Abstract: A water vehicle moving on or in a liquid and including a flotation element (1) that is connected by a connection member (6) to a carrier (3), the water vehicle being characterized in that the connection member (6) is shaped so as to enable the carrier (3) to assume at least two positions, namely:—a raised position where the longitudinal axis of the carrier (3) and those of the flotation element (1) substantially extend into the same horizontal plane, the carrier (3) then being on the surface and capable of making up a central shell; and—a lowered position where the carrier (3) extends under the plane including the longitudinal axis of each of the flotation element (1), the carrier (3) then being submerged.

Abstract: A vessel for towing a towed body in or on a body of water is disclosed. The vessel includes a vessel, a tow arm mechanism carried by the vessel, a towed body linked to the tow arm mechanism, and at least one sensor carried by either the vessel or the towed body. The sensor generates sensor data, and a towing mechanism controller receives the sensor data and positionally adjusts the tow arm mechanism based on the data.

Abstract: A pontoon boat having enhanced handling characteristics includes a deck, a central pontoon mounted to said deck, two outer pontoons mounted to said deck on respective opposite sides of said central pontoon, and a motor, wherein the central pontoon extends below the outer pontoons to create a V-shaped hull, and the motor is capable of causing said center and outer pontoons to plane during normal operation.

Abstract: The portable, single-person pontoon boat includes a hull having a deck and at least one sidewall. The hull defines an open interior region. At least one laterally extending, elongated frame member having opposed first and second hollow ends is fixed to the bottom of the hull. First and second pontoon floats are further provided, along with at least one pair of spars. A distal end of each of the spars is releasably secured to a respective one of the first and second pontoon floats. A proximal end of each of the spars is slidably received within a respective one of the first and second ends of the at least one laterally extending, elongated frame member and releasably fastened thereto.

Abstract: A method for transporting. Multiple vessels are provided, each having a hull defining an air cavity over a water surface. Different ones of the vessels are loaded with material destined for different end locations. The vessels are connected to one another with rigid couplings to effect tandem movement of the multiple vessels over water as one ship while permitting each vessel to undergo changes in pitch. The vessels are transported to a first destination. One or more of the vessels is disconnected from the ship.

Abstract: The invention relates to an armed stealth surface vessel (1) comprising a hull (2), a deck (5, 6) and superstructures (3). The inventive vessel is equipped with sensors, transmitters, arms and, optionally, handling means. The invention is characterized in that the outer casing (4) of the deadworks comprises walls which are all inclined inwards such that the outer faces thereof are oriented upwards and form an angle that is greater than or equal to 20° with the vertical at least above a line located 5 m above the waterline and, along at least 50% of the length of the vessel, above a line located less than one meter above the waterline. The invention is also characterized in that that the essentially-vertical joint lines between two adjacent walls are inclined inwards and form an angle of more than 20° with the vertical. The invention is further characterized in that the sensors and transmitters, the arms and the handling means are concealed or can be concealed in or under the outer casing of the deadworks.

Abstract: An outrigger for attachment to a host vessel, including: a flotation pod; a frame connected to the pod and connectable to the host vessel; at least one solar cell mounted on the frame; a battery connected to the at least one cell; and an electric motor mounted on the frame and connected to the battery.

Abstract: A vessel having an elongate base frame with a transverse tubular member adjacent each end of said base frame. The vessel also has elongate buoyancy members extending substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the base frame adjacent opposite sides thereof. The elongate buoyancy members are movable between respective extended and retracted positions relative to the base frame by support beams telescopically located within respective ends of a respective tubular member. The vessel also has a drive system to selectively move the elongate buoyancy members between the extended and retracted positions. The vessel also has a mobile transportation unit. The transportation unit includes an elevation mechanism to move the vessel between a raised position with retracted buoyancy members for road transportation and a lowered position with extended buoyancy members. The mobile transportation unit is detachable from the vessel when in the lowered position.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: An improved pontoon boat reduces outboard motor noise and vibration for passengers. A plurality of beams extends between port and starboard pontoons respectively to form a beam matrix to maintain the spacing of the pontoons, to support a deck sheet serving as a floor for the boat, and to support a motor bracket. The beam matrix includes at least a first and preferably a second motor beam, both attached between the port and starboard pontoons. A motor bracket for supporting the outboard motor is attached to and contacts the first and second motor beams only. A motor bracket support may attach the motor bracket to the first and second motor beams. The motor beams, the motor bracket, and bracket support contact only the pontoons, and thus isolate the outboard motor from the deck sheet, the remainder of the beam matrix, and the pontoons.

Abstract: A catamaran adapted for high speed travel includes a first and second hull, or vaka, disposed transversely apart from one another and interconnected by an intermediate structure, or aka. First and second elongate air tubes are formed in respective interior sides of the vakas. Each air tube is in open communication with a leading end of the vaka within which it is formed and has a uniform depth from the leading end to the approximate center of gravity of the catamaran. Each air tube depth gradually lessens from the center of gravity to the stern. Both vakas are therefore thickened inwardly toward one another at about the center of gravity to create a gradually increasing constriction in air flow beneath the aka. An exhaust area begins where the constriction begins and extends to the stern.

Abstract: A pontoon boat having enhanced handling characteristics includes a deck, a central pontoon mounted to said deck, two outer pontoons mounted to said deck on respective opposite sides of said central pontoon, and a motor, wherein the central pontoon extends below the outer pontoons to create a V-shaped hull, and the motor is capable of causing said center and outer pontoons to plane during normal operation.

Abstract: This invention concerns a general principle for ship hulls known as “Autonomous Dynamic Sailing Hull”, built in whole or in part to contain, in the depth of its structure inside with compartments that are separated and sized for this purpose, in the space delimited by a double hull or within a portion of hull or adapted to the internal spaces of the ship, in a globally controlled system, one or two different types of gas and for some seawater compartments to be able to, on the one hand, produce by electrolysis, through one or more integrated fuel cell modules known as PEMFC, energy resources (electricity) required for the operation of propulsion and its equipment according to expected usage, on the other hand, modulating its mass and thus its navigation through ingestion or ejection of seawater.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a twin sailing board characterized in including a pair of surfboards (10, 12) adjacently disposed in a lateral direction, plate-like bodies (14, 16, 18) detachably secured to the surfboards (10, 12) by a screw (26), which is screwed with a mast end securing screw (MT) being movable in front and end directions of the surfboards (10, 12) within grooves (10d, 12d) provided on respective top surfaces of the pair of the surfboards (10, 12), a rig (24) including at least a mast (24c), which is connected to assume any inclined attitude by an engaging portion (30) fixed at substantially center of the plate-like bodies (14, 16, 18), a sail (24a) being set up on the mast (24c), and a boom (24b) circularly provided on the mast (24c) in such a manner that the sail (24a) is placed inbetween, and a rod-shaped member (20) erected on the plate-like bodies (14, 16, 18) at the further front side than the mast (24c) and whose leading edge is provided with a first ring member (20a).

Abstract: A three-hulled oil combatting vessel (500) has a separating structure (100), which pushes ice blocks (J1), which move between the middle hull (SH1) and side hulls (SH2, SH3) from the prow to the stern, underneath the water surface (WL1). The separating structure (100) may be a grate in the longitudinal direction of the vessel (500). The density of the oil (B4) or oil refining product to be collected is smaller than that of the water, so the oil (B3), which has been separated from the ice blocks (J1) that were pushed down, tends to rise through the separating structure (100) to the water surface. The separating structure (100) separates the oil (B3) from the ice blocks (J1) for easier collection into a container. The separated (B4) oil can thus be collected from the relatively ice-free water surface (WL1) with an oil collecting device (200), which may have a brush skimmer.

Abstract: Disclosed is a pontoon boat. The pontoon boat includes a deck, a pair of pontoons, an elongated channel member and a boat. The pair of pontoons is disposed on a water side portion of the deck for supporting the deck above a water level. The elongated channel member is disposed on the water side portion of the deck between the pair of pontoons. The elongated channel member is configured to have longitudinal sliding movement with respect to the water side portion of the deck. The boat includes a body portion and a pair of lip portions. The pair of lip portions is configured to be slidingly received in the elongated channel member for removably securing the boat to the water side portion of the deck.

Abstract: Ice is broken with a motor-driven watercraft with three hulls, i.e. a trimaran (4), having a middle hull (3), a propulsion device (9), a right (1) and a left (2) side hull and a deck (5). The three hulls are attached. Ice is broken with the middle hull (3) of the trimaran. The propulsion device (9) is arranged in the middle hull (3) and a keel (7) in the longitudinal direction of the middle hull is arranged in the bow (3a) of the bottom of the middle hull for breaking ice.

Abstract: A mobile security apparatus without wheels is provided. The mobile security system may be suitable for transportation to and/or deployment in locations that are not accessible by roads, such as those covered by ice or snow, those in a body of water, etc. For some embodiments, the mobile security apparatus includes surveillance equipment, a pole for supporting the surveillance equipment, a base unit for supporting the pole, and wheel-less positioning means for transporting the mobile security system.

Abstract: A remote powered propulsive device having a rudder which carries a propeller or oscillating fins which are powered by pedals alone or with hydraulic assist or by an electric motor.

Abstract: The present invention reduces loads and saves steel on topsides and grillage of a catamaran system by creating a counteracting moment to offset a sagging bending moment of its self-weight on the topsides during transportation. The present invention can reduce the span of the supports on the topsides on the catamaran float-over barges and move the reaction forces toward inner edges of the float-over barges. The counteracting moment can cause a reduction of stress on the topsides' and grillage's members caused during the topside offloading and transportation. The stress reduction can result in the members withstanding the additional dynamic load caused by a catamaran system without increasing member sizes adequate for an offloading operation. The reduction results in a significant savings, given the size of a typical topsides for a Spar hull.

Abstract: A multihull hydrofoil watercraft incorporates a stabilization system wherein the buoyancy of the hulls is used as a sensing and control mechanism for the hydrofoils. The use of hull buoyancy to adjust the hydrofoil lift provides for automatic control of altitude, pitch and roll, and allows the craft to accommodate varying weather and sea conditions while providing a smooth ride for passengers. The stabilization technique eliminates the need for extraneous sensing mechanisms placed in or on the water surface which are subject to fouling, damage, or disruption by localized surface disturbances.

Abstract: Vessel-deployed wind machines are described that supply electricity for the electrolysis of sea water or fresh water to obtain hydrogen. The hydrogen produced from the electrolysis can be stored and used as desired. Hydrogen so produced can be used to power the vessel that carries the wind machines. Hydrogen produced can also be used for hydrogen fuel distribution networks and power plants.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a passenger ship (1) which includes at least one superstructure (S) consisting of several superposed decks (P1-P6), at least one portion of which consists of passenger cabins (CE; CI), some of these cabins (CE) being contiguous, on the associated deck, with an outer longitudinal passageway (CO), which extends between the latter and the hull.

Abstract: A ship has interchangeable mission modules. For example, a ship has a frame with a mission-module bay disposed therein. The bay is operable to receive a mission module having a mission-module system and an interface that facilitates the coupling between the mission-module system and the ship. As such, a plurality of different types of mission modules can be interchanged quickly and easily to provide the ship with different mission capabilities. Each mission-module is generally self-contained such that all the equipment necessary to perform the specific mission is contained within the single mission-module. Each mission-module is either a single unit or multiple units combined together to form an integrated unit. Thus, the ship is capable of transitioning from one mission to another simply by ejecting one mission module and replacing with another mission module.

Abstract: A boat hull providing substantially enhanced stability, safety and comfort over conventional boat hulls in common use, incorporating at least one relatively narrow, more-or-less vertical slot (23) running longitudinally and/or laterally through the hull of the boat and positioned so that the slot(s) (23) intersects a major portion of the depth of the water displaced by the boat hull. The slot(s) (23) may be fully or partially closed at any of its fore-end (31) or aft-end (33) or bottom-edge (25).

Abstract: A pontoon boat trailer guide includes a structure inbetween pontoon bunks or cradles. The guide structure comprises an upper portion which is narrower than a lower portion. The upper portion provides a visual and gross centering guide. The lower structure provides a fine and automatic self-centering guide for alignment and trailering of the pontoon boat.

Abstract: A collapsible catamaran is described, comprising two hulls (1) and a frame (4) which connects the two hulls (1) in a detachable manner and carries plug-in noses (3) which engage in plug-in receptacles (2) of the hulls (1). In order to provide advantageous plug-in connections it is proposed that the plug-in noses (3) each comprise a guide tube (17) with at least one rubber-elastic clamping ring (18) which encloses the guide tube (17) on the outside, rests on an axial abutment (23) and can be subjected to axial pressure with the help of an actuator (22) penetrating the guide tube (17).

Abstract: The invention is directed to a watercraft hull design that comprises a hull having a bow, stern, top, and bottom. A wedge-shaped wave spreading system is located at a forward portion of the craft. The wave-contacting surface planes of the wave spreading system are positioned substantially perpendicular to the plane of smooth water. The bottom edge of the wave spreading system is positioned near the level of smooth water when the watercraft is at cruising speed. The wave spreading system has a forward apex which forms a substantially perpendicular or vertical leading wedge to the plane of water. Since the apex and planes of the wave spreader are substantially perpendicular to the water, oncoming waves encountered by the wave spreader will tend to be deflected horizontally. Accordingly, the watercraft will more easily “cut through” waves instead of riding over them. Located rearwardly of the wave spreader, an internal hull prow is spaced from the wave spreading system, creating an air space therebetween.

Abstract: Ocean-going vessels having a load carrying module supported from a pair of spaced apart hulls by legs. The legs may be articulated in two places to provide control of the spacing of the two hulls and to control the elevation of the module off the water. Dynamic control of the articulation may control the response of the vessel, such as to sea conditions. The legs may include aerodynamic surfaces, fixed or controllable, that may be used to aide buoyancy and/or enhance stability, such as by assuring the bow of the hulls does not rise excessively. The hulls preferably are at least partially inflatable, with techniques for installing flexible fuel tanks within a preexisting inflatable hull being disclosed. Also disclosed are modular pressure control systems for controlling pressures in inflatable hulls having a multiplicity of separate inflatable compartments.

Abstract: A sports apparatus configured to support a rider upon the water surface is disclosed and may comprise either a compartment in the top surface configured to accept personal articles and a watertight cover to prevent damage and loss of personal articles or a propulsion source. The sports apparatus can have a V-shaped hull to add stability when used in the waves. The propulsion source is powered by either a combustion or electric motor that is controlled by a user interface on the board.

Abstract: A twin-hulled, single-person, collapsible boat, has a pair of open, canoe-shaped hulls; a removable, collapsible frame connecting the hulls together; and a removable, one-person seat assembly connected to the frame between the hulls.

Abstract: A modular pontoon boat assembly comprising a railing assembly, a deck assembly comprising a plurality of panels, each of said panels interfitting with an adjacent panel. The deck assembly and the railing assembly are coupled to one another. A plurality of spaced apart cross supports supporting the deck assembly and are releasably secured to a plurality of pontoons. A carrier for the disassembled pontoon boat is also disclosed.

Abstract: A marine propulsion support system incorporates a vibration isolation structure which comprises a plurality of elastomeric support components, or mounts. The vibration isolation structure is disposed between a marine vessel and a propulsion drive mounting transom to which a marine propulsion component, such as an outboard motor, can be attached. Support of the propulsion drive mounting transom by the marine vessel extends through the vibration isolation structure so that elastomeric portions of the elastomeric support components can damp any vibration emanating from a marine propulsion device, such as an outboard motor, and a deck of a pontoon boat or other marine vessel.

Abstract: An undershot waterwheel is described. The waterwheel has a rotational axis and paddles rotatable about the rotational axis. At least one paddle comprises a blade that is curved when viewed parallel to the rotational axis. Optionally, the waterwheel may be mounted on a watercraft.

Abstract: A container, or pod, is provided for a pontoon boat in which an engine is disposed within the container and the container is supported below the deck surface of the pontoon boat. The container is shaped to prevent its passing completely downwardly through an opening in the deck surface when it is assembled from a position above the deck. A marine propulsion device is connected to the engine which is located within the pod, or container, and extends from the container when the container and the marine propulsion device are supported below the deck of the pontoon boat.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and apparatus for reducing sinkage and wetted surface, and thus hydrodynamic drag of a high-speed boat through the generation of aerodynamic lift while decreasing overall aerodynamic drag. At least one lift-generating front wing proximate a bow section of the boat with at least one corresponding front air channel may be provided. At least one lift-generating rear wing proximate a transom section of the boat with at least one corresponding rear air channel may also be provided. At least one of the wings may be adjustable to generate aerodynamic lift with one of: (1) a neutral; (2) a transom-lifting; and (3) a bow-lifting pitching moment about a center of inertia of the boat. At least one wing proximate the leading edge of the tunnel of a multi-hull boat may be provided to increase the operational envelope.

Abstract: A twin-hull catamaran boat or vessel comprising of four hydrodynamic pod sections connected with a mid-span recess on each hull that receives mechanically inducted gas or air for hull support. Each hull shape of the twin-hull catamaran configuration contains one V-shaped hull portion forward (bow), one mid-length hull cavity portion that receives pressurized gas or air therein (amidships), and one V-shaped hull portion aft (stern). The V-shaped bow portion creates hydrodynamic lift, the air or gas mechanically pressurized mid-length recess portion creates an air cushion to lift the hull in order to reduce wetted surface and drag on the hulls, and the V-shaped stern portion provides hydrodynamic lift to support the aft portion of the twin-hull catamaran configuration and also to provide an aft sealing body for the mechanically pressurized air or gas mid-length cavity.

Abstract: A hybrid boat hull. In a first embodiment, the hybrid boat hull comprises a first and second outer elongated hulls each curved inwards to respectively define first and second keel fins which provide buoyancy and act as inclined hydrofoils when the hybrid hull is run at high speed. In a second embodiment, the hybrid boat hull further comprises an elongated central hull, which serves to dampen the effect of slamming of waves on the underside of the hybrid boat hull.

Abstract: A multipurpose recreational assembly comprises a first module having a top side and a bottom side, a first pair of channel members each having a first side and a second side, a first pair of guide members, and a second module having a top side and a bottom side. The first pair of channel members is mounted to and extends longitudinally along the top side of the first module. The first pair of guide members is attached to the bottom side of the second module, and couples with the first pair of channel members. A plurality of rollers may be positioned between the first side and the second side of the first pair of channel members to allow the first pair of guide members to roll along a longitudinal length of the first pair of channel members.

Abstract: A collapsible, height-adjustable support device with inflatable floats for mounting articles, particularly cinematographic apparatus, upon and below the water. It is characterized by a central tubular frame (1) with a plurality of detachable support arms (2) perpendicular to the central frame. The support arms also attach to the elongate inflatable buoys (10). Cinematographic apparatus is mounted upon a fixing plate (5) positioned centrally on the central frame member (1). The adjustable height of the mount above and below the surface of the water is facilitated by the angular relationship of the central longitudinally splined frame member (1) and each support arms splined hub. Footpads (4) with releasable locking pins and receiving plates (22) provide attachment of support arms to the floats (10). Anchorage and tether points (14) permit towing and static deployment.

Abstract: A vessel designed to operate efficiently as both a catamaran and air cushion vessel can travel at low speed in a catamaran or displacement mode, high speed in an air cushion mode, and amphibiously with the aid of deployable side seals. The vessel includes catamaran hulls and flexible air cushion bow and stern seal systems together with retractable side seals having hinged doors containing inflatable, retractable flexible components. The doors form part of the side seal system in the deployed position, and protect the flexible components of the seal in the retracted position. The arrangement reduces the drag associated with the side seals while the vessel operates in its catamaran or surface effect ship modes, and prevents damage to the seals during operation in the high speeds SES mode.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for attaching a pontoon to a watercraft. There is provided an a first quick-coupler adapted to be connected to the pontoon and a second quick-coupler, complemental with the first quick-coupler. adapted to be connected to the hull, wherein the first and second quick-couplers together have at least three of the following: (i) lugs that close back on themselves to form one of an open loop and a closed loop, (ii) multiple lugs arranged in a triangle, (iii) both a fixed hook and a latch, (iv) two hooks that engage the same lug and (v) two non-parallel hooks that engage the same lug.

Abstract: A planing pontoon hull is described including a bow section with separate steep and shallow bow planes separated by left and right displacement guides extending upward from a planar bottom. Forward bow angle, steep deflections angles, displacement angles, and shallow planing angles are described for water movement over a range of water speeds and depths.

Abstract: A modular watercraft assembly and apparatus. In one embodiment, the watercraft assembly includes a divided floatation support member that provides buoyant support. The divided floatation support member includes a first pontoon and a second pontoon that are both longitudinally extensible pontoons. The longitudinally extensible pontoons each include at least two substantially rigid tubes that are telescopically extensible and collapsible in an annularly nested manner. The assembly further includes multiple substantially rigid cross members and multiple cross member fasteners for transversely coupling the cross members between the first and second pontoons of the divided floatation support member. When assembled the watercraft assembly provides buoyant support for a variety of different craft designs including but not limited to a sailing catamaran, a pedaloe, and others.

Abstract: A ship hull includes at least one float (10) and a centre of buoyancy (CB) situated behind the centre of flotation (CF), the distance between the centre of buoyancy and centre of flotation is greater by 5% than the waterline length L of the hull.

Abstract: An improved windsurfing catamaran type vessel. The illustrated vessel has an improved steering mechanism that includes a relatively stiff but bendable plastic rod that is directly received within one or more guiding passageways or grooves formed in the plastic hull of the vessel. The plastic-to-plastic interface between rod and groove provides relatively low friction interengagement as the rod moves. The groove is open to ambient water, which will further reduce the friction. The rod has stiffness/flexibility characteristics that allow it to turn around relatively large radii while still being able to span relatively short distances without significant bending. A manual operative control member is pivotally mounted on the hull and connected to the rod in a manner which multiplies the force applied by the use; this provides the magnitude of force needed to move the rod with minimum exertion by the user.

Abstract: A boat hull providing substantially enhanced stability, safety and comfort over conventional boat hulls in common use, incorporating at least one relatively narrow, more-or-less vertical slot (23) running longitudinally and/or laterally through the hull of the boat and positioned so that the slot(s) (23) intersects a major portion of the depth of the water displaced by the boat hull. The slot(s) (23) may be fully or partially closed at any of its fore-end (31) or aft-end (33) or bottom-edge (25).

Abstract: A vessel for water travel that has the stability of a heavy weighted vessel when at rest in the water and the performance of a lightweight vessel when in a planed condition. The vessel comprises at least one hull structure for partially submerged flotation in a body of water and at least two hull elements affixed to or a structural part of the hull structure. The hull structure may further comprise laterally spaced hollow ballast devices that rare open at respective fore and aft ends, thus providing stability when submerged in the water and performance by the evacuation of water when in a planed condition.

Abstract: A boat for traveling at speed across a body of water includes a center hull having a vee-shaped bottom with a center planing surface, and an opposing pair of sponsons or ski-like structures attached outboard of the center and extending substantially alongside the central hull. Importantly, the sponsons or skis each have a substantial opening such that large volumes of water are able to pass through in an outboard direction away from the boat, advantageously minimizing forces on the hull when there is substantial vertical downward movement of the boat. The boat is designed so that planing surfaces of the keel and sponsons operate beneath the surface of the water to lift the hull free and isolate it from the rough water surface.

Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a motorized watercraft. The watercraft includes a pontoon section, a strut section, a deck section, and an optional a canopy section. The pontoon section includes a pontoon to which a housing capable of storing an object is coupled. The pontoon includes a receptacle that mates with the housing. The receptacle may include a recess formed in the surface of the pontoon that receives the housing. Alternatively, the receptacle may include an opening that enables the housing to be partially inserted into the pontoon. In another embodiment, the housing may be secured to the exterior surface of the pontoon. The housing extends from pontoon and either terminates such that it is generally flush with the surface of the deck, or may extend through the deck surface. The housing permits a user to selectively access the object from the deck.