Dynamic fin system for watercraft
US7001236B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 22, 2004 |
| Grant date | Feb 21, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 22, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB63B32/66
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A dynamic fin system (DFS) achieves fin rotation passively via water flow so that no direct active control of fin rotation is required by the watercraft operator. The DFS, using a combination of fin rotation via at least one axle and resistive forces applied to a fin mounting tab, provides an assembly in which a fin can pivot from side to side in a reliable, effective and simple way. The DFS provides ease in turning and stability at a neutral position while minimizing the amount of flow resistance. The DFS provides a strong fin mounting, and uses a combination of an axle for rotational control, a resistive centering force, and a force preload for stabilizing the fin in the neutral position. The DFS provides a mount for a rotating fin in a watercraft hull that supports repositioning of the rotating fin axis both forward and rearward in the hull.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.