Abstract: The invention relates to two parallel added floaters (2) for watercraft, which are fixed to the stern (1a) on a watercraft hull (1) or a platform element (31) whereby the single auxiliary bottom (5) is positioned higher or for the most part positioned higher than the hull bottom (6) and forms a step. The added floaters (2) create on the one hand a static lift (As) and on the other hand a dynamic (Ad) lift.

Abstract: A method for controlling a watercraft with a steering wheel, a steering device and twin motors, the method includes: maneuvering the watercraft at a first speed using side thrusters, controllable pitch propellers, or side thrusters with a deflection device as the steering device, wherein, when the watercraft travels in reverse and the watercraft makes a turn at the first speed, the steering wheel and the watercraft turn in a same direction, and maneuvering the watercraft at a second speed higher than the first speed using the controllable pitch propellers as the steering device, wherein, when the watercraft makes a turn at the second speed, a constant speed is maintained for both of the twin motors.

Abstract: A trim tab for mounting the transom of a boat has an upper surface and an undulating bottom surface with down-turned flaps on opposite sides of the tab. The trim tab is formed of a molded composite material. The top surface includes a hinge platform at its forward end and mount platform at a rearward end. The trim tab tapers from a minimum thickness at its leading end to a maximum thickness at its trailing end. The shape of the bottom surface and the down-turned flaps provide a bottom surface area with enhanced lift characteristics.

Abstract: The invention relates to a hull element (7) which is fixed to the stern (1) or hull bottom (1b) by means of a hinge (6,6a) and enables an active as well as a passive trim of the watercraft (1a) and at the same time also supports a watercraft lift (2) or a watercraft stair (11) by means of the connector (8) or a connecting cylinder (18). By means of cylinder (17b) and the connector (8) or connecting cylinder (18) on the hull element (7) the platform (3) or the watercraft stair (11) can be activated. In case the watercraft lift (2) or the watercraft stair (11) is operated by means of cylinder (17a), the hull element (7) folds away, so that the stroke (H) of the watercraft lift (2) respectively the stroke (HT) of the watercraft stairs (11) is not impaired or restricted.

Abstract: An apparatus which selectively increases the size of the wake of a boat with an outboard or sterndrive motor system. The apparatus has one or more plates attached to the boat hull which, when rotated below the bottom of the hull, extend into the flow of water when underway, increasing the size of the wake due to the dynamic displacement of water. A support bar mechanism transmits propulsive force from the motor drive unit to the plates to overcome resistive hydraulic loads. Linkages may be used to locate the support bar mechanism. In one embodiment, the support bar mechanism is comprised of a plurality of members and pivots such that the support bar mechanism can be stowed substantially out of the flow of water until larger wakes are desired. In other embodiments, mechanical cable, fluidic, or electrical control systems are used to control the configuration of the support bar mechanism.

Abstract: A spar hull for a floating vessel can include a hard tank having a belly portion, a fixed strake coupled to the outer surface of the tank and a folding strake coupled to the belly portion of the tank, the folding strake having one or more strake panels and one or more support frames. A method for installing folding belly strakes on a spar hull may include providing a floating spar hull having a hard tank with a belly side, rotating the spar so that the belly side is in a first workable position, coupling at least one folding strake to the belly side of the spar, and coupling the strake in a folded position for transport. The method may include positioning the spar hull offshore in a transport position, upending the spar hull, unfolding the strake, fixing the strake in the unfolded position and installing the spar hull.

Abstract: A trim tab apparatus capable of causing the stern of a vessel to be raised or lowered relative to the surface of the water in which it rests. A trim tab plane can be pivotally attached to one or more arms that can be attached to a vessel by one or more brackets. When the trim tab plane is rotated in an aft direction as a vessel is moving, the force of water passing under the trim tab plane causes the vessel stern to be raised. If the trim tab planes are rotated in a fore direction as the vessel is moving, water is forced across the top of the trim tab planes causing stern-drag, so that the vessel stern is lowered in the water.

Abstract: A high performance planing hull, designed in particular for boats with drives of fixed or non-steerable type. The hull comprises an additional volume, which is integrated in the immersed part of the stern of the hull. The additional volume extends substantially in longitudinal direction and is symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal plane of symmetry of the hull.

Abstract: The invention involves a double trim tab for watercraft in which connection the flow interceptor (1) is activated by an actuation cylinder (4) and the flow interceptor (1) activates the bottom tab (2). One of the tabs may have a course correction device (10) or a course correction fin (11). In addition, an electronic steering device (14) can likewise carry out a course correction in the event of a trim change in which connection the steering wheel (17) is kept neutral by means of an uncoupling device (18).

Abstract: An automatic stabilization unit for watercraft such as boats, yachts and the like. In order to ensure stabilization of the watercraft with a high level of movement comfort at the same time over the entire speed range and in all water conditions, an electronic regulator is provided which stabilizes the water attitude of the watercraft during movement, while moving straight ahead and turning, as a function of the movement-situation-dependent rotation rates and longitudinal accelerations and/or lateral accelerations and/or vertical accelerations, using the actuating elements which are normally available in the watercraft, thus preventing or reducing to a minimum any stress on, damage to or danger to the boat, its occupants and the surrounding are thereof.

Abstract: A trim tab assembly for a watercraft includes a enclosure. A support structure is positioned in the enclosure. At least one trim tab is disposed in the enclosure. The trim tab includes a generally planar top, bottom, side and front surfaces linked by a curved surface defining a wedge shaped body. An actuator is linked to the trim tab pivotally moving the trim tab relative to the enclosure.

Abstract: A variable area trim tab which is adjustable to control its effective area of the trim tab for use on boats having any of several propulsion methods. Area control is used to vary the effective lift area of the trim tab and to control the water flowing to, or flooding, the propeller. Flood doors and flood gates may be water blocking style, or water passing style to control water flow to the propeller. Area control and flood control components are also used as propeller guards, or propeller screens. Tunnel propellers use sliding and hinged tunnel closures to control water flow to the propeller. Sliding closures serve as propeller guards when the propeller is in the raised position. Side inlet water flow pipes allow water to fill propeller tunnels and serve as a side thruster propeller housing.

Abstract: A propulsion system of displacement or semi-displacement ships, includes one or more propellers of semi-submerged type, arranged with a partial immersion of the sole bottom blades and with the top blades emerged, regardless of the state of motion and the trim of the craft. The propulsion system allows, employed power being equal, a higher propulsion efficiency and allows to keep the driveline of the propellers entirely above water level, wherein the semi-submerged propellers are arranged at the transom, the ratio of diameter (D) or sum of diameters (Np×D) of the semi-submerged propellers to craft width (L) at the water line (3) is greater than 0.50.

Abstract: A joint connecting a cylinder actuator of a trim tab to a watercraft includes a first part couplable to a wall of the watercraft, a second part couplable to the cylinder actuator, a pin coupled to one part and a pin seat formed in the other part. In one embodiment, the seat is defined by a portion of a circular cylindrical surface having an opening on one side. The surface portion has an angular extension larger than 180°, and the pin has a correspondingly cylindrical portion with a laterally flattened surface for introduction into the opening of the pin seat. The opening of the cylindrical pin seat and the flattened portion/s of the pin are in such reciprocal angular positions that the two joint parts are operably connectable and disconnectable by disposing them in a relative angular position, which cannot be attained in the mounted operating condition.

Abstract: A rudder and dynamic trim adjusting apparatus for a boat includes a rudder, a rudder shaft extending from the rudder and being rotatable about a longitudinal axis thereof to rotate the rudder, trim fins extending from the rudder, along at least one transverse axis transverse to the longitudinal axis, and a mechanism connected to the trim fins, and being operable, independently of rotation of the rudder shaft to rotate the trim fins about the at least one transverse axis. Methods of controlling an attitude of a boat hull are provided.

Abstract: A trim tab for mounting the transom of a boat has an upper surface and an undulating bottom surface with down-turned flaps on opposite sides of the tab. The trim tab is formed of a molded composite material. The top surface includes a hinge platform at its forward end and mount platform at a rearward end. The trim tab tapers from a minimum thickness at its leading end to a maximum thickness at its trailing end. The shape of the bottom surface and the down-turned flaps provide a bottom surface area with enhanced lift characteristics.

Abstract: An amphibious vehicle capable of high speeds on the water has a buoyant hull with driven tracks on each side of the hull. The tracks are movable between an upper position and a lower position relative to the hull. The tracks propel the vehicle both for land travel and water travel. Water diverter vanes at the aft end of each track divert water being carried forward by the tracks. Water diverter vanes at the forward ends direct water carried on the upper runs in a downward and aft direction. A cavitation plate is located behind each of the tracks while waterborne and below the waterline of the hull. A tiltable transom flap is attached to the transom and extends rearward.

Abstract: A planing amphibious vehicle has at least one trim tab at its stern. A vehicle control system includes a mode change controller and a trim tab controller. The mode change controller informs the trim tab controller when a mode change event is taking place. The trim tab controller retracts the trim tabs if the mode change is from marine to land mode; and deploys the tabs if the change is from land mode to marine mode, to assist the vehicle in rising on to the plane. The controller may also retract the tabs if the vehicle reverses; and deploy the tabs if a change is made from reverse to forward motion. The vehicle control system may connect to actuators and sensors for retractable road wheels, which may use hydropneumatic struts. Safeguards against system faults and/or erroneous switch operation are included. Road wheel drive decouples are used; a marine drive decoupler may also be fitted.

Abstract: The invention concerns a steering and trimming system for a watercraft (1) whereby control is exercised via the steering wheel (2) at low speed by means of crossbeam rudders (13,14) and when planing via a rudder (29). In addition, during the craft's acceleration phase, the trim arms (22) are more quickly brought into position.

Abstract: A boat control system includes trim tabs mounted on the lower transom of a boat, with an electric trolling motor attached to each tab. A user control provides commands to control positioning of the trim tabs and operation of the motors. Steering with the motors is provided by controlling the relative speed and propeller direction of the motors. The user control includes an input for generating a return-to-center command that causes the motors to be driven at the same speed and in the same direction.

Abstract: A trim tab control system determines current tab position based upon a feedback signal that represents incremental motion of the actuator drive motor. Prior to power down, the current tab position is stored in non-volatile memory, and is retrieved on power up. The control system characterizes the actuator during a learning function by driving the actuator between the upper and lower limit positions and counting the number of increments. The display of tab position is based upon the current tab position count and the number of increments in a full range of motion. Automatic up and down commands cause the actuator to be driven up or down until a stop command is received or a limit position is reached.

Abstract: A boat with a controllable wake, including a boat hull with a propulsion system. A wake controlling device includes first and second plates with a bottom surface which is convexly curved between their forward and rear ends, and first and second mounts secured to the port and starboard sides, respectively, of the boat transom and securing the forward ends of the plates for pivoting about axes which are behind the boat transom and generally lie parallel to the plane of the aft boat bottom adjacent the first and second mounts. Plate controls extend between the transom and the plates to adjustably pivot the plates relative to the mounts. A plurality of generally triangular fins extend from the plates at substantially right angles to the plate bottom surfaces and extend at substantially right angles from the axes. Side plates are on the lateral edges of the first and second plates.

Abstract: A trim tab for a power boat comprises a first portion adapted to attach to a transom of the power boat, a second portion adapted to contact, at a variable angle, a fluid in which the power boat is being operated to control a trim angle of the power boat, and a live hinge adapted to hingedly affix the second portion to the first portion. The first and second portions may be constructed of aluminum. The live hinge may comprise a strip of a thermoplastic polymeric material having a relatively thin center section spanning a gap between the first and second portions and having relatively thick edge sections on opposite sides of the center section. The thermoplastic polymeric material may comprise polypropylene. The first and second portions may each define a gap for receiving one edge section of the live hinge.

Abstract: A boat with a controllable wake, including a boat hull with a propulsion system. A wake controlling device includes first and second plates with a bottom surface which is convexly curved between their forward and rear ends, and first and second mounts secured to the port and starboard sides, respectively, of the boat transom and securing the forward ends of the plates for pivoting about axes which are behind the boat transom and generally lie parallel to the plane of the aft boat bottom adjacent the first and second mounts. Plate controls extend between the transom and the plates to adjustably pivot the plates relative to the mounts. A plurality of generally triangular fins extend from the plates at substantially right angles to the plate bottom surfaces and extend at substantially right angles from the axes. Side plates are on the lateral edges of the first and second plates.

Abstract: A boat control system includes trim tabs mounted on the lower transom of a boat, with an electric trolling motor attached to each tab. A user control provides commands to control positioning of the trim tabs and operation of the motors. Steering with the motors is provided by controlling the relative speed and propeller direction of the motors. The user control includes an input for generating a return-to-center command that causes the motors to be driven at the same speed and in the same direction.

Abstract: A trim tab control system determines current tab position based upon a feedback signal that represents incremental motion of the actuator drive motor. Prior to power down, the current tab position is stored in non-volatile memory, and is retrieved on power up. The control system characterizes the actuator during a learning function by driving the actuator between the upper and lower limit positions and counting the number of increments. The display of tab position is based upon the current tab position count and the number of increments in a full range of motion. Automatic up and down commands cause the actuator to be driven up or down until a stop command is received or a limit position is reached.

Abstract: A boat control system includes trim tabs mounted on the lower transom of a boat, with an electric trolling motor attached to each tab. The control system controls positioning of the trim tabs within a trim range and within a troll range. If a main engine ignition switch changes from off to on while the trim tabs are within the troll range, the control system automatically moves trim tabs positions out of the troll range, and disables the trolling motors.

Abstract: A boat hull has at least one rocker chute formed therein open to the water forward of the hull's transom. The chute has a leading edge forward of the transom and an interceptor plate projects downwardly from the hull at said leading edge.

Abstract: An anti-cavitation plate actuating system incorporates pressurized air selectively applied through a control valve to an air assist cylinder. The cylinder, when pressurized, applies force to anti-cavitation plate return springs; the force is not sufficient to expand or retract the springs but merely to apply a pre-load. A control pedal operating through a control shaft applies additional force through an actuating shaft connected through a control lever to the anti-cavitation plate to lower the plate.

Abstract: A marine vessel and drive combination includes port and starboard tunnels formed in a marine vessel hull raising port and starboard steerable marine propulsion devices to protective positions relative to the keel.

Abstract: A device for controlling trimming flaps (12, 13) of a watercraft (10), preferably having two trimming flaps (12, 13) and in each case at least one hydraulically operated for adjustment of the inclination angle (15) of the associated trimming flap (12, 13). The invention provides that the or each hydraulic system (18) has an associated flowmeter (21) which detects the flow of hydraulic fluid in the hydraulic system (18) in order to determine the inclination angle (15) of the associated trimming flap (12, 13). This makes it possible to dispense with external measurement devices for detection of the position of the trimming flaps, for example appropriate position sensors. The invention also relates to a corresponding method, and to watercraft having a corresponding device.

Abstract: A trim tab control system adapted to adjust trim tabs to optimize the velocity of a water vessel. The trim tab control system is adapted to have a tilt sensor and a velocity sensor in communication with the microcontroller where the microcontroller records the position of the trim tabs based on trim tab adjustments that the trim tab control system initiates, as well as trim tab adjustments initiated by the helmsman of the water vessel.

Abstract: A shallow draft boat has a hull that protects a propulsion propeller within a tunnel that passes only partially through the hull from stern to bow. The hull has a mechanism, such as a flap for selectively permitting or blocking water flow access to the tunnel from under the boat. The boat also has a lift mechanism preferably in the shape or adjustable parallelogram for selectively positioning a propeller of a propulsion unit substantially directly behind the tunnel or below the tunnel. The boat can operate in two modes. In one, water access to the tunnel is permitted and the propeller is positioned above the bottom of the hull and behind the tunnel. In the other, water access to the tunnel is blocked and the propeller is positioned below the bottom of the hull. This construction permits selective operation in a shallow draft mode, in a normal draft mode or in between.

Abstract: The current invention is an apparatus and method for an inner and outer dual hull boat capable of transforming between different levels of planing ability. The design is a gateway in the outer hull which allows water to pass through the void between the inner and outer hull. By controlling the position of a gate, the flow of water through the gateway in the forward moving boat can be controlled, which allows for the control of the planing or displacement capacity of the boat.

Abstract: A marine drive and a marine vessel and drive combination have a trim tab with a forward end pivotally mounted to a marine propulsion device.

Abstract: A hydrofoil unit for attaching to the stern of the hull of a boat. The unit includes a mount that mounts to the stern of the hull of the boat, a hydrofoil that is pivotally attached to the mount, a pivot assembly that pivotally attaches the hydrofoil to the mount, and apparatus for pivoting the hydrofoil relative to the mount. In one embodiment, the apparatus is automatic and includes an hydraulic cylinder that is pivotally attached to the transom of the boat and a strut that is pivotally attached to the hydraulic cylinder and the hydrofoil. In another embodiment, the apparatus is manual and includes an upper threaded rod that is pivotally attaching to the transom of the boat, a turnbuckle that is attached to the upper threaded rod, and a lower threaded rod that is attached to the turnbuckle and the hydrofoil.

Abstract: A personal watercraft configured to plane on a water surface is disclosed. The personal watercraft typically includes an attitude sensor configured to detect an attitude of a body of the watercraft, a propulsion force changing system configured to change a propulsion force of the watercraft to control the attitude of the body, and a controller configured to control the propulsion force changing system according to the attitude of the body which is detected by the attitude sensor.

Abstract: A trim tab shape control system for a boat with a transom according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a flexible plate and a trim tab control system. The flexible plate has a forward end attached to the transom, a rearward end, and an operative bottom surface. The trim tab control system includes a first force mechanism that is attached near the rearward end of the flexible plate and at least one second force mechanism interfacing the flexible plate between the transom and the first force mechanism. The force mechanisms are operative to deflect the operative bottom surface of the flexible plate in a controlled curve while in an up position, where the plate retains a shape in a down position which varies with force applied by the first and second force mechanisms and the operating conditions of the boat.

Abstract: An adjustable wake setting device for modifying a wake produced by a watercraft traveling through water.

Abstract: Pneumatic boat (1) including two inflatable buoyancy chambers (2) extending at least on either side and kept spaced apart by a rigid bottom and by a rear panel (6), at least one stabilizing flap (15) being secured to the base of the rear panel (6) so as to extend rearwards beyond the latter; the flap (15) is fixed to the base of the rear panel (6) by a wing (11) and screws (12) capable of allowing the flap to occupy, selectively, a functional position and a nonfunctional position; the flap (15) is dimensioned and shaped such that, in the functional position, it extends, laterally, beyond the lateral edge of the base of the rear panel (6) and such that its lateral edge (16) is engaged under the corresponding inflatable chamber (2) and simply bears freely, vertically upwards, against the latter.

Abstract: A trim tab (18, 204) hinged (19) at the bottom edge of a boat transom (12, 179) is rotated into a position below the boat when the drive (58, 186) is in a lowest-most trim position, and is raised up, when the drive is above a selected pickup trim position. A push tube (58) connected to the motor (16) operates a push rod (49) and a trim tab (18). A push bar (96, 97) is moved by the drive, causing pieces (104, 105) to rotate trim tabs (18a). A fluidic slave cylinder (142) is operated by a master cylinder (134) or by a pump (148) responding to a position detector (150). Levers (164, 167) may be connected by a cable (155). A hydraulic master cylinder (195) is disposed on a part (186) of an outdrive that rotates for trim, its cylinder rod (200) contacting a fixed part (184), driving fluid to a slave cylinder (201) mounted on a fixed part (183) with its piston rod (202) moving a trim tab (204).

Abstract: A hydrofoil craft, particularly a method of economically modifying a conventional hull with cambered foils to obtain and calculate increased lift from dense spray and to achieve enhanced craft performance is disclosed. The present invention improves speed, fuel efficiency and rough water stability, reduced pitch and vertical accelerations. A catamaran or V-bottom hull (20) is modified with chine mounted aerofoils (32, 33, 28, 28A), flexible dihedral cambered foils positioned beneath the water line and on either side of the bow (30, 31) so as to create turbulence in the forward end of a tunnel(s) (26). Fixed forward tunnel cambered foil(s) (28) and/or fixed or adjustable center tunnel cambered foils at the stern (28A) end of the tunnel (26) to generate lift from pressure caused by dense spray in the tunnel(s) (26) may also be provided.

Abstract: A boat comprising a hull having an end portion that is curved inwardly. A plate is pivotally mounted to the boat for movement between a first position in which it extends downwardly and a second position in which it extends upwardly.

Abstract: A trim operating lever device is disclosed which can downwardly or vertically swing a nozzle capable of adjusting the jet direction of jet water. When the trim operating lever is gripped with a finger of the hand which is gripping the steering handle, a lever of the lever lock means can be substantially simultaneously operated with the finger, to effect locking. Therefore, the number of operations by the left hand necessary for swinging the nozzle is reduced. Also, because the trim operating lever makes it possible to enlarge the operating force, the nozzle can be swung quickly.

Abstract: A boat propulsion system includes a boat having an elongated hull with a water flow channel formed in the bottom thereof, wherein a movable trim plate is disposed within the water flow channel for controlling a flow of water to a surface-piercing propeller which is positioned aft of the water flow channel and which is disposed within a propeller cavity formed in the bottom of the hull. In a fully extended position, the trim plate is flush with the hull of the boat, and in a fully recessed position the trim plate is completely recessed within the water flow channel. The trim plate is variably movable between the recessed and fully extended positions to provide for performance advantages at various boat speeds.

Abstract: A boat comprising a hull having an end portion that is curved inwardly. A plate is pivotally mounted to the boat for movement between a first position in which it extends downwardly and a second position in which it extends upwardly.

Abstract: A hydrofoil system for lifting a boat out of water an amount sufficient to reduce drag while still allowing the boat to be powered by a conventional inboard-outboard drive. The hydrofoil system includes a front hydrofoil unit, a center hydrofoil unit, and a pair of rear hydrofoil units. The front hydrofoil unit includes a hydrofoil portion that dependingly mounts to a mounting portion thereof that depends from the bottom of the hull at the bow thereof. The center hydrofoil unit includes a hydrofoil that dependingly extends equidistantly outwardly from a pair of stanchions thereof that depend from the bottom of the hull at the substantial center thereof. Each rear hydrofoil unit includes a hydrofoil that dependingly extends equidistantly outwardly from a pair of stanchions thereof that depend from port and starboard trim tab units of the hull, respectively.

Abstract: The flaps (101) are fastened to the bottom of the boat, with hinges (122) and are extended under the moving boat to generate lift or cause drag. The area of the flaps (101) can be increased with extensions (102). Slots (104) are present on the flaps (101) to relieve vortexes and some drag. Lift amount can be regulated by the amount of flap presentation and by use of the extensions (102). Flaps are individually controllable or can be moved in unison. Increased drag will result from extreme extension of the flaps. The number of flaps, fastened to the boat forward of the stern, can be two, four or more if desired.

Abstract: A modular marine vessel has a variable hull and a plurality of boat forming modules including a bow section module, a load section module having a bow end and an aft end, and a bulkhead forming module is detachably connected to each bow and aft end of the load section module. The bulkhead forming module that is connected at the bow end of the load section module is detachably connected to the bow section module. Each boat forming and bulkhead forming module includes a topside section and a hull bottom side section. The topside section of each boat forming module has a shell gunnel portion, and the hull bottom side section of each boat forming module has a pivotally mounted bottom shell hull portion. The gunnel and hull portions of the load and bow section modules are detachably connected end-to-end, and sealingly juxtaposed the detachably connected bulkhead forming module to prevent water from entering the boat when the boat engages water.

Abstract: A trim tab monitoring circuit is provided which receives a signal that is representative of a voltage potential across a stator winding of a motor which is attached to the trim tab. This signal is passed through a high pass filter to remove the DC component of the signal, amplified, and passed through a low pass filter to remove certain high frequencies components of the signal. A zero crossing detector is used to discern individual pulses which are then received by a counter that provides a single output pulse for a predetermined number of input pulses. The series of output pulses from the counter are conditioned and, in conjunction with a direction sensor, provided to an up/down counter controller that provides digital signals to a signal output circuit. The signal output circuit provides a DC voltage output to a display and the DC output voltage is representative of the position of the trim tab.