Patent classifications
B63H16/18
Flow fin
A human propelled watercraft having a pair of flexible fins supported by a mast extending into the water each adapted to oscillate through an arcuate path in a generally transverse direction with respect to the central longitudinal dimension of said watercraft. Pedals are provided for applying input force whereby as input force is applied, the flexible fins can twist to form an angle of attack for providing forward thrust with respect to the longitudinal dimension of the watercraft while moving in both directions along the arcuate path. Each of the fins preferably is composed of a layer of stiff and durable material that is wrapped around the mast. The two layers of material touch at the trailing edge and they are free to slide relative to each other. Preferably, each of the fins is provided with adjustable tensioning at the tip of the mast.
Flow fin
A human propelled watercraft having a pair of flexible fins supported by a mast extending into the water each adapted to oscillate through an arcuate path in a generally transverse direction with respect to the central longitudinal dimension of said watercraft. Pedals are provided for applying input force whereby as input force is applied, the flexible fins can twist to form an angle of attack for providing forward thrust with respect to the longitudinal dimension of the watercraft while moving in both directions along the arcuate path. Each of the fins preferably is composed of a layer of stiff and durable material that is wrapped around the mast. The two layers of material touch at the trailing edge and they are free to slide relative to each other. Preferably, each of the fins is provided with adjustable tensioning at the tip of the mast.
Vehicle assembly for propulsion over water and land
A vehicle (20) consisting of a frame (22) with a pair of paddles (72) extending longitudinally and rotatably supported by the frame (22) in pendulum fashion for swinging movement between an extended position engaging the surface and a retracted position moved vertically out of engagement with the surface. A pair of foot platforms (74) are operatively connected to the paddles (72). A pair of depressors (84) interconnects the foot platforms (74) and the paddles (72) to rotate the paddles (72) between the extended position and the retracted position. The paddles (72) include a propulsion bar (86) and an oar (88) connected by a lost-motion connection to slide relative to one another between the extended position and the retracted position. The oars (88) have a fin-shape to propel the vehicle (20) over water and include a striker (90) to propel the vehicle (20) over land. The vehicle (20) allows movement over a surface of water and land using an elliptical motion similar to the natural motion of walking.
Vehicle assembly for propulsion over water and land
A vehicle (20) consisting of a frame (22) with a pair of paddles (72) extending longitudinally and rotatably supported by the frame (22) in pendulum fashion for swinging movement between an extended position engaging the surface and a retracted position moved vertically out of engagement with the surface. A pair of foot platforms (74) are operatively connected to the paddles (72). A pair of depressors (84) interconnects the foot platforms (74) and the paddles (72) to rotate the paddles (72) between the extended position and the retracted position. The paddles (72) include a propulsion bar (86) and an oar (88) connected by a lost-motion connection to slide relative to one another between the extended position and the retracted position. The oars (88) have a fin-shape to propel the vehicle (20) over water and include a striker (90) to propel the vehicle (20) over land. The vehicle (20) allows movement over a surface of water and land using an elliptical motion similar to the natural motion of walking.
Fin for oscillating foil propulsion system
A watercraft having propulsion means extending below the water line comprising a pair of flexible fins each adapted to oscillate through an arcurate path in a generally transverse direction across the central longitudinal dimension of the watercraft. As input force is applied, the fins twist to form an angle of attack for providing forward thrust while moving in both directions along the arcurate path. Each of the fins have a generally squared off top and preferably an outer area of harder rubber than the inner area. Each of the fins can be adjusted at the trailing edge to provide adjustable tensioning of the trailing edge.
Modular watercraft
A watercraft system is provided. The watercraft system includes a hull and a plurality of removable pods. Each pod has a different operational characteristic to alter the configuration of the watercraft depending on which pod is inserted. The hull has a pod opening for receiving a selected one of the removable pods. A method and apparatus for transitioning various ones of the pods between different positions is also provided.
Modular watercraft
A watercraft system is provided. The watercraft system includes a hull and a plurality of removable pods. Each pod has a different operational characteristic to alter the configuration of the watercraft depending on which pod is inserted. The hull has a pod opening for receiving a selected one of the removable pods. A method and apparatus for transitioning various ones of the pods between different positions is also provided.
STORAGE COMPARTMENT FOR A PERSONAL WATERCRAFT
A cover adapted to be reversibly attached over an opening of a storage compartment contained on a personal watercraft. The cover includes a generally planar substrate having formed therein a dry storage chamber and at least one additional feature selected from the group consisting of a cup holder, an equipment rail, a surround tray, an accessory mounting plate, and a magnetic surface.
Retractable drive system for watercraft
A drive system pivot assembly for a personal user powered watercraft is provided. The drive system pivot assembly pivots a drive system between a deployed position and a parked position. The drive system pivot assembly includes a catch arrangement for securing the drive system pivot assembly in the parked position.
RIDER-POWERED VEHICLES AND MECHANISMS THEREOF
A motion transfer apparatus comprising a frame; at least one wheel shaft operably coupled to at least one wheel, the at least one wheel shaft rotatable on the frame; a gear assembly coupled to the at least one wheel shaft; at least one pedal engaging the gear assembly and movable by an appendage within a predetermined angular range to apply a force; at least one crank arm with a predetermined length coupled to the at least one pedal and to the gear assembly for applying the force directly from the pedal to the gear assembly to rotate the at least one wheel; and a restorative member generating a restorative force to return the pedal and the at least one crank arm from a lower stroke position to an upper stroke position.