Patent Application
20200269961
The present invention relates to a system and method to improve stability of a water sport board. Particularly, the present invention is directed to a water diffuser system having one or more water diffusers and a water sports board having such water diffuser system with one or more water diffusers installed thereon.
Water sport board activities have become a ubiquitous means of entertainment and athletics. A common piece of equipment that is used across the various activities is the water sport board, the overall design of which can vary depending on the particular use. Exemplary types of water sport boards include surfboards, paddle boards, kiteboards, wakeboards, wakesurf boards, and windsurfing boards. There are also multiple designs with different sizes and shapes for each type of water sport board. For example, surfboards designs include longboards, funboards, shortboards, and large wave boards also known as guns. Likewise the size and shape of paddle boards can be varied depending on the type of performance that is desired. Each type of board can also include particular design variations such as different nose and tail designs, amount of rocker in each board, the design of the rails, and the fin system used with each board.
The design of a water sports board varies depending on the type of water sports board it is. A generic top-down view diagram of an exemplary water sports boards is illustrated in
A water sports board typically includes a rigid body with two ends. The rigid body can be made of glass covered foam, wood, composite, laminate or any other known suitable material for water sports boards.
The rigid body includes a center axis 801 along its length where the center axis is equidistant from the edges or rails. The end of the water sports board that is typically kept in front when in use is generally referred to as the nose. This is identified as item 812, 822, 832, 842, and 852. The end of the water sports board that is typically kept in the back during use is generally referred to as the tail. This is identified as item 811, 821, 831, 841, and 851. An exception to the nose and tail references 851 and 852 can be present for kiteboards since a kiteboard can also be designed to be ridden in both directions and thus these ends can be referred as either or both. This is further described in more detail in the description.
A generic diagram of an exemplary water sports board design is also illustrated in
Most design variations for each water sport board reflect a particular performance feature that is often associated with the particular intended use for that water sports board. For example, the overall shape including the volume, shape of the nose, tail, and rails, the overall size, the type and number of fins and the fin systems used all can be modified. For purposes of this disclosure, “volume” or “board volume” of a water sports board refers to the amount of space the water sports board occupies. The volume or board volume of a water sports board is equal to the volume of a liquid displaced when the water sports board is submerged in that liquid. Also, additional features can be present such as, for example, padding as typically used in surfboards, wakesurf boards and paddle boards. Also, particular types of water sports boards, such as kiteboards and wakeboards, can include foot straps on the deck of the board.
Common across the various designs, however, has remained the interest to achieve improved stability and overall performance. Some exemplary attempts to achieve these characteristics include the implementation of different tail designs as for example described in in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2008/0287018, which is incorporated herein by reference. Exemplary tail designs that are well known include unpointed designs such as the Pintail, Thumbtail, and Squash, pointed tail designs such as the Swallow, Bat Tail, Diamond, and Square tails.
Another approach to improve stability and performance has been in the area of fin systems used in various boards, for example as described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,957,020 and WO2013/159860, which are both incorporated herein by reference. Another approach has been to create channels on the bottom of the water sports board either by carving concave portions on the bottom of the board or by implementing a fin system that forms channels as for example described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,585,549, which is incorporated herein by reference.
Although prior art designs have provided much improvement in the stability, maneuverability, and overall performance of various water sport boards, there is still a need to improve stability.
Accordingly, a need still exists for an implemented design that can further promote stability and improve performance of a water sport board by addressing the above identified turbulence and cavitation problems.
Accordingly, the present invention is directed to a stabilizing water diffuser system for water sports board, water sports board with water diffuser system, and method of using the same that substantially obviates one or more of the problems due to limitations and disadvantages of the related art.
An advantage of the present invention is to reduce turbulence and cavitation in a water sport board, particularly with respect to the turbulence and cavitation caused by a typical fin system.
Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a water sports board with increased stability.
Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a water sports board that can exhibit improved speed performance.
Another advantage of the present invention is to promote smother water flow off the tail of a water sport board, thus resulting in a smoother ride.
Another advantage of the present invention is to help provide more lift especially at lower speeds and more stability at higher speeds.
Additional features and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. The objectives and other advantages of the invention will be realized and attained by the structure particularly pointed out in the written description and claims hereof as well as the appended drawings.
To achieve these and other advantages and in accordance with the purpose of the present invention, as embodied and broadly described, provided is a water diffuser for a water sports board having a base, a vertical member, and a front edge. The base can have a front end and back end. The vertical member can extend from the base to a distal end. The front edge can extend from the front end of the base to the distal end of the vertical member. The front edge can include a first slope between the front end and the vertical member and a second slope along the vertical member, wherein the second slope is steeper than the first slope so as to define a concave contour.
The base further can further include a sidewall extending from a perimeter of the base to the vertical member. The sidewall can have an overall concave contour. The front end of the base can have a width that is smaller than the width of the back end of the base. The base can include a teardrop shape. The base can include a shape selected from a triangular shape, a rectangular shape, a polygonal shape, a regular elliptical shape, or an irregular elliptical shape. Opposite the vertical member the base can include an underside surface. The underside surface can be coated with an adhesive. The adhesive can have a thickness of about 0.03 inches.
The base can have a longitudinal length extending from the pointed end to a round end that ranges from about 0.7 inches to about 3.0 inches.
The vertical member can include an elongated elliptical cross-section defined by a first sidewall and a second sidewall. The vertical member can have a width from about 0.06 inches to about 0.4 inches. The combined height of the base and vertical member can range from about 0.1 inches to about 2.0 inches.
The base and vertical member each can include a rigid material. The rigid material can be selected from the group consisting of polymer plastic, carbon fiber, fiberglass, epoxy, metal, foam, and combinations thereof. The base and the vertical member can include the same rigid material.
The vertical member can have a truncated profile at the distal end. The vertical member can include a flat surface at the distal end. The vertical member can have a truncated profile and include a flat surface at the distal end. The flat surface can have a teardrop shape. The flat surface can have an elliptical shape.
The water diffuser can also include one or more screw holes, one or more lip portions, or a combination of both.
In another aspect of the present invention, provided is a water sports board having a rigid body having a tail edge, a fin system located on a bottom surface of the rigid body, and a water diffuser located on the bottom surface of the rigid body between the fin system and the tail edge, wherein the water diffuser is positioned to reduce cavitation caused by the fin system.
The water sports board can be one selected from the group consisting of a shortboard, a longboard, a funboard, a windsurfing board, a paddle board, a wakeboard, a wakesurf board, and a kiteboard.
The water diffuser can be located at a distance from the tail edge that ranges from about 0.06 inches to about 4 inches.
The water sports board can include one or more additional water diffusers located on the bottom surface of a tail of a water sports board. The water sports board can include a total of two or more water diffusers. The water sports board can include a total of four or more water diffusers. At least two or more diffusers can be arranged to be toe-in with respect to a central axis of the water sports board.
The fin system can be selected from the group consisting of a single fin system, a two fin system, a three fin system, a four fin system, and a five fin system.
A water diffuser can have a longitudinal length ranging from about 0.7 inches to about 3 inches. A water diffuser can have a height ranging from about 0.1 inches to about 2 inches.
The water sports board can include a total of two or more water diffusers equally laterally spaced from each other. The water sports board can include a total of two or more water diffusers equally spaced from the tail edge. The distance between the tail edge and each of the two or more water diffusers can range from about 0.06 inches to about 4 inches.
A water diffuser can be permanently attached to the water sports board. A water diffuser can be detachably attached to the water sports board. A water diffuser can be attached to the bottom surface of the water sports board with adhesive, tape, one or more screws, one or more snap-joints, or a combination thereof. The adhesive can include an epoxy resin. The water sports board can include a frame attached to the water sports board, wherein the water diffuser is attached to frame or are an integral part of the frame.
A water diffuser can be an integral part of the water sports board. The water sports board can include glassing, wherein the water diffuser is located under the glassing. The water sports board can include glassing, wherein the water diffuser is part of the glassing.
A water diffuser can include a front edge that faces away from the tail edge, the front edge defining an overall concave contour.
In another aspect of the present invention, a method of stabilizing a water sports board including installing a water diffuser system to a bottom surface of a water sports board at a location between a fin system and a tail edge of the water sports board such that the water diffuser system is able to modulate the cavitation and turbulence caused by the fin system.
Installing a water diffuser system can include attaching one or more water diffusers to the bottom surface of the water sports board or attaching a frame comprising two or more water diffusers to the bottom surface of the water sports board. Each of the one or more water diffusers can have a longitudinal length in the range of about 0.7 inches to about 3 inches and a height in the range of about 0.1 inches to about 2 inches.
The method can include attaching the one or more water diffusers at a location that is no more than about 0.06 inches to about 4 inches from a tail edge of the water sports board.
The method can include attaching all of the one or more water diffusers to be equally spaced from the tail edge of the water sports board.
The method can include attaching the one or more water diffusers or the frame to the bottom surface of the water sports board with an adhesive.
The method can include attaching the one or more water diffusers or the frame to the bottom surface of the water sports board using a means selected from the group consisting of adhesive, tape, one or more screws, one or more snap-joints, and a combination thereof.
Each of the one or more water diffusers can include a rigid material. Each of the one or more water diffusers can include a base with a teardrop shape and a vertical member with a hydrofoil design.
Modulating the cavitation and turbulence can include contacting turbulent water flow with the one or more water diffusers to slice air bubbles and induce laminar flow.
The water diffuser system can also provide lift.
It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention as claimed.
The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the invention.
In the drawings:
Reference will now be made in detail to an embodiment of the present invention, example of which is illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as is commonly understood by one of skill in the art to which the inventions belong. All patents, patent applications, published applications and publications, websites and other published materials referred to throughout the entire disclosure herein, unless noted otherwise, are incorporated by reference in their entirety. In the event that there are a plurality of definitions for terms herein, those in this section prevail. Where reference is made to a URL or other such identifier or address, it is understood that such identifiers can change and particular information on the internet can come and go, but equivalent information can be found by searching the internet. Reference thereto evidences the availability and public dissemination of such information.
As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
As used herein, the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.
As used herein, ranges and quantities can be expressed as “about” a particular value or range. “About” also includes the exact amount. Hence “about 5 percent” means “about 5 percent” and also “5 percent.” “About” means within typical experimental error for the application or purpose intended.
As used herein, “optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described event or circumstance does or does not occur, and that the description includes instances where the event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not. For example, an optional component in a system means that the component may be present or may not be present in the system.
As used herein, a “combination” refers to any association between two items or among more than two items. The association can be spatial or refer to the use of the two or more items for a common purpose.
The term “water sports board” or “board” is broadly used herein to the full extent of its meaning to one of ordinary skill in the art and refers broadly to any right and planar watercrafts typically used for surface aquatic activities. Non limiting examples of water sports boards include all types of surfboards, windsurfing boards, paddle boards, wakeboards, kiteboards, and wakesurf boards.
The term “bottom” or “bottom surface” when used to describe a portion of a water sports board broadly refers to the surface of the water sports board that faces the water during typical use and not the surface where the user typically lies, kneels, or stands over the deck during typical use of the water sports board.
The term “deck” or “top surface” when used to describe a portion of a water sports board broadly refers to the surface of the water sports board over which a user typically lies, kneels, or stands during typical use of the water sports board.
The term “fin” is used herein to reference a hydrofoil affixed to the bottom surface of a water sports board to provide stability and maneuverability of the water sports board. Fins as referenced herein broadly refer to dolphin dorsal fin-like structures with a convex front edge of varying degree of rake or sweep. Fins as used herein include structures that must be sufficiently sized to maintain grip on the water so as to function as intended. Typically, fins as referenced herein have a length of at least 4 inches and a height greater than 2 inches, and typically greater than at least 4 inch.
The term “fin system” as used herein broadly refers to a typical fin arrangement in a particular water sports board. A fin arrangement can include one or more fins. Non-limiting examples of fin systems broadly known in the art that fall within the scope of the term “fin system” as used in this description include single fins systems, two-fin set ups known as Twin-fin, three-fin set ups some known as Thrusters and others as 2+1, four-fin set up known as Quad, or even a five-fin set up. In water sports boards such as shortboards, longboards, funboards, guns, paddle boards, and wakesurf boards, fin systems are typically located at the bottom surface that is under the deck area where the surfer's foot presses down while the surfer is standing and riding a wave.
The term “glass” or “glassing” as used herein broadly refers to the protective fiberglass and resin coating applied over a material, such as foam, of a water sports board. “Glassing material” as used herein to broadly refer to the materials used for glassing, which can include one or more of fiberglass cloth, polyester and epoxy resin, or a combination thereof.
The term “board blank” as used herein broadly refers to the original block of foam used to shape a surfboard, paddle board, windsurfing board, or wakesurf board. A blank often comes from a pre-shaped mold with a basic outline and rocker depending on the length and type of the board being shaped. A board blank is often made from polyurethane foam.
The term “nose” is used herein to broadly refer to the front portion of a water sports board. Particularly, the term “nose” as used herein refers to the front quarter length of a water sports board and the leading edge as used in the water.
The term “rail” as used herein is used to broadly reference the edge of a water sports board where the deck wraps around to meet the bottom surface; usually used to describe the lower half of the edge.
The term “tail” as used herein refers to the back portion of a water sports board. Particularly, it relates to the area extending between the fin system and the back edge of a water sports board.
The term “edge” is used herein to refer to the narrow part adjacent to a border where an object or area begins or ends.
The term “surfboard” as used herein broadly refers to any buoyant board used as a longboard, funboard, shortboard, or gun.
The term “shortboard” as used herein broadly refers to a smaller, performance surfboard typically in the 5 to 7 foot length range, nose to tail, designed for maximum speed through turns.
The term “gun” as used herein broadly refers to a special surfboard designed to ride big waves. They are typically narrow in the nose and tail to allow the rails full contact with the wave. Broadly longer than normal surfboards so the surfer can paddle faster to catch the bigger, faster moving waves, with a pulled-in tail to handle the high speeds. Typical length, nose to tail, of a gun surfboard ranges from about 6 foot 6 inches to about 10 foot.
The term “longboard” as used herein broadly refers to a surfboard distinctly longer and broader at the nose and tail than a conventional shortboard; usually over eight feet in length, nose to tail, and 22″ or more in width, with a rounded nose.
The term “funboard” as used herein broadly refers to a compromise surfboard design, combining the superior paddling attributes of a longboard, but stripped of some of the length, nose to tail, and bulk of a longboard so that a rider may experience improved maneuverability.
The term “paddle board” as used herein broadly refers to a board used for stand up paddle surfing and stand up paddle boarding (SUP). A stand up paddle boarder stands on the board and uses a paddle to propel forward through the water. A stand up paddle board, or paddle board, can have different shapes but typically has a higher board volume than a shortboard so as to exhibit sufficient buoyancy to float when a user stands on it even while not riding a wave.
The term “kiteboard” as used herein broadly refers to a board similar to a wakeboard or a small surfboard, with or without footstraps or bindings. A kiteboard broadly is a small composite, wooden, or foam board. There are now several types of kiteboards: directional surf-style boards, wakeboard-style boards, hybrids which can go in either direction but are built to operate better in one of them, and skim-type boards. These boards broadly come with sandal-type footstraps that allow the rider to attach and detach from the board easily; this is required for doing board-off tricks and jumps. Kiteboards come in different shapes and sizes to suit the rider's skill level, riding style, wind and water conditions.
The term “wakeboard” as used herein broadly refers to a short board with or without foot bindings on which a rider is towed by a motorized watercraft such as a motorboat across its wake and especially up off the crest for aerial maneuvers.
The term “wakesurf board” as used herein broadly refers to a short board that is similar to a surfboard. The typical length of a wakesurf board is 4-5 feet. Similar to a wakeboard, a wakesurf board is used surf the wake of a motorized watercraft such as a motorboat. However, in wakesurfing the surfer is only towed at the start but then freely surfs the wake without the use of a tow rope.
The term “windsurfing board” as used herein broadly refers to a board propelled by wind pushing on a sail extending over the deck of the board. Windsurfing board include a fin systems. Broadly, windsurfing boards have lengths, nose to tail, ranging from about 6 feet and 7 inches to about 8 feet and 2 inches, and have a water displacements typically between 12 and 40 US gallons.
The term “water diffuser system” as used herein refers to the set of one or more water diffusers as described herein. Exemplary embodiments that fall within the scope of the present invention include water diffuser systems having one water diffuser, two water diffusers, three water diffusers, four water diffusers, five water diffusers, six water diffusers, seven water diffusers, eight water diffusers, nine water diffusers, ten water diffusers, or more. The number of water diffusers used in accordance with the present invention should not be viewed as limited and can be adjusted based on the size of the tail of the water sports board. It should be recognized, however, that water diffusers can add drag and thus adding a disproportionate amount of water diffusers can negatively affect performance. Also, the term “water diffuser system” should not be construed to be limited to a particular arrangement of water diffusers.
The term “water diffuser” as used herein refers to a structure as described in more detailed herein that broadly includes a hydrofoil designed to modulate the cavitation and/or turbulence caused by the fins of the fin system. The water diffuser is smaller in size than any of the fins of a fin system present on the same water sports board.
As a water sport board glides on the water, it experiences a lot of turbulence and cavitation that is often caused by the very fin system that is implemented to promote the performance of the water sports board. As illustrated in
Because the turbulence and cavitation is caused by the fins and fin-systems themselves, and since known fins system are generally located at a distance from the tail edge of a water sports board since their placement is generally desired under the area where a surfers back foot presses down, known fin systems are not capable of modulating this turbulent flow and cavitation at the tail edge of a water sports board.
To resolve this problem and provide improved stability and overall performance of a water sports board, the inventors have developed a water diffuser system that includes one or more water diffusers to be located near the tail edge of the bottom surface of a water sports board, and water sports boards having a water diffuser system with one or more water diffusers installed thereon. In embodiments, when installed on a water sports board at the described locations, i.e. at the bottom surface of the water sports board close to the tail edge of the water sports board between the fin system and the tail edge of the water sports board, the water diffuser system comprised of one or more water diffusers can reduce the cavitation effect by slicing through the bubbles present in the turbulent flow at the tail of the water sports board. The water diffuser system comprised of one or more water diffusers can also provide additional lift at lower speeds as well as improved stability at higher speeds, thereby improving overall performance of the water sports board. Accordingly, the invention also includes improved water sports boards with a water diffuser system comprised of one or more water diffusers installed thereon.
Any suitable manufacturing method of making the water diffuser can be used. For example, the water diffuser 200 can be casted, 3D printed, sculpted, thermoformed, vacuum formed, or injection molded.
The water diffuser 200 can be manufactured as a single integral structure having base 210 and vertical member 220. Alternatively, water diffuser 200 can be manufactured in parts that when assembled together form water diffuser 200. For example, base 210 and vertical member 220 can be manufactured separately and then joined as discussed below.
Although described separately herein, it should be understood that base 210 and vertical member 220 are not necessarily separate structures and instead can be contiguous portions of an integral structure. In exemplary embodiments, base 210 and vertical member 220 are contiguous sections of a single integral structure. Base 210 and vertical member 220 can also be two separate structures joined together. The means for joining base 210 and vertical member 220 can be the same as the means described to attach the water diffuser 200 to a water sports board. Such means include, adhesive, tape, one or more screws, for example one or two screws, one or more snap-joints, for example one or two snap-joints, and the like. Also, the means can also be a combination of two or more of such means as described with respect to the connection of the water diffuser 200 to the bottom surface of the water sports board.
The overall size of a water diffuser can vary as described herein. As long as the water diffusers are selected to be within the described sizes they will have the intended and described benefits. Selecting a particular size of a water diffuser 200 based on the ranges described herein can be based on different factors including, but not limited to, user's preference, the amount of turbulence and cavitation the water diffuser is meant to modulate, the size of wave the board is meant to ride, the shape of the tail, the size of the tail, the type of fin system, the number of fins, the types of fins, the conditions in which the board is meant to be ridden, or any combination of these factors. For example, the greater the turbulence and cavitation to modulate the larger the size of the water diffusers 200. Different factors can affect the amount of turbulence and cavitation. For example, it would be expected to have more turbulence and cavitation if the board is used in larger waves. Accordingly, if the board is to be used to ride larger waves, than the water diffusers would have to handle more turbulence and thus should be selected having a larger size than water diffusers to install on board to be used in smaller waves. Also, independent of the amount of turbulence, the size of the water diffusers 200 can be selected based on the fin system. For example, single fin and Twin fins systems can benefit from medium size water diffusers even though these fin systems are typically used on water sports boards meant for smaller waves. This is because in such boards, the water diffusers can double as a pivot point to enhance turning. These are simply illustrative examples of reasons to select the size of the desired water diffuser 200.
Base 210 can have any suitable shape having a front end 219 and a back end 218. In exemplary embodiments, a top-down view of base 210 can reveal a teardrop or lachrymiform shape 211. Alternative top-down view shapes for base 210 are also possible. Some exemplary embodiments are illustrated in
Base 210, and thus water diffuser 200, can have a longitudinal length ranging from about 0.7 inches to about 3 inches. If the length is shorter than 0.7 inches, the water diffuser will not be as effective. A length greater than 3 inches, can result in the water diffuser creating too much drag, depending on the water sports board on which it is used. The longitudinal length of base 210 can be defined as the length of a straight line that extends from the forward most edge or point on the front end 219 to the rearward most edge or point of the back end 218 of shape of base 210 when viewed from a top-down view. For example, base 210 can have a longitudinal length of about: 0.7 inches, 0.8 inches, 0.9 inches, 1.0 inches, 1.01 inches, 1.02 inches, 1.03 inches, 1.04 inches, 1.05 inches, 1.06 inches, 1.07 inches, 1.08 inches, 1.09 inches, 1.10 inches, 1.11 inches, 1.12 inches, 1.13 inches, 1.14 inches, 1.15 inches, 1.16 inches, 1.17 inches, 1.18 inches, 1.19 inches, 1.20 inches, 1.21 inches, 1.22 inches, 1.23 inches, 1.24 inches, 1.25 inches, 1.26 inches, 1.27 inches, 1.28 inches, 1.29 inches, 1.30 inches, 1.31 inches, 1.32 inches, 1.33 inches, 1.34 inches, 1.35 inches, 1.36 inches, 1.37 inches, 1.38 inches, 1.39 inches, 1.40 inches, 1.41 inches, 1.42 inches, 1.43 inches, 1.44 inches, 1.45 inches, 1.46 inches, 1.47 inches, 1.48 inches, 1.49 inches, 1.50 inches, 1.51 inches, 1.52 inches, 1.53 inches, 1.54 inches, 1.55 inches, 1.56 inches, 1.57 inches, 1.58 inches, 1.59 inches, 1.60 inches, 1.61 inches, 1.62 inches, 1.63 inches, 1.64 inches, 1.65 inches, 1.66 inches, 1.67 inches, 1.68 inches, 1.69 inches, 1.70 inches, 1.71 inches, 1.72 inches, 1.73 inches, 1.74 inches, 1.75 inches, 1.76 inches, 1.77 inches, 1.78 inches, 1.79 inches, 1.80 inches, 1.81 inches, 1.82 inches, 1.83 inches, 1.84 inches, 1.85 inches, 1.86 inches, 1.87 inches, 1.88 inches, 1.89 inches, 1.90 inches, 1.91 inches, 1.92 inches, 1.93 inches, 1.94 inches, 1.95 inches, 1.96 inches, 1.97 inches, 1.98 inches, 1.99 inches, 2.0 inches, 2.01 inches, 2.02 inches, 2.03 inches, 2.04 inches, 2.05 inches, 2.06 inches, 2.07 inches, 2.08 inches, 2.09 inches, 2.10 inches, 2.11 inches, 2.12 inches, 2.13 inches, 2.14 inches, 2.15 inches, 2.16 inches, 2.17 inches, 2.18 inches, 2.19 inches, 2.20 inches, 2.21 inches, 2.22 inches, 2.23 inches, 2.24 inches, 2.25 inches, 2.26 inches, 2.27 inches, 2.28 inches, 2.29 inches, 2.30 inches, 2.31 inches, 2.32 inches, 2.33 inches, 2.34 inches, 2.35 inches, 2.36 inches, 2.37 inches, 2.38 inches, 2.39 inches, 2.40 inches, 2.41 inches, 2.42 inches, 2.43 inches, 2.44 inches, 2.45 inches, 2.46 inches, 2.47 inches, 2.48 inches, 2.49 inches, 2.50 inches, 2.51 inches, 2.52 inches, 2.53 inches, 2.54 inches, 2.55 inches, 2.56 inches, 2.57 inches, 2.58 inches, 2.59 inches, 2.60 inches, 2.61 inches, 2.62 inches, 2.63 inches, 2.64 inches, 2.65 inches, 2.66 inches, 2.67 inches, 2.68 inches, 2.69 inches, 2.70 inches, 2.71 inches, 2.72 inches, 2.73 inches, 2.74 inches, 2.75 inches, 2.76 inches, 2.77 inches, 2.78 inches, 2.79 inches, 2.80 inches, 2.81 inches, 2.82 inches, 2.83 inches, 2.84 inches, 2.85 inches, 2.86 inches, 2.87 inches, 2.88 inches, 2.89 inches, 2.90 inches, 2.91 inches, 2.92 inches, 2.93 inches, 2.94 inches, 2.95 inches, 2.96 inches, 2.97 inches, 2.98 inches, 2.99 inches, or 3.0 inches.
Base 210, and thus water diffuser 200, can have a lateral width ranging from about 0.25 inches to about 1.0 inches. The lateral width of base 210 can be defined as its widest lateral dimension of the shape of base 210 when viewed from a top-down view. For example, base 210 can have a lateral width of about: 0.25 inches, 0.26 inches, 0.27 inches, 0.28 inches, 0.29 inches, 0.3 inches, 0.31 inches, 0.32 inches, 0.33 inches, 0.34 inches, 0.35 inches, 0.36 inches, 0.37 inches, 0.38 inches, 0.39 inches, 0.4 inches, 0.41 inches, 0.42 inches, 0.43 inches, 0.44 inches, 0.45 inches, 0.46 inches, 0.47 inches, 0.48 inches, 0.49 inches, 0.5 inches, 0.51 inches, 0.52 inches, 0.53 inches, 0.54 inches, 0.55 inches, 0.56 inches, 0.57 inches, 0.58 inches, 0.59 inches, 0.6 inches, 0.61 inches, 0.62 inches, 0.63 inches, 0.64 inches, 0.65 inches, 0.66 inches, 0.67 inches, 0.68 inches, 0.69 inches, 0.7 inches, 0.71 inches, 0.72 inches, 0.73 inches, 0.74 inches, 0.75 inches, 0.76 inches, 0.77 inches, 0.78 inches, 0.79 inches, 0.8 inches, 0.81 inches, 0.82 inches, 0.83 inches, 0.84 inches, 0.85 inches, 0.86 inches, 0.87 inches, 0.88 inches, 0.89 inches, 0.9 inches, 0.91 inches, 0.92 inches, 0.93 inches, 0.94 inches, 0.95 inches, 0.96 inches, 0.97 inches, 0.98 inches, 0.99 inches, or 1 inch.
For example, a teardrop shape 211 can be identified from a top-down view. As illustrated in
It should be recognized that the longitudinal length of base 210 is also the overall longitudinal length of the water diffuser 200. Moreover, the lateral width of base 210 is also the widest point and thus the overall lateral width of water diffuser 200. As such, the measurements provided for the longitudinal length and lateral width of base 210 are also the measurements for the longitudinal length and widest lateral width of the overall water diffuser 200.
Base 210 can include sidewall 213 that extend from perimeter 212 of base 210 to vertical member 220 at bottom end 221 of vertical member 220. The vertical length of sidewall 213 is not particularly limited and can be designed depending on the desired size of the overall water diffuser. Sidewall 213 can be tapered. Sidewall 213 can have a convex structure. Sidewall 213 can have a concave structure. Sidewall 213 can also include a flat portion along at least a portion of its perimeter before extending upward. Sidewall 213 can also include any combination of tapered, convex, concave, and flat portions.
For example, as illustrated in
The underside of base 210, i.e. the portion opposite the vertical member 220, can be underside surface 214 as illustrated in
Alternative means to attach or install a water diffuser to a water sports board can also be used. The water diffuser can be attached using one or more screws. In exemplary embodiments, a water diffuser can be attached using one screw, two screws, three screws, four screws. The number of screws not limited other than by the size of the water diffuser. Any suitable screw may be used. In an exemplary embodiment, the one or more screws can include one or more grub screws 241. As for example illustrated in
The water diffuser can be attached using one or more snap-joints. In exemplary embodiments, a water diffuser can include one, two, three, four, or five snap-joints. The number of snap joints is not limited other than by the size of the water diffuser. Each snap joint can include one or more lip portions 250 protruding from the base 210, and preferable from underside surface 214, that snap-fit into one or more slots 255 provided in the bottom surface of the water sports board. In exemplary embodiments, a water diffuser can include one, two, three, four, or five lip portions 250. The number of lip portions 250 is not limited other than by the size of the water diffuser. The number of slots 255 at the bottom surface of the water sports board is also not particularly limited and can be set depending on the desired flexibility of arrangements. In exemplary embodiments, the bottom surface of the water sports board can include one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, twelve, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, eighteen, twenty, twenty one, twenty two, twenty four, twenty five, twenty six, twenty seven, twenty eight, or thirty slots 255.
The water diffuser can be attached using tape 227. The tape can be a double sided adhesive tape. The tape can be of any suitable thickness that can provide strong bonding of the water diffuser. In exemplary embodiments, the tape can be a double sided adhesive tape with a thickness ranging from about 0.02 inches to about 0.05 inches, similar to the adhesive layer described earlier.
Also, any combination of two or more of the above means to attach the water diffuser to the water sports board can be used in combination. For example, adhesive and one or more screws can be used. For example, adhesive and tape can be used. For example, tape and one or more screws can be used. For example, adhesive and one or more snap-joints can be used. For example, tape and one or more snap-joints can be used. For example, one or more screws and one or more snap-joints can be used. For example, adhesive plus one or more screws and one or more snap-joints can be used. For example, tape plus one or more screws and one or more snap joints can be used. For example, adhesive plus tape and one or more screws can be used. For example, adhesive plus tape and one or more snap-joints can be used. For example, adhesive plus tape, one or more snap-joints, and one or more screws can be used. When tape and adhesive are both used in combination, their combined thickness can be the same as if using only an adhesive or tape. The same considerations regarding thickness apply as discussed above with respect to adhesive and tape individually when the two are used in combination. In an exemplary embodiment, the tape and adhesive have a combined thickness of 0.03 inches.
The above attachment means can be used to permanently attach or install one or more water diffusers 200 to a water sports board. The above attachment means can also be used to detachably attach or install one or more water diffusers 200 to a water sports board. Having a detachable or releasable attachment or connection can provide the advantage to install and uninstall one or more water diffusers 200 as desired. The releasable connection are preferably strong enough to withstand the water pressure coming into contact with the one or more water diffusers 200. Any of the above mentioned attachment means, including adhesive, screws, snap-joints, and tape can be made into a detachable or releasable joint. Likewise, any of the previously listed combination of attachment means can be made as releasable or permanent joints, connections, or attachments. Screws and snap joints are ubiquitous detachable or releasable connections often also used for fins. Likewise, detachable or releasable adhesives and tapes can be implemented without limitations. As illustrated in
In exemplary embodiments, instead of attaching one or more water diffuser 200 to a finished water sports board, it is also within the scope of the invention to incorporate one or more water diffusers in the body of the water sports board and thus be an integral part of the water sports board. For example, the water diffusers can be fixed to a board prior to glassing. The same means to attach the water diffusers to the board described above can be used to fix the water diffuser to the pre-glassed board. The glassing can then be applied to coat over the water diffuser and thus make them integral to the water sports board. In some embodiments, the water diffusers can also be formed in the board blank during the shaping of the board and then glassed, instead of forming the water diffusers separately and attaching them to a shaped board prior to glassing. In some embodiments, the water diffusers can be formed with the glassing. For example, when during the glassing stage of a water sports board, glassing material can be deposited at the desired location by dripping additional glassing material, for example polyester or epoxy resin with or without fiberglass cloth mixed in, to form protruding structures reproducing or approximating as close as possible the water diffuser sizes and shapes as generally described herein. Once the glassing material hardens the water diffuser is made. The water diffuser thus is made of glassing material. As such, the water diffuser is made as an integral part water sports board by being part of the glassing of the water sports board. It is recognized that if a dripping method is used, the exact shapes otherwise described herein might not be achieved. These approximate shapes should be viewed falling within the scope of the described invention.
Vertical member 220 can extend from base 210. In exemplary embodiments, vertical member 220 extends from bottom end 221 where it meets side wall 213 to a distal end 222. Vertical member 220 can have any suitable shape for the intended purpose. Vertical member 220 can include sidewalls 223 and 224. Sidewalls 223 and 224 can be a single contiguous sidewall. Sidewalls 223 and 224 can be two distinct sidewalls jointed together to define vertical member 220. Sidewalls 223 and 224 can be straight. Sidewalls 223 and 224 can be convex. Sidewalls 223 and 224 can be concave. Sidewalls 223 and 224 can have similar or different contours. In exemplary embodiments, sidewalls 223 and 224 are similar. Sidewalls 223 and 224 can also be symmetric or asymmetric. Also, sidewalls 223 and 224 can be parallel. Alternatively, sidewalls 223 and 224 can define a tapering profile. For example, sidewalls 223 and 224 can be closer toward distal end 222 of vertical member 220 and farther apart at bottom end 221 where they meet sidewall 213. In exemplary embodiments the thickness of vertical member 220 can range from about 0.1 inches to about 1 inches. For example, the thickness of vertical member 220 can be about: 0.1 inches, 0.2 inches, 0.3 inches, 0.4 inches, 0.5 inches, 0.6 inches, 0.7 inches, 0.8 inches, 0.9 inches, or 1.0 inches.
In exemplary embodiments, sidewalls 223 and 224 have similar shapes and are symmetric to define vertical member 220 that is symmetrical with respect to a vertical plane that dissects vertical member 220 in two parallel, vertical, mirroring halves.
As illustrated in
The width of vertical member 220 at distal end 222 when vertical member 220 includes a truncated profile at distal end 222, when distal end 222 includes a flat surface, or both, can range from about 0.06 inches to about 0.40 inches. The width of vertical member 220 at distal end 222 is defined as the largest horizontal distance at distal 222 between sidewalls 223 and 224. For example, the width of the vertical member 220 can be about: 0.06 inches, 0.07 inches, 0.08 inches, 0.09 inches, 0.10 inches, 0.11 inches, 0.12 inches, 0.13 inches, 0.14 inches, 0.15 inches, 0.16 inches, 0.17 inches, 0.18 inches, 0.19 inches, 0.20 inches, 0.21 inches, 0.22 inches, 0.23 inches, 0.24 inches, 0.25 inches, 0.26 inches, 0.27 inches, 0.28 inches, 0.29 inches, 0.30 inches, 0.31 inches, 0.32 inches, 0.33 inches, 0.34 inches, 0.35 inches, 0.36 inches, 0.37 inches, 0.38 inches, 0.39 inches, or 0.40 inches. In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in
The length of vertical member 220 at distal end 222 when vertical member 220 includes a truncated profile at distal end 222, when distal end 222 includes a flat surface, or both, can range from about 0.3 inches to about 1.0 inches. The length of vertical member 220 at distal end 222 is defined as the horizontal distance, perpendicular to the width of vertical member 220 at distal end 222, extending from front edge 230 to the point at distal end 222 that is closest to back end 218. For example, the length of distal end 222 can be about: 0.3 inches, 0.35 inches, 0.4 inches, 0.45 inches, 0.5 inches, 0.55 inches, 0.6 inches, 0.65 inches, 0.70 inches, 0.71 inches, 0.72 inches, 0.73 inches, 0.74 inches, 0.75 inches, 0.76 inches, 0.77 inches, 0.78 inches, 0.79 inches, 0.8 inches, 0.81 inches, 0.82 inches, 0.83 inches, 0.84 inches, 0.85 inches, 0.86 inches, 0.87 inches, 0.88 inches, 0.89 inches, 0.9 inches, 0.91 inches, 0.92 inches, 0.93 inches, 0.94 inches, 0.95 inches, 0.96 inches, 0.97 inches, 0.98 inches, 0.99 inches, or 1.0 inches.
The length of vertical member 220 at bottom end 221 can range from about 0.7 inches to about 1.8 inches. The length of vertical member 220 at bottom end 221 is defined as the horizontal distance at bottom end 221 extending from front edge 230 to a point at bottom end 221 closest to back end 218. For example, For example, the length of bottom end 221 can be about: 0.70 inches, 0.71 inches, 0.72 inches, 0.73 inches, 0.74 inches, 0.75 inches, 0.76 inches, 0.77 inches, 0.78 inches, 0.79 inches, 0.8 inches, 0.81 inches, 0.82 inches, 0.83 inches, 0.84 inches, 0.85 inches, 0.86 inches, 0.87 inches, 0.88 inches, 0.89 inches, 0.90 inches, 0.91 inches, 0.92 inches, 0.93 inches, 0.94 inches, 0.95 inches, 0.96 inches, 0.97 inches, 0.98 inches, 0.99 inches, 1.0 inches, 1.01 inches, 1.02 inches, 1.03 inches, 1.04 inches, 1.05 inches, 1.06 inches, 1.07 inches, 1.08 inches, 1.09 inches, 1.10 inches, 1.11 inches, 1.12 inches, 1.13 inches, 1.14 inches, 1.15 inches, 1.16 inches, 1.17 inches, 1.18 inches, 1.19 inches, 1.20 inches, 1.21 inches, 1.22 inches, 1.23 inches, 1.24 inches, 1.25 inches, 1.26 inches, 1.27 inches, 1.28 inches, 1.29 inches, 1.30 inches, 1.31 inches, 1.32 inches, 1.33 inches, 1.34 inches, 1.35 inches, 1.36 inches, 1.37 inches, 1.38 inches, 1.39 inches, 1.40 inches, 1.41 inches, 1.42 inches, 1.43 inches, 1.44 inches, 1.45 inches, 1.46 inches, 1.47 inches, 1.48 inches, 1.49 inches, 1.50 inches, 1.51 inches, 1.52 inches, 1.53 inches, 1.54 inches, 1.55 inches, 1.56 inches, 1.57 inches, 1.58 inches, 1.59 inches, 1.60 inches, 1.61 inches, 1.62 inches, 1.63 inches, 1.64 inches, 1.65 inches, 1.66 inches, 1.67 inches, 1.68 inches, 1.69 inches, 1.70 inches, 1.71 inches, 1.72 inches, 1.73 inches, 1.74 inches, 1.75 inches, 1.76 inches, 1.77 inches, 1.78 inches, 1.79 inches, or 1.80 inches.
The shape of vertical member 220 at distal end 222, i.e. the end distal from the base 210, is not particularly limited. For example, at distal end 222 vertical member 220 can be tapering, end at a point, have a horizontal surface, include a flat or planar portion, have an uneven surface, or any combination of two or more thereof. In embodiments, vertical member 220 may have a truncated profile at distal end 222. Distal end 222 can include a flat surface 225. In embodiments, as for example illustrated in
The overall height of the water diffuser 200, which includes the combined height of base 210, with or without an adhesive layer on underside surface 214, and vertical member 220 can range from about 0.1 inches to about 2.0 inches. For example the overall height of water diffuser 200 can be about: 0.10 inches, 0.11 inches, 0.12 inches, 0.13 inches, 0.14 inches, 0.15 inches, 0.16 inches, 0.17 inches, 0.18 inches, 0.19 inches, 0.2 inches, 0.21 inches, 0.22 inches, 0.23 inches, 0.24 inches, 0.25 inches, 0.26 inches, 0.27 inches, 0.28 inches, 0.29 inches, 0.3 inches, 0.31 inches, 0.32 inches, 0.33 inches, 0.34 inches, 0.35 inches, 0.36 inches, 0.37 inches, 0.38 inches, 0.39 inches, 0.4 inches, 0.41 inches, 0.42 inches, 0.43 inches, 0.44 inches, 0.45 inches, 0.46 inches, 0.47 inches, 0.48 inches, 0.49 inches, 0.5 inches, 0.51 inches, 0.52 inches, 0.53 inches, 0.54 inches, 0.55 inches, 0.56 inches, 0.57 inches, 0.58 inches, 0.59 inches, 0.6 inches, 0.61 inches, 0.62 inches, 0.63 inches, 0.64 inches, 0.65 inches, 0.66 inches, 0.67 inches, 0.68 inches, 0.69 inches, 0.7 inches, 0.71 inches, 0.72 inches, 0.73 inches, 0.74 inches, 0.75 inches, 0.76 inches, 0.77 inches, 0.78 inches, 0.79 inches, 0.8 inches, 0.81 inches, 0.82 inches, 0.83 inches, 0.84 inches, 0.85 inches, 0.86 inches, 0.87 inches, 0.88 inches, 0.89 inches, 0.9 inches, 0.91 inches, 0.92 inches, 0.93 inches, 0.94 inches, 0.95 inches, 0.496 inches, 0.97 inches, 0.98 inches, 0.99 inches, 1.0 inches, 1.01 inches, 1.02 inches, 1.03 inches, 1.04 inches, 1.05 inches, 1.06 inches, 1.07 inches, 1.08 inches, 1.09 inches, 1.10 inches, 1.11 inches, 1.12 inches, 1.13 inches, 1.14 inches, 1.15 inches, 1.16 inches, 1.17 inches, 1.18 inches, 1.19 inches, 1.20 inches, 1.21 inches, 1.22 inches, 1.23 inches, 1.24 inches, 1.25 inches, 1.26 inches, 1.27 inches, 1.28 inches, 1.29 inches, 1.30 inches, 1.31 inches, 1.32 inches, 1.33 inches, 1.34 inches, 1.35 inches, 1.36 inches, 1.37 inches, 1.38 inches, 1.39 inches, 1.40 inches, 1.41 inches, 1.42 inches, 1.43 inches, 1.44 inches, 1.45 inches, 1.46 inches, 1.47 inches, 1.48 inches, 1.49 inches, 1.50 inches, 1.51 inches, 1.52 inches, 1.53 inches, 1.54 inches, 1.55 inches, 1.56 inches, 1.57 inches, 1.58 inches, 1.59 inches, 1.60 inches, 1.61 inches, 1.62 inches, 1.63 inches, 1.64 inches, 1.65 inches, 1.66 inches, 1.67 inches, 1.68 inches, 1.69 inches, 1.70 inches, 1.71 inches, 1.72 inches, 1.73 inches, 1.74 inches, 1.75 inches, 1.76 inches, 1.77 inches, 1.78 inches, 1.79 inches, 1.80 inches, 1.81 inches, 1.82 inches, 1.83 inches, 1.84 inches, 1.85 inches, 1.86 inches, 1.87 inches, 1.88 inches, 1.89 inches, 1.90 inches, 1.91 inches, 1.92 inches, 1.93 inches, 1.94 inches, 1.95 inches, 1.96 inches, 1.97 inches, 1.98 inches, 1.99 inches, or 2.0 inches. For example, the height of a water diffuser extending from underside surface 214 to distal end 222 can be 0.38 inches. As illustrated in
Water diffuser 200 can also include a front edge 230. Front edge 230 can extend from front end 219, or illustrated pointed end 209, to distal end 222. Front edge 230 can be a narrow flat portion. The width of front edge 230 can also widen going from front end 219, or illustrated pointed end 209, to distal end 222. At its widest point, the narrow flat portion can range from about 0.01 inches to about 0.25 inches. For example, the widest point can be about: 0.10 inches, 0.11 inches, 0.12 inches, 0.13 inches, 0.14 inches, 0.15 inches, 0.16 inches, 0.17 inches, 0.18 inches, 0.19 inches, 0.2 inches, 0.21 inches, 0.22 inches, 0.23 inches, 0.24 inches, or 0.25 inches. Where front edge 230 meets front end 219, or illustrated pointed end 209, the flat portion may be a line. When the water diffuser 200 is installed on a water sports board, front edge 230 faces away from the tail edge of the water sports board. When the water diffuser 200 is installed on a water sports board, the front edge 230 faces toward the nose of the water sports board. Accordingly, the teardrop shaped base 210 of the water diffuser has also the pointed end 209 directed toward the nose of the water sports board, while the round end 208 is closest to the tail edge of the water sports board. Likewise, the vertical member 220 can be arranged to have a narrower horizontal cross-section toward the nose of the water sports board.
As illustrated in
The slope of front edge 230 along the sidewall 213 of base 210 can be different from the slope of the front edge 230 along the vertical member 230. The portion of front edge 230 along sidewall 213 can have a first slope, identified in
It should be appreciated that although the overall contour of front edge 230 is concave, portions of front edge 230 may have different contours. For example, any portion of front edge 230 that extends along sidewall 213 can be convex, concave, straight, or a combination thereof. Likewise, any portion of front edge 230 extending along vertical member 230 can be convex, concave, straight, or a combination thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in
Front edge 230 can smoothly transition from base 210 to vertical member 220. For example, front edge 230 can have a curved concave contour in which the front edge 230 defines a curve as it transitions from a first slope to a second slope. Alternatively, front edge 230 can have an angled contour. For example, front edge 230 can have a first portion having a first slope that is different from a second slope of a second portion, and the first and second portions meet to form an obtuse angle. In an exemplary embodiment, the obtuse angle is provided at bottom end 221 where the sidewall 213 meets vertical member 220. Having a front edge 230 with a concave contour can promote lift. This is particularly so when a concave front edge 230 is combined with a vertical member 220 that has a truncated profile and includes a flat surface 225 at distal end 222. However, in embodiments, front edge 230 can have a straight profile or a convex profile.
One or more water diffusers 200 can be arranged into a desired configuration to form a water diffuser system 400. Referencing
Water diffuser system 400 can include a set of water diffusers 200 arranged on the bottom surface, near the edge of the tail of a water sports board. The water diffusers 200 can be placed in a row. The water diffusers 200 can be placed to be offset from each other. A combination of these arrangements can also be employed. For example, in embodiments, one set of water diffusers 200 can be arranged in parallel on one row, while another set of water diffusers 200 are arranged in parallel on a different row.
The water diffuser system 400 can include one or more water diffusers 200 independently installed by means as described earlier. Alternatively, as illustrated in
Frame 470 can be made of the same material as used to form water diffuser 200. Also, similar manufacturing processes can be used to form frame 470 as described for manufacturing water diffuser 200.
The water diffusers 200 can be attached to frame 470 by any means previously described for attaching water diffusers 200 to a water sports board. The water diffusers 200 can be permanently attached to frame 470 or detachably attached to frame 470. Alternatively, water diffusers 200 and frame 470 can be formed as an integral structure. Any manufacturing method previously described for manufacturing the water diffuser 200 can be used to form a frame 470 with water diffusers 200 there on.
Frame 470 can be permanently attached to a water sports board. Frame 470 can be detachably attached to a water sports board. Frame 470 can be attached or joined to the bottom surface of a water sports board in the same manner described for the individual water diffusers 200. For example, frame 470 can be attached to a water sports board by adhesive, tape, one or more screws, one or more snap-joints, or a combination thereof. The adhesive, tape, or combination thereof is indicated by item 476 and can be similar to adhesive and tape previously described with respect to water diffuser 200. One or more screws can be inserted either through the water diffusers 200 as describe previously. Alternatively, frame 470 can include one or more screw holes 475 to insert one or more screws. Also, frame 470 can include one or more lip portions 477 that can fit into one or more slots at the bottom surface of the water sports board as previously described with respect to the water diffusers 200. The number of screw holes 475 and lip portions 477 is not particularly limited other than by the size of frame 470. In exemplary embodiments, frame 470 can include one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, fifteen, twenty, twenty five, or thirty screw holes, lip portions, or both. In exemplary embodiments, the number of screw holes, lip portions, or both in frame 470 is one greater than the number of water diffusers on frame 470. For example, if four water diffusers are located on frame 470, then frame 470 can include five screw holes, five lip portions, or a combination of both. The screw holes, lip portions, or both can be located only in the water diffusers 200, only in frame 470, or a combination of both. The number of respective screw holes, slots, or both at the bottom surface of the water sports board can be as previously described with respect to the water diffuser 200. In exemplary embodiments, the bottom surface of the water sports board has sufficient number of screw holes, lip portions, or both to accommodate one or more arrangements for connecting the screws, lip portions, or both of frame 470, water diffuser 200, or both.
As described earlier with respect to water diffusers 200, a water diffuser system having a frame 470 with one or more water diffusers 200 can also be attached to a board prior to glassing and then forming the glassing over it. Thus, becoming an integral portion of the board.
Frame 470 can be any desired shape or design. In embodiments, frame 470 is a strip of material. Frame 470 can have a straight shape as, for example, illustrated in
An example is illustrated in
The individual water diffusers 200 that make up the water diffuser system 400 can be spaced apart. In exemplary embodiments, the water diffusers 200 are evenly spaced so as to be equally laterally spaced from each other. Alternatively, the water diffusers 200 are not evenly spaced. Also, a combination can also be used where some water diffusers 200 may be evenly spaced, while other water diffusers 200 are not evenly spaced.
The spacing between water diffusers 200 can depend on the shape and size of the tail of the water sports board. In embodiments, the spacing between water diffusers 200 can range from about 0.75 inches to about 4 inches. For example, the spacing can be about: 0.75 inches, 0.76 inches, 0.77 inches, 0.78 inches, 0.79 inches, 0.8 inches, 0.81 inches, 0.82 inches, 0.83 inches, 0.84 inches, 0.85 inches, 0.86 inches, 0.87 inches, 0.88 inches, 0.89 inches, 0.9 inches, 0.91 inches, 0.92 inches, 0.93 inches, 0.94 inches, 0.95 inches, 0.96 inches, 0.97 inches, 0.98 inches, 0.99 inches, or 1.0 inches 1.0 inches, 1.01 inches, 1.02 inches, 1.03 inches, 1.04 inches, 1.05 inches, 1.06 inches, 1.07 inches, 1.08 inches, 1.09 inches, 1.10 inches, 1.11 inches, 1.12 inches, 1.13 inches, 1.14 inches, 1.15 inches, 1.16 inches, 1.17 inches, 1.18 inches, 1.19 inches, 1.20 inches, 1.21 inches, 1.22 inches, 1.23 inches, 1.24 inches, 1.25 inches, 1.26 inches, 1.27 inches, 1.28 inches, 1.29 inches, 1.30 inches, 1.31 inches, 1.32 inches, 1.33 inches, 1.34 inches, 1.35 inches, 1.36 inches, 1.37 inches, 1.38 inches, 1.39 inches, 1.40 inches, 1.41 inches, 1.42 inches, 1.43 inches, 1.44 inches, 1.45 inches, 1.46 inches, 1.47 inches, 1.48 inches, 1.49 inches, 1.50 inches, 1.51 inches, 1.52 inches, 1.53 inches, 1.54 inches, 1.55 inches, 1.56 inches, 1.57 inches, 1.58 inches, 1.59 inches, 1.60 inches, 1.61 inches, 1.62 inches, 1.63 inches, 1.64 inches, 1.65 inches, 1.66 inches, 1.67 inches, 1.68 inches, 1.69 inches, 1.70 inches, 1.71 inches, 1.72 inches, 1.73 inches, 1.74 inches, 1.75 inches, 1.76 inches, 1.77 inches, 1.78 inches, 1.79 inches, 1.80 inches, 1.81 inches, 1.82 inches, 1.83 inches, 1.84 inches, 1.85 inches, 1.86 inches, 1.87 inches, 1.88 inches, 1.89 inches, 1.90 inches, 1.91 inches, 1.92 inches, 1.93 inches, 1.94 inches, 1.95 inches, 1.96 inches, 1.97 inches, 1.98 inches, 1.99 inches, 2.0 inches, 2.01 inches, 2.02 inches, 2.03 inches, 2.04 inches, 2.05 inches, 2.06 inches, 2.07 inches, 2.08 inches, 2.09 inches, 2.10 inches, 2.11 inches, 2.12 inches, 2.13 inches, 2.14 inches, 2.15 inches, 2.16 inches, 2.17 inches, 2.18 inches, 2.19 inches, 2.20 inches, 2.21 inches, 2.22 inches, 2.23 inches, 2.24 inches, 2.25 inches, 2.26 inches, 2.27 inches, 2.28 inches, 2.29 inches, 2.30 inches, 2.31 inches, 2.32 inches, 2.33 inches, 2.34 inches, 2.35 inches, 2.36 inches, 2.37 inches, 2.38 inches, 2.39 inches, 2.40 inches, 2.41 inches, 2.42 inches, 2.43 inches, 2.44 inches, 2.45 inches, 2.46 inches, 2.47 inches, 2.48 inches, 2.49 inches, 2.50 inches, 2.51 inches, 2.52 inches, 2.53 inches, 2.54 inches, 2.55 inches, 2.56 inches, 2.57 inches, 2.58 inches, 2.59 inches, 2.60 inches, 2.61 inches, 2.62 inches, 2.63 inches, 2.64 inches, 2.65 inches, 2.66 inches, 2.67 inches, 2.68 inches, 2.69 inches, 2.70 inches, 2.71 inches, 2.72 inches, 2.73 inches, 2.74 inches, 2.75 inches, 2.76 inches, 2.77 inches, 2.78 inches, 2.79 inches, 2.80 inches, 2.81 inches, 2.82 inches, 2.83 inches, 2.84 inches, 2.85 inches, 2.86 inches, 2.87 inches, 2.88 inches, 2.89 inches, 2.90 inches, 2.91 inches, 2.92 inches, 2.93 inches, 2.94 inches, 2.95 inches, 2.96 inches, 2.97 inches, 2.98 inches, 2.99 inches, 3.0 inches, 3.01 inches, 3.02 inches, 3.03 inches, 3.04 inches, 3.05 inches, 3.06 inches, 3.07 inches, 3.08 inches, 3.09 inches, 3.10 inches, 3.11 inches, 3.12 inches, 3.13 inches, 3.14 inches, 3.15 inches, 3.16 inches, 3.17 inches, 3.18 inches, 3.19 inches, 3.20 inches, 3.21 inches, 3.22 inches, 3.23 inches, 3.24 inches, 3.25 inches, 3.26 inches, 3.27 inches, 3.28 inches, 3.29 inches, 3.30 inches, 3.31 inches, 3.32 inches, 3.33 inches, 3.34 inches, 3.35 inches, 3.36 inches, 3.37 inches, 3.38 inches, 3.39 inches, 3.40 inches, 3.41 inches, 3.42 inches, 3.43 inches, 3.44 inches, 3.45 inches, 3.46 inches, 3.47 inches, 3.48 inches, 3.49 inches, 3.50 inches, 3.51 inches, 3.52 inches, 3.53 inches, 3.54 inches, 3.55 inches, 3.56 inches, 3.57 inches, 3.58 inches, 3.59 inches, 3.60 inches, 3.61 inches, 3.62 inches, 3.63 inches, 3.64 inches, 3.65 inches, 3.66 inches, 3.67 inches, 3.68 inches, 3.69 inches, 3.70 inches, 3.71 inches, 3.72 inches, 3.73 inches, 3.74 inches, 3.75 inches, 3.76 inches, 3.77 inches, 3.78 inches, 3.79 inches, 3.80 inches, 3.81 inches, 3.82 inches, 3.83 inches, 3.84 inches, 3.85 inches, 3.86 inches, 3.87 inches, 3.88 inches, 3.89 inches, 3.90 inches, 3.91 inches, 3.92 inches, 3.93 inches, 3.94 inches, 3.95 inches, 3.96 inches, 3.97 inches, 3.98 inches, 3.99 inches, or 4.0 inches.
The water diffusers 200 can be spaced so that the water diffuser system 400 is are located closer to the tail edge than fin system 440 and in such a way that the water diffuser system 400 comes into contact the turbulence and cavitation that can be caused by the fins 445 of fin system 440.
In the illustrated embodiment of
The water diffusers 200 of water diffuser system 400 can be spaced from tail edge 450 such as to be located at a distance from tail edge 450 that ranges from about 0.06 inches to about 4 inches. For purposes of this description, spacing between water diffusers 200 of water diffuser system 400 and tail edge 450 refers to the distance between the tail edge 450 and water diffuser 200 that is defined by the shortest linear distance from a plane 890 that is tangential to the outer point of tail edge 450 to the outer point of back end 218, for example the midpoint of round end 208, of the water diffuser 200. For illustrative purposes the tangential plane 890 is shown in
The distance between tail edge 450 and each water diffuser 200 of water diffuser system 400 can be the same or different. For example, a water diffuser system 400 can include two or more water diffusers 200 each of which is located at the same distance from tail edge 450. A water diffuser system 400 can include two or more water diffusers 200 each of which is located a different distance from tail edge 450. In some embodiments, a water diffuser system 400 can include two or more water diffusers 200 some of which are located at a first distance from tail edge 450, while others are located a second distance from tail edge 450, wherein the first distance and second distance are different. Any combination of various arrangements using different distances for one or more water diffusers of a water diffuser set can also be implemented.
The distance between the water diffusers 200 of water diffuser system 400 and the fins 445 of fin system 440 is not particularly limited other than by the size of the water sports board.
The water diffusers 200 of water diffuser system 400 can be arranged to promote smooth flow at the tail edge 450. The water diffusers 200 can be installed so as to be oriented parallel to the central axis of the water sports board. In other words, the water diffusers 200 can be arranged such that a horizontal line dissecting front end 219 in equal halves is parallel to the central axis of the water sports board. For purposes of this discussion the “central axis of the water sports board” refers to the longitudinal rectilinear center axis extending from nose to tail of a water sports board, and which axis is equidistant from both rails of the water sports board as described by item 801 in conjunction with
Additional, non-limiting exemplary arrangements are illustrated in
Also, illustrative examples of the water diffusers 200 and water diffuser system 400 installed on different types of water sports boards are provided in
The water diffuser system 400 with water diffusers 200 can also be implemented independent of the shape of the tail of a water sports board. There are numerous tail designs that are used in water sports boards. The design of the tail of a water sports board does not limit the implementation of the water diffuser system 400 with water diffusers 200.
For example,
Finally,
The illustrations of
The above described unique shape of water diffuser 200 implemented in a water diffuser system as described provides advantages when installed on a water sports board. The above design and configuration can maximize lift, funneling, and speed. In particular, as illustrated in
As water diffuser 200 glides through the turbulence 704 induced by the fin system 705, the water diffuser is able to modulate at least some of the turbulence into a smoother or more laminar flow 703 and to break-up any air bubbles that come in contact with it. As the water comes into contact with the fin system 705 of the water sports board 700, the fins 706 create a wake of cavitated turbulent liquid 704 full of air pockets and bubbles. Bubbles and air pockets at the tail end of the water sports board are the causes for the feeling of instability and loss of traction which results in loss of speed and potentially cause a surfer to fall off the board. The water diffusers 200 can slice the air bubbles thus eliminating or reducing the air pockets as they exit the tail end of the water sports board during use. In so doing, water diffuser 200 can reduce cavitation. This in turn makes for a more stable and smoother ride.
By arranging one or more water diffusers 200 of a water diffuser system 707 as described above, i.e. by locating or positioning the water diffuser system 707 near the tail edge 701 of the bottom surface 709 of a water sports board 700 as illustrated in
Accordingly, the water diffuser system as described herein, located at the described position, provides the advantage of reducing or modulating the turbulence and cavitation that is present at the bottom surface of the tail edge 701 of the water sports board 700. Resulting from these effects, is a smoother water flow 703 at the tail edge of the water sports board 700 which translates in increased stability. Also, because the water diffusers can also provide lift, the water diffuser system as arranged can increase lift at the tail end and thus improve overall speed of the water sports board. Accordingly, a water sports board with a water diffuser system having one or more water diffusers as described can exhibit improved stability and performance.
As discussed earlier, the water diffusers 200 can be installed as desired to form a water diffuser system 400 for a particular water sports board. In exemplary embodiments, a user of a water sports board can install one or more water diffusers 200 on an existing water sports board by any attaching means previously described. In so doing, the user can obtain a water sports board having a water diffuser system 400 with one or more water diffusers 200. Also, a water diffuser system 400 including a frame 470 with two or more water diffusers 200 can be installed on a water sports board as described previously to achieve a water sports board with a water diffuser system 400 and two or more water diffusers 200. As discussed earlier, the attaching means for each water diffuser 200 or for frame 470 can be permanent attachments or releasable attachments. Alternatively, a user can obtain a water sports board in which one or more water diffusers 200 have already been installed or where one or more water diffusers 200 have been integrally formed as described earlier. In an exemplary embodiment, a user can attach one or more water diffusers 200, for example four water diffusers 200, or a water diffuser system 400 having a frame 470 with two or more water diffusers 200, for example, four water diffusers 200, using an epoxy adhesive to the bottom surface of a water sports board. The one or more water diffusers 200, or frame 470, can be arranged such that the water diffusers 200 are proximate to the tail edge of the water sports board. Once the water diffusers 200 have been installed, either directly or by attaching frame 470, the user can use the improved water sports board as generally intended.
In an exemplary embodiment, the water diffusers can be installed on a surfboard, and the size of the water diffusers 200 can be selected based on the size of the waves for which the surfboard is intended. For example, for riding 1 to 4 foot waves, the water diffusers 200 can be selected to have a base length of about 1.03 inches, a vertical member that is about 0.31 inches in length, and an overall height of about 0.38 inches. For riding 4 to 10 foot waves, the water diffusers 200 can be selected to have a base length of about 1.38 inches, a vertical member that is about 0.43 inches, and an overall height of about 0.5 inches. For riding 10 foot or larger waves, the water diffusers 200 can be selected to have a base length of about 2.17 inches, a vertical member that is about 0.68 inches, and an overall height that is about 0.75 inches. These are just exemplary. As discussed earlier, considerations other than wave size can also be taken into account when selecting the size of the water diffusers.
For example, if the water sports board is a surfboard, a user can install one or more water diffusers 200 near the tail edge as described earlier with respect to other types of water sports board. The user can then use the surfboard to surf waves by paddling while kneeling or lying down over the deck and then jumping into a standing position when catching and riding a wave. If the water sports board is a paddle board, a user can install one or more water diffusers 200 near the tail edge as described earlier with respect to other types of water sports board. The user can then stand on the board and use a paddle to propel the board forward. The user can simply ride the paddle board on calm waters or to catch and ride waves. If the water sports board is a windsurfing board, a user can install one or more water diffusers 200 near the tail edge as described earlier with respect to other types of water sports board. The user can then stand on the deck and hold the sail to harness the wind power to propel the board forward. Windsurfing boards can be used to ride waves and over flat water. If the water sports board is a wakesurf board, a user can install one or more water diffusers 200 near the tail edge as described earlier with respect to other types of water sports board. The user can then use the wakesurf board as intended by initially being towed by a watercraft or other vehicle into the watercraft's wake and then surf the wakesurf board on the wake caused by watercraft or other vehicle without being towed by a rope. If the water sports board is a wakeboard, a user can install one or more water diffusers 200 near the tail edge as described earlier with respect to other types of water sports board. The user can then use the wakeboard as intended while being towed by a watercraft or other vehicle while surfing the wakeboard on the wake caused by the towing watercraft or other vehicle. If the water sports board is a kiteboard, a user can install one or more water diffusers 200 at either or both ends of the board, and then ride the board while standing and being towed by a kite attached to a harness worn by the user. During use, the kiteboard can be used to glide over a water surface, ride waves, and do air jumps.
Accordingly, the addition of a water diffuser system having one or more water diffusers would not alter the typical use of a water sports board. The water diffuser system with the one or more water diffusers can be used to improve the performance of the water sports board in its typical use by improving stability and lift through modulation of the turbulence and cavitation cause by the fins of the fin system as discussed earlier.
It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus, it is intended that the present invention cover the modifications and variations of this invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.
This application is a continuation of prior application Ser. No. 16/285,034, filed Feb. 25, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 16285034 | Feb 2019 | US |
| Child | 16653710 | US |
