Boat stabilizer

Abstract

A vessel hull stabilization system is presented that uses hydrofoils mounted on the vessel. The hydrofoils create a counteracting force to the waves that would otherwise cause the vessel to roll pitch. the hydrofoil is connected to the vessel in both passive and an active modes. The hydrofoil consists of a number of configurations that include a number of attached struts and foils which provide additional counteracting forces in response to wave action.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Taking the following specifications in conjunction with the accompanying drawings will cause the invention to be better understood regarding these and other features and advantages. The specifications reference the annexed drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is systems diagram of the complete active stabilization system as mounted in the vessel; and includes system electrical and hydraulic components as located on the vessel; and

FIG. 2 is a close up view of the passive stabilization system as mounted to the stern of the vessel; and

FIG. 3 is a side view of one stabilization hydrofoil with winglets; and

FIG. 4 is a side view of an alternate embodiment of the stabilization hydrofoil with a split flap element shown in the down position; and

FIG. 4A shows a fairing guide, with the split flap is in the up position; and

FIG. 4B shows the split flap in the down position with lines indicating the flow of water; and

FIG. 5 is a side view of a third alternate embodiment of the stabilization hydrofoil; with the addition of the pull-down mini foil device shown in the up position; and

FIG. 5A is a side view of a third alternate embodiment of the stabilization hydrofoil; with the addition of the pull-down mini foil device shown in the down position; and

FIG. 5B is a side view of a third alternate embodiment of the stabilization hydrofoil; with the addition of the pull-down mini foil device shown in the down position with lines indicating the flow of water; and

FIG. 6 is a side view of an alternate embodiment of the stabilization hydrofoil with a mechanical split-flap positioning in view of the wedge designed split flap; and

FIG. 6A is a side view of an alternate embodiment of the stabilization hydrofoil with mechanical split-flap shown in the up (nested) position; and

FIG. 7 (not included); and

FIG. 8 shows the detail of the internal torque plates; and

FIG. 9 shows close up detail of the torque plates exterior; and

FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of the actuator system connected to the hydrofoils.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While describing the invention and its embodiments various terms will be used for the sake of clarity. These terms are intended to not only include the recited embodiments, but also all equivalents that perform substantially the same function, in substantially the same manner to achieve the same result.

As shown in FIG. 1, a schematic diagram of a vessel 10 provides a view of the components of the hydraulic control system used to actively reduce roll of the boat underway or roll at rest. Optionally, the computer control system may be configured to actively control and reduce pitch motion. Each of the two hydrofoils requires a corresponding system of an associated hydraulic control valve and hydraulic actuator for active mode.

The operator control 100 is electrically connected to an active control computer 110. The active control computer 110 is electrically connected to a motion sensor 120. The active control computer system 110 is electrically connected to a hydraulic control valve 130. For each hydrofoil the hydraulic control valve 130 is hydraulically connected to a hydraulic cylinder actuator 140, utilizing hydraulic hoses. The hydraulic cylinder actuator 140 is mechanically connected to the hydrofoil 150. The hydrofoil 150 is mechanically connected to a hull bracket 160, which is attached mechanically to the hull transom 170 of the vessel 10. The hydrofoil position-sensor 145 is mechanically connected to hydrofoil 150 and or the actuator 140. The hydrofoil position-sensor 145 is electrically connected to the active control computer 110 for position feed back.

As shown in FIG. 2 a schematic diagram of a vessel 10 provides a view of the components of the system used to passively reduce the roll, pitch and yaw of the boat underway only. FIG. 2 shows a close view of the hull transom 170 of the vessel 10 where the hydrofoils 150p (port) and 150s (starboard) are mounted to the hull bracket 160 in passive mode configuration. A positioning jackscrew 130 replaces the active hydraulic actuator 140.

Multiple Embodiments of the Boat Stabilizer

A multitude of hydrofoils are available to be mounted on the transom of the vessel. FIGS. 3,4,5,6 show alternate detailed embodiments of the boat stabilizers using the hydrofoils.

FIG. 3 Single Foil Embodiment

Now referring to FIG. 3 is a close up view of one embodiment of the hydrofoil 150. The vertical NACA foil 200 is constructed to have a rounded leading edge, 202b. The leading edge 202b at the front tapers to a trailing edge 202a at the rear. As the boat moves forward, the vertical NACA foil 200 passes through the water. The NACA shape passively generates the force of lift in one direction. This lift force is directed outboard on each side of the vessel to passively reduce roll and yaw. This also allows for a greater turning rate at certain cruising speeds.

The effect of the NACA shape allows for minimal drag associated with generating lift, and limits drag associated with the resistance of an object moving through water

This lift force dampens uncomfortable roll and yaw since the boat must overcome this opposing lift force, to move out of a straight and level position related to the earth's horizon and compass heading.

The minimization of the roll and yaw is also dependent on the mounted angle of the vertical foil 200, which is manually adjusted by the installer.

Horizontal NACA Foil

Still referring to FIG. 3. Attached on the bottom and perpendicular to the vertical foil 200 is a NACA shaped horizontal foil 230. The foil is rounded at the front leading edge 232 of the foil and tapers to a blunt point on the rear trailing edge section 234 of the foil.

The horizontal foil 230 is bent at the center. The bend line begins at the leading edge, at the center point, just forward of the leading edge of the vertical foil 200, and continues to the point where the vertical foil trailing edge 202a terminates. Then it continues to the trailing edge 234 at center. The bend is approximately 10 degrees and serves four purposes:

• • 1) Serves to increase the design strength of the horizontal foil.
  • 2) Provides a cupping component for use as a low to zero speed roll stabilizer.
  • 3) Allows the installation technician to make directional control adjustments for the direction of upward lift.
  • 4) Allows for greater clearance between the hull bottom and clear water flow, from the effect of disturbed water flow emanating from the hull bottom, trim tabs and fittings.

Mounted on, and perpendicular to the ends of the horizontal foil 230 are two optional winglet foils 240a and 240b. As depicted, these winglet foils have a modified triangular shape, but, they may be configured in a multitude of dimensions or not used at all, in favor of a rounded or squared off wing tip. The winglets increase lift and decrease drag. Second, the winglets aid in retaining water in a cupping action for use as a zero to low speed roll stabilizer. The winglet dimension above 230 is reduced for maximum effectiveness as a stabilizer at rest, so water may more efficiently flow off the top of the horizontal foil 230.

Passive Design Effect

The total hydrofoil 150 design prevents uncomfortable boat movement in passive mode, without the need for hydraulic actuation. This makes this design a cost effective solution for boat owners. Other competitive systems require hydraulic actuation to overcome uncomfortable boat motion.

Passive stabilization occurs when the hydrofoil is attached to the hull and placed at a fixed angle of attack. The design configuration of the hydrofoil is effective enough to dampen vessel pitch, roll, and yaw without the need for hydraulic actuation.

Active stabilization uses the hydraulic actuator and computer control system as previously shown in FIG. 1. Active stabilization provides for additional roll or pitch control by altering the angle of attack of the horizontal foil 230. Based on the vessel motion sensor information provided to the onboard computer, control hydraulics will increase or decrease the lift force generated by the horizontal foil 230. Active stabilization ads roll dampening effectiveness produced by the horizontal foil. Active stabilization also allows for roll or pitch stabilization at low to zero forward motion of the vessel. Active stabilization also allows for vessel attitude trim adjustments (e.g. when vessel loading affects the heel or pitch of the boat).

As shown in FIG. 3, for active stabilization the hydraulic cylinder actuator 140 (FIG. 1) is connected to the vertical NACA foil 200 using the hydrofoil's actuator mounting hole 220 located at the torque plates above the upper trailing edge of the vertical foil 200. The vertical NACA foil 200 is connected to the transom of the boat at the hydrofoil-bracket mounting hole 210 utilizing a bearing assembly inserted in hole 210.

Multiple Element Foil Embodiments

Now referring to FIG. 4. FIG. 4 demonstrates a close up view of a second embodiment of the hydrofoil 450.

The hydrofoil 450 is configured in the same manner as shown in FIG. 3. A split flap 350 is connected to the horizontal NACA foil 230. The split flap 350 is connected via tie rods 330, pivot arms 332, and mounts 320.

A pivot arm 332 is connected to the split flap 350 on each side. The pivot arm 332 exists to change the position of the flap. A flexible joint 331 with stops is used to allow for the proper angle to maintain the split flap 350 in a neutral position, at high boat speed.

During periods of high boat speed operation, an automatic computer controlled system (as depicted in FIG. 1) pulls the split flap 350 down. This decreases the lift generated by the foil and flap assembly.

Computer controlled actuation moves this split flap 350 into position as directed automatically utilizing a position feed back sensor 311 and hydraulic, pneumatic or electric actuation.

Optionally the split flap 350 is adjusted to an effective position by mechanical means. Mechanical actuation moves this split flap 350 into an effective position as directed manually by the operator utilizing a position feed back sensor 311 reading as a reference.

A limit stop 310 prevents the tie rod member from rotating past a desired set point. This set point is adjustable via an externally accessible set screw device. In addition to providing the result described above, the split flap operates differently when the stabilizer 450 is controlling motion while the boat is at rest or at low speed.

This split flap 350 is used to increase and decrease cupping action at low to zero speed operation. Cupping action is increased when the horizontal foil moves in its downward stroke and cupping action is decreased in its upward stroke, since the flap falls away. This cupping action is similar to a swimmer using cupped hands to maintain body orientation while treading water.

During active stabilization at low to zero speed, one horizontal foil is directed downward on the side of the boat that is rolling away from upright attitude. At the same time, the foil on the other side of the boat is moving up. The split flap 350 separates and moves downward to decreases cupping action, so water spills out freely.

Now referring to FIG. 4A the split flap 350 is shown in the full up and nested position. FIG. 4A shows a winglet fairing guide 360 which provides a track guide 331a for the roller pin 331 to guide and support the pivot arm assembly 332. The winglet fairing guide 360 also provides for protection and decreased parasite drag from the arm 332 and other components. FIG. 4B depicts water flowing through the split flap.

Now referring to FIG. 5, which is a close up view of a third embodiment of the hydrofoil 550.

The hydrofoil 550 works both passively and or actively with hydraulic control. A second rigid member assembly 340 is added and connected to the split flap 350. The second rigid member assembly 340 has a mini foil 344 connected to a lower strut 342, which is connected to the split flap 350.

During periods of high speed operation, the force of the flowing water pulls the split flap 350 down, utilizing the lift force in the downward direction produced by the mini foil 344. This decreases the lift generated by the foil 230 and flap assembly 350, since there is less surface area on 230 to generate lift.

This mini-foil 344 is composed of a lower NACA section. The mini-foil 344 is connected by a lower strut 342 to the split flap 350. An adjustment 410 is provided to set the lower NACA foil 340 at an angle of attack which will pull the split flap 350 down at a desired speed.

In automatic operation, the NACA foil 344 generates a downward lift force which automatically pulls the split flap away from the horizontal foil 230 at a moment when pressure on the flap is reduced during hydraulic actuation. Additional mini foil assemblies may be added to the split flap 350 end or mid section if needed.

FIG. 5A shows the split flap in the pulled down configuration.

Both FIGS. 5 and 5a shows a winglet fairing guide 360 which provides a track guide 331a for the roller pin 331 to guide and support the pivot arm assembly 332

The fairing guide 360 also provides for protection and decreased parasitic drag from the arm 332.

FIG. 5 b shows the flow of water between the Horizontal Foil 230 and the split flap. An arrow shows the direction of lift generated by the mini foil 344. In this configuration the split flap 350 is producing zero lift and is trailing (ultra low drag). When the split flap 350 is producing zero lift forces, the mini foil 344 is able to hold the split flap 350 down.

Alternate Foil Embodiment

Now referring to FIG. 6; as shown FIG. 6 is a close up view of a fourth embodiment of the hydrofoil 650.

The hydrofoil 650 is shaped the same and works as is described in the single foil embodiment, both passively and or with active hydraulic control.

Except now, a split flap 390 is connected to the horizontal foil 630. The split flap wedge is connected via a tie rod 330, arm assembly 332, and mounts 320 as before on each side of the horizontal foil 630.

A pivot arm 332 is connected to the split flap 390. The pivot 332 exists to change the position of the flap. A flexible joint with stops 331 is used to allow for the proper angle which will maintain the split flap in a neutral position.

During periods of high speed operation, hydrodynamic forces pull the split flap 390 down. This decreases the lift generated by the foil and flap assembly, since there is less surface area to generate lift. This split flap differs in design in that the wedge shape 552 at the leading edge of the split flap 390 produces high enough pressure at the upper surface of the split flap 390 to hold it in the down position away from the lower NACA foil 230. It is then locked in position until hydrostatic forces release the locking mechanism 331d at low speed. A manual cable (not shown) may also release the hydrostatic locking mechanism.

For operator reference only, a position feed back sensor 324 is installed and electrically connected to provide a position reading at the operator panel.

As in other embodiments, a limit stop prevents the tie rod member from rotating past a desired set point. This set point is adjustable via an externally accessible set screw device. In addition to providing the result described above, the split flap works in a completely different way when the stabilizer is controlling motion while the boat is at rest.

At rest, this split flap is used to increase and decrease cupping action at low to zero speed operation. Cupping action is increased when the horizontal foil moves in its downward stroke and cupping action is decreased in its upward stroke. This cupping action is similar to a swimmer using cupped hands to maintain body orientation while treading water. During active stabilization at low to zero speed, one horizontal foil is directed downward on the side of the boat which is rolling away from its upright attitude. At the same time, the foil on the other side of the boat is moving up. The split flap separates and moves downward. This decreases cupping action, so water will spill away from the horizontal foil 230 more easily.

FIG. 6A depicts the split wedge flap configured in the up position.

Torque Plate Configuration

Now referring to FIGS. 7 and 8. As shown in FIG. 8. a torque plate assembly 810 consists of a hole 210 for a steel or composite tube to be attached. Two holes 220 are provided to facilitate the attachment of the hydraulic cylinder rod end.

The two torque plates 810 where the hydraulic cylinder attaches at hole 220, merge at the bend-line to form a single vertical interior support.

The foil shell surrounds the torque plate to form the NACA shape of the vertical foil 200.

The torque plate 810 now features an extended area forward of hole 220 to act as a position-stop against the hydraulic cylinder body. This prevents the hydrofoil from moving at a greater position than needed for yacht stabilization. It provides for a safety stop to prevent the hydraulic cylinder from retracting to a position which would cause the hydrofoil to induce extreme roll. A pad area 820 now exists to provide a safety stop against the hull mounting bracket 160. It provides for a safety stop, to prevent the hydraulic cylinder from extending to a position which would cause the hydrofoil to induce extreme roll.

Reinforcement (not shown) is added around the tube installed in hole 210 to improve durability.

Now referring to FIG. 9. FIG. 9 shows a close up view of the external area of the torque plate 810.

Control System Implementation

Now referring to FIG. 10, a decision tree 700 is shown that indicates how the stabilization control system operates. The process of active boat stabilization is essentially the same for each type of hydrofoil 150, 450, 550 and 650.

The rate of roll sensor reading 710, from the motion sensor 120, indicates the direction and rate of vessel roll.

If the vessel rolls to the left 730, the actuator on the port hydrofoil 150,450, 550, and 650 is pushed down (increasing lift) and the actuator on the starboard side hydrofoil 150,450, 550 and 650 is pulled up (decreasing lift). This movement is proportional to the electrical signal value from the roll rate sensor 710 which is proportional to the vessel rate of roll. Operator inputs and computer programming parameter values are available to attenuate this action.

If the vessel rolls to the right 735, the actuator pushes the starboard side hydrofoil 150, 550, 650, down (increasing lift) and pulls the port side hydrofoil 150, 550, 650 up (decreasing lift). This movement is proportional to the electrical signal value of the roll rate sensor 710 which is proportional to the vessel rate of roll. Operator inputs and computer programming parameter values are available to attenuate this action.

When roll has been stopped, both actuators move the hydrofoils to their neutral position. These actions work the same way regardless of vessel speed. However, the angle of the horizontal foil 230 will be greater at slower speeds and at rest.

Claims

1. A yacht stabilizer, comprising: a vessel;a first strut, said first strut movably attached to the transom of the vessel; and a first hydrofoil , said first hydrofoil perpendicularly attached to said first strut.

2. The yacht stabilizer, of claim 1, wherein a winglet is perpendicularly attached to each end point of said first hydrofoil.

3. The yacht stabilizer, of claim 2, wherein the first hydrofoil further comprises: a top part, a bottom part, and a rear section; wherein the rear section is flexibly attached to the second hydrofoil.

4. The yacht stabilizer, of claim 3, wherein said rear section further comprises: a second strut, said second strut having a first end and a second end; a mini foil, said mini foil having a top part and a bottom part; said first end of the second strut connected to the bottom part of the first hydrofoil and the bottom end of said second strut is perpendicularly attached to the top part of the mini foil.

5. The yacht stabilizer, of claim 1 wherein said first hydrofoil is movably attached to the hull of the vessel with a bracket.

6. The yacht stabilizer, of claim 1 wherein said first hydrofoil is movably attached in the proximity of the transom of the vessel.

7. A yacht stabilizer comprising: a vessel;a stabilization system, the stabilization system comprising a first strut, said first strut movably attached to the transom of the vessel;a first hydrofoil, said first hydrofoil perpendicularly attached to said first strut;and an active stabilization system,the active stabilization system comprising:a strut hole;an actuator;a vessel actuator mount;a motion sensor,a torque plate,and a stabilization computer, wherein the actuator is connected between the torque plates with strut hole and the vessel actuator mount,said actuator is electrically connected to the stabilization computer,and said motion sensor is connected to the stabilization computer.

8. A method for improving yacht stabilization consisting of a means for measuring the vessel displacement from the level position and a means for resisting the change from the level position wherein said means for resisting change is a actuator coupled with a hydrofoil.

9. The method of claim 8 wherein the means for resisting change further comprises a mini foil, a mini foil fixable attached to the base of the hydrofoil.

10. A hydrofoil comprising; a first strut, a hydrofoil, the hydrofoil perpendicularly attached to the first strut;a split flap, the split flap having a front end an a rear end, the split flap movably connected to the front of the hydrofoil.

11. The hydrofoil as in claim 10 wherein said split flap further comprises tie rods, the tie rods movably connecting the front of the hydrofoil to the front of the split flap.

12. The hydrofoil as in claim 10 wherein a pair of winglets is perpendicularly mounted to the sides of the hydrofoil.

13. The hydrofoil as in claim 10 wherein said split flap further comprises a top part and a bottom part, a second strut, the second strut having a top part and a bottom part and a mini foil, wherein the bottom part the second strut is perpendicularly mounted to the mini foil and the top of the second strut is mounted to the base of the bottom part of the split flap.