Abstract: A retractable wheel and/or track drive assembly for an amphibian comprising an actuator, a retraction linkage assembly movable between a protracted position and a retracted position, a suspension assembly at least partially connected to the retraction linkage assembly and movable between a protracted position and a retracted position, and at least one wheel and/or track drive, wherein when the retraction linkage assembly and the suspension assembly are protracted then the retraction linkage and/or suspension assembly supports and/or holds at least one wheel and/or track drive in a ground engaging position for use on land.

Abstract: Provided is an amphibious vehicle with which it is possible to increase the driving power even when the engine rotational speed is low. When the engine rotational frequency is lower than a prescribed rotational frequency the fan flow volume of a fan is calculated on the basis of the fan outlet pressure (B1), the amount of heat exchange of a heat exchanger is calculated on the basis of the fan inlet temperature, the fan outlet temperature, and the fan flow volume (B2), a target fan rotational frequency is calculated on the basis of the engine rotational frequency and the heat exchange amount (B3), the fan rotational frequency is reduced so as to achieve the target fan rotational frequency (B4, B5), and the power transmitted to a travel device is increased, thereby increasing the drive torque (B6).

Abstract: The present invention relates to a floating device for an amphibious two-bodied vehicle with a front vehicle unit and a rear vehicle unit, which are mutually pivotable, wherein the floating device comprises a floating element configuration extending along essentially the entire length of the long sides of the vehicle and being arranged to provide additional displacement, wherein said floating element configuration is arranged for accommodating mutual pivoting of said vehicle units during floating as well as non-floating drive. The present invention also relates to an amphibious vehicle.

Abstract: This invention relates to an amphibious vehicle and especially to an amphibious vehicle having twin internal combustion engines propelling the vehicle in water with a pair of water jet drives and propelling the vehicle on land with one of the same engines having an electric generator powering a pair of electric motors each coupled to a track assembly. Each electric motor and each air brakes are controlled separately to steer and brake the track assemblies.

Abstract: This invention relates to an amphibious vehicle and especially to an amphibious vehicle having twin internal combustion engines propelling the vehicle in water with a pair of water jet drives and propelling the vehicle on land with one of the same engines having an electric generator powering a pair of electric motors each coupled to a track assembly. Each electric motor and each air brakes are controlled separately to steer and brake the track assemblies.

Abstract: An amphibian (1) for use on land and water, comprising: a hull having a planing surface (2), and at least one retractable suspension apparatus (4) movable from a vehicle supporting position to a retracted position, comprising for each wheel (5), upper and lower suspension arms (8, 9) that are pivotably connected at inboard ends to a support structure within the hull; and are pivotably connected at outboard ends to a suspension upright (7). Upright (7) extends from a first, upper connection past a second, lower connection to a location (10) for a wheel hub mounting. The suspension upright when deployed in land use extends externally of the hull across a side face (2A) of the planing surface; while lower suspension arm (9) remains above the top of planing surface (2) throughout use of the amphibian on land. This suspension arrangement allows the hull to have no cutouts in its planing surface.

Abstract: This invention relates to an amphibious vehicle and especially to an amphibious vehicle having twin internal combustion engines propelling the vehicle in water with a pair of water jet drives and propelling the vehicle on land with one of the same engines having an automatic transmission controlling a pair of track assemblies with a pair of planetary gears, clutches and disc brakes.

Abstract: A retractable land propulsion assembly for an amphibian including a retraction linkage movable between a protracted position and a retracted position, an actuator for moving the retraction linkage between the protracted position and retracted position, and at least one wheel and/or track drive. When the retraction linkage is protracted then the retraction linkage supports and/or holds the at least one wheel and/or track drive in a ground engaging position for use on land. The retraction linkage comprises at least one component or part or portion thereof that passes through an overcentre position on protraction to prevent forces received in use via the at least one wheel and/or track drive from acting to retract the retraction linkage.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a vessel having a superstructure that is movable to increase and/or reduce space in one of at least two zones on the deck of the vessel. The invention further relates to an amphibious vehicle having motive pods that move in an athwartship direction and then downwardly when the motive pods are deployed. The invention further provides for a ramp arrangement for a vessel that allows for an increased amount of deck space, and facilitates ingress and/or egress from the vessel by cargo or passengers.

Abstract: A streamlined amphibious, catamaran yacht is provided that may serve military or civilian purposes as a passenger or cargo carrying truck, limousine, bus, motor home or recreational vehicle on land, and extend those same functions on water, while matching the functionality and performance of similar length boats. The amphibious yacht includes a continuous reveal on the hull bottom from bow to transom that separates two asymmetric catamaran hulls. This reveal, or hull tunnel, may enhance sea stability and maneuverability, and create lift that helps the hull achieve plane and attain higher water speeds.

Abstract: Amphibious vehicle 1 has at least two, preferably three, longitudinal vee sections 40 to 42 in its hull 2. Retractable wheels (21, FIG. 3) are provided; these may retract into discontinuities 8 to 11 in the hull. The wheels are retracted above the lowest point of the hull for marine use; and are protracted at least partly below the lowest point of the hull for land use. Where three vee sections are provided, the central vee 40 may depend lower than the side vees 41, 42; or vice versa. The hull may be a cathedral hull. The hull may have a deadrise of between 10 and 25 degrees. The vehicle ground clearance may be adjustable, for example from 0.10 m to 0.50 m. A four wheel drive power train may be provided, as shown in FIG. 4; for example, with a longitudinal engine 50, PTO 60, transmission 70, and transfer case 80.

Abstract: An amphibious motorcycle with a hull that provides desirable buoyancy for the vehicle to float while in the water and yet allows the vehicle to lean/turn during use on land is provided. The amphibious motorcycle has a front wheel with a front suspension system and a rear wheel with a rear suspension system. Also included can be at least one wheel retraction system that is operable to move the front wheel and/or the rear wheel between a deployed position for use of the amphibious motorcycle on land and a retracted position for use of the amphibious motorcycle on or in the water. The amphibious motorcycle also has a hull that can have a center portion with a center bow and two oppositely disposed and spaced apart side portions each with a side bow.

Abstract: A streamlined amphibious, catamaran yacht is provided that may serve military or civilian purposes as a passenger or cargo carrying truck, limousine, bus, motor home or recreational vehicle on land, and extend those same functions on water, while matching the functionality and performance of similar length boats. The amphibious yacht includes a continuous reveal on the hull bottom from bow to transom that separates two asymmetric catamaran hulls. This reveal, or hull tunnel, may enhance sea stability and maneuverability, and create lift that helps the hull achieve plane and attain higher water speeds.

Abstract: A sit-astride amphibious vehicle configuration which supports a high performance envelope both on land as well as in water. The vehicle has a planing hull and four retractable wheels. Handlebars provide for directional control in both modes of operation. Each road wheel is retractable by pivoting through at least 45° so as to maximize ground clearance when in the land mode of operation and to minimize drag at substantial lean angles when in the marine mode of operation. While a jet drive may remain directly connected to the engine at all times, the driven wheels are only connected during land mode via a speed-change transmission. The entire power train is supported by a frame that is separable from the hull which in turn has a detachable top deck portion, whereby such configuration simplifies the construction, repair and servicing of the vehicle.

Abstract: A two wheeled planing amphibian (10) has a hull (20), bow (24), front wheel (30) and rear wheel (40). Front suspension (32) and rear suspension (42) are retractable, separately or simultaneously. Front wheel (30) may retract vertically or rotationally. Steering is by handlebars (50), link (54), and forks (36). Front wheel (20) may be located outside the hull in both protracted and retracted positions. The underside of hull (20) may be continuous in both land mode and marine mode along and across its centreline from the bow to the rearmost underside point on the hull along the centreline; or from the forwardmost underside point on the hull when it is planing at its lowest speed to the rear. There may be no wheel closures attached to the hull. A wheel bay (22), which is open at its top side, may be provided to allow rear wheel retraction.

Abstract: Planing amphibian (10) comprises hull (12) and a pair of wheels (20) mounted on a retractable suspension assembly (22). At least one land drive and at least one separate marine drive (40) are provided. A wheel retraction mechanism is provided for moving the wheels between a deployed wheel position for use of the amphibian on land (FIGS. 2 and 4) and a retracted wheel position above a waterline of the amphibian for planing on water. The suspension assembly comprises suspension arms (24) outside the pair of wheels (20) so that the wheels (20) lie between the arms (24). Marine drives (40) may be inboard of the wheels (FIG. 2) or outboard thereof (FIG. 4). An axle (28) with a differential (29) may be provided (FIG. 3). Suspension and retraction may be provided by means of torsion bars (30) with a cranked central section (54, 55, FIG. 3).

Abstract: An amphibious vehicle includes: a hull (1) having a longitudinal axis; an aquatic propulsion element; a terrestrial propulsion element (5a, 5b) mounted on arms (4a, 4b) pivoting about an axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the hull, and capable of assuming a stowed position when the vehicle moves over water using the aquatic propulsion element, and an extended position in which the vehicle can move on the ground using the terrestrial propulsion element. In the stowed position, the arms (4a, 4b) extend into cavities (3a, 3b) formed in the hull (1), and a portion of the arms (4a, 4b) defines a lid that at least partially closes the cavity (3a, 3b) in the longitudinal direction of the hull bottom (2).

Abstract: The amphibious vehicle is a motorized vehicle capable of travel on land as well as in the water. The amphibious vehicle has a boat-like hull and a caterpillar track assembly mounted along each side by a respective pair of rotating supports. The tracks are arranged so that the tracks can be rotated between a lowered position supporting the amphibious vehicle and providing traction and propulsion during land operation, and a raised position, where the tracks rest vertically above the hull's deck during marine operation. With the caterpillar track assemblies in the raised position, the caterpillar track assemblies are fully removed from the water to improve performance and maneuverability therein. The track assemblies are hydraulically driven to rotate the wheels and tracks between the lowered and raised positions.

Abstract: An amphibious vehicle has retractable wheels (2, 3) attached to hubs (2), and a planing hull (10, 11, 3). Front wheels are arranged to be steered by a power assisted transversely mounted element (16), which may be a rack and pinion unit. The element may be linked to the wheels by links (14, 14?), which fold up to position (14?) when the wheels are retracted. Actuating rod (28) is mounted to said element, and arranged for transverse movement. A flexible coupling means, such as cable (34) and sleeve (36), connects rod (28) to a steerable part (42, 4) of a marine propulsion unit, to effect marine steering. Road and marine steering may be operable simultaneously. More than one front steered axle, and/or marine propulsion unit, may be fitted. The steering system is readily adapted to all kinds of power assisted steering, and also to “steer by wire”.

Abstract: A planing amphibious vehicle with retractable wheels and a sit-astride seat having dimensions that impart enhanced capability in both land as well as water modes of operation. The beam, track, dead rise angle and the location of the handlebars cooperate to enhance freeboard and ground clearance without sacrificing manoeuvrability. The length is at least 1800 mm; the beam is at least 800 mm; the deadrise angle at least 3°; and the center of rotation of steering control is located near the halfway distance from transom to bow.

Abstract: Amphibious vehicle (10) has land propulsion means and marine propulsion means. At least two axles with wheels (12) are spaced apart along the length of the vehicle. At least one intermediate axle with retractable wheel(s) (14) is positioned between the other axles. This additional axle may improve manoeuvrability over rough ground. Wheel(s) (14) may be retracted on water and/or on land. Wheels (12) may also be retractable. One or more axles may be driven, full time or selectively. The vehicle may plane on water, and may have a vee type hull (11). Marine propulsion may be by means of a jet drive. Wheel(s) (14) may retract vertically or through arcs around a longitudinal axis of the vehicle. Skid steer may be used. Mudguards, a vehicle roof, and retraction guides for the wheels (slides 16) may be fitted. Pairs of slides may provide roof supports. A forward control driving position may be provided.

Abstract: The amphibious vehicle is a motorized vehicle capable of travel on land as well as in the water. The amphibious vehicle has a boat-like hull and a caterpillar track assembly mounted along each side by a respective pair of rotating supports. The tracks are arranged so that the tracks can be rotated between a lowered position supporting the amphibious vehicle and providing traction and propulsion during land operation, and a raised position, where the tracks rest vertically above the hull's deck during marine operation. With the caterpillar track assemblies in the raised position, the caterpillar track assemblies are fully removed from the water to improve performance and maneuverability therein. The track assemblies are hydraulically driven to rotate the wheels and tracks between the lowered and raised positions.

Abstract: The amphibious vehicle is a motorized vehicle capable of travel on land as well as in the water. The amphibious vehicle has a boat-like hull and a caterpillar track assembly mounted along each side by a respective pair of rotating supports. The tracks are arranged so that the tracks can be rotated between a lowered position supporting the amphibious vehicle and providing traction and propulsion during land operation, and a raised position, where the tracks rest vertically above the hull's deck during marine operation. With the caterpillar track assemblies in the raised position, the caterpillar track assemblies are fully removed from the water to improve performance and maneuverability therein. The track assemblies are hydraulically driven to rotate the wheels and tracks between the lowered and raised positions.

Abstract: An amphibious vehicle achieves a stable ride, maneuverability, and high speed. The vehicle includes a hull having a “V” center portion with outboard sponsons. The sponsons reside between the front wheel wells and the rear wheels wells for improving lift and transition to planing. Shallow tunnels begin in rear portions of the front wheel wells and taper into the sponsons to release water trapped in the wheel wells. Inward facing turning edges also reside between the front and rear wheel wells and improve in-water handling. Wheels are retractable by pneumatic cylinders in parallel with air shock absorbers and suspension cutout in the hull allow the suspension to lower through the hull. Flaps reside under suspension members and rise to cover the suspension cutouts when the wheels are retractable when the wheels are raised to reduce drag. A Morse cable couple a rack and pinion unit to a jet drive.

Abstract: An amphibious vehicle has retractable road wheels to allow planing over water. Power to the road wheels is disconnected automatically as the wheels are retracted. This may be achieved through a cable attached to a suspension rocker arm to disconnect a dog clutch attached to the input shaft of a differential as the wheels are retracted; and vice versa. The system may be fitted to a steered axle or to any suitable retractable suspension system.

Abstract: An amphibious vehicle (32) having a transverse mid- or rear-mounted engine (12) arranged to drive rear road wheels (30) and/or through an axial transmission (37), a marine propulsion unit (38), in which the engine (12) is so mounted in relation to the transmission (37) to the marine propulsion unit (38) that the bottom (8) of the engine is below the axis (37) of the transmission. This ensures an advantageous metacentric height which is preferably between 370 and 180 mm.

Abstract: An amphibious vehicle has retractable road wheels to allow planing over water. Power to the road wheels is disconnected automatically as the wheels are retracted. This may be achieved through a cable attached to a suspension rocker arm to disconnect a dog clutch attached to the input shaft of a differential as the wheels are retracted; and vice versa. The system may be fitted to a steered axle or to any suitable retractable suspension system.

Abstract: Amphibious vehicle (1, FIG. 1) has retractable road wheels (2, 2?, FIG. 1). This may allow planing. During marine travel, at least one wheel may droop below the water line. This increases drag, particularly when cornering. Suspension height sensor 22 may be arranged to detect a threshold beyond which the wheel should not be allowed to droop over water, unless mode change is in progress. When this threshold is passed, pump 18 co-operates with controller 15 to pump fluid into lower chamber 7? of actuator 5 to retract the wheel. Switchable valves 9, 19, 21, and 23 are provided to allow adjustment of fluid chamber volumes. Gas filled accumulators 11 may be provided where a hydraulic suspension is used. Numeral 42 represents an adjustable trim tab. FIG. 4 shows an alternative fluid system layout, with valves 19, 19?, and 110 to allow fluid to be returned to tank 18?.

Abstract: An amphibious vehicle (1), in the form of an inflatable boat (2) has a self propelled and steerable retractable undercarriage system, enabling the vehicle to enter and exit the water under its own power. The swing of the wheels and their supporting struts (3) & (4) occurs external to the hull of the vehicle. A steerable nose leg (3) is raised or lowered by an actuator situated inside the boat. Stowage is accomplished within the lines of an inflatable craft by the incorporation of fibreglass fairings (5) & (6) sized to match the main inflated tubes (7). Power is provided to the back wheels (4) via an internal drive train within the legs (4). All terrain balloon type tires are used to enable the boat to travel over a variety shoreline terrain. A steering system engages with the front wheel when the wheel is in its extended position. Motive power is provided by a separate aircooled motor.

Abstract: An amphibious vehicle wheel suspension includes upper and lower linkages, a road suspension device and a retraction device for moving the wheel between a protracted position for road use, and a retracted position for marine use. Suspension device can be operatively disconnected from the wheel and/or the linkages to allow for retraction and protraction. Retraction device may also be disconnected for road use. The disconnection mechanisms may comprise a ball and track mechanism, interlocking splines, interlocking teeth, or a pneumatic clutch. Also provided is a combination of splines for a suspension lever arm, and a pneumatic clutch for retraction arm. Suspension device may be connected to upper linkage. Coil, torsion bar, or hydropneumatic springs may be used.

Abstract: Vehicle suspension having a control arm pivotally mounted to vehicle body. Wheel support is pivotally mounted to the control arm. A hydraulic strut is pivotally mounted to body at trunnion mount. The wheel may be protracted to be placed vertically on the road surface or retracted at an angle, for example to allow good marine performance in an amphibious vehicle. Strut may be extended or retracted by hydraulic fluid pumped through ports and may also be used for wheel springing and damping. As trunnion mount is part way up the strut, the strut can pivot out of the way of the retracing wheel. A second control arm may also be fitted; this may be part of a double wishbone wheel suspension.

Abstract: The amphibious vehicle is a motorized vehicle capable of travel on land as well as in the water. The amphibious vehicle has a boat-like hull, and a caterpillar track assembly mounted along each side by hinges. The tracks are arranged so that they can be rotated between a lowered position, where they support the amphibious vehicle and provide traction and propulsion during land operation, and a raised position, where they rest vertically on or above the hull's deck during marine operation. With the caterpillar track assemblies in the raised position, the caterpillar track assemblies are fully removed from the water to improve performance and maneuverability. Additionally, with the tracks in their upright position the overall width of the amphibious vehicle is narrowed to facilitate trailering. The tracks employ hydraulic motors in a direct drive configuration for propulsion, reducing weight and complexity of the tracks.

Abstract: A hydraulic suspension strut (30) has a first on-off valve (58) connecting the first and second chambers (42 and 44), and a second on-off valve (62) connected to chamber (42) only. Suspension arm (3) of wheel (1) can be retracted beyond normal road travel, or protracted to road travel mode, by use of pump (9) and valves (58 and 62). The space in the strut above port (56) may be used as a hydraulic bump stop. An accumulator (50) may be included, as a hydraulic spring. Alternatively, strut (70) (FIG. 6; note alternative accumulator position) allows suspension to be raised above normal road travel. Strut (100) (FIG. 8) may be operated in roadgoing, raised, or retracted mode. These struts may be applied to reconfigurable suspensions; particularly for amphibious vehicles, which may require wheels to be withdrawn above the hull water line to reduce drag on water, particularly during cornering.

Abstract: An amphibious recreational vehicle (motorhome, trailer, SUV, and the like) of conventional RV height, width, and length restricted dimensions necessary to travel on highways and roads, and which upon entering the water, the bottom of the vehicle expands outwardly and upwardly to form a fast planing, wide-beam, ground effects cathedral type double-tunnel hull. The hull makes use of a dynamic air cushion to augment the planing of the hulls, owing to the ground effect created by compression of the ram air stream (and water vapor) rushing through the two tapered tunnels separating the three hulls. The wheels of the vehicle are simultaneously raised out of the water to eliminate parasite drag. The resultant hull is substantially wider than the cabin, providing substantial ocean-going stability for the craft. The folded elements incorporated within the cabin rooftop, raise upward to form a traditional yacht flying bridge, complete with a windshield, steering station, seating, mast, and safety rails.

Abstract: An amphibious vehicle which on land looks remarkably like a conventional automobile. The wheels may be raised when the vehicle is in the water. The engine is placed in the stern, directly over the jet and transaxle, which provides room for four passengers. The vehicle has plates which slide under the wheels for use in water, and the plates do not extend up over the sides of the wheel wells.