Abstract: A hovercraft having a stealth function. The hovercraft includes at least: a hull in which a cabin is provided; a power generator provided on the hull and configured to supply a lifting force with which the hull is lifted and a propelling force with which the hull is propelled; a skirt provided at a lower portion of the hull and causes the hull to be lifted by the lifting force supplied by the power generator; an opening/closing louver assembly made up of a plurality of opening/closing louvers on air intakes formed in an outer surface of the hull; and a steering louver assembly made up of a plurality of rudder louvers that are rotated and opened/closed on a port and a starboard of a rear of the opening/closing louver assembly on the outer surface of the hull.

Abstract: A low drag surface is provided for a fluid washed object, the low drag surface comprising an aerodynamic surface comprising a cut-out region, and a continuously translatable surface comprising a surface portion. The surface portion is positioned in the cut-out region such that the aerodynamic surface and the surface portion form a fluidwash surface, and the surface portion is translatable relative to the aerodynamic surface.

Abstract: A wide, flat-bottom, buoyant, amphibious hull with a powered articulating member mounted on the deck. The hull has a shallow draft and distributes its weight over a large area and is propelled by at least one engine-driven propeller rotating above the hull. These features cooperatively provide a vehicle capable of performing overhead work, such as installing or servicing power transmission poles, towers, or other structures located in environmentally sensitive wetlands, swamps, marshes, shallow water, or terrain which is not efficiently accessible by other means.

Abstract: It is an object of the invention to realize an attitude reconstructing apparatus of an air boat in which until a ship body in an overturn attitude is set to a rotational angle which is equal to or less than an overturn limit angle and is reconstructed to a normal attitude, a force in a reconstructing direction can be continuously made to act on the ship body and the ship body can be certainly reconstructed to the normal attitude.

Abstract: A watercraft has a fan propeller, a motor coupled to the fan propeller, an inflatable hull including a first inflatable member and a second inflatable member, and a platform, which is positioned between the first and second inflatable members and coupled to a base of the fan propeller. The motor powers the fan propeller and thereby propels the inflatable hull in a forward direction. The watercraft is suitable for use in varying water environments including white water, open sea water, ice, snow, and shallow water.

Abstract: A reinforced hull for a flat-bottomed boat comprises a bottom panel having longitudinal and lateral braces extending across an upper surface of the bottom panel of the hull. The braces are formed from channel members having outwardly and downwardly sloping legs connected together by a web. The lateral braces have notches formed in and extending upward from bottom edges of the legs with each notch sized to receive a longitudinal brace therein. Lower, outer corners of the bow are reinforced and an engine stand is welded to the brace assembly.

Abstract: An exhaust fan chamber is defined with a belt cover and a fan cover provided over the belt cover, and an exhaust fan is accommodated in the exhaust fan chamber. The fan cover has an air intake port for sucking air within an engine cover into the exhaust fan chamber and an exhaust outlet port for discharging air within the exhaust fan chamber to outside of the exhaust fan chamber. The exhaust outlet port is in communication with an exhaust opening formed in an upper portion of the engine cover so that the air discharged through the exhaust outlet port is discharged to outside of the engine cover through the exhaust opening.

Abstract: A wide, flat-bottom, buoyant, amphibious hull with a powered articulating member mounted on the deck. The hull has a shallow draft and distributes its weight over a large area and is propelled by at least one engine-driven propeller rotating above the hull. These features cooperatively provide a vehicle capable of performing overhead work, such as installing or servicing power transmission poles, towers, or other structures located in environmentally sensitive wetlands, swamps, marshes, shallow water, or terrain which is not efficiently accessible by other means.

Abstract: An airboat that may include an engine that is mounted to the hull of the airboat at an angle, and at least one propeller mounted to the hull of the airboat at an angle. The canted engine and propeller design may facilitate a lower center of gravity, a lower average center of thrust above the waterline, air induction for reduced surface drag, the lowering of torque roll forces, less overall boat height, and fuel efficiency with a reduced level of noise.

Abstract: A watercraft has a fan propeller, a motor coupled to the fan propeller, an inflatable hull including a first inflatable member and a second inflatable member, and a platform, which is positioned between the first and second inflatable members and coupled to a base of the fan propeller. The motor powers the fan propeller and thereby propels the inflatable hull in a forward direction. The watercraft is suitable for use in varying water environments including white water, open sea water, ice, snow, and shallow water.

Abstract: An all season air propelled watercraft has an elongated cabin structure adapted to accommodate at least one person therein. An elongated central pontoon member adjustably mounted to a bottom portion of the cabin structure and extending in a parallel direction thereto for at least the length thereof. Two stabilizer connector assemblies adjustably attached to a bottom portion of the cabin structure and extending horizontally in opposite directions therefrom. Two lateral stabilizer pontoons respectively and adjustably attached to a distal end portion of each the stabilizer connector assembly.

Abstract: A wide, flat-bottom, buoyant, amphibious hull with a powered articulating member mounted on the deck. The hull has a shallow draft and distributes its weight over a large area and is propelled by at least one engine-driven propeller rotating above the hull. These features cooperatively provide a vehicle capable of performing overhead work, such as installing or servicing power transmission poles, towers, or other structures located in environmentally sensitive wetlands, swamps, marshes, shallow water, or terrain which is not efficiently accessible by other means.

Abstract: An improved personal propulsion device that generally imparts thrust directly to the user. The device allows hands free control of thrust magnitude and direction so both hands can grasp and control bicycle handlebars and brakes, watercraft paddles, ski poles or other apparatuses. The device is adjustable vertically, on the users' back, higher to allow sitting in a canoe or wheelchair and lower for standing on skates, skis, kick scooters etc. In one embodiment, the device includes an air compressor that is operatively connected to a cam mechanism engaged with the propulsion mechanism to provide compressed air. In another embodiment, the device includes a gap control mechanism to reduce or increase the size of the air inlet gap between the lip of the propeller shroud and an air horn to decrease noise levels or increase propulsion. The air horn can be gradiently flexible and warpable to allow controlled movement thereof.

Abstract: A method of using a wide, flat-bottom, buoyant, amphibious hull with a powered articulating member mounted on the deck. The hull is propelled by at least one engine-driven propeller rotating above the hull. The hull has a shallow draft and distributes its weight over a large area. These features cooperatively provide a vehicle capable of performing overhead work, such as installing or servicing power transmission poles, towers, or other structures located in environmentally sensitive wetlands, swamps, marshes, shallow water, or other terrain.

Abstract: An air-thrust marine vehicle has a hull with upwardly extending hull sides. An air-thrusting propulsion unit is configured for detachable mounting on the gunwales of various width hulls. The propulsion unit has a base assembly configured to move between a retracted position and plurality of expanded width positions for accommodating various width hulls, while being configured to hingedly engage the gunwales. The propulsion unit can be removed from the vehicle and positioned on another vehicle, such as a boat, an ice- or snow-traversing vehicle.

Abstract: A wide, flat-bottom, buoyant, amphibious hull with a powered articulating member mounted on the deck. The hull is propelled by at least one engine-driven propeller rotating above the hull. The hull has a shallow draft and distributes its weight over a large area. These features cooperatively provide a vehicle capable of installing or servicing power transmission poles, towers, or other structures located in environmentally sensitive wetlands, swamps, marshes, shallow water, or similar terrain.

Abstract: An air-thrust marine vehicle has a hull with upwardly extending hull sides. An air-thrusting propulsion unit is configured for detachable mounting on the gunwales of various width hulls. The propulsion unit has a base assembly configured to move between a retracted position and plurality of expanded width positions for accommodating various width hulls, while being configured to hingedly engage the gunwales. The propulsion unit can be removed from the vehicle and positioned on another vehicle, such as a boat, an ice- or snow-traversing vehicle.

Abstract: A propeller blade device used in environments where a propeller system is subjected to blade erosion and wear and may also be subjected to an axial force from water. The propeller blade includes a blade tip mounted on its outer end using a mounting device such as nuts and bolts to form a junction there between. The tip may easily be replaced when worn or damaged without removing the blade. The tip is designed to fracture upon impact with an axial force before transmitting the force radially inward to the propeller blade.

Abstract: An all season air propelled watercraft has an elongated cabin structure adapted to accommodate at least one person therein. An elongated central pontoon member adjustably mounted to a bottom portion of the cabin structure and extending in a parallel direction thereto for at least the length thereof. Two stabilizer connector assemblies adjustably attached to a bottom portion of the cabin structure and extending horizontally in opposite directions therefrom.

Abstract: A method of using a wide, flat-bottom, buoyant, amphibious hull with a powered articulating member mounted on the deck. The hull is propelled by at least one engine-driven propeller rotating above the hull. The hull has a shallow draft and distributes its weight over a large area. These features cooperatively provide a vehicle capable of performing overhead work, such as installing or servicing power transmission poles, towers, or other structures located in environmentally sensitive wetlands, swamps, marshes, shallow water, or other terrain.

Abstract: A heat extractor for attachment to an air-cooled engine. A cooling fan extends from the engine and is rotated by action of the engine. The heat extractor comprises a first thermally conductive surface for attachment to the engine, a plurality of flaps extending from the first surface, wherein when the heat extractor is attached to the engine the flaps extend away from the engine, a flared end region formed in the first surface, the flared end region nearest the cooling fan when the heat extractor is attached to the engine and wherein rotation of the cooling fan causes air to be drawn across the first surface, the plurality of flaps and the flared end region.

Abstract: An air-thrust marine vehicle has a hull with upwardly extending hull sides. An air-thrusting propulsion unit is configured for detachable mounting on the gunwales of various width hulls. The propulsion unit has a base assembly configured to move between a retracted position and plurality of expanded width positions for accommodating various width hulls, while being configured to hingedly engage the gunwales. The propulsion unit can be removed from the vehicle and positioned on another vehicle, such as a boat, an ice- or snow-traversing vehicle.

Abstract: A multi-wing, multi-engine, multi-hull amphibious aircraft is disclosed. In the illustrative embodiment, the aircraft has an open frame structure without a fuselage.

Abstract: A suspension system for an airboat is disclosed. The suspension system may support a seating system on an airboat and may be configured to absorb forces from waves, running over dry ground, et cetera. The suspension system may include one or more dampers configured to absorb forces to smooth out the ride on the airboat. In at least one embodiment, the suspension system may include adjustable dampers that enable the amount of dampening to be adjusted to accommodate different loads, such as more or less people seated on the airboat.

Abstract: An improved personal propulsion device that generally imparts thrust directly to the user. The device allows hands free control of thrust magnitude and direction so both hands can grasp and control bicycle handlebars and brakes, watercraft paddles, ski poles or other apparatuses. The device is adjustable vertically, on the users' back, higher to allow sitting in a canoe or wheelchair and lower for standing on skates, skis, kick scooters etc. A user on a bicycle may prefer to lean forward for comfort and aerodynamics, a device adjustment compensates and delivers level thrust. A user on a snowboard or skateboard stands oblique to the direction of travel, a device adjustment allows in line thrust. Both users' hands and arms are free to balance, protect others by pushing off or break a fall. The present invention can be provided as separate modules that allow interchangeability and use with a direct drive mechanism.

Abstract: A vessel transfer system utilizes a larger, surface effect vessel with a hull and a cargo deck, having a pressurized volume of air under its hull. The larger vessel cargo deck is lowered relative to a water surface in order to receive a smaller vessel. Lowering is achieved by depressurizing the volume of pressurized air under the hull. Movable propulsors on an air cushion vehicle permit efficient operation under way in an outer position, while minimizing the envelope dimensions for stowage in a well deck, providing clearance from bridges, docks, etc. in an inner position. In the outer position, the propellers operate in more uniform inflow conditions, resulting in improved performance and lower noise levels. In addition, the craft can be arranged to use a full width stern ramp resulting in time saved during cargo loading/unloading. The propellers will be less likely to ingest green water in high sea states.

Abstract: A method of using a wide, flat-bottom, buoyant, amphibious hull with a powered articulating member mounted on the deck. The hull is propelled by at least one engine-driven propeller rotating above the hull. The hull has a shallow draft and distributes its weight over a large area. These features cooperatively provide a vehicle capable of performing overhead work, such as installing or servicing power transmission poles, towers, or other structures located in environmentally sensitive wetlands, swamps, marshes, shallow water, or terrain which is not efficiently accessible by other means.

Abstract: A heat extractor for attachment to an air-cooled engine. A cooling fan extends from the engine and is rotated by action of the engine. The heat extractor comprises a first thermally conductive surface for attachment to the engine, a plurality of flaps extending from the first surface, wherein when the heat extractor is attached to the engine the flaps extend away from the engine, a flared end region formed in the first surface, the flared end region nearest the cooling fan when the heat extractor is attached to the engine and wherein rotation of the cooling fan causes air to be drawn across the first surface, the plurality of flaps and the flared end region.

Abstract: A toy airboat (10) having a negative trim element (38) and an adjustable positive trim element (44) for selectively controlling the performance of the craft in varying environmental conditions such as wind speeds and wave heights. The negative trim element may be smoothly curved protrusions (40) formed integral to the hull (12) in order to avoid snagging debris in water and to allow operation over land without damage to the hull. The protrusions may be symmetrically located on opposed sides of a centerline (CL) of the craft approximately midway between the centerline and a perimeter (16) of the hull. The adjustable positive trim element may be a bolt (46) threaded into a nut (48) affixed to a deck (14) of the craft. The nut extends to make contact with the hull to impart a desired degree of convex curvature to the otherwise generally flat bottom of the hull.

Abstract: An improved personal propulsion device that generally imparts thrust directly to the user. The device allows hands free control of thrust magnitude and direction so both hands can grasp and control bicycle handlebars and brakes, watercraft paddles, ski poles, etc. The device is adjustable vertically, on the users' back, higher to allow sitting in a canoe or wheelchair and lower for standing on skates, skis, kick scooters etc. A user on a bicycle may prefer to lean forward for comfort and aerodynamics, a device adjustment compensates and delivers level thrust. A user on a snowboard or skateboard stands oblique to the direction of travel, a device adjustment allows in line thrust. Both users' hands and arms are free to balance, protect others by pushing off or break a fall.

Abstract: A backpack with backpack frame and adjustable shoulder harness removably fitting a person, the backpack further comprising an internal combustion engine with a pulley system connecting the engine to a propeller axle with propeller, a propeller surround with air intake and air outlet whereby the propeller propels a person upon a given surface. Handles comprise controls for throttle, kill switch, and lights. Handles are a part of the backpack frame or of ski poles. A pendulum emergency stop device kills the engine if the person falls.

Abstract: The instant invention relates to a sound suppressor and directional control system for use with a boat hull propelled by a rearward directed jet of air, e.g. an air-boat. The device includes a propeller shroud and a aft fairing each having a layer of acoustic material to reduce sound generated by the rotating propeller. The construction of the device also provides increased maneuverability, stopping and reverse to pre-existing as well new air-boats by providing operator controlled vector thrusts.

Abstract: Air propulsion system for a boat comprises an internal combustion engine for powering a propeller in a single rotational direction. A pivoting mechanism pivots the propulsion system through a 360 degree arc about a transverse horizontal axis from a first position in which the propeller produce a forward thrust, through a second position in which the propeller produces a downward neutral thrust and a turning torque, to a third position in which the propeller produce a reverse thrust, to a fourth position in which the propeller produces an upward neutral thrust and a turning torque. The turning torque produced by the propeller turns the boat to the left in the second position and to the right in the fourth position. The engine is adapted to pivot with the propeller and continues to operate under throttle control in all pivoted orientations.

Abstract: An airboat and drive system for operating a pair of counter rotating air propellers that propel an airboat are described. An engine is mounted low in the hull of an airboat to lower the center of gravity and provide a more stable airboat. The drive system is connected to the engine through a drive shaft. The drive system includes a transmission, interconnecting frame, and counter rotating air propeller drive. The interconnecting frame mounts the counter rotating air propeller drive above the transmission providing proper clearance for the air propellers with the hull of the airboat. The transmission and counter rotating air propeller drive are connected through an interconnecting drive shaft. The amount of noise from a conventional belt drive is reduced. The modular design and simplified drive system is easier to assemble and align.

Abstract: An airboat and selectable drive system for an airboat are described. The airboat may be configured for mounting an engine either high or low in the hull of an airboat. The selectable drive system is connected to the engine. The selectable drive system includes a transmission interconnected to an air propeller drive. A clutch has three positions to include forward, neutral, and reverse. The air propeller drive rotates the air propeller in one of two directions based upon the selected position of the clutch. The drive system has the capability to rotate air propellers at different speeds. The reverse speed of rotation of the air propellers may be higher or lower than the forward speed of rotation. The modular design and simplified drive system is easier to assemble and align for both configurations.

Abstract: A multi-hulled watercraft adapted to travel above the surface of a body of water includes deck structure disposed between the hulls and defining with the hulls and water surface a channel through which air is compressively funneled with forward travel of the watercraft. The deck structure includes a bridge component having an airplane wing airfoil configuration. At least one air-moving propulsion unit is mounted on the deck structure at an elevation such that its thrust axis is above the bridge component. Elevon and rudder components located at the rear of the watercraft control the movement of the watercraft when airborne and when riding on the surface of the water. During forward travel, lift is imparted to the watercraft by the combined effects of the channelled air flow beneath the deck structure, and the airfoil configuration of the bridge component.

Abstract: A transmission, for use with a drive shaft carrying a driving pulley, comprises a frame having a front and a back. The back of the frame has an opening for receiving the drive shaft and the driving pulley while the front of the frame has an opening for receiving a transmission assembly. The transmission assembly comprises a primary driven shaft carrying a pulley and a hollow, secondary, driven shaft coaxial with the primary driven shaft. A drive gear is carried by the primary driven shaft. An idler gear is driven by the drive gear and a driven gear, carried by the secondary driven shaft, is driven by the idler gear to effect rotation of the secondary driven shaft in a direction opposite to the direction of rotation of the primary driven shaft.

Abstract: A machine for air propulsion of small watercraft, such as a canoe, comprising of a direct current motor (10) driving an air propeller (20) at reduced rotational speeds for maximum efficiency and quiet operation. The machine comprises: two sections (22L) and (22R) of propeller guard (22) machine frame (27) air propeller (20) support structure (46) steering rod (37) All these major components are easily assembled and disassembled by tightening and removing appropriate wing nuts, allowing easy transportation. The two sections of propeller guard (22) can be attached in the canoe itself and the rest of the machine's components can be easily placed in the trunk of a car.

Abstract: An air boat with retractable wheels is provided. The wheels are moved from the first position to the second position by a hydraulic system. The hydraulic system is actuated by the air boat user. The first wheel position is retracted, giving continuity to the hull, permitting the fan to drive the air boat over water. The second position is extended, bringing the wheels into contact with the ground, and permitting the fan to drive the air boat over the terrain of the land. The two wheels are in parallel relation with each other and are located in and under the hull of the boat at about the middle section of the air boat. The wheels, when in extended position, only breach the hull by a small amount as there is no propeller or rudder to clear when traveling over the land. The fan provides enough lift to prevent the bow and stern from coacting with the ground.

Abstract: A gear-based airboat transmission is provided for driving a pair of coaxial, counter-rotating propellers. The transmission includes a fore output gear rotatably affixable within a housing and affixable to the inner shaft for rotating the outer propeller. An aft output gear is rotatably affixable within the housing and is affixable to the outer shaft coaxial with the inner shaft for rotating the inner propeller opposite the outer. The aft output gear is generally coaxial with the fore output gear. An intermediate gear shaft has a fore end and an aft end, and both ends are opposedly and rotatable affixable within the housing. This bracing confers additional stability to the transmission, conferring longer life and decreased vibration. An intermediate gear is mounted thereon, and is positioned in driving relation to the fore output gear. A drive gear is rotatably affixable within the housing and is affixed for corotation with a drive shaft.

Abstract: A wind propelled watercraft system is provided including a floating disk for supporting a user on a body of water. Also included is a sail assembly for driving the user on the floating disk by way of wind. The floating disk has an inwardly-facing groove for receiving the user's toes and is provided with a generally part-spherical bottom face. The sails extend between the arms and the body of the user, whereby the user can spill wind by lowering the arms.

Abstract: An air boat having a monocoque design is described. The deck and hull are rigidly reinforced with a plurality of formed channels that run parallel along the deck. Side ribs that are disposed perpendicular to the channels provide stiffness in the intersecting plane of the hull. Water-flow channels defined by elongated ribs run along the bottom of the hull and compress water and provide lift to the boat, reducing sideways slippage and spray of the craft during maneuvers and turns. The steering mechanism includes dual fins and a no-feedback gearbox that resists self-straightening when the pilot releases the steering wheel. The turning radius of the boat is especially short. A safety cage is foldable and encloses a motor, the motor mount of which uses the boat hull as its base structural element.

Abstract: A gear-based airboat transmission is provided for driving a pair of coaxial, counter-rotating propellers. The transmission includes a fore output gear rotatably affixable within a housing and affixable to the inner shaft for rotating the outer propeller. An aft output gear is rotatably affixable within the housing and is affixable to the outer shaft coaxial with the inner shaft for rotating the inner propeller opposite the outer. The aft output gear is generally coaxial with the fore output gear. An intermediate gear shaft has a fore end and an aft end, and both ends are opposedly and rotatably affixable within the housing. This bracing confers additional stability to the transmission, conferring longer life and decreased vibration. An intermediate gear is mounted thereon, and is positioned in driving relation to the fore output gear. A drive gear is rotatably affixable within the housing and is affixed for corotation with a drive shaft.

Abstract: An airboat propelling system is provided wherein a propeller is rotated by a hollow driven shaft. A further embodiment is provided wherein two propellers are rotated in opposite directions by counter-rotating coaxial hollow driven shafts. Floating stiffener bearings positioned between the coaxial hollow driven shafts suppress flexion and protect the opposing surfaces of the shafts. These innovative techniques permit a minimization of size and weight, as well as a reduction in rotational speed of the propellers, maximizing efficiency and decreasing noise.

Abstract: An airboat propelling system is provided wherein a propeller is rotated by a hollow driven shaft. A further embodiment is provided wherein two propellers are rotated in opposite directions by counter-rotating coaxial hollow driven shafts. Floating stiffener bearings positioned between the coaxial hollow driven shafts suppress flexion and protect the opposing surfaces of the shafts. These innovative techniques permit a minimization of size and weight, as well as a reduction in rotational speed of the propellers, maximizing efficiency and decreasing noise.

Abstract: An outboard drive system that includes a drive assembly and a drive system control assembly. The drive assembly includes a base assembly; a fan propulsion assembly including a internal combustion drive motor, a propeller, and a coupling shaft; a safety cage; a dual rudder assembly; a kill switch wire in electrical connection with the drive motor; a throttle positioning cable assembly; and a rudder positioning cable assembly; the drive system control assembly including a housing structure; a mounting plate; a rudder positioning cable control stick; a manual kill switch button; and a spring loaded throttle cable control trigger.

Abstract: An amphibious craft having a plurality of independent surface engaging elements each one of which provides a load bearing function when in contact with a support surface.

Abstract: A surface effect vehicle includes a vehicle body having opposed longitudinally extending sides and a longitudinally extending deck having an upper and lower surfaces extending widthwise between the sides. The lower surface together with opposed inner surfaces of the sides form a downwardly depending air entrapment chamber extending longitudinally beneath the lower surface. The chamber is reactive to provide substantial surface effect ram air lifting force on the vehicle in response to forward motion of the vehicle. In addition, the vehicle includes an airfoil spaced above and interconnected with the vehicle body to provide substantial out of surface effect lifting force on the vehicle in response to such forward motion. Further the vehicle vertical stabilizers serving not only to provide vertical stabilization but also to interconnect the airfoil with the vehicle body.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a hydrocopter. A hydrocopter is a vehicle by which it is possible to move over water, particularly in an archipelago, under difficult conditions, e.g., during the thaw. The waterproof hull of the hydrocopter bears against the underlying surface, such as snow, ice, slush or water, and is driven forward by an air propulsion unit mounted on top of the hull. The problem with the current hydrocopters is that they are very difficult to steer and uncomfortable to ride in. Division of the hydrocopter hull into two portions connected to each other by a hinge joint, in accordance with the invention, makes it possible to use frame steering. This new structure makes the hydrocopter easier to handle. The invention provides a vehicle which has a small turning radius and which is steerable even at very slow speeds.

Abstract: A vehicle designed as a dual function ice and water craft having an improved aerodynamic floatable hull supportable on a tripod of ice skate-like blades which also function as stabilizers when the craft is used in water. Aerodynamically designed side pylons serve both as flotation devices and as energy absorbing crush pads for improved safety in case of a crash. A pittman type steering mechanism is provided for improved control of the front steering/rudder blade. A front and rear stabilizer is used to provide a unique control for an ice craft and bow control for a water craft.