Abstract: A marine propulsion device has a powerhead, a driveshaft powered by the powerhead, a lower unit, and a propeller shaft supported in the lower unit and in torque transmitting relationship with the driveshaft. The marine propulsion device also has a steering column through which the driveshaft extends and to which the lower unit is coupled. The steering column is configured to rotate the lower unit with respect to the powerhead. There is a steering housing through which the steering column extends, the steering housing being stationary with respect to the powerhead. A flexible conduit, for example a wiring harness, extends through an aperture in the steering housing and through an aperture in the steering column. The flexible conduit has slack between the steering housing and the steering column.

Abstract: A watercraft comprising a compressed air propulsion system is shown and described. The watercraft includes at least one propeller operatively connected to an air motor. Storage tanks supply compressed air having a pressure of at least 2000 psi to a pressure regulator that reduces the pressure and supplies air to an air control valve. User controls adjust the air control valve to adjust the flow rate of air to the air motor which in turn adjusts the direction and/or speed of rotation of the propeller. An on-board air compressor energized by a plurality of lithium iron phosphate batteries provides air to the air storage tanks when the pressure falls below a specified value. In certain examples, the electric and air propulsion system is used to replace a fossil fuel engine in an existing watercraft and can remain at sea longer than the existing watercraft.

Abstract: An electric propulsion device includes a duct having a cylindrical shape and that includes a stator. A rim includes a rotor rotatable relative to the duct, and a plurality of fins. A bracket supports the duct so as to allow the duct to turn about a turning axis that intersects with the rotation axis of the rim, and a turning actuator that integrally turns the duct and the rim. The turning actuator is fixed to the bracket, and the duct is turnable relative to the bracket.

Abstract: Amphibious construction equipment comprising a working unit supported on a pair of elongate, parallel, buoyant pontoons (2) each of which carries a caterpillar track (3) driven by sprockets mounted on an axles (5), the axles (5) being positioned at or towards the ends of each pontoon (2) on its upper surface, wherein each axle (5) is driven by at least one hydraulic motor (4), all the motors (4) being powered by a single hydraulic pump (7), the motors (4) on each pontoon (2) being arranged such that they run synchronously as to both direction and rate but not necessarily in the same direction or at the same rate as the motors (4) on the other pontoon (2).

Abstract: A sectional barge assembly and a hydraulic thruster apparatus for maneuvering the sectional barge assembly. The hydraulic thruster apparatus includes a hydraulic power unit and a thruster unit. The hydraulic power unit includes an engine and a hydraulic pump connected to the engine. The thruster unit includes a hydraulic motor and a propeller drivingly connected to the hydraulic motor to provide a thrust force that acts to move the sectional barge assembly. The sectional barge assembly includes a plurality of barges interconnected by connector devices that are also used to interconnect the thruster unit to the sectional barge assembly. Further, a hydraulic connection panel is mounted on the thruster unit and includes a plurality of hydraulic connectors which allow a plurality of hydraulic lines to be removably connectable thereto, respectively.

Abstract: Amphibious construction equipment comprising a working unit supported on a pair of elongate, parallel, buoyant pontoons (2) each of which carries a caterpillar track (3) driven by sprockets mounted on an axles (5), the axles (5) being positioned at or towards the ends of each pontoon (2) on its upper surface, wherein each axle (5) is driven by at least one hydraulic motor (4), all the motors (4) being powered by a single hydraulic pump (7), the motors (4) on each pontoon (2) being arranged such that they run synchronously as to both direction and rate but not necessarily in the same direction or at the same rate as the motors (4) on the other pontoon (2).

Abstract: A hydraulic thruster for vessel. The hydraulic thruster is intended for incorporation into a modular vessel thruster system, and is easily installed onto, and removed from, a vessel having such system. A housing is tiltably attached to a bracket, which in turn is removably mounted to a vessel. A cylinder is rigidly attached to the housing, and a tube is extensibly and rotatably disposed within the cylinder. A thrust means is disposed at a lower end of the tube. The instant thruster incorporates positive redundant down-tilt stop means, increased extension/retraction range, reduced shipping size, and means for securely and removably attaching the thruster to a vehicle deck.

Abstract: A self-contained hydraulic thruster for vessel. The hydraulic thruster incorporates at least one lower unit housing tiltably attached to a base at a base lower unit cutout laterally offset from a helm platform. Tilt actuator(s) disposed entirely above a base upper surface tilt each lower unit up or down relative to the base. Two positive down-tilt means are disclosed: housing arm lower edge(s) resting on the base upper surface, and also down stop tab(s) extending from a base lower unit cutout wall into the base lower unit cutout against which a forward housing wall edge butts when the housing is tilted fully down. In addition, base bores through the base are disclosed, and pins which slidably fit into respective base bores and extend downwards from the base to serve as positioning stops when installing the hydraulic thruster on a vessel.

Abstract: A sectional barge assembly and a hydraulic thruster apparatus for maneuvering the sectional barge assembly. The hydraulic thruster apparatus includes a hydraulic power unit and a thruster unit. The hydraulic power unit includes an engine and a hydraulic pump connected to the engine. The thruster unit includes a hydraulic motor and a propeller drivingly connected to the hydraulic motor to provide a thrust force that acts to move the sectional barge assembly. The sectional barge assembly includes a plurality of barges interconnected by connector devices that are also used to interconnect the thruster unit to the sectional barge assembly. Further, a hydraulic connection panel is mounted on the thruster unit and includes a plurality of hydraulic connectors which allow a plurality of hydraulic lines to be removably connectable thereto, respectively.

Abstract: A modular hydraulic thruster system for vessel. At least one thruster is hydraulically connected to a power pack and electrically connected to an instrument panel. The instrument panel has a thrust angle indicator, tube gear clamp status indicator, extension indicator, tilt angle indicator, and tachometer, all pertaining to each thruster. The thruster includes a tube rotating and reciprocating through a housing, which is rotatably attached to a bracket. A swivel union is attached to one end of the tube; a hydraulic motor drives a propeller to an opposite end of the tube. Some instrumentation electrical and hydraulic lines are routed through the swivel union and into the tube; others are further routed out of the tube through a tube aperture and through a flexible spiral conduit to accommodate tube reciprocation within the housing. Means is disclosed to prevent a swivel union stationary section from rotating relative to the housing.

Abstract: A control system is provided which allows the operator of a marine vessel to select a transmission position (e.g. forward, neutral, or reverse) and an engine speed in the event that a throttle lever malfunctions. By providing messages to the operator on an annunciator and receiving selections from the operator on a plurality of push button switches, a microprocessor selects gear positions and engine operating speed in response to commands received from the operator.

Abstract: A sectional barge assembly and a hydraulic thruster apparatus for maneuvering the sectional barge assembly. The hydraulic thruster apparatus includes a hydraulic power unit and a thruster unit. The hydraulic power unit includes an engine and a hydraulic pump connected to the engine. The thruster unit includes a hydraulic motor and a propeller drivingly connected to the hydraulic motor to provide a thrust force that acts to move the sectional barge assembly. The sectional barge assembly includes a plurality of barges interconnected by connector devices that are also used to interconnect the thruster unit to the sectional barge assembly. Further, a hydraulic connection panel is mounted on the thruster unit and includes a plurality of hydraulic connectors which allow a plurality of hydraulic lines to be removably connectable thereto, respectively.

Abstract: A self-contained hydraulic thruster for vessel. A power pack is mounted on a forward end of a base, and a helm platform is mounted on an aft end of the base at a substantial height above the base. A reservoir in communication with the power pack is mounted on the helm platform, thus facilitating hydraulic fluid flow from the reservoir to the power pack, and also rendering the hydraulic system self-priming. At least one lower unit is tiltably mounted to the base aft end, laterally offset from the helm platform. Due to the lateral offset between the lower unit(s) and the helm platform, interference between the lower unit(s) and the helm platform is avoided when the lower unit(s) is retracted and tilted up for transportation, storage, or maintenance.

Abstract: A removable retractable externally mountable dynamic positioning self contained diesel hydraulic thruster system for a floating semi-submersible vessel having a hull with a ballasted waterline, a first pontoon integral with the hull and a second pontoon integral with the hull. The hull supports a deck, wherein the system comprises: at least a pair of azimuthing thrusters, wherein at least one azimuthing thruster is removably mounted to a pontoon of a semi-submersible vessel.

Abstract: An amphibious, all-terrain vehicle utilizing a pair of hydrostatic pumps to independently provide power to hydraulic drive mechanisms of the left and right side of the vehicle respectively. The hydraulic drive mechanisms on a side of the vehicle comprise a plurality of hydraulic wheel motors and a hydraulic propeller motor. Using a novel hydraulic manifold assembly, the vehicle can operate in three distinct modes: wheels only, wheels and propellers, and propellers only. The hydraulic manifold assembly also allow the vehicle to by put in neutral mode for starting. The wheel motors are mounted in a pair of undercarriage assemblies that are outside of the vehicle's body and fluidly connected to the hydraulic manifold assembly thorough a hose chase that extends well above the vehicle's waterline to eliminate the potential for water to enter the body of the vehicle when operated in the water.

Abstract: A self-contained hydraulic thruster for vessel. A power pack is mounted on a forward end of a base, and a helm platform is mounted on an aft end of the base at a substantial height above the base. A reservoir in communication with the power pack is mounted on the helm platform, thus facilitating hydraulic fluid flow from the reservoir to the power pack, and also rendering the hydraulic system self-priming. At least one lower unit is tiltably mounted to the base aft end, laterally offset from the helm platform. Due to the lateral offset between the lower unit(s) and the helm platform, interference between the lower unit(s) and the helm platform is avoided when the lower unit(s) is retracted and tilted up for transportation, storage, or maintenance.

Abstract: The subject invention provides a hydraulic saildrive apparatus comprising an upper unit 103 having an input shaft 1 connected to an engine 102 inside a boat, and a lower unit 104 having an output shaft 4 including a propeller shaft 2 and also having a lower portion protruding from the boat's bottom, wherein the upper unit 103 is provided with a hydraulic forward and reverse switching clutch 5 for transmitting the rotation direction of the input shaft 1 to the propeller shaft 2, the clutch 5 being capable of changing the rotation direction between forward and reverse relative to the input shaft 1.

Abstract: A self-contained hydraulic thruster for vessel. The hydraulic thruster incorporates a lower unit housing tiltably attached to a lower unit mounting tube attached to a base, a tube whose upper end is attached through the lower unit housing, and a shaft slidably disposed within the tube. A substantial length of tube extends downwards from the lower unit housing, thus providing support for the shaft. An actuator is disclosed which extends and retracts the shaft relative to the tube. A steering clamp is releasably attached to an end of the shaft which protrudes through the top of the lower unit housing. A steering clamp key traveling in a shaft keyway, or a shaft key in combination with a steering clamp keyway, help maintain constant the angular orientation between the steering clamp and the shaft. A steering gear meshing with a steering assembly, or an actuator driving a tie rod, provide steering.

Abstract: An amphibious, all-terrain vehicle utilizing a pair of hydrostatic pumps to independently provide power to hydraulic drive mechanisms of the left and right side of the vehicle respectively. The hydraulic drive mechanisms on a side of the vehicle comprise a plurality of hydraulic wheel motors and a hydraulic propeller motor. Using a novel hydraulic manifold assembly, the vehicle can operate in three distinct modes: wheels only, wheels and propellers, and propellers only. The hydraulic manifold assembly also allow the vehicle to by put in neutral mode for starting. The wheel motors are mounted in a pair of undercarriage assemblies that are outside of the vehicle's body and fluidly connected to the hydraulic manifold assembly thorough a hose chase that extends well above the vehicle's waterline to eliminate the potential for water to enter the body of the vehicle when operated in the water.

Abstract: An amphibious, all-terrain vehicle utilizing a pair of hydrostatic pumps to independently provide power to hydraulic drive mechanisms of the left and right side of the vehicle respectively. The hydraulic drive mechanisms on a side of the vehicle comprise a plurality of hydraulic wheel motors and a hydraulic propeller motor. Using a novel hydraulic manifold assembly, the vehicle can operate in three distinct modes: wheels only, wheels and propellers, and propellers only. The hydraulic manifold assembly also allow the vehicle to by put in neutral mode for starting. The wheel motors are mounted in a pair of undercarriage assemblies that are outside of the vehicle's body and fluidly connected to the hydraulic manifold assembly thorough a hose chase that extends well above the vehicle's waterline to eliminate the potential for water to enter the body of the vehicle when operated in the water.

Abstract: A retractable convertible top for a pleasure craft, including a canvas type fabric and stowable linkage mechanism, is described. This convertible top may be fully deployed and retracted automatically to provide a quick and efficient means of providing shelter for the open cabin of a pleasure craft while still allowing easy entrance and egress from the cabin when the top is fully deployed. The convertible top may be fully stowable within a small volume storage bin with watertight covers. The stowage bin may be integrated into the craft. The craft's existing hydraulic and control systems may be utilized to automatically deploy and retract the convertible top.

Abstract: A self-contained hydraulic thruster for vessel. The hydraulic thruster incorporates an elevated helm platform mounted to a base having reinforced base feet, and a hydraulic fluid reservoir mounted on the helm platform. The elevation of the hydraulic fluid reservoir facilitates flow of hydraulic fluid to a hydraulic power pack mounted on the base. A lower unit mounting tube is attached to the base, and at least one lower unit is mounted at an end of the lower unit mounting tube, laterally offset from the helm platform, so that when the lower unit is retracted and tilted up, it lies on one side of the platform, and the platform doesn't interfere with retraction and tilting of the lower unit. Lower units are pivotably mounted in lower unit housings with lower unit bushings, and steering is provided by a steering motor through an overhung load adaptor to a drive gear.

Abstract: The subject invention provides a hydraulic saildrive apparatus comprising an upper unit 103 having an input shaft 1 connected to an engine 102 inside a boat, and a lower unit 104 having an output shaft 4 including a propeller shaft 2 and also having a lower portion protruding from the boat's bottom, wherein the upper unit 103 is provided with a hydraulic forward and reverse switching clutch 5 for transmitting the rotation direction of the input shaft 1 to the propeller shaft 2, the clutch 5 being capable of changing the rotation direction between forward and reverse relative to the input shaft 1.

Abstract: A marine outdrive (16) has a hydraulic vane motor (20, 60, 62) with a spool shaped rotor (42) eccentrically mounted in a fusiform shaped housing (26). The resultin increased vane area results in greater torque and speed.

Abstract: A radial vane fluid motor or pump has an open ended tubular rotor having a cylindrical outer surface rotatably mounted in a tubular stator having its inner surface contoured to provide successive portions of increased and decreased spacing relative to the rotor body. A plurality of elongated movable vane assemblies are mounted on and project outwardly from the rotor surface to continuously contact the stator surface. Bearings support the rotor within the stator, and seals are provided for sealing the space between the rotor and stator. Pressure inlets and exhaust ports are provided in the stator to permit the flow of pressure fluid into or out of the device. Mounting the vanes on the cylindrical rotor surface enables production cost reduction and simplifies maintenance. A conventional propeller mounted in the cylindrical rotor provides an improved shrouded propellor propulsion system for marine vessels.

Abstract: A marine propulsion system comprising an engine, hydraulic pump, torque motor and propeller combination. The system is currently adaptable to diesel fuel operated engines. The hydraulic pump is a pressure compensating pump. The hydraulic pump a pressure relief value incorporated to minimize damage to the system due to propeller strikes. Engine and hydraulic pump operating controls/valves are included. Preferably, synthetic grade hydraulic fluid is used. The system is configured for use in any one of an inboard shaft drive configuration, an inboard/outboard motor configuration, an outboard motor configuration and a multi-propeller drive configuration.

Abstract: A boat propulsion system interposed between a prime mover and a propeller shaft comprises a hydro-mechanical transmission including a hydrostatic transmission part and a gear transmission part. The hydrostatic transmission part includes a variable displacement hydraulic pump having a movable swash plate and a hydraulic motor fluidly connected to the hydraulic pump. The hydraulic pump is driven by the output rotary force of the prime mover. The gear transmission part is drivingly interposed between the hydrostatic transmission part and the propeller shaft so that the gear transmission part is driven by the input rotary force of the hydraulic pump with the assistance of the output rotary force of the hydraulic motor. A hydraulic clutch system may be interposed between the gear transmission part of the hydro-mechanical transmission and the propeller shaft so as to select one of opposite output rotary directions of the propeller shaft.

Abstract: A system and method providing a portable, floatable vessel for controlling the absolute position and relative position and the motion of a floating craft using a small water plane area, high vertical drag coefficient and dynamic positioning is disclosed. The methodology employs a portable, floatable vessel that includes: a bridge structure, a lifting bridle connected to the bridge structure, a control center, first and second struts connected to the bridge structure, and first and second docking arms connected to the struts. The first and second struts are connected to first and second machinery pods with first and second azimuth thrusters for self-propulsion, motion control, and other operations while in water. Docking arms include drag dishes for stabilization and arm pods for buoyancy control of the docking arms. The docking brackets can firmly grip and stabilize the floating craft to minimize roll, pitch, yaw, and other motions of the craft during cargo transfer.

Abstract: A boat propulsion system interposed between a prime mover and a propeller shaft comprises a hydro-mechanical transmission including a hydrostatic transmission part and a gear transmission part. The hydrostatic transmission part includes a variable displacement hydraulic pump having a movable swash plate and a hydraulic motor fluidly connected to the hydraulic pump. The hydraulic pump is driven by the output rotary force of the prime mover. The gear transmission part is drivingly interposed between the hydrostatic transmission part and the propeller shaft so that the gear transmission part is driven by the input rotary force of the hydraulic pump with the assistance of the output rotary force of the hydraulic motor. A hydraulic clutch system may be interposed between the gear transmission part of the hydro-mechanical transmission and the propeller shaft so as to select one of opposite output rotary directions of the propeller shaft.

Abstract: The integrated and self contained diesel hydraulic thruster system integral has a dynamic positioning control system for dynamic positioning of any waterborne vessel having a hull with at least two sides and a deck connecting the sides, at least two removably mounted azimuthing thrusters, at least two self-contained diesel hydraulic power units removably secured to the deck, one for each thruster, at least one dynamic positioning computer connected to each of the self contained diesel hydraulic power units, at least one motion reference sensor connected to the dynamic positioning computer to correct reference position signals for motion of the vessel, at least one heading sensor, and at least one sensor that is either a position reference sensor connected to the dynamic positioning computer, an environmental sensor connected to the dynamic positioning computer, or a combination thereof.

Abstract: A high speed paddle wheel catamaran includes a hull configuration having a main hull portion with at least one defined cavity area in a lower surface of the main hull and opposing side pontoons depending from the main hull portion. The depending side pontoons correspond in orientation to a longitudinal axis of the catamaran. A paddle wheel assembly for the vessel includes a rotatable cage hub mounted on each pontoon. A plurality of vane members are rotatably mounted between the opposing cage hubs and adjacent an outer perimeter thereof. Each vane member is selectively rotated to one of a lift or thrust position according to an arcuate location of the vane as it passes through the water.

Abstract: An apparatus for aiding in steering and maneuvering a boat that includes a thruster that applies a force transverse to the longitudinal axis of the boat. The operation of the thruster is under control of a remote radio frequency transmitter which permits an operator of the boat to operate the thrusters without being on the bridge of the boat. A switching circuit that includes relays and solenoids associated with a solenoid valve operates with the remote frequency transmitter and receiver to energize a thruster on the boat.

Abstract: Disclosed herewith is a parallel-operated motor type stern propulsion apparatus for boats and hydraulic system. The stern propulsion apparatus includes a transom box disposed at the stern of a boat. A propulsion body situated in the transom body to be lifted and steered. The propulsion body includes an upper body supported by a lifting shaft transversely fitted into the transom box, a yoke connected to the lower body, and two lower bodies each attached to each of the lower ends of the yoke. Two hydraulic motors are each positioned in a lower body and each connected to a propeller. Lifting cylinders are attached to the transom box for lifting the propulsion body around the lifting shaft. A steering cylinder is attached to the transom box for steering the propulsion body around a steering pin attached to the lifting shaft to the right and left.

Abstract: A common fluid pressure supply apparatus (40) for a watercraft (10). A fluid interconnection apparatus interconnects the hydraulic fluid circuits operating the hydraulic transmission (18), power steering (30), and tilt-trim function (34) for an inboard/outboard stem drive (20) watercraft. A single fill vessel (104), oil cooler (82), and filter (126) are utilized for the common fluid pressure supply apparatus. The fluid interconnection apparatus may include the transmission housing reservoir (42).

Abstract: Disclosed herewith is a parallel-operated motor type stern propulsion apparatus for boats and hydraulic system. The stern propulsion apparatus includes a transom box disposed at the stern of a boat. A propulsion body situated in the transom body to be lifted and steered. The propulsion body includes an upper body supported by a lifting shaft transversely fitted into the transom box, a yoke connected to the lower body, and two lower bodies each attached to each of the lower ends of the yoke. Two hydraulic motors are each positioned in a lower body and each connected to a propeller. Lifting cylinders are attached to the transom box for lifting the propulsion body around the lifting shaft. A steering cylinder is attached to the transom box for steering the propulsion body around a steering pin attached to the lifting shaft to the right and left.

Abstract: A hydrostatic marine propulsion system is provided with a valve that is able to bypass an infinitely variable amount of hydraulic fluid from a hydrostatic pump to bypass a hydrostatic motor which is used to drive a propeller shaft. The infinitely variable valve is connected between the hydrostatic pump and the hydrostatic motor with dual outlets which cause fluid to flow either to the hydrostatic motor or to a reservoir to be recycled through the hydrostatic pump. An engine control unit changes the amount of hydraulic fluid passing through the hydrostatic motor as a function of the operating condition of an engine which drives the hydrostatic pump. In this way, engine speed can be controlled during various modes of operation.

Abstract: An improved amphibious all terrain vehicle having a subtantially rectangular body or shell and is constructed of a light-weight durable metallic material. A combustion gas engine is coupled to a dual hydraulic pump system which is centrally mounted within the length direction of the cavity for easy access and removal for repairs. An oil tank serves also as a seat base and is disposed within a central portion of the shell. Six-independent wheel motors are symmetrically disposed in series, three on each side of the shell and are plumbed in series for ground based mobility respectively. The wheels coordinate with a propeller disposed in the rear for amphibious propulsion. A fan is mounted on the under side of a front hood, near a dual lever, and switch controls for respective propulsion systems, and night-lights mounted on the hood respectively.

Abstract: A water craft having a single engine and at least one pump that together cause two propellers to rotate independently. The pump pumps fluid to two valves: a first valve that controls a first propeller and a second valve that controls a second propeller. Both valves have a first position that causes the propellers to be rotated in a first direction, a second position that causes the propellers to be rotated in a second direction, and a third position in which the propellers are not rotated. The water craft is propelled in a first direction when the first and second valves are in the first position. The water craft is propelled in a second direction when the first and second valves are in the second position. The water craft is turned in a first direction when the first valve is in the first position and the second valve is in the second position. The water craft is turned in a second direction when the first valve is in the second position and the second valve is in the first position.

Abstract: In prior stern drive marine propulsion systems, power is transmitted through an arrangement of clutches, bevel gears and shafts to the propeller located below the water surface. This restricts the amount of torque which can be transmitted particularly for large commercial boats. The present invention therefore provides an outdrive designed to surpass the horsepower and torque limitations set by current state-of-the-art units. In order to meet these objectives the outdrive was designed to incorporate a multi-strand roller chain drive, replacing the conventional bevel gear arrangement. Using a chain drive in this application serves to increase durability of the outdrive, while keeping the outercasing very streamlined.

Abstract: A marine propulsion system comprised of a housing unit having forward and rearward openings, a rotational unit, having forward and rearward openings and having an inner and outer periphery, rotatably secured in the housing unit such that the forward and rearward openings are aligned with the forwards and rearward openings of the housing unit, a plurality of blades rigidly secured to the inner periphery of the rotational unit, and drive means which rotate the rotational unit within the housing unit. Operation of the drive means causes the rotation of the rotational unit and the blades direct water into the forward openings of the housing unit and the rotational unit and out the rearward openings of the housing unit and rotational unit, thereby creating thrust.

Abstract: A trailer/boat is provided which is capable of being towed behind a recreation vehicle or the like, and then prepared without special equipment and launched in a manner capable of receiving the towing vehicle as cargo on the boat. The boat then may be powered and steered from the cab of the vehicle that it carries.

Abstract: A watercraft having its propulsion machinery near the bow. The hull of the craft has a single, tapered bow section, with a drive pod under the center of the bow. The bow section is tapered up into the hull aft of the middle of the craft, while the sides of the craft are extended downward aft of the middle of the craft, forming a double hull at the rear. The drive pod is capable of freely rotating, allowing the craft to be steered by vectoring the thrust at the bow. Because the thrust is pulling the craft from the bow, rather than pushing from the stern, the craft is inherently stable in the manner of a front-wheel drive automobile.

Abstract: A trailer/boat is provided which is capable of being towed behind a recreation vehicle or the like, and then prepared without special equipment and launched in a manner capable of receiving the towing vehicle as cargo on the boat. The boat then may be powered and steered from the cab of the vehicle that it carries.

Abstract: An hydraulic power system for a boat comprising a marine thruster assembly. A structure is for mounting the marine thruster assembly to an exterior surface of a transom on the boat. A first hydraulic operative facility is for propelling the marine thruster assembly, so that the boat can travel in a body of water. A second hydraulic operative facility is for steering the marine thruster assembly, so that the boat can be directed on a course in the body of water. A third hydraulic operative facility is for lifting the marine thruster assembly out of the body of water for inspection and repair when needed.

Abstract: A hydraulic system which includes a pump for supplying hydraulic fluid to a load and receiving hydraulic fluid therefrom wherein the pump is acoustically isolated from the surrounding water medium. The pump and a motor which drives the pump is enclosed in a pressure vessel, the interior of which is supplied with a gas at a certain pressure less than the ambient water pressure. The pressure of the hydraulic fluid in the return line is maintained at a pressure less than the ambient by a reservoir arrangement which includes a piston and rod assembly with the rod being subject to the ambient water medium. A certain pressure within an oil filled compartment of the reservoir is maintained at a fraction of the ambient water medium pressure by making the ratio of the cross sectional area of the piston to the rod equal to that predetermined fraction. This reduced pressure compartment is hydraulically connected to the fluid return line as well as to a gas regulator.

Abstract: An amphibious vehicle having a hull and pair of multiple-flighted outriggers which coact to stabilize and propel the vehicle over land and water. The speed and direction of the vehicle is controlled by a joystick allowing an operator to move the craft over land and water with a single hand. The multiple flighting and positioning of the outriggers adds efficiency and stability to the vehicle while the joystick control adds ease of operation.

Abstract: A device for producing thrust from a flow of accelerated fluid, including: a fluid accelerator (1) fitted with drive vanes (5) and rotated inside a stator (10) about an axis of revolution; a circularly symmetrical stationary web portion (7) centered on the axis and having a plurality of fins (8) shaped to rectify the trajectory of fluid coming from the accelerator in order to form a hollow jet (9) with a volume of space within the hollow jet; and ducts (17) for supplying pressure to the volume of space within the hollow jet (9). The invention relates to an improvement where drive members (12) for the accelerator (1) are disposed in the volume of space within the hollow jet (9).

Abstract: A buoyant boat hull of an amphibious vehicle has concave, quarter cylinder recesses along the sides down from the waterline, such recesses receiving the upper inboard quadrants of helical augers. The recesses confine water between the screw threads and project it directly to the rear for more efficient forward thrust. The engine and pumps for the hydraulic motors are mounted on a slide to be moved forward and aft as desired to shift the center of gravity and aid in transition between land and water travel.

Abstract: Break-up activity of water by injection of hot propellant gas into channels f a thrust expansion engine is suppressed to prevent rapid cooling of the gas, utilizing one or more methods including injection of a secondary inflow of the propellant gas and/or the water under lower pressures into the channels, injection of a viscosity enhancer and/or surfactant into the inflow stream of the water and restricting outflow of the water from the channels by means of convergent nozzles.

Abstract: An amphibious vehicle with retractable wheels that revolves through the sides of hull between a retracted position inside an enclosure and a ground engaging position. The vehicle has three wheels on each side or a set of caterpillar tracks. A hatch panel closes hermetically the enclosure on each side so the water can be removed from them in order to make the vehicle lighter and more buoyant. A sliding propeller used to propel the vehicle while in water. With the wheels inside and the hatch panel closed, the vehicle can attain high speed with a great maneuverability. This vehicle is very suitable for transportation in remote areas with lakes or rivers to cross.