Human-powered flapping hydrofoil craft
US7662004B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 14, 2007 |
| Grant date | Feb 16, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 5, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB63H2016/202
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A pair of foils are pivotably coupled to a nacelle. The nacelle is pivotably coupled to a mast extending down from to a frame and below a water surface. A push rod oscillates, causing the nacelle to experience a heaving motion, in turn causing the foils to flap up and down. The push rod is driven by a power plant such as a human rider. Angles of attack for the foils are actively controlled to optimize lift and propulsion forces provided by the foils to cause the water craft to move over the water. A steering fin is also provided for heading control of the water craft. A control system for separate angles of attack for the foil sends appropriate information to servo motors which cause the foils to rotate relative to the nacelle to achieve optimal angles of attack relative to the particular position of the nacelle at any given moment.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.