unit. In this way, the drive control signals can be transmitted wirelessly from the tether to the water vehicle and thus the drive. For example, the signal cable and/or the drive control signal cable can be connected to the transmitter unit. In this vein, on the one hand, the drive control signals can be transmitted securely, and on the other hand, the tether can be removed from the water vehicle quickly and easily. For example, the transmitter unit can rest against the receiver unit during operation of the water vehicle and, for example, can be fixed to the receiver unit. After operation, the transmitter unit can be removed from the water vehicle together with the tether. By resting the transmitter unit against the receiver unit, the quality of the signal transmission can be improved. For example, the transmitter unit can rest on the receiver unit and can be detachably fixed there. In an embodiment, the transmitter unit and the receiver unit can be formed as an assembly with components of the emergency stop device. For example, the transmitter unit can comprise the electromagnet and the receiver unit can comprise the reed sensor for the magnetic field of the electromagnet.

In one embodiment, the receiver unit of the water vehicle can comprise an induction unit, wherein the induction unit is configured to supply the transmitter unit, which rests against the receiver unit, with electric current by means of induction. In this way, it can be no longer necessary to equip the transmitter unit with a separate energy source for electric current. Instead, the transmitter unit can be inductively supplied with energy via the receiver unit. Since the water vehicle is equipped with an energy source for the drive anyway, this energy source can also be used for the power supply of the transmitter unit. For example, the induction unit can be powered via a 12 V energy source. For example, the induction unit can be a first induction coil. For example, the transmitter unit can comprise an induction receiving device, for example a second induction coil. In an embodiment, the induction receiving device can be integrated into a power supply of the transmitter unit or can form the power unit of the transmitter unit. According to one embodiment, the induction unit can supply not only the transmitter unit but also the emergency stop device and/or further devices in the tether and/or the handle with electrical energy. In this way, it is not necessary to provide a separate energy source, for example for the emergency stop device and/or the hand throttle. According to an alternative embodiment, the tether and/or the handle can comprise its own energy source.

Furthermore, the object can be achieved by the use of an unmanned first water vehicle that is designed without an onboard steering device and that comprises an electric drive, such as a jet drive, for towing a second water vehicle and/or a water sports apparatus and/or a water sports enthusiast along behind by means of a tether.

This is a hitherto unknown use of a described water vehicle and thus can offer a novel, efficient, and convenient form of propulsion for the second water vehicle or a water sports apparatus or a water sports enthusiast. A first water vehicle of this kind can entail advantages such as flexibility, low weight, and low manufacturing and operating costs. By means of a tether, the drive can be connected to the second water vehicle or to the water sports apparatus or to the water sports enthusiast.

In some embodiments, the drive can be controlled by means of an above-described remote controller. In other embodiments, a drive controller for controlling the drive can be arranged in a handle arranged on the tether. The first water vehicle can be designed without an onboard steering device. For example, the first water vehicle can be steered by changing the towing direction by means of the tether. In an embodiment, the tether can be fastened to the stern-side half of the first water vehicle. As a result, the stern of the first water vehicle can be deflected in the event of a tensile force exerted by means of the tether, such that the electric drive, such as a jet drive, provides propulsion in another direction. On account of the changed travel direction of the first water vehicle, a changed direction of movement of the second water vehicle and/or water sports apparatus and/or water sports enthusiast being towed along behind follows. In one embodiment, for example when a water sports enthusiast is being towed along behind, the change in towing direction can take place by means of the tether by means of a lateral weight displacement of the water sports enthusiast.

In addition, the object can be achieved by the use of an above-described water sports apparatus for towing a water sports enthusiast and/or a second water sports apparatus along behind the water vehicle of the water sports apparatus. This can involve all above-mentioned technical features and advantages as well as all described technical effects. This relates, for example, to the features of an emergency stop device that allow for safe operation for the water sports apparatus and water sports enthusiast.

Further features will become evident from the description of embodiments together with the claims and the appended drawings. Embodiments can fulfill individual features or a combination of multiple features.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Within the framework of the present disclosure, features which are labeled with “in particular” are to be understood to be optional features.

The embodiments are described below, without restricting the general concept of the invention, based on the exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings, wherein reference is expressly made to the drawings regarding all of the details which are not explained in greater detail in the text, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a schematic overall side view of an embodiment of a water sports apparatus with a water sports enthusiast,

FIG. 2 is a schematic sectional representation in detail of a handle,

FIG. 3 is a schematic side sectional view of an embodiment of an emergency stop sensor arranged in the water vehicle,

FIG. 4 is a side view of a second water sports apparatus with a raised fastening device for the tether,

FIG. 5 is a schematic sectional representation in detail of a handle with a hand throttle, and

FIG. 6 is a schematic side sectional view of an embodiment of a water vehicle with a receiver unit and a tether with a transmitter unit for wireless signal transmission and current supply by means of induction.

In the drawings, the same or similar elements and/or parts are, in each case, provided with the same reference numerals such that they are not introduced again in each case.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 is a side overall view of a water sports apparatus 20, which is being operated by a water sports enthusiast 62 by means of a remote controller 60. The water sports enthusiast 62 is being towed by a water vehicle 30 by means of a tether 40 while holding onto a handle 50. The water sports enthusiast 62 is standing on a surfboard 64. The water vehicle 30 and the water sports enthusiast 62 with the surfboard 64 are floating on the water surface 96. In this embodiment, the water vehicle 30 is a bodyboard having a bow module 32 and a stern module 34 as well as a jet drive 36. The jet drive 36 is supplied with power by a voltage supply module (not shown).

The water vehicle 30 comprises a fastening device 38 for fastening the tether 40. Furthermore, an emergency stop effecting unit 80, which is described in more detail in FIG. 3, is arranged in the stern module 34 of the water vehicle 30.

The water sports enthusiast 62 can control the drive 36 of the water vehicle 30 by means of the remote controller 60, i.e. they can increase or reduce the speed of the drive. In particular, the remote controller 60 has no steering option. Likewise, the water vehicle 30 has no onboard steering device. Instead, the water sports enthusiast 62 can determine the travel direction of the water vehicle 30 and thus the movement direction of the water sports enthusiast 62 by means of weight displacement and by changing the towing direction by means of the tether 40.

FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a handle 50, which comprises a hand engagement region 51 as well as components of an emergency stop device. An emergency detector 55 is arranged in the handle 50 and has a first reed switch 52, which, in this exemplary embodiment, produces a closed emergency stop electrical circuit 54 when the magnet 66 is located in the vicinity of the first reed switch 52. The magnet 66 is a component of the emergency detector 55 and is fastened, for example, to the wrist of the water sports enthusiast 62 or to the belt of the water sports enthusiast 62 by means of a fastening line 68. If the water sports enthusiast 62 moves away from the handle 50, the magnet 66 is also moved away from the handle 50 by means of the fastening line 68, such that the emergency detector 55 is tripped by means of the first reed switch 52 and the emergency stop device stops the drive.

The emergency stop device also comprises a battery 56 having a first battery terminal 57 and a second battery terminal 58, wherein, in this exemplary embodiment, the first battery terminal 57 is the positive terminal of the battery 56 and the second battery terminal 58 is the negative terminal of the battery 56. In this exemplary embodiment, the battery 56 is a lithium-ion accumulator equipped with a 3.2 V operating voltage. The battery 56 constitutes the voltage supply for the emergency stop electrical circuit 54 and is connected to the first reed switch 52 of the emergency detector 55.

The emergency stop electrical circuit 54 extends from the handle 50 via the emergency stop signal cables 71, 72 via a connection device 74 into the tether section 42 of the tether 40 that is closest to the handle 50. The connection device connects the handle 50 to the tether 40 and is intended for a stable tensile connection between both components as well as stable electrical contacts for the emergency stop signal cables 71, 72.

The tether 40 is a stable rope designed for tensile loads of multiple times the weight of the water sports enthusiast 62. The water sports enthusiast holds the hand engagement region 51 of the handle 50 in their hand when using the water sports apparatus 20, wherein the hand is not shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 3 shows an exemplary embodiment of an emergency stop effecting unit 80, which, when the emergency detector 55 has been tripped, detects this and stops the drive of the water vehicle 30. In this exemplary embodiment, the emergency stop effecting unit 80 comprises a reed sensor 86, which sends a stop command to the drive 36 via the reed sensor signal cable 88 when the emergency detector 55 has been tripped.

The reed sensor 86 detects the magnetic field of an electromagnet 82, which is arranged in a housing 84, wherein the housing 84 is arranged in the stern module 34 of the water vehicle 30. In this exemplary embodiment, the positioning of the housing 84 provides additional stability, in that two retaining lips 94 delimit the recess in which the housing 84 of the electromagnet 82 is inserted.

The electromagnet 82 is part of the emergency stop electrical circuit 54, to which it is connected by means of the emergency stop signal cables 71, 72. The emergency stop signal cables 71, 72 are, for example, the continuations of the emergency stop signal cables 71, 72 from FIG. 2. The emergency stop signal cables 71, 72 are guided in the tether 40 from the handle 50 to the water vehicle 30 including the fastening device 38. Whereas the tether 40 is fastened to the fastening device 38, the emergency stop signal cables 71, 72 are guided in a cable guide 90 from the fastening device 38 to the housing 84 of the electromagnet 82. In this way, the electromagnet 82 is connected to the emergency stop electrical circuit 54 such that, when the emergency stop electrical circuit 54 is closed, the electromagnet 82 has a magnetic field which can be detected by the reed sensor 86. If the first reed switch 52 is opened due to the emergency condition being satisfied, the emergency stop electrical circuit 54 is also opened and the electromagnet 82 loses its magnetic field. This is detected by the reed sensor 86 and an emergency stop signal is transmitted to the drive 36.

The embodiment described uses an open emergency stop electrical circuit 54 as the emergency condition. In another embodiment, it is also possible for the emergency stop condition to be a closed emergency stop electrical circuit 54. Likewise, in other embodiments, the electromagnet 82 is magnetic when the emergency stop electrical circuit 54 is open and non-magnetic when the emergency stop electrical circuit 54 is closed.

FIG. 4 is a side view of a second water sports apparatus 20, which also comprises a water vehicle 30, a tether 40, and a handle 50. The water vehicle 30 differs from the water vehicle 30 from FIG. 1 in that the fastening device 38 is arranged in an elevated position on the upper face 31 of the water vehicle 30, such that a predeterminable lever effect can be produced on the water vehicle 30 when the tether 40 is pulled.

During operation of the water sports apparatus 20, for example during acceleration from standstill of the water vehicle 30, this serves to tilt the bow of the water vehicle 30 slightly upward during a forward movement of the water vehicle 30, propelled by a jet drive 36 in the stern region of the water vehicle 30, such that safe and effective towing of a water sports enthusiast 62 or water sports apparatus 64 is made possible. This is indicated in FIG. 4 by means of arrows, with the bow of the water vehicle 30 being raised during forward thrust of the drive 36.

FIG. 5 shows a schematic sectional representation of another embodiment of a handle 50. In contrast to the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the handle 50 in FIG. 5 comprises a control element 100, which is firmly integrated into the handle 50. In the embodiment shown, the control element 100 comprises a lever 102 in the form of a hand throttle, which can be pulled by the water sports enthusiast 62 when he holds the handle 50. By means of a Hall sensor 103, a deflection of the lever 102 is measured and drive control signals are generated, which are transmitted through the tether section 42 via a signal cable 101. In this way, the power of the drive 36 can be easily regulated.

FIG. 6 shows a schematic side sectional view of an embodiment of a water vehicle 30 comprising a receiver unit 111 for wireless reception of drive control signals. The tether 40 comprises a transmitter unit 110 designed to wirelessly transmit to the receiver unit 111 the drive control signals, which are transmitted from the signal cable 101 to the transmitter unit 110. From the receiver unit 111, the drive control signals are forwarded to the drive 36. In the embodiment shown, an emergency stop effecting unit 80, which is only insinuated in FIG. 6, is also integrated into the system comprising the transmitter unit 110 and receiver unit 111. For example, the emergency stop effecting unit 80 shown in FIG. 6 is an emergency stop effecting unit 80 as shown in more detail in FIG. 3. The transmitter unit 110 is configured to rest directly against the receiver unit 111, in particular to rest on the receiver unit 111. In this way, a high signal transmission quality is achieved. In the embodiment shown, the transmitter unit 110 is mounted or fixed on the receiver unit 111. For example, the transmitter unit 110 is held against the receiver unit 111 by means of the retaining lips 94 of the emergency stop effecting unit 80.

Furthermore, the receiver unit 111 comprises an induction unit 112, for example an induction coil, which is configured to supply a power supply 113 of the transmitter unit 110 with electric current. In this way, a separate power source for the tether 40 and the handle 50 can be dispensed with. The electrical current is transmitted wirelessly by means of induction, which is possible without interference even in the presence of water in the area of the transmitter unit 110 and the receiver unit 111. With the power supply 113, not only the transmitter unit 110, but also the emergency stop device and the control element 100 can be supplied with electrical power.

While there has been shown and described what is considered to be embodiments of the invention, it will, of course, be understood that various modifications and changes in form or detail could readily be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. It is therefore intended that the invention be not limited to the exact forms described and illustrated, but should be constructed to cover all modifications that may fall within the scope of the appended claims.

LISTING OF REFERENCE NUMERALS APPEARING IN DRAWING FIGURES

• • 20 Water sports apparatus
  • 30 Water vehicle
  • 31 Upper face
  • 32 Bow module
  • 34 Stern module
  • 36 Drive
  • 38 Fastening device
  • 40 Tether
  • 42 Tether section
  • 50 Handle
  • 51 Hand engagement region
  • 52 First reed switch
  • 54 Emergency stop electrical circuit
  • 55 Emergency detector
  • 56 Battery
  • 57 First battery terminal
  • 58 Second battery terminal
  • 60 Remote controller
  • 62 Water sports enthusiast
  • 64 Surfboard
  • 66 Magnet
  • 68 Fastening line
  • 71, 72 Emergency stop signal cables
  • 74 Connection device
  • 80 Emergency stop effecting unit
  • 82 Electromagnet
  • 84 Housing
  • 86 Reed sensor
  • 88 Reed sensor signal cable
  • 90 Cable guide
  • 94 Retaining lip
  • 96 Water surface
  • 100 Control element
  • 101 Signal cable
  • 102 Lever
  • 103 Hall sensor
  • 110 Transmitter unit
  • 111 Receiver unit
  • 112 Induction unit
  • 113 Power supply

Claims

1. A water sports apparatus comprising a water vehicle having a motorized electric drive, wherein the water vehicle does not have an onboard steering device, wherein the water sports apparatus comprises a tether for towing a water sports enthusiast and/or a second water sports apparatus behind the water vehicle, wherein the water vehicle comprises a fastening device to which the tether is fastened at a first end, wherein the fastening device is arranged in a stern-side half of the water vehicle, and wherein a handle for the water sports enthusiast and/or for the second water sports apparatus is fastened to a second end of the tether.

2. The water sports apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the water sports apparatus comprises an emergency stop device for stopping the water vehicle, wherein the emergency stop device comprises an emergency detector, wherein the emergency stop device is configured to stop the drive when the emergency detector is tripped.

3. The water sports apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the emergency detector is configured to be tripped when a safety element is removed from a recess of the handle provided for said safety element.

4. The water sports apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the emergency detector is arranged on or in the handle, wherein the emergency detector comprises a magnet having an effective range and a first reed switch, wherein the magnet is releasably arranged on the handle, wherein the first reed switch is arranged within the effective range of the magnet, wherein the first reed switch is contained in an emergency stop electrical circuit, wherein the first reed switch is configured to open the emergency stop electrical circuit when the magnet is removed from the first reed switch.

5. The water sports apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the magnet is coupled to a fastening line that is configured to be fastenable to a wrist or item of clothing of the water sports enthusiast.

6. The water sports apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the emergency stop device comprises a battery arranged in the handle or in the water vehicle for supplying voltage to the emergency stop electrical circuit.

7. The water sports apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the drive is controllable by means of drive control signals, wherein a remote controller that is operable by the water sports enthusiast is provided for operating the water vehicle, wherein the drive control signals are transmittable to the drive by means of the remote controller.

8. The water sports apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the handle comprises a recess for receiving the remote controller in the handle, and wherein the remote controller is releasably fastened to the handle.

9. The water sports apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the drive control signals are transmittable at least partially wirelessly to the drive by means of the remote controller.

10. The water sports apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the emergency stop device comprises an emergency stop effecting unit arranged on or in the water vehicle or in the handle, and wherein the emergency stop effecting unit is configured to detect whether the emergency detector has been tripped and to stop the drive (36) when the emergency detector is tripped.

11. The water sports apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the emergency stop effecting unit comprises an electromagnet, wherein the electromagnet is contained in the emergency stop electrical circuit, wherein the emergency stop effecting unit comprises a reed sensor for the magnetic field of the electromagnet in order to detect when the emergency stop electrical circuit is open, and wherein the emergency stop effecting unit is configured to stop the drive when the emergency stop electrical circuit is detected to be open.

12. The water sports apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the electromagnet is connected to the first reed switch by means of an emergency stop signal cable, wherein the emergency stop signal cable extends through the handle along the tether to the water vehicle.

13. The water sports apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the electromagnet is fastened to or in the water vehicle by means of a flexible retaining lip.

14. The water sports apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the remote controller is arranged in the handle, wherein the remote controller is connected to a drive control signal cable that extends along the tether, wherein the drive control signals are transmittable from the remote controller to the drive by means of the drive control signal cable, wherein the emergency stop effecting unit is arranged in the handle, wherein the emergency stop effecting unit is configured to prevent transmission of the drive control signals from the remote controller to the drive depending on whether the emergency detector is tripped.

15. The water sports apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the emergency stop effecting unit is designed to receive a continuous emergency stop safety signal, wherein the emergency stop safety signal is sent from a safety signal sending unit contained in the emergency stop electrical circuit, and wherein the emergency stop effecting unit is configured to stop the drive when no emergency stop safety signal has been received for a predetermined period of time.

16. The water sports apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the water vehicle has an upper face, wherein the fastening device of the water vehicle comprises a connection region of the tether to the fastening device for fastening the tether, wherein the fastening device is mounted in an elevated position on the upper face of the water vehicle in such a way that a predetermined lever effect is producible on the water vehicle by means of the tether.

17. The water sports apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the handle comprises an integrated control element controllable by the water sports enthusiast, wherein the control element is configured to transmit drive control signals to the drive via a signal cable, wherein the signal cable extends from the control element inside the tether or outside along the tether in a direction toward the water vehicle.

18. The water sports apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the control element comprises a lever and a deflection of the lever is detected by means of a Hall sensor of the control element in order to generate the drive control signals.

19. The water sports apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the tether comprises a transmitter unit configured to transmit control signals wirelessly to a receiver unit of the water vehicle, and wherein the transmitter unit is configured to rest against the receiver unit of the water vehicle.

20. The water sports apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the receiver unit of the water vehicle comprises an induction unit, and wherein the induction unit is configured to supply the transmitter unit, which rests against the receiver unit, with electric current by means of induction.