Having Means To Move Foil To A Retracted Nonuse Position Patents (Class 114/282)
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Patent number: 11878769Abstract: The present invention provides an aquatic moving body configured to move in a state where a main body portion is floated above a water surface, comprising: a first hydrofoil and a second hydrofoil disposed along a left-and-right direction of the aquatic moving body and provided in the main body portion so as to be able to change elevation angles independently of each other; a first propulsion unit provided at an end portion of the first hydrofoil and configured to generate a propulsive force; and a second propulsion unit provided at an end portion of the second hydrofoil and configured to generate a propulsive force, wherein a first partition wall is provided between the first hydrofoil and the first propulsion unit, and a second partition wall is provided between the second hydrofoil and the second propulsion unit.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2022Date of Patent: January 23, 2024Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventor: Ryosuke Itai
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Patent number: 11753115Abstract: A linear drive system adapted for repetitive driving using a linear motor. The drive system may be used to power pumping hydrofoils which drive a boat or ship. Linkages are used to maintain the driven portion in linear motion. A coupled dual drive system in which two driven portions are coupled such that their coupled motions travel at the same velocity in opposed directions. The coupled linear drive system which may be used as a mechanical power source for drive systems used in transportation and industry. A boat with dual pumping hydrofoils adapted for propel a boat using the hydrofoils for both lift and propulsion.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2020Date of Patent: September 12, 2023Inventor: Damjan Zabovnik
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Patent number: 11577806Abstract: Motor boat comprising a support structure and at least one pair of similar foils arranged on each side of the support structure, each of said foils being defined by a wing and its support; the latter being retractable into the lower part of the structure and mounted so as to be slidable relative thereto; said foils being arranged so as to adopt at least two fixed positions, namely an “active” position in which they are deployed in similar positions and a “passive” position in which said supports are retracted into the support structure; characterized in that the boat is adapted such that the deployment of the foils comprises an initial movement of the supports in a substantially horizontal direction away from the vertical median plane of the support structure, followed by a tilting about an axis parallel or substantially parallel to the main axis of the boat.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2018Date of Patent: February 14, 2023Assignee: ENATA INVESTMENT CORPORATION PTE. LTD.Inventors: Arthur Rozand, Alaric Lukowski, Stéphane Dyen
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Patent number: 11072405Abstract: The present disclosure relates to sea floor mapping, and more particularly to a method, system, and apparatus for mapping a large swath of sea floor at substantial depths. An example autonomous underwater vehicle may include: a controller; a body having a front end and a rear end and defining a cavity and a center of gravity; a first dive plane extending from the body proximate the center of gravity; a second dive plane extending from the body substantially opposite of the first dive plane proximate the center of gravity; a counterweight disposed within the cavity configured to be moved between the front end and the rear end of the body, wherein a fore-aft pitch of the body of the autonomous underwater vehicle is controlled by the controller through movement of the counterweight toward the front end or the rear end of the body.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2018Date of Patent: July 27, 2021Assignee: TAMPA DEEP-SEA X-PLORERS LLCInventors: Edward Larson, Arthur Ianuzzi, Renier Oliva, Dennis Lorence, Joseph R. Daum, Graham Sheffer
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Patent number: 11059547Abstract: A system on a marine vessel or platform supports a load while allowing heave compensation. The load is supported via a hydraulic actuator. A transformer of the system includes a power source and at least one hydraulic pump/motor, for communicating energy between any two of: the hydraulic actuator; a hydraulic accumulator; and a power source. A valve associated with the pump/motor is switchable during at least one cycle of the pump/motor for selectively providing fluid communication between a drive chamber of the pump/motor and any of the hydraulic actuator, the hydraulic accumulator, and a hydraulic fluid reservoir, via at least one port of the drive chamber, so as to allow a desired displacement of hydraulic fluid from the pump/motor to be obtained.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2017Date of Patent: July 13, 2021Inventors: Kristjan Kristjansson, David Allen Hill, Slawomir Kukielka, Steinar Bø Nilsen
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Patent number: 11014631Abstract: A retractable foil mechanism for use in an aquatic vessel is provided comprising: a foil arranged to extend substantially parallel to a first axis when in a retracted position; a rotation axis about which the foil can rotate; means for causing an acting force (F) to act on the foil in a first direction parallel to the first axis so as, in use, to move the foil and the rotation axis in the first direction; and a moment creation arrangement configured such that, in use, the acting force (F) on the foil creates a moment which causes the foil to rotate about the rotation axis while the rotation axis is moving in the first direction.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2018Date of Patent: May 25, 2021Assignee: Wavefoil ASInventor: Audun Yrke
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Patent number: 10894579Abstract: The invention relates to a watercraft having a hull (10) which has a hydrofoil assembly (20) in the region of the stern (12) and another hydrofoil assembly (30) in the region of the bow (11), the hydrofoil assemblies (20, 30) each having hydrofoils (21, 31) arranged on both sides of the hull (10). To achieve a stable position in the water while ensuring good driving dynamics under a wide range of conditions, according to the invention the hydrofoil assemblies (20, 30) are coupled to at least one adjustment unit (22, 32) such that the bow-side hydrofoil assembly (20) and the stern-side hydrofoil assembly can each be at least partially individually height adjustable (FIG. 1).Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2015Date of Patent: January 19, 2021Inventor: Peter Schnauffer
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Patent number: 10759496Abstract: The invention relates to a vessel (1) comprising a hull (2) for non-planing operation, during operation displaying a waterline (3) and having a forward direction in a horizontal plane (4) with a forward portion, an aft portion (5), and a central portion, the aft portion having a smaller water displacement relative to a water displacement of the central portion; and an aft, primary foil (6) affixed to the aft hull portion with a connecting member (7), configured to be below the waterline during operation, spaced from the hull, the aft foil having a span, a chord, a profile, a leading edge (8) and a trailing edge (9) relative to the forward direction, characterized by adjustment means (10) connected to the aft foil and configured for adjusting an angle of incidence (?c, af) of the chord of the aft foil.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2017Date of Patent: September 1, 2020Assignee: Van Oossanen & Associates B.V.Inventor: Pieter Van Oossanen
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Patent number: 10647386Abstract: The invention relates to a watercraft having a hull (10) which has a hydrofoil assembly (20) in the region of the stern (12) and another hydrofoil assembly (30) in the region of the bow (11), the hydrofoil assemblies (20, 30) each having hydrofoils (21, 31) arranged on both sides of the hull (10). To achieve a stable position in the water while ensuring good driving dynamics under a wide range of conditions, according to the invention the hydrofoil assemblies (20, 30) are coupled to at least one adjustment unit (22, 32) such that the bow-side hydrofoil assembly (20) and the stern-side hydrofoil assembly can each be at least partially individually height adjustable (FIG. 1).Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2015Date of Patent: May 12, 2020Inventor: Peter Schnauffer
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Patent number: 10538294Abstract: It relates to an urban craft, which belongs to the industrial sector of nautical vehicles for transportation of crew and passengers in general, composed of a speedboat (1) equipped with a central cab (2), a transparent roof (3), a honeycomb grid (4), an X-shaped structure (5), faceted areas (6), a catamaran hull (7), an inverted nose (8), a negative bow (9), engines (10), a propeller (11), seats (12), safety belts, airbags, acceleration and braking pedals (13), a steering wheel (14), a dashboard (15), a central console (16), a gear shift lever (17), armrests (18), cupholders (19), internet/Wi-Fi access, detachable tablets (20), a lateral boarding platform (21), headlights (22) and lateral arrows in the camera-based rearview mirrors (23), an air-conditioning system, a pneumatic suspension system with adjustable airbags and hydrogen-based shock absorbers, individual (rear and front) lateral doors (24), large gullwing lateral doors (25), an upper airfoil (26), a rear window (27), a foldable rear platform (28) wiType: GrantFiled: March 20, 2017Date of Patent: January 21, 2020Inventor: Arnaldo Amaro
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Patent number: 10532793Abstract: The invention relates to a motor boat comprising a bearing structure (1) and at least one foil (2) which is defined by a hydrofoil and its support (4), which is positioned under said structure and slideably mounted with respect to the latter; characterized in that the foil (2) is also mounted in such a way as to adopt at least two fixed positions, namely a position referred to as the active position in which the foil (2) is lowered and a position referred to as the passive position in which the foil (2) coincides with the bearing structure (1) or is fully retracted into the latter.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2015Date of Patent: January 14, 2020Assignee: Hydros Innovation SAInventors: Jérémie Lagarrigue, Jean-Mathieu Bourgeon
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Patent number: 10513160Abstract: An amphibious vehicle, which enables wave making resistance upon traveling on water to be reduced and propulsive performance of its vehicle main body to be improved, is to be provided. An amphibious vehicle of the present invention includes: a vehicle main body that is movable on water and on land; a rear portion flap having a front end portion fixed to a rear portion of the vehicle main body; and end plates respectively provided at both side end portions of the rear portion flap.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2015Date of Patent: December 24, 2019Assignee: MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.Inventors: Takaaki Oshima, Satoru Ishikawa, Takashi Matsunaga
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Patent number: 10363993Abstract: The invention relates to a retractable wing equipping a watercraft. The wing includes a first support upright, a first end of which engages with the hull of the watercraft and a second end of which supports a first hydrofoil. The wing is characterized in that the first hydrofoil and first support upright engage with one another by way of an articulated connection having a degree of freedom in rotation about an axis perpendicular to a longitudinal axis passing through the ends of the first support upright, allowing the hydrofoil to fold parallel to the longitudinal axis.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2015Date of Patent: July 30, 2019Assignee: SEABUBBLESInventor: Terrot Dalrymple Smith
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Patent number: 10293649Abstract: An amphibious vehicle that can reduce wave drag at the time of hydroplaning and can improve propulsion performance of the vehicle body. The amphibious vehicle includes a vehicle body capable of moving on water and on land, a front flap with a rear end being fixed to a lower end of the vehicle body, a rear flap with a front end being fixed to a rear part of the vehicle body, and a pair of keels provided along a travel device provided on both sides of the vehicle body on a bottom surface of the vehicle body.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2015Date of Patent: May 21, 2019Assignee: MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.Inventors: Takaaki Oshima, Satoru Ishikawa, Takashi Matsunaga
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Patent number: 9840308Abstract: A boat includes a hull provided with a rear stern hatch located in correspondence with an internal stern compartment of the hull and suitable for opening and closing in correspondence with an aperture of the compartment, the hatch having a body with opposed side located in correspondence with side walls of the compartment and a upper edge and a lower edge. The hatch includes an actuator to open and close the compartment arranged inside its own body. The actuator rotatably constraining at least one of the sides of the hatch to the hull. The body being not provided with any further connections of the sides to the hull.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2015Date of Patent: December 12, 2017Inventor: Andrea Frabetti
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Patent number: 9586658Abstract: An elevated seat for a kayak. A floor of the kayak generally defines a reference plane. The seat may include a first support bar configured to be releasably attached to the kayak at a first location and a second support bar configured to be releasably attached to the kayak at a second location spaced along a bow-stern direction of the kayak relative to the first location. The seat may also include a seating member extending from a distal end of the first support bar to a distal end of the second support bar. The seating member may be inclined at a non-perpendicular angle relative to the floor. When in use, the first and second support bars are configured to position the seating member above the floor by a sufficient distance to support a user substantially standing on the floor.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2015Date of Patent: March 7, 2017Assignee: Confluence Outdoor, LLCInventors: Hans Eric Nutz, Lee Patrick Ward
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Patent number: 9580147Abstract: An adjustable surf wake system enhances a wake formed by a watercraft travelling through water. The system may include a flap for deflecting water traveling past the stern of the watercraft, and/or a positioner operably connected to the flap for positioning the flap relative to a longitudinal axis of the watercraft between a neutral position and an outward position. Positioning a port flap in its extended position enhances a starboard surf wake, and positioning the starboard flap in its extended position enhances a port surf wake.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2013Date of Patent: February 28, 2017Assignee: Malibu Boats, LLCInventors: Daniel Lee Gasper, Adam Andrew McCall, Timothy Michael Lopes, Bryan Walter Munday, Wayne Richard Wilson, Rachael Marie Green
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Patent number: 9487270Abstract: A floating unit comprising: a hull having a recess in which a deployable wall is mounted, the wall being movable between a first and a second position; wherein in the first position the wall is enclosed within the hull in the recess, and in the second position the wall at least partly protrudes from the hull, thereby defining a partly enclosed space; and wherein the floating unit further comprises means for supplying air to the partly enclosed space, the partly enclosed space being configured to constitute an underwater air pocket upon supplying the air from the means for supplying the air when the floating unit floats in the water with the wall in the second position.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2015Date of Patent: November 8, 2016Assignee: WOJSKOWY INSTYTUT TECHNIKI INZYNIERYJNEJInventor: Janusz Sliwinski
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Patent number: 9315236Abstract: A wake modifying system for modifying a wake produced by a watercraft traveling through water may include a rudder pivotally mounted to the watercraft for steering the watercraft, a fin pivotally mounted to the watercraft substantially along a centerline of the watercraft and forward the rudder, wherein the fin pivots about an upright axis to modify the wake produced by the watercraft traveling through the water, an actuator mounted within the watercraft and operably coupled to the fin for pivoting the fin relative to the centerline, and a controller mounted on the watercraft allowing an operator to control the actuator and selectively pivot the fin to a desired angle ?d relative to the centerline.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2013Date of Patent: April 19, 2016Assignee: Malibu Boats, LLCInventor: Daniel Lee Gasper
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Publication number: 20140261134Abstract: An active stabilization device for stabilizing, for example, a vessel at sea, both in a first operating state in which the vessel moves and in a second operating state in which the vessel is in a rest position, includes at least one fin body (2) and a drive device which is connected to the fin body and is configured to drive the fin body. The device furthermore includes a hinge mechanism (5) which is connected to the fin body and is configured to position the fin body with respect to an outer side (1) of the construction by rotating the fin body about a first rotation axis 4 in such a manner that the fin body can generate a lifting force which can stabilize the construction at least in the second operating state. A vessel at sea which includes the device is also described.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2012Publication date: September 18, 2014Applicant: VAN AKEN GROUP B.V.Inventor: Arnoldus, Henricus, Maria Van Aken
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Patent number: 8833284Abstract: This invention is a two tunnel, four hull, trimaran-catamaran, flying boat that incorporates hydrodynamic planing surfaces with the benefit of aerodynamic lift. A boat that accommodates two people, such that, the pilot and passenger sit back to back in a low, semi-reclining position in a distinctive fuselage along the centerline, situated between and below a wing structure on either side, and thus forming the mid-structure of a trimaran. This fuselage flys in air above the water line. A streamlined canopy structure is located overhead and above the wing. The horizontal wing structure forms two tunnels below, each on either side of the centerline fuselage, providing a chamber for aerodynamic lift. Outboard of the wings are the catamaran hull arrangements with two hulls forward of amidship in parallel, followed in tandem by two hulls aft. The four hulls provide hydrodynamic lift.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2013Date of Patent: September 16, 2014Inventor: Daniel Resta
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Publication number: 20140109820Abstract: A watercraft including at least one hydrofoil which is height-adjustable between a position disposed in the region of the hull and a position remote from the hull, with a recess being provided in the hull which accommodates the hydrofoil in the region of the hull.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 10, 2011Publication date: April 24, 2014Inventor: Oliver Kormann
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Publication number: 20130081565Abstract: To a watercraft which includes a main hull and at least one outrigger which is fastened in a height-adjustable manner to the main hull.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 10, 2011Publication date: April 4, 2013Inventor: Oliver Kormann
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Patent number: 8408155Abstract: A marine vessel comprising: a command module; first and second buoyant tubular foils; and first and second struts for connecting the first and second buoyant tubular foils to the command module, respectively; wherein the first and second buoyant tubular foils provide substantially all of the buoyancy required for the marine vessel; and wherein the marine vessel further comprises first and second engines enclosed within the first and second buoyant tubular foils, respectively, and first and second propulsion units connected to the first and second engines, respectively, for moving the marine vessel through the water.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2009Date of Patent: April 2, 2013Assignee: Juliet Marine Systems, Inc.Inventors: Gregory E. Sancoff, Joseph A. DiCarlo
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Patent number: 8051793Abstract: A marine vehicle with at least one hydrofoil at the lower hull of such marine vehicle, and at least one drive element for retracting a pair of hydrofoils mounted side-by-side on both sides of the symmetry axis of the hull of the marine vehicle. When hydrofoils are in the retracted position, the marine vehicle is converted to a conventional marine vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2008Date of Patent: November 8, 2011Inventor: Mehmet Nevres Ulgen
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Patent number: 8042482Abstract: A steering device includes a main body that attaches to a tow rope, inline between a towing vessel and a personal watercraft. The main body, which is positioned just forward of the personal watercraft, accommodates an extendable rudder that moves between a normally retracted position within the main body, and a lowered, operable position to exert a steering force on the main body and the personal watercraft. An elongate tiller extends between the rudder and a handle that is optimally positioned for grasping by the rider of the personal watercraft. In accordance with several embodiments, movement of the rudder from the relaxed, retracted position to the lowered, operable position is achieved by exerting a particular directional force on the handle (e.g., pulling, pushing forward, or lifting). Moving the handle to the left or the right achieves the desired steering action. Upon release of the handle by the rider, the rudder returns to the normally retracted position, thereby removing the steering influence.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2009Date of Patent: October 25, 2011Inventor: Rick Davis
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Patent number: 7984684Abstract: The disclosure relates to marine craft which are capable of operating in the hydrofoil mode, many with extensible and retractable hydrofoil posts. Specific embodiments of large commercial hydrofoil craft are described, including those with structure which is the water during hydrofoil travel mode and which can be retracted to partly fit within recesses in the hull during other operating modes. Other craft, including those with hybrid electric drive, are disclosed having un-cooled reciprocating internal combustion engines. A number of arrangements for pistons and cylinders of unconventional configuration are described. These included are toroidal combustion or working chambers, some with fluid flow through the core of the toroid, pistons reciprocating between pairs of working chambers, tensile links between piston and crankshaft, energy absorbing piston-crank links, crankshafts supported on gas bearings. In some embodiments pistons mare rotate while reciprocating.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2006Date of Patent: July 26, 2011Inventor: Mitja Victor Hinderks
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Publication number: 20110168076Abstract: The present invention is a water wings device used in combination with a watercraft that includes a plurality of water wings attached to the sides of the watercraft with attachment arms and directing fins that are placed into the water that the watercraft is traveling in. There is also an embodiment of the water wings device that includes a boat tail with a tapering protrusion that is placed into the water the watercraft is traveling in. Another embodiment is the water tail device that includes a plurality of water tails that attach to the rear of portion of a watercraft used in conjunction with water wings on the side of the watercraft that are all placed into the water the watercraft is traveling in.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 13, 2011Publication date: July 14, 2011Inventor: Jonathan Cole Harding
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Patent number: 7814854Abstract: A device (1) for converting a monohull vessel (2) into a multihull vessel, includes a support structure (3) which is removably fixed to the vessel (2) and at least one lateral float (4) which is solidly articulated with the support structure (3) around at least one geometrical axis (BB?). The aforementioned float (4) can occupy (i) a first stable deployed position in which it is parallel to the vertical longitudinal geometric plane (PP?) containing the keel line of the vessel (2) and, at the lowest point of the keel line thereof, it is disposed beneath the geometric axis (BB?) and (ii) a second stable collapsed position which is separated at an angle from the first position. A vessel equipped with the device is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2006Date of Patent: October 19, 2010Inventor: Frederic Jouffroy
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Patent number: 7644672Abstract: A monohull sailing vessel (102, 202, 402, and/or 502) having a lifting hydrofoil (104 and/or 204) having a stowed position and a deployed position in which the hydrofoil extends outward of a leeward side of the hull (138). The hydrofoil may have an aspect ratio greater than 2.5:1, may be oriented at an angle of attack between 2 and 6 degrees, and may be oriented at a mean angle (124) of between 5 and 20 degrees to horizontal. The hydrofoil may have a projected area adapted provide a righting moment and a lifting force for partially but not fully lifting the vessel out of the water. The hydrofoil may have an exposed span (112) that is greater than about 7% of a height of the tallest mast (134). The vessel may include an actuation assembly (128, 228, 308, and/or 316) for moving the hydrofoil between the stowed and deployed positions.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2007Date of Patent: January 12, 2010Assignee: Dynamic Stability Systems LimitedInventor: Hugh Burkewood Welbourn
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Publication number: 20090013917Abstract: A marine vehicle with at least one hydrofoil at the lower hull of such marine vehicle, and at least one drive element for retracting a pair of hydrofoils mounted side-by-side on both sides of the symmetry axis of the hull of the marine vehicle. When hydrofoils are in the retracted position, the marine vehicle is converted to a conventional marine vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2008Publication date: January 15, 2009Inventor: Mehmet Nevres ULGEN
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Publication number: 20090007831Abstract: The invention relates to a device (1) which is used to convert a monohull vessel (2) into a multihull vessel, comprising a support structure (3) which is removably fixed to the vessel (2) and at least one lateral float (4) which is solidly articulated with said support structure (3) around at least one geometrical axis (BB?). The aforementioned float (4) can occupy (i) a first stable deployed position in which it is parallel to the vertical longitudinal geometric plane (PP?) containing the keel line of the vessel (2) and, at the lowest point of the keel line thereof, it is disposed beneath the geometric axis (BB?) and (ii) a second stable collapsed position which is separated at an angle from the first position. The invention also relates to a vessel which is equipped with said device.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 23, 2006Publication date: January 8, 2009Inventor: Frederic Jouffroy
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Patent number: 7275493Abstract: A watercraft capable of operating in hydrofoil mode or ground-effect mode with self-righting retractable V-shaped foil, fiberoptic control systems, and a plurality of aircraft style engines with variable pitch propellers for speed and direction control. The V-shaped foil can be fully retracted into the hull allowing operation in shallow water, and the ability to execute a beach landing. Propeller pitch can be reversed allowing the craft to backup. Each engine and propeller can be controlled individually allowing rotating in-place for precise maneuvering control. The hull is a flying wing, airfoil shape for efficient high-speed operation. Engine nacelles are located on airfoil shaped struts, angled in a V-shape, for self-righting effect at high speed. Fuel tanks are within the nacelles, thus outside the main hull for safety.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2005Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Inventor: Dwight S. Brass
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Patent number: 7143710Abstract: A low drag ship hull generally includes a side air cavity initiated by wetted bow section, bottom air cavity initiated by wetted bottom nosepiece, wetted stem section that closes a lower portion of the side cavity, wetted bottom tailpiece that closes the bottom cavity, stabilizing fin, and propulsor. The bottom of a catamaran hull cross structure includes bow impact alleviator. Optional flaps in the stabilizing fins, together with optional all-movable canard fins are used for control. Different wetted bow sections and retractable plates are used for starting side cavities. A low drag hull may utilize multiple air cavities. A new low drag hull includes a new upper bottom air cavity that is initiated by an upper bottom wetted nosepiece, and closed by an upper bottom tailpiece. Alternative designs include a shortened forward hull spaced ahead of a shortened aft hull, and a hydrofoil-supported trimaran with low drag hulls.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2003Date of Patent: December 5, 2006Inventors: Thomas G. Lang, James T. Lang
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Patent number: 7140318Abstract: An adjustable wake setting device for modifying a wake produced by a watercraft traveling through water.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2005Date of Patent: November 28, 2006Assignee: Malibu Boats West, Inc.Inventor: Daniel L. Gasper
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Patent number: 6782839Abstract: A hydrofoil (1) comprises a bottom (23) formed with two front and rear steps (3 and 4), and a strut (31) supporting a submerged hydrofoil (21) arranged between the two steps (3 and 4). The strut (31) can be switched between a storage state and a navigation state by its forward-and-backward rotation. A threshold value of dynamic lift (F) obtained by the hydrofoil (21) can be established arbitrarily, and the dynamic lift can be held to the set value by keeping the strut (31) in the navigation state correspondingly to the established threshold value of hydrofoil-dynamic-lift, thereby enabling the dynamic lift to be held at the established value during navigation. Moreover, based on draft (WL) or trim angle (TR) during the boat-berthing, a set value of hydrofoil-dynamic-lift and a set value of tilt angle of a propulsor (22) or a flap (22a) attached to the rear of hull can be accommodated.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2002Date of Patent: August 31, 2004Assignee: Yanmar Diesel Engine Co., Ltd.Inventor: Takeaki Nozaki
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Patent number: 6499419Abstract: A monohull keel sail boat is provided with a bow foil structure, a keel foil structure and a stern foil structure. The bow, keel and stern foil structures have foils with may be moved to provide a variable angle of attack and thus variable lifting forces. The stern foil structure has a ladder foil arrangement and includes vertical struts to provide steering control thus replacing a conventional rudder. The three foil structures work in concert to lift the hull of the boat, but not the keel, completely out of the water so as to provide near listless sailing.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventor: Robert W. Bussard
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Patent number: 6439148Abstract: The invention is gas-filled cavities that reduce drag on the underwater surfaces of marine vehicles. Hydrofoils, struts, boat and ship hulls, pontoons, underwater bodies, fins, rudders, fairings, protuberances, submarine sails and propulsors are underwater surfaces that may be covered by the gas-filled cavities to reduce drag on them. The gas-filled cavities are to be used on underwater surfaces of marine vehicles, such as hydrofoil craft, monohulls, catamarans, SWATH (small waterplane area twin hull) craft, SES (surface-effect ships) and WIG (wing-in-ground effect) vehicles. Each gas-filled cavity is formed by ejecting air near the end of each nosepiece. Air is ejected at a speed and direction which is close to that of the water at the local cavity wall. The cavity is formed behind the nosepiece. The nosepiece is adapted to control the shape of the cavity.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 2000Date of Patent: August 27, 2002Inventor: Thomas G. Lang
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Patent number: 6199496Abstract: An improved multi-hull gas cushion supported vehicle that is, in its preferred embodiment, capable of transition to air-borne ground effect operation is presented. This vehicle, normally a marine vehicle known as SeaCoaster, has optional elongated knife shaped bows that slice into waves, fine entry bows and low angle of divergence sidekeels, water rejecting steps that extend high onto the sidehulls, and retractable water stabilizer to insure optimum performance in heavy seas. The Retractable water stabilizers are preferbably in the form of inverted-T hydrofoils and/or small boat shaped members. Several variations of hydrofoil configurations are presented. It also has special, normally inverted-V shaped, gas cushion and wetdeck aft seals to insure minimum effect of wave impacts in those areas. The gas pressurization system normally includes powered blowers where a flap-like sealing device can be installed to seal gas leakage.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 1998Date of Patent: March 13, 2001Inventor: Donald E. Burg
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Patent number: 6164235Abstract: The invention provides a hydrofoil equipment water craft comprising at least one hull member, terminating at a bow and a stern, a front hydrofoil member arranged in the zone of the bow of the hull, at least partially below the hull; and a rear hydrofoil member positioned to the rear of the longitudinal center of gravity (LCG) of the hull, the front hydrofoil member being at least partially offset transversely relative to the rear hydrofoil member so that the front hydrofoil or rear hydrofoil are at least partially disposed in separate longitudinal flow streams.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 1998Date of Patent: December 26, 2000Assignee: Universiteit Van StellenboschInventor: Karl Gunter Wilhelm Hoppe
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Patent number: 5934215Abstract: An improved pressurized gas supported marine vehicle that is, in its preferred embodiment long and slender and stabilized by outrigger hulls, is presented. This vehicle, known as SeaLance because of its optimal very fine entry bow and narrow fine main hull, is also capable of full or partial airborne operation when equipped with sidewings. When waterborne, an artifically pressurized gas cushion is disposed in an open bottomed recess in the main hull. First and second, forward and aft, air cushions can be used to maintain a higher gas cushion pressure aft than forward which reduces water blowout at the bow and aids in trimming of the vehicle. Further, labyrinth seals can be disposed on recess intermediate and aft seals to aid in sealing of gas flow. An optional feature of SeaLance is one or more water stabilizers that can include hydrofoils and/or a small lifting body. The water stabilizer(s) would normally retract into an open bottomed recess in the main hull when not used.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 1997Date of Patent: August 10, 1999Inventor: Donald E. Burg
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Patent number: 5755173Abstract: An amphibious vehicle, normally an automobile, has a centrally located displacement hull body portion, containing a passenger compartment and an engine, that is of excellent hydrodynamic profile similar to a canoe. Wheels located at the end of four-wheel-drive axle half-shafts in, preferably, a DeDion suspension are located entirely outboard of the displacement hull. The wheels are conventionally suspended in their lowered positions on land, and are raised by actuators on water. Moveable skis first move on a pantograph linkage from first locations upwards and to the rear of the front wheels into second, forward, locations where the ski tips slide under the raised front wheels, deflecting water under the front wheels and generally improving vehicle hydrodynamics in the manner of outriggers. With increasing speed of the vehicle through the water, the skis are moved aft and downward on the pantograph linkage to lowered third locations.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 1996Date of Patent: May 26, 1998Inventors: Dale Rorabaugh, Ron Costa
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Patent number: 5645009Abstract: Disclosed is a construction applicable to stern drive and outboard types of power boat propulsion units for enhancing the performance normally provided by the customary trim/tilt capabilities designed into the units. At a critical juncture in the trim/tilt operation, the present device automatically "kicks in" and by intercepting only a predetermined portion of the propeller backwash provides an almost immediate stern up/bow down result without noticeable speed retardation. The device lends itself either to kit form or to factory installation.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 1996Date of Patent: July 8, 1997Inventor: James R. Lexau
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Patent number: 5636585Abstract: A hydrofoil member for a sailboat of the type having a single hull with no fixed ballast includes an elongate arm portion which extends laterally outwardly away from the sailboat along a generally horizontal plane when in use. The arm portion has an upwardly-facing surface, a downwardly-facing surface, and an outer end portion which flares upwardly relative to the horizontal plane. The hydrofoil member further comprises a pontoon element mounted on the downwardly-facing surface of the arm portion at the outer end portion. The pontoon element is adapted to engage and displace water when in use for stabilizing the sailboat. The arm has is capable of being retracted to stow the hydrofoil member in a parallel position against the hull when not in use.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 1995Date of Patent: June 10, 1997Inventor: Walter A. Schulz
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Patent number: 5626669Abstract: An improved pressurized gas supported marine vehicle that is, in its preferred embodiment long and slender and stabilized by outrigger hulls, is presented. This vehicle, known as SeaLance because of its optimal very fine entry bow and narrow fine main hull, is also capable of airborne operation when equipped with sidewings. When waterborne, an artifically pressurized gas cushion is disposed in an open bottomed recess in the main hull. First and second, forward and aft, air cushions can be used to maintain a higher gas cushion pressure aft than forward which reduces water blowout at the bow and to aid in trimming of the vehicle. Further, labyrinth seals can be disposed on recess intermediate and aft seals to aid in sealing of gas flow. An optional feature of SeaLance is one or more water stabilizers that can include hydrofoils and/or a small lifting body. The water stabilizer(s) would normally retract into an open bottomed recess in the main hull when not used.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 1995Date of Patent: May 6, 1997Assignee: Paulette Renee BurgInventor: Donald E. Burg
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Patent number: 5493990Abstract: A hydrofoil for attachment to an outdrive or outboard motor supports a trolling plate projecting rearwardly from the hydrofoil when in a raised position. The trolling plate includes a pair of arms having a lockable member therebetween slidably engageable with a latch pivotally mounted on the hydrofoil. Downward trolling plate deployment may occur upon elevation of the latch by an operator control which permits the lockable member to travel lengthwise of an elongate opening in the latch and into one of multiple catches in communication with the elongate opening. A first pair of torsion springs urge the trolling plate to a deployed position. A second set of torsion springs urge the latch toward a position securing the lockable member against movement. Multiple trolling plate positions allow maneuvering of a boat with a deployed trolling plate.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 1995Date of Patent: February 27, 1996Inventor: William B. Dyer
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Patent number: 5474011Abstract: Watercraft including a hull (10), a plurality of foils (12) mounted on the hull for engaging a water surface, and shock absorbing means (16, 18) associated with the plurality of foils for coupling the plurality of foils to at least a portion of the hull and providing at least partial absorption of shock received from waves.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 1994Date of Patent: December 12, 1995Inventor: Amiram Steinberg
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Patent number: 5469801Abstract: A hydrofoil craft has a hull supported above a water surface by a foil connected to the hull by means of a support arm. In accordance with one form of the invention, the support arm enables the foil to move up and down with respect to the hull in concert with upgusts and downgusts of water surrounding the foil so as to maintain the hull at an approximately constant elevation. In accordance with another form of the invention, the support arm is supported by the hull for pivoting about a longitudinal axis extending in substantially the fore and aft direction of the hull. When rolling forces act on the foil, the support arm can pivot about the axis from a vertical position in response to the rolling forces while enabling the hull to remain substantially level.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 1993Date of Patent: November 28, 1995Assignee: Dynafoils, Inc.Inventor: Peter R. Payne
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Patent number: 5404830Abstract: The invention is a displacement boat hull having the outboard surfaces of its wetted portion designed with a deep-V shape, and having at least one pair of retractable hydrofoil fins positioned in respective pockets along those outboard surfaces at a predetermined distance above the keel. When extended, the fins are positioned at fixed angles relative to the hull, and at least one pair of fins is positioned in proximity to the stern. In a preferred embodiment, a conventional deep-V semi-displacement hull is modified to increase the conventional maximum draft with an unusually steep angle (at least 30.degree.-40.degree.) for the initial deadrise from the keel upward toward the chine; and at least two pairs of fins are disposed on opposite sides of the hull, with an aft pair being positioned in proximity to the stern and another pair being positioned forward of the stern pair, preferably just forward of the boat's center of balance.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 1993Date of Patent: April 11, 1995Inventor: Peter A. Ligozio
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Patent number: 5390623Abstract: Boat hull or attachment with a plurality of longitudinally movable elements. Presently preferred embodiments utilize wings or ski members which are movable and maintainable between multiple positions to adjust the operational characteristics of the boat. The wings extend from the transom longitudinally along the aft half of the boat and include upwardly curved foil shaped front edges to provide lift. The ski members will generally extend along a substantial extent of the length of the boat. Bottom running surfaces of the respective ski members may be varied in angular disposition to operatively simulate a plurality of hull configurations.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 1993Date of Patent: February 21, 1995Inventor: Miles P. Mackaness