Abstract: A software-based commissioning strategy for customization of a new marine vessel having a newly installed stability/dynamic active control system. The commissioning strategy will be implemented by using a proprietary customer-facing software embedded within a software module of a newly installed dynamic active control system for a new marine vessel (and a new hull type). The software-controlled commissioning strategy is configured to automatically determine the appropriate feedback gains for the marine vessel by controlling the deployment of the water engagement devices while simultaneously measuring and capturing the data generated from the resulting list angle, roll angle, roll rate, and yaw rate changes associated with the deployment.

Abstract: A control system for posture control tabs of a marine vessel assists operations of a steering control. The posture control tabs are mounted on a stern of a hull to move up or down to control a posture of the hull. Actuators actuate the respective posture control tabs. When a steering instruction is provided through the steering control, a processor determines the posture control tab to be actuated and controls the actuator corresponding to the posture control tab determined to be actuated so as to change the position of the determined posture control tab.

Abstract: Methods of, and apparatuses for, controlling at least one trim tab of a marine vessel are disclosed.

Abstract: A watersports boat is equipped with a trimmable drive used to generate a virtual ballast effect. Turbulence experienced by a wake rider on startup is reduced by automatically varying the drive orientation as the watersports boat comes up to speed. A pair of water channelers are located at the stern. One of the water channelers is deployed below the running surface to redirect water across centerline and improve wake shape on the selected side.

Abstract: Flow modifiers are positioned at one or more discrete points along the underside of a boat hull to generate secondary wakes that interfere with the primary wake generated by the boat hull and result in a desired modified wake useful for various watersports. The flow modifiers are formed integrally with the boat hull or affixed thereto, and can be selectively extendable and retractable relative thereto.

Abstract: A system for controlling a marine vessel comprises an input device for inputting an operator command, a sensor which senses and signals an engine function variable or a vessel dynamic variable, and a first structural element and a second structural element. The first structural element and the second structural element each control speed or direction of motion of the marine vessel, and the first structural element and the second structural element each affect the marine vessel dynamic variable. There is a controller which receives the operator command and the engine function variable or the vessel dynamic variable. The controller moves the first structural element and the second structural element based on the engine function variable or the vessel dynamic variable, after receiving the single operator command.

Abstract: Wakeboat hull control systems and methods are provided to permit the accurate reproduction of a wake behind a wakeboat. The onboard wake control system receives data from a draft measuring system. Incorporation of the data from the draft measuring system permits accurate reproduction of a wake behind the wakeboat after a change in an onboard variable such as the number, weight or position of passengers, the weight or position of cargo and the position of trim tabs or amount/location of ballast.

Abstract: A marine vessel having a propeller that provides propulsive force to the marine vessel, and a course control system. The course control system includes a course changing mechanism that changes a course of the marine vessel, and a controller configured or programmed to detect a sudden movement of the marine vessel originating from broaching caused by a following wave of the marine vessel, and upon detecting the sudden movement of the marine vessel originating from the broaching, control a rotation rate of the propeller and/or cause the course changing mechanism to change the course of the marine vessel.

Abstract: A control system for posture control tabs of a marine vessel assists operations of a steering control. The posture control tabs are mounted on a stern of a hull to move up or down to control a posture of the hull. Actuators actuate the respective posture control tabs. When a steering instruction is provided through the steering control, a processor determines the posture control tab to be actuated and controls the actuator corresponding to the posture control tab determined to be actuated so as to change the position of the determined posture control tab.

Abstract: A posture control system for a hull offers a more comfortable ride to crew on a marine vessel. A posture control tab is mounted on a stern of the hull and controls the posture of the hull. An actuator actuates the posture control tab. At least one propeller generates a propulsive force for the hull. An engine turns the propeller. A controller controls the actuator according to at least one of engine torque generated by the engine and propeller torque generated by the propeller.

Abstract: A process to design an attitude control system (ACS) controller in each of a plurality of joined entities includes identifying a worst case configuration as a design-to configuration as one or more configurations in a given set S of configurations required for a spacecraft. For the design-to configuration, the process includes deriving one or more system equations in a functional form of equations to determine intermediate design parameters that represent effective proportional and derivative gains of the combined controller, Kp and Kd, respectively. The process also includes determining the design parameters of the ACS controller, namely, gains Kq and K? and stiffness and damping coefficients, Ks and Cd respectively of all the interfaces between each of the plurality of joined entities, from the intermediate design parameters Kp and Kd.

Abstract: A recreational sport boat includes a hull, having starboard and port sides and a transom, and a wake-modifying devices positioned aft of the transom. The wake-modifying device includes a plate-like member and at least one downturned surface. The wake-modifying device is pivotable between a non-deployed position and a deployed position about a pivot axis. When a wake-modifying device is in the deployed position, the downturned surface is lower than it is in the non-deployed position so as to be able to modify the boat's wake.

Abstract: A transom mounted fluid hinge bracket having one mounting plate that is connected at a lower distal end to a horizontal bracket portion which extends forward and aft of the transom of a watercraft in a bow to stern axial displacement, the horizontal bracket abutting the underside of the hull of a watercraft sitting flush with the underside of the watercraft, at least one fluid hinge receiver secured to the back side of the horizontal bracket portion on which the back of the substantially planar surface of the trim tab may rest, the at least one fluid hinge receiver containing the substantially planar surface in a position of the planar surface resting about parallel to the hull of the watercraft, and the at least one fluid hinge receiver without any load from the planar surface except at rest keeping the planar surface from descending below a horizon parallel to that of a horizon of the hull.

Abstract: Wakeboat hull control systems and methods are provided to permit the accurate reproduction of a wake behind a wakeboat. The onboard wake control system receives data from a draft measuring system. Incorporation of the data from the draft measuring system permits accurate reproduction of a wake behind the wakeboat after a change in an onboard variable such as the number, weight or position of passengers, the weight or position of cargo and the position of trim tabs or amount/location of ballast.

Abstract: This amphibious vehicle is provided with a body (11), a traveling device (12) that causes the body (11) to travel on land, a sailing device (13) that causes the body (11) to sail on water, a front flap (31) of which the distal end is inclined upward and the proximal end is rotatably supported by a horizontal shaft (34) on the front end of the body (11), a hydraulic damper (32) serving as a damping member that damps displacement of the front flap (31) relative to the body (11), and a compression coil spring (33) serving as a restoring member that restores the position of the front flap (31) relative to the body (11).

Abstract: Flow modifiers are positioned at one or more discrete points along the underside of a boat hull to generate secondary wakes that interfere with the primary wake generated by the boat hull and result in a desired modified wake useful for various watersports. The flow modifiers are formed integrally with the boat hull or affixed thereto, and can be selectively extendable and retractable relative thereto.

Abstract: A recreational sport boat includes a hull, having starboard and port sides and a transom, and a pair of wake-modifying devices positioned aft of the transom. One of the wake-modifying devices is positioned on a port side of the boat's centerline and another of the wake-modifying devices is positioned on a starboard side of the boat's centerline. Each wake-modifying device includes a plate-like member and at least one downturned surface at a trailing portion of the plate-like member. Each wake-modifying device is pivotable between a non-deployed position and a deployed position about a pivot axis that is horizontal or inclined no more than about 35° from horizontal. When a wake-modifying device is in the deployed position, the downturned surface is lower than it is in the non-deployed position so as to be able to modify the boat's wake.

Abstract: Wakeboat ballast pump systems and methods are provided to monitor the operational condition and parameters of wakeboat ballast components. Systems and methods for sensing and measurement are provided to detect parameters associated with wakeboat ballast pumps and compartments, including systems and methods that can economically retrofit into existing wakeboat ballast systems. Systems and methods are also provided to enable automated action based on various operational conditions and parameters to improve the safety, automation, performance, convenience, and marketing advantage of wakeboat ballast pumps.

Abstract: An amphibious vehicle that is capable of being reconfigured to operate both on land and in water is disclosed. The amphibious vehicle includes at least a hull and at least a deployable endless track running on a track assembly. The track assembly may comprise a four bar mechanism having an upper member fixed relative to the hull and a lower member configured to be actuated between an undeployed and a deployed positions, where in a deployed position the upper and lower members of the four bar mechanism are further apart than in an un-deployed position. The endless track is guided by upper guide wheels and lower guide wheels, wherein the upper guide wheels are fixed to the hull and the lower guide wheels are fixed relative to the lower member.

Abstract: An outboard marine propulsion system with a closed loop lower unit heat exchanger is described. The closed loop lower unit heat exchanger provides improved cooling to outboard marine propulsion units and increases engine life compared with traditional open loop cooling systems, particularly in harsh environments such as salt water, brackish water, swamp, shallow or sediment and debris rich water. The closed loop lower unit heat exchanger also provides improved performance to the outboard marine propulsion system when mounted to an appropriate portion of the lower unit of the outboard marine engine such as the anti-cavitation plate.

Abstract: A vessel hull for an inboard-powered marine vessel includes a hull body having a hull bottom that includes a contoured pod mounting surface positioned longitudinally between a central keel and a stern of the hull body. The contoured pod mounting surface has a planar mounting face, for mounting a propulsor pod, and a transition face each positioned between peripheral edges of the pod mounting surface. The transition face slopes forwardly and downwardly from the planar mounting face to the central keel and follows a contour defining a sine wave pattern.

Abstract: A system and method involving hydro-lifters for achieving attitude and control of a watercraft including at least one elongate planar surface, at least one actuator mounted to the hull of the watercraft and pivotally connected to a planar surface. The system using at least one containment shelf-bracket fastened to the underside of the hull forming a non-fixed containment area, between an upper surface of the containment shelf-bracket and the hull, to capture the planar surface and provide a support surface on which the planar surface may rest and allowing forward, aft, and vertical slidability of the planar surface. A method for calculating optimal surface area of the planar surfaces for fuel efficiency by obtaining the measurements of an overall length of the hull and maximum beam of the hull, multiplying the measurement, multiplying the value by 1-3%, and dividing the resulting number by the quantity of planar surfaces.

Abstract: A boat includes at least three trim devices positioned aft of the boat's transom. To improve the boat's ability to get on place, each trim device is initially positioned to a deployed position. The speed of the boat is then determined as the boat gains speed. When the speed of the boat exceeds a first predetermined threshold, the first trim device is moved from the deployed position to a non-deployed position. When the speed of the boat exceeds a second predetermined threshold, the second trim device is moved from the deployed position to a non-deployed position. When the speed of the boat exceeds a third predetermined threshold, the third trim device is moved from the deployed position to a non-deployed position. At least one of the first, second, and third predetermined thresholds is different from the other two of the first, second, and third predetermined thresholds.

Abstract: A controller of a process includes a resource consumption optimizer which receives sets of control actions for a plurality of actuators from an advanced process controller performing independent data processing with respect to the resource consumption optimizer, each set of control actions resulting in a set-specific combined control action effect. The resource consumption optimizer optimizes resource consumption associated with the sets of control actions by modifying at least one control action on the basis of resource consumption associated with the actuator performing the control action while keeping a difference between a combined control action effect of a modified control action set and a combined control action effect a received control action set set-specifically within an accepted range.

Abstract: A locking system for assisting and supporting actuators of a trim-tab system, including a locking rod (20), slideable within a first slotted rod sleeve (28) into a locking dock within the sliding block (24). The invention further includes a second slotted rod sleeve (30) connected to a bottom side of the first slotted rod sleeve (28), a rotating rod (32) within second slotted rod sleeve (30) rotatable towards and away from the sliding block (24). The rotating rod (32) also contains a top driving rod (36) at one end, a bottom rotating rod (38) at an opposite end, and a perpendicular center driving rod (42) at the front-center side of the rotating rod (32). The center driving rod (42) moves the locking rod through contact with a thrusting rod (48). The sliding block (24) further contains a bottom contact rod (40) and a top contact rod (38).

Abstract: An outboard marine propulsion system with a closed loop lower unit heat exchanger is described. The closed loop lower unit heat exchanger provides improved cooling to outboard marine propulsion units and increases engine life compared with traditional open loop cooling systems, particularly in harsh environments such as salt water, brackish water, swamp, shallow or sediment and debris rich water. The closed loop lower unit heat exchanger also provides improved performance to the outboard marine propulsion system when mounted to an appropriate portion of the lower unit of the outboard marine engine such as the anti-cavitation plate.

Abstract: A recreational sport boat includes a hull, having starboard and port sides and a transom, and a wake-modifying devices positioned aft of the transom. The wake-modifying device includes a plate-like member and at least one downturned surface. The wake-modifying device is pivotable between a non-deployed position and a deployed position about a pivot axis. When a wake-modifying device is in the deployed position, the downturned surface is lower than it is in the non-deployed position so as to be able to modify the boat's wake.

Abstract: A system and method for effectively increasing the stroke range of an actuator and deflection angle of a fluid hinge trim tab system for attitude control and stabilization of a water craft includes at least one actuator (20), a scissor joint (25) made up of a rigid structural member (27) and hinge member (33), a scissor hinge mount (35), and an elongate substantially planar surface (32). The scissor joint (25) is connected to the scissor hinge mount (35) and the elongate substantially planar surface (32) at opposite ends. Extension of actuator ram (36) allows for rotation of the rigid structural member (27) which creates a rotational angle (48) and an angle of deflection (40) between the elongate substantially planar surface (32) and the hull (21) of the water craft, which effectively increases the stroke length of the actuator (20). The system also allows for retraction of the actuator (20).

Abstract: A fluid hinge includes a first part of a two-part element including a planar surface of a trim tab and a second part of the two-part system having at least one bracket secured to the hull of a watercraft and the first and second parts of the two-part element are not physically coupled together. It also provides at least one bracket secured to the hull on which the planar surface of the trim tab may rest and the at least one bracket not taking any load from the planar surface except at rest to keep the planar surface from descending below the horizon of the hull.

Abstract: A high speed ship configuration for achieving a plane state efficiently, with threshold power available in fully loaded cargo ship. The system may include a boost phase assist structure to assist in the achievement of a plane state. The boost assist may be external or internal to the ship. The boost assist may provide power and/or lift assist. One embodiment may include a launch rail. In one embodiment, the configuration includes a retractable lateral wing structure disposed toward the stern of the vessel and containing auxiliary power providing thrust for the vessel. The wing structure is deployed during an initial boost phase acceleration and may be stowed in the vessel once the vessel achieves full plane operation. In one embodiment, the boost power structure may include propeller drive, paddle drive, or waterjet drive. The boost power structure may provide buoyancy and/or hydrodynamic trim to assist in achieving plane state operation.

Abstract: A recreational sport boat includes a hull, having starboard and port sides and a transom, and a pair of wake-modifying devices positioned aft of the transom. One of the wake-modifying devices is positioned on a port side of the boat's centerline and another of the wake-modifying devices is positioned on a starboard side of the boat's centerline. Each wake-modifying device includes a plate-like member and at least one downturned surface at a trailing portion of the plate-like member. Each wake-modifying device is pivotable between a non-deployed position and a deployed position about a pivot axis that is horizontal or inclined no more than about 35° from horizontal. When a wake-modifying device is in the deployed position, the downturned surface is lower than it is in the non-deployed position so as to be able to modify the boat's wake.

Abstract: A high speed ship configuration for achieving a plane state efficiently, with threshold power available in fully loaded cargo ship. The system may include a boost phase assist structure to assist in the achievement of a plane state. The boost assist may be external or internal to the ship. The boost assist may provide power and/or lift assist. One embodiment may include a launch rail. In one embodiment, the configuration includes a retractable lateral wing structure disposed toward the stern of the vessel and containing auxiliary power providing thrust for the vessel. The wing structure is deployed during an initial boost phase acceleration and may be stowed in the vessel once the vessel achieves full plane operation. In one embodiment, the boost power structure may include propeller drive, paddle drive, or waterjet drive. The boost power structure may provide buoyancy and/or hydrodynamic trim to assist in achieving plane state operation.

Abstract: A wakeboat has a hull, the hull forming a wake when moving forward in the water, with a port disturbance and a starboard disturbance in the wake. Left (port) and right (starboard) trim tabs are installed at the stern of the hull. Each trim tab comprises a primary subtab and a secondary subtab. Actuators may be optionally included to reposition the trim tabs more into, or more out of, the water. Such repositioning causes the disturbance on one side of the wake to be selectively repositioned to the other side of the wake, enlarging a quiet region on the side of the wake on which the repositioned disturbance was originally positioned. Other systems and methods are also provided.

Abstract: A system for attitude control and stabilization of a marine craft includes at least one elongate substantially planar surface, which may be rigid or flexible, disposed on either side of and in substantial alignment with a bottom of the planing hull of the marine craft. The elongate surface, in a rigid form, includes a tongue-like distal end slidably captured as a fluid hinge upon a region of the hull about 2 to 8 feet forward of the transom. In a flexible form, a distal end of the elongate planar surface may be secured directly to the hull. The elongate surface further includes an actuation portion proximal to a transom of the craft. The system also includes an actuator selectably slidable and securable within an actuation sleeve, the sleeve secured to the transom of the craft.

Abstract: A method for a trimmable marine device includes determining a target trim position of the marine device. A trim actuator is activated for an activation time that is calibrated to move the marine device from a current trim position to the target trim position. After activating the trim actuator for the calibrated activation time, a difference between an actual trim actuator condition and a desired trim actuator condition is calculated. An activation-time adapt value is determined based on the difference. The calibrated activation time is adjusted using the adapt value, and the trim actuator is activated for the adjusted activation time in response to subsequent changes in the target trim position. The adapt value is configured such that activating the trim actuator for the adjusted activation time moves the marine device closer to the target trim position than does activating the trim actuator for the calibrated activation time.

Abstract: Flow modifiers are positioned at one or more discrete points along the underside of a boat hull to generate secondary wakes that interfere with the primary wake generated by the boat hull and result in a desired modified wake useful for various watersports. The flow modifiers are formed integrally with the boat hull or affixed thereto, and can be selectively extendable and retractable relative thereto.

Abstract: A boat includes at least three trim devices positioned aft of the boat's transom. To improve the boat's ability to get on place, each trim device is initially positioned to a deployed position. The speed of the boat is then determined as the boat gains speed. When the speed of the boat exceeds a first predetermined threshold, the first trim device is moved from the deployed position to a non-deployed position. When the speed of the boat exceeds a second predetermined threshold, the second trim device is moved from the deployed position to a non-deployed position. When the speed of the boat exceeds a third predetermined threshold, the third trim device is moved from the deployed position to a non-deployed position. At least one of the first, second, and third predetermined thresholds is different from the other two of the first, second, and third predetermined thresholds.

Abstract: An outboard motor mount and side-mount accessory adapter to mount an outboard motor and an accessory to the transom of a boat wherein the outboard motor mount includes a transom mounting plate to secure the outboard motor mount to the transom and an adapter mounting plate extending outwardly from the transom mounting plate and wherein the side-mount accessory adapter includes a proximal side-mount adapter mounting plate coupled to the adapter mounting plate and a distal accessory mounting plate to support the accessory thereon.

Abstract: A recreational sport boat includes a hull having starboard and port sides and a transom, a generally horizontal platform, and a pair of wake-modifying devices positioned aft of the transom. The generally horizontal platform extends aft of the transom and is configured to support a human weighing at least 100 lbs. on an upper surface thereof. The pair of wake-modifying devices are attached to the platform. One of the wake-modifying devices is positioned on a port side of the platform's centerline, and another of the wake-modifying devices is positioned on a starboard side of the platform's centerline. Each wake-modifying device is moveable between a non-deployed position and a deployed position in which the wake-modifying device is angled downwardly at an angle relative to the top surface of the generally horizontal platform.

Abstract: A watersports boat includes a hull having an underside that defines a running surface that contacts water when the hull moves therein. The running surface includes a planing mode trailing edge and a pre-planing mode trailing edge. An aft running surface section of the hull includes port and starboard recesses that extend from a respective step at a forward end thereof aft to a respective aft edge thereof. The steps form the planing mode trailing edge where water disengages from the aft corners of the aft running surface section when the boat travels in planing mode and the aft edge of the recesses form the pre-planing mode trailing edge where water disengages from the aft corners of the aft running surface section when the boat travels in pre-planing mode.

Abstract: Wakeboat ballast pump systems and methods are provided to monitor the operational condition and parameters of wakeboat ballast components. Systems and methods for sensing and measurement are provided to detect parameters associated with wakeboat ballast pumps and compartments, including systems and methods that can economically retrofit into existing wakeboat ballast systems. Systems and methods are also provided to enable automated action based on various operational conditions and parameters to improve the safety, automation, performance, convenience, and marketing advantage of wakeboat ballast pumps.

Abstract: A recreational sport boat includes a hull, having starboard and port sides and a transom, and a pair of wake-modifying devices positioned aft of the transom. One of the wake-modifying devices is positioned on a port side of the boat's centerline and another of the wake-modifying devices is positioned on a starboard side of the boat's centerline. Each wake-modifying device includes a plate-like member and at least one downturned surface at a trailing portion of the plate-like member. Each wake-modifying device is pivotable between a non-deployed position and a deployed position about a pivot axis that is horizontal or inclined no more than about 35° from horizontal. When a wake-modifying device is in the deployed position, the downturned surface is lower than it is in the non-deployed position so as to be able to modify the boat's wake.

Abstract: The present invention provides a detachable wake modifying device that can be placed on either the port or starboard side of a boat platform due to the reversible design of the mount and its attachment to the remainder of the wake assembly. The mount has an open channel design that receives a lateral adjustment arm. An angular adjustment arm hinges between the lateral adjustment arm and the wake tab. The wake tab also hinges to the lateral adjustment arm, forming a triangular structure between the wake tab, lateral adjustment arm, and the angular adjustment arm. In this way, the angle of the wake tab can be adjusted to create a desirable wake in the water behind a motor boat, which is suitable for wake surfing.

Abstract: A system and method control a trim device that positions a trimmable marine apparatus with respect to a marine vessel. A trim system is operated in an automatic mode, in which a controller sends signals to actuate the trim device automatically as a function of vessel or engine speed, or a manual mode, in which the controller sends signals to actuate the trim device in response to commands from an operator input device. An operating speed of the propulsion system is determined. When the operating speed has crossed a given operating speed threshold, the trim system is subsequently operated in the automatic or manual mode depending on whether the operating speed increased or decreased as it crossed the operating speed threshold and whether the trim system was operating in the automatic or manual mode as the operating speed crossed the operating speed threshold.

Abstract: Various configurations of improved wake-modifying devices for a power boat are provided herein. All such configurations provide a water channel and (optional) wedge for capturing and redirecting significantly more of the water flowing past the transom of the boat than conventional trim tabs consisting primarily of a flat plate. This increases the upward force applied to the deployed wake-modifying device and raises the stern of the boat on the non-surf side to list the boat to the surf side, producing a larger wake on the surf side. Some configurations provide a convergent water channel to produce longer, smoother wakes on the surf side of the boat. Other configurations provide a divergent water channel, which produces a comparatively shorter, taller wake on the surf side of the boat.

Abstract: A wake-modifying a surf tab that can be attached to a watercraft is disclosed. That surf tab includes a control plate assembly, a mounting hinge for attaching the control plate assembly to a watercraft, a hydro-thruster assembly, and a separation hinge attaching the control plate assembly to the hydro-thruster assembly. Also included is an actuator attached to the control plate assembly which connects the control plate assembly to the watercraft such that the actuator can control the angle between the control plate assembly and the watercraft. a length adjustable control rod assembly connects the control plate assembly to the hydro-thruster assembly. The control rod assembly adjusts the angle between the control plate assembly and the hydro-thruster assembly. In use, the length of the actuator and the length of the control rod assembly can change the flow of water from the hydro-thruster assembly to modify a wake created by a watercraft.

Abstract: A wake-shaping system comprising a one or more surf tabs attached to a watercraft. The one or more surf tabs comprise at least a first surf tab. The first surf tab comprises an upper plate, a mounting hinge, a lower portion, a one or more mounting brackets comprising at least a first mounting bracket. A hydro-thruster assembly having a one or more hydro-thruster diversion fins. further, the first surf tab comprises a leading edge, a trailing edge, an interior side, an exterior side, a top side and a bottom side. The upper plate is rotatably attached to a portion of the watercraft with the mounting hinge. The watercraft travels through a water in a direction of travel. The leading edge comprises a forward portion of first surf tab relative to the direction of travel and the trailing edge comprises a rearward portion.

Abstract: A trim tab assembly including a hinge assembly and a trim tab. The trim tab includes a wedge-shaped body with a curved surface and a side. The curved surface, while in a deployed state, adjusts pitch, roll or yaw motion of a marine vessel. The curved surface is pivoted about a portion of the hinge assembly when transitioned between retracted and deployed states. A first portion of the curved surface extends below the marine vessel while in the deployed state and deflects oncoming water when a portion of the curved surface is extended below the marine vessel. A second portion of the curved surface is not below the marine vessel while in the deployed state. The hinge assembly is configured to attach to a support structure of the marine vessel rearward of the curved surface. The side extends between the curved surface and the hinge assembly.

Abstract: A high speed ship configuration for achieving a plane state efficiently, with threshold power available in fully loaded cargo ship. The system may include a boost phase assist structure to assist in the achievement of a plane state. The boost assist may be external or internal to the ship. The boost assist may provide power and/or lift assist. In one embodiment, the configuration includes a retractable lateral wing structure disposed toward the stern of the vessel and containing auxiliary power providing thrust for the vessel. The wing structure is deployed during an initial boost phase acceleration and may be stowed in the vessel once the vessel achieves full plane operation. In one embodiment, the boost power structure may include propeller drive, paddle drive, or waterjet drive. The boost power structure may provide buoyancy and/or hydrodynamic trim to assist in achieving plane state operation.

Abstract: A watersports boat includes a hull having an underside defining a running surface that contacts water when the hull moves therein. An aft running surface section of the hull has (a) a trailing edge forming an aft-most point of the contact with water along any given buttock line of the hull when the hull is moving forward, (b) a non-repositionable aft running surface section forming a first portion of the trailing edge, and (c) a re-positionable aft running surface section forming a second portion of the trailing edge. The first portion of the trailing edge and second portion of the trailing edge meet substantially tangent to one another.