FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE
The present disclosure relates to systems and methods to change position of a boat and in particular a thruster system to position the boat.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
Pontoon and other types of multi-hull boats are known. It is known to include at least one outboard engine positioned at the stern of the boat to propel the boat through the water.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a pontoon boat is provided. The pontoon boat comprises a plurality of pontoons including a port-side pontoon, a starboard-side pontoon spaced from the port-side pontoon, and a middle pontoon positioned intermediate the port-side pontoon and the starboard-side pontoon. A deck is coupled to each of the port-side pontoon, the starboard-side pontoon, and the middle pontoon. Further, a manifold system is positioned within the middle pontoon and the manifold system comprises a first portion including a first fluid conduit that has an inlet in fluid communication with an exterior of the middle pontoon. A second portion is removably coupled to the first portion and has a second fluid conduit positioned to receive fluid from the first fluid conduit and a third portion including a third fluid conduit positioned to receive fluid from the second fluid conduit and having an outlet in fluid communication with the exterior of the middle pontoon. Further, the second portion is removably coupled to the third portion, and a motor is coupled to the manifold system.
In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a pontoon boat is provided. The pontoon boat comprises a plurality of pontoons, and the plurality of pontoons define a port side envelope of the plurality of pontoons and a starboard side envelope of the plurality of pontoons. A deck is supported by the plurality of pontoons, and the deck has a deck outer perimeter. A manifold assembly is positioned within at least one pontoon of the plurality of pontoons. Further, the manifold assembly is positioned within the port side envelope, the starboard side envelope and the deck outer perimeter. The manifold assembly comprises an inlet, a first outlet, and a second outlet each fluidly coupled to the exterior of at least one of the plurality of pontoons. At least a first conduit defines at least a portion of a first fluid path between the inlet and the first outlet. At least a second conduit defines at least a portion of a second fluid path between the inlet and the second outlet. A first motor is operatively coupled to the first conduit and the first motor is configured to propel a fluid along the first fluid path. Further, a second motor is operatively coupled to the second conduit, and the second motor is configured to propel the fluid along the second fluid path.
In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, a pontoon boat is provided. The pontoon boat comprises a plurality of pontoons and a deck supported by the plurality of pontoons. The deck has an outer perimeter and at least one access opening spaced apart from the outer perimeter that provides access to a top of at least one of the plurality of pontoons. A thruster system includes at least one water inlet in the at least one of the plurality of pontoons, a plurality of water outlets in the least one of the plurality of pontoons, and at least one motor positioned within an interior of the least one of the plurality of pontoons. Further, the at least one motor is removable through the at least one access opening in the deck.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The above mentioned and other features, and the manner of attaining them, will become more apparent by reference to the following description of exemplary embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, where:
FIG. 1 is a front view of a pontoon of the present disclosure with a thruster system positioned in a center pontoon;
FIG. 2 is a front left perspective view of the pontoon of FIG. 1 with two thruster systems positioned in the center pontoon;
FIG. 3 is a top down diagrammatic view of the pontoon of FIG. 1 with a thruster assembly of the present disclosure;
FIG. 4 is an exploded view of a manifold assembly of the thruster assembly of FIG. 2;
FIG. 5 is a side view of the thruster system of FIG. 2;
FIG. 6A is a side view of the center pontoon of FIG. 1 in a neutral state with two thruster systems filled with water;
FIG. 6B is a side view of the center pontoon of FIG. 1 in an angled state with two thruster systems filled with water;
FIG. 7 is a top view of a portion of the thruster system of FIG. 2 viewed through a hatch in a deck of the pontoon of FIG. 2;
FIG. 8A is a side view of the thruster system of FIG. 2 partially removed from the center pontoon through the hatch of FIG. 7;
FIG. 8B is an exploded view of the thruster system of FIG. 2;
FIG. 8C is a sectional view of a portion of the manifold assembly, taken along line 8C-8C of FIG. 4;
FIG. 9 is an exploded view of a flange assembly of the manifold assembly of FIG. 4;
FIG. 10 is a top down diagrammatic view of a pontoon with an alternative thruster assembly arrangement of the present disclosure;
FIG. 11 is a top down diagrammatic view of a pontoon with an alternative thruster assembly arrangement of the present disclosure;
FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic view of a control diagram of the thruster system of the present disclosure;
FIG. 13A is a diagrammatic view of a user input of the present disclosure requesting a left turn input;
FIG. 13B is a diagrammatic view of a pontoon reacting to the input of FIG. 13A, rotating counter-clockwise;
FIG. 14A is a diagrammatic view of a user input of the present disclosure requesting a right turn input;
FIG. 14B is a diagrammatic view of a pontoon reacting to the input of FIG. 14A, rotating clockwise;
FIG. 15A is a diagrammatic view of a user input of the present disclosure requesting a forward input;
FIG. 15B is a diagrammatic view of a pontoon reacting to the input of FIG. 15A, moving forwardly;
FIG. 16A is a diagrammatic view of a user input of the present disclosure requesting a reverse input;
FIG. 16B is a diagrammatic view of a pontoon reacting to the input of FIG. 16A, moving in reverse;
FIG. 17 is a front view of an alternative pontoon of the present disclosure with an alternative thruster system positioned in a port pontoon and a starboard pontoon;
FIG. 18 is a front left perspective view of the pontoon of FIG. 17 with two alternative thruster systems positioned in each of the port and starboard pontoons;
FIG. 19 is a top down diagrammatic view of the pontoons of FIG. 17 with the alternative thruster assembly of the present disclosure and optionally a center pontoon in embodiments;
FIG. 20 is a side view of the starboard pontoon of FIG. 17 in a neutral state with the two thruster systems filled with water;
FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a portion of the thruster assembly of FIG. 17;
FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a portion of the thruster assembly of FIG. 17;
FIG. 23 is a is a diagrammatic view of a control diagram of the thruster system of FIG. 17 of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the present disclosure, reference is now made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, which are described below. The embodiments disclosed below are not intended to be exhaustive or limit the present disclosure to the precise form disclosed in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the art may utilize their teachings. Therefore, no limitation of the scope of the present disclosure is thereby intended. Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views.
The terms “couples”, “coupled”, “coupler”, and variations thereof are used to include both arrangements wherein two or more components are in direct physical contact and arrangements wherein the two or more components are not in direct contact with each other (e.g., the components are “coupled” via at least a third component, but yet still cooperates or interact with each other).
In some instances throughout this disclosure and in the claims, numeric terminology, such as first, second, third, and fourth, is used in reference to various operative transmission components and other components and features. Such use is not intended to denote an ordering of the components. Rather, numeric terminology is used to assist the reader in identifying the component being referenced and should not be narrowly interpreted as providing a specific order of components.
Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, an exemplary pontoon boat 100 is floating in a body of water 10 having a top surface 12. Pontoon boat 100 includes a deck 104 supported by a plurality of pontoons 106. The deck 104 supports a railing 108 including a gate 110 positioned in a bow portion 148 of pontoon boat 100. Pontoon boat 100 may further include a plurality of seats 114, a canopy (not shown), and other components supported by deck 104.
The plurality of pontoons 106 include a starboard pontoon 120, a port pontoon 122, and a central pontoon 124 which is an example of a middle pontoon. Each of starboard pontoon 120, port pontoon 122, and central pontoon 124 support deck 104 through respective brackets 126. Each of starboard pontoon 120, port pontoon 122, and central pontoon 124 support deck 104 above top surface 12 of water 10. Although three pontoons are illustrated, the plurality of pontoons 106 may be limited to two pontoons or have four or more pontoons with at least two middle pontoons. Further, the thruster systems described herein may be used with a single hull vessel.
Referring to FIG. 3, pontoon 100 has a longitudinal centerline 140 and a lateral centerline 142 that converge at a vehicle center point 130. Longitudinal centerline 140 divides pontoon boat 100 into a port side 144 of pontoon boat 100 and a starboard side 146 of pontoon boat 100. Lateral centerline 142 divides pontoon boat 100 into bow portion 148 of pontoon boat 100 and a stern portion 150 of pontoon boat 100. Deck 104 of pontoon boat 100 includes an outer perimeter 149 including a bow perimeter portion 152, a starboard perimeter portion 154, a stern perimeter portion 158, and a port perimeter portion 156. The plurality of pontoons 106 define a port extreme extent 160 corresponding to an outer extent of port pontoon 122 and a starboard extreme extent 162 corresponding to an outer extent of starboard pontoon 120.
Pontoon boat 100 includes an outboard motor 170 which extends beyond stern perimeter portion 158 of deck 104. In embodiments, outboard motor 170 is an internal combustion engine which power rotation of an impeller (not shown). The impeller may be rotated in a first direction to propel pontoon boat 100 forward in a direction 172 or in a second direction to propel pontoon boat 100 rearward in a direction 174. In embodiments, outboard motor 170 is rotatably mounted relative to deck 104 such that an orientation of the impeller may be adjusted to turn pontoon boat 100 in one of direction 176 and direction 178. In embodiments, multiple outboard motors 170 may be provided.
Referring to FIGS. 4-5, pontoon boat 100 includes a thruster system 200 comprising a manifold system, or conduit assembly 201, a first motor 216 and a second motor 218. Manifold system 201 comprises an inlet conduit portion 208, a center manifold conduit portion 210 and an outlet conduit portion 211. Inlet conduit portion 208 comprises an inlet 202 fluidly coupled to an inlet portion 208A which is in fluid communication with a plurality of outlet portions, illustratively a first outlet portion 209A and a second outlet portion 209B. Inlet conduit portion 208 is configured so that fluid (e.g., water 10) may flow into inlet portion 208A through inlet 202 and flow into either of first outlet portion 209A and second outlet portion 209B. Outlet conduit portion 211 comprises a first outlet conduit 212 with a first outlet 204 and a second outlet conduit 214 with a second outlet 206. Outlet conduit portion 211 is configured so that fluid (e.g., water 10) may flow into, or out of, first outlet conduit 212 through first outlet 204 and into, or out of, second outlet conduit 214 through second outlet 206. Illustratively, outlet conduit portion 211 is a unitary piece. In various embodiments, outlet conduit portion 211 is multiple pieces assembled together. Center manifold portion 210 is positioned intermediate inlet conduit portion 208 and outlet conduit portion 211 and comprises a first conduit 210A and a second conduit 210B. The second conduit 210B may extend parallel to first conduit 210A as shown in the illustrated embodiment. In embodiments, center manifold portion 210 is removably coupled from each of inlet conduit portion 208 and outlet conduit portion 211. First conduit 210A is fluidly coupled between first outlet portion 209A and first outlet conduit 212 and second conduit 210B is fluidly coupled between second outlet portion 209B and second outlet conduit 214. In embodiments, center manifold conduit portion 210 is a unitary piece including first conduit 210A and second conduit 210B. In various embodiments, center manifold conduit portion 210 is split into a plurality of pieces such that first conduit 210A and second conduit 210B are part of an assembly of parts coupled together. In embodiments, a first gasket 276 is positioned intermediate center manifold conduit portion 210 and outlet conduit portion 211 and a second gasket 296 is positioned intermediate center manifold conduit portion 210 and inlet conduit portion 208.
Still referring to FIGS. 4-5, a first set of apertures 211A are positioned on an upper facing portion of first conduit 210A and a second set of apertures 211B are positioned on an upper facing portion of second conduit 210B. A mounting flange 222A (see FIG. 8A) is configured to couple to first conduit 210A at apertures 211A by a plurality of fasteners (not shown). Mounting flange 222A is configured to couple to first motor 216 and an output shaft 217 (see FIG. 8A) of first motor 216, or a drive shaft operatively coupled to first motor 216, extends downwardly through mounting flange 222A into first conduit 210A. Output shaft 217 is mechanically coupled to a propeller 225 (see FIG. 8A) positioned within first conduit 210A by a gearset 223 (see FIG. 8A). Gearset 223 may be a right-angle drive configured to transfer rotational motion between a vertical axis extending through the output shaft 217 to a longitudinal axis extending through the propeller 225. Propeller 225 is configured to push water through manifold system 201. Specifically, propeller 225 is configured to push water through first conduit 210A to first outlet conduit 212 and external to central pontoon 124 through first outlet 204. A mounting flange 222B (see FIG. 8A) is configured to couple to second conduit 210B at apertures 211B by a plurality of fasteners (not shown). Mounting flange 222B is configured to couple to second motor 218 and an output shaft 219 (see FIGS. 5 and 8A) of second motor 218, or a drive shaft operatively coupled to second motor 218, extends downwardly through mounting flange 222B into second conduit 210B. Output shaft 219 is mechanically coupled to a propeller 226 (see FIGS. 5 and 8A) positioned within second conduit 210B by a gearset 224 (see FIGS. 5 and 8A). Gearset 224 may be a right-angle drive configured to transfer rotational motion between a vertical axis extending through the output shaft 219 to a longitudinal axis extending through the propeller 226. Propeller 226 is configured to push water through manifold system 201. Specifically, propeller 226 is configured to push water through second conduit 210B to second outlet conduit 214 and external to central pontoon 124 through second outlet 206.
Referring again to FIG. 3, thruster system 200 is positioned within central pontoon 124 and centered along longitudinal centerline 140. In embodiments, inlet 202 is in fluid communication with an exterior of central pontoon 124 allowing fluid (e.g., water 10) to pass through inlet 202 into inlet conduit portion 208. Additionally, each of first outlet 204 and second outlet 206 are in fluid communication with an exterior of central pontoon 124, allowing fluid (e.g., water 10) to pass through first outlet 204 and second outlet 206 into the body of water 10 external to central pontoon 124. In embodiments, thruster system 200 is positioned forward of lateral centerline 142 within bow portion 148. Further, inlet 202 is positioned along a pontoon centerline 125 defined as the longitudinal centerline of central pontoon 124. In embodiments, each of first outlet 204 and second outlet 206 are laterally offset from inlet 202 and pontoon centerline 125.
In embodiments, fluid (e.g., water 10) is configured to flow through manifold 201 through either or both of a first path 254 or a second path 256. First path 254 is defined by inlet portion 208A, first outlet portion 209A, first conduit 210A, and first outlet conduit 212. That is, when fluid (e.g., water 10) flows through first path 254, fluid flows through inlet 202 into inlet portion 208A, into first outlet portion 209A, through first conduit 210A, and through first outlet conduit 212 before flowing out of first outlet 204. Second path 256 is defined by inlet portion 208A, second outlet portion 209B, second conduit 210B and second outlet conduit 214. That is, when fluid (e.g., water 10) flows through second path 256, fluid flows through inlet 202 into inlet portion 208A, into second outlet portion 209B, through second conduit 210B, and through second outlet conduit 214 before flowing out of second outlet 206. In this way, manifold 201 comprises two separate paths for fluid (e.g., water 10) to travel through from a single inlet. In embodiments, manifold 201 includes separate inlets with one fluidly connected to first path 254 and the other fluidly coupled to second path 256 and, optionally, may have multiple inlets for one or both of the first path 254 and second path 256. In embodiments, water 10 is configured to constantly fill manifold system 201, and when first motor 216 is turned on, fluid is configured to travel through the first path 254 from inlet 202 to and out first outlet 204, and when second motor 218 is turned on, fluid is configured to travel through the second path 256 from inlet 202 to and out second outlet 206. In embodiments, first motor 216 and second motor 218 are independently controlled and may operate at the same or different speeds resulting in the same or different flow rates out of first outlet 204 and second outlet 206.
Pontoon 124 comprises a second thruster system 230 positioned rearwardly of the first thruster system 200. In embodiments, second thruster system 230 is the same as thruster system 200. That is, referring to FIGS. 6A-7, second thruster system 230 comprises a manifold system 231, a first motor 246, and a second motor 248. Manifold system 231 comprises an inlet conduit portion 238, a center manifold conduit portion 240, and an outlet conduit portion 241. Inlet conduit portion 238 comprises an inlet 232 fluidly coupled to an inlet portion 238A, a first outlet portion 239A and a second outlet portion 239B. Inlet conduit portion 238 is configured so that fluid (e.g., water 10) may flow into inlet portion 238A through inlet 232 and flow into either of first outlet portion 239A and second outlet portion 239B. Outlet conduit portion 241 comprises a first outlet conduit 242 with a first outlet 234 and a second outlet conduit 244 with a second outlet 236. Outlet conduit portion 241 is configured so that fluid (e.g., water 10) can flow into, or out of, first outlet conduit 242 through first outlet 234 and into, or out of, second outlet conduit 244 through second outlet 236. Illustratively, outlet conduit portion 241 is a unitary piece and first outlet conduit 242 and second outlet conduit 244 are coupled. In various embodiments, outlet conduit portion 241 is multiple pieces and first outlet conduit 242 and second outlet conduit 244 are not coupled together. Center manifold conduit portion 240 is positioned intermediate inlet conduit portion 238 and outlet conduit portion 241 and comprises a first conduit 240A and a second conduit 240B extending parallel to first conduit 240A. In embodiments, center manifold conduit portion 240 is removably coupled from each of inlet conduit portion 238 and outlet conduit portion 241. First conduit 240A is fluidly coupled between first outlet portion 239A and first outlet conduit 242 and second conduit 240B is fluidly coupled between second outlet portion 239B and second outlet conduit 244. In embodiments, center manifold conduit portion 240 is a unitary piece such that first conduit 240A and second conduit 240B are coupled. In various embodiments, center manifold conduit portion 240 is split into a plurality of pieces such that first conduit 240A and second conduit 240B are not coupled. Second thruster system 230 is configured with a first gasket (not shown, similar to first gasket 276) positioned between center manifold conduit portion 240 and outlet conduit portion 241 and a second gasket (not shown, similar to second gasket 296) positioned between center manifold conduit portion 240 and inlet conduit portion 238.
Still referring to FIGS. 6A-7, second thruster system 230 comprises a first set of apertures (not shown, similar to apertures 211A) are positioned on an upper facing portion of first conduit 240A and a second set of apertures (not shown, similar to apertures 211B) are positioned on an upper facing portion of second conduit 240B. A mounting flange 252A is configured to couple to first conduit 240A at the first set of apertures by a plurality of fasteners (not shown). Mounting flange 252A is configured to couple to first motor 246 and an output shaft (not shown, similar to output shaft 217) of first motor 246 extends downwardly through mounting flange 252A into first conduit 240A. Output shaft of first motor 246 is mechanically coupled to a propeller (not shown, similar to propeller 225) positioned within first conduit 240A by a gearset (not shown, similar to gearset 223). The gearset coupled to first motor 246 may be a right-angle drive configured to transfer rotational motion between a vertical axis extending through the output shaft of first motor 246 to a longitudinal axis extending through the propeller positioned within first conduit 240A. The propeller of first motor 246 is configured to push water through manifold system 231. Specifically, the propeller of first motor 246 is configured to push water through first conduit 240A to first outlet conduit 242 and external to central pontoon 124 through first outlet 234. A mounting flange 252B is configured to couple to second conduit 240B at the second set of apertures by a plurality of fasteners (not shown). Mounting flange 252B is configured to couple to second motor 248 and an output shaft (not shown, similar to output shaft 219) of second motor 248 extends downwardly through mounting flange 252B into second conduit 240B. Output shaft of second motor 248 is mechanically coupled to a propeller (not shown, similar to propeller 226) positioned within second conduit 240B by a gearset (not shown, similar to gearset 224). The gearset coupled to second motor 248 may be a right-angle drive configured to transfer rotational motion between a vertical axis extending through the output shaft of second motor 248 to a longitudinal axis extending through the propeller positioned within second conduit 240B. The propeller of second motor 248 is configured to push water through manifold system 231. Specifically, the propeller of second motor 248 is configured to push water through second conduit 240B to second outlet conduit 244 and external to central pontoon 124 through second outlet 236.
Referring again to FIG. 3, thruster system 230 is positioned within central pontoon 124 and centered along longitudinal centerline 140. In embodiments, inlet 232 is in fluid communication with an exterior of central pontoon 124 allowing fluid (e.g., water 10) to pass through inlet 232 into inlet conduit portion 238. Additionally, each of first outlet 234 and second outlet 236 are in fluid communication with an exterior of central pontoon 124, allowing fluid (e.g., water 10) to pass through first outlet 234 and second outlet 236 into the body of water 10 external to central pontoon 124. In embodiments, second thruster system 230 is positioned rearwardly of lateral centerline 142 within stern portion 150. Further, inlet 232 is positioned along a pontoon centerline 125 defined as the longitudinal centerline of central pontoon 124. In embodiments, each of first outlet 234 and second outlet 236 are laterally offset from inlet 232 and pontoon centerline 125.
Referring now to FIGS. 6A-6B, thruster system 200 is positioned so that inlet 202 is positioned rearwardly of each of first outlet 204 and second outlet 206. That is, inlet 202 is positioned closer to lateral centerline 142 than each of first outlet 204 and second outlet 206. Further, second thruster system 230 is positioned so that inlet 232 is positioned forwardly of each of first outlet 234 and second outlet 236. That is, inlet 232 is positioned closer to lateral centerline 142 than each of first outlet 234 and second outlet 236. In this configuration, each of inlet 202 and inlet 232 are configured to draw fluid (e.g., water 10) from outside central pontoon 124 at a position generally towards a center of pontoon 100. Further, first outlet 204 and second outlet 206 are positioned towards a front portion of central pontoon 124 and first outlet 234 and second outlet 236 are positioned towards a rear portion of central pontoon 124. By positioning each of first outlet 204, second outlet 206, first outlet 234, and second outlet 236 towards the forward and rearward extents of central pontoon 124, the fluid (e.g., water 10) is pushed out of thruster system 200 and second thruster system 230 a first distance 132 away from vehicle center point 130, which creates a moment, or torque, about vehicle center point 130. The amount of torque produced by thruster system 200 and second thruster system 230 about vehicle center point 130 is correlated to the value of first distance 132. That is, as first distance 132 is increased, the torque produced will increase, and as first distance 132 is decreased, the torque produced will decrease. Therefore, it is advantageous, among other reasons, to position first outlet 204, second outlet 206, first outlet 234, and second outlet 236 further towards a forward and rearward extent of central pontoon 124.
Each of thruster system 200 and thruster system 230 is configured to direct water downwardly and away from central pontoon 124. As best seen in FIG. 1, first outlet 204 is configured to direct fluid (e.g., water 10) generally along a path 205 that is pointed underneath port pontoon 122, and second outlet 206 is configured to direct fluid (e.g., water 10) generally along a path 207 that is pointed underneath starboard pontoon 120. In a similar way, each of first outlet 234 and second outlet 236 is configured to direct fluid (e.g., water 10) below each of starboard pontoon 120 and port pontoon 122, respectively. In this way, the path of fluid (e.g., water 10) out of each of thruster system 200 and second thruster system 230 is generally unobstructed by either of starboard pontoon 120 and port pontoon 122, thereby reducing turbulence between pontoons 120, 122, 124, and increasing the efficacy and effective power of thruster system 200 and second thruster system 230.
Referring now to FIG. 6A, central pontoon 124 is positioned in the water in a neutral position. That is, in embodiments, when pontoon boat 100 is at a dry weight (i.e., no storage, no passenger), and not moving central pontoon 124 is configured to sit within the water low enough, or below top surface 12, such that manifold system 201 and manifold system 231 are filled with fluid (e.g., water 10). When manifold system 201 and manifold system 231 remain filled with water, each of the propellers positioned within first conduit 210A, second conduit 210B, first conduit 240A, second conduit 240B are able to propel fluid out of first outlet 204, second outlet 206, first outlet 234, and second outlet 236 and thereby provide propulsion to pontoon 100. In embodiments, all of inlet conduit portion 208, 238, center manifold conduit portion 210, 240, and outlet conduit portion 211, 241 are positioned in the lower half of central pontoon 124. In various embodiments, all of inlet conduit portion 208, 238, center manifold conduit portion 210, 240, and outlet conduit portion 211, 241 are positioned in the lower quarter of central pontoon 124. When pontoon boat 100 has a greater weight than the dry weight (i.e., passenger(s) and/or storage), it may be appreciated the pontoon boat 100 will sit lower in the water than when it has the dry weight. As such, manifold system 201 will remain filled with water even when passengers and/or storage is on board.
Referring now to FIG. 6B, central pontoon 124 is positioned in the water, shown in an angled configuration such that bow portion 148 is angled upwardly relative to stern portion 150 corresponding to pontoon boat 100 running at speed. Central pontoon 124, and pontoon boat 100 may be angled upwardly as shown in FIG. 6B during a positive forward acceleration, a constant forward velocity, or if there is more weight in the stern portion 150 than bow portion 148 of pontoon 100. As shown in FIG. 6B, when central pontoon 124 is angled upwardly, manifold system 201 and manifold system 231 are still positioned low enough in central pontoon 124 to be filled with fluid (e.g., water 10). When manifold system 201 and manifold system 231 remain filled with water, even in the angled configuration, each of the propellers positioned within first conduit 210A, second conduit 210B, first conduit 240A, second conduit 240B are able to propel fluid out of first outlet 204, second outlet 206, first outlet 234, and second outlet 236 and thereby provide propulsion to pontoon 100.
Now referring to FIGS. 6A-8C, central pontoon 124 comprises a first hatch 220 and a second hatch 250. Illustratively, first hatch 220 is positioned forward of second hatch 250 and vertically above thruster system 200. Further, second hatch 250 is positioned vertically above second thruster system 230. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, first hatch 220 is positioned vertically above center manifold conduit portion 210 and second hatch 250 is positioned vertically above center manifold conduit portion 240. In embodiments, first hatch 220 and second hatch 250 have a first envelope 221 having a generally rectangular shape defined by a hatch width 300 and a hatch length 302.
As best shown in FIG. 7, first motor 216 and second motor 218 are coupled to center manifold conduit portion 210. First motor 216, second motor 218, and center manifold conduit portion 210 comprise a removable assembly 228. Removable assembly 228 has a second envelope 261 having a generally rectangular shape defined by a first width 304 and a first length 306. As previously discussed, first motor 216 is coupled to first conduit 210A and second motor 218 is coupled to second conduit 210B. First motor 216 and second motor 218 are at least partially laterally offset and longitudinally offset from each other to decrease the total width and total length of removable assembly 228. In various embodiments, motors 216, 218 may be laterally aligned. Still referring to FIG. 7, the first envelope 221 is larger than the second envelope 261. More specifically, hatch width 300 is greater than first width 304 and hatch length 302 is greater than first length 306, and the entirety of second envelope 261 can fit inside of first envelope 221.
Still referring to FIGS. 7-8C, outlet conduit portion 211 comprises an inner flange 268 which comprises a plurality of apertures 270 and inlet conduit portion 208 comprises an inner flange 288 which comprises a plurality of apertures 290. Further, center manifold conduit portion 210 comprises a first flange 264 with a plurality of apertures 272 configured to align with apertures 270 of inner flange 268 and a second flange 284 with a plurality of apertures 286 configured to align with apertures 290 of inner flange 288. Illustratively, each of flanges 268, 288, 264, 284 are angled relative to a vertical plane extending orthogonal to longitudinal centerline 140. A plurality of fasteners (not shown) are configured to extend through apertures 270 of flange 268, gasket 276 (FIG. 4) and apertures 266 of flange 264 to couple flange 264 and flange 268. Further, a plurality of fasteners (not shown) are configured to extend through apertures 286 of flange 284, gasket 296, and apertures 290 of flange 288 to couple flange 284 and flange 288. That is, center manifold conduit portion 210 is removably coupled from each of inlet conduit portion 208 and outlet conduit portion 211.
Still referring to FIGS. 7-8C, removable assembly 228 is removable from thruster system 200 such that center manifold conduit portion 210, first motor 216, and second motor 218 may be uncoupled and moved away from between inlet conduit portion 208 and outlet conduit portion 211. Fasteners (not shown) extending through flanges 268, 288, 264, 284 may be removed such that removable assembly 228 may be moved relative to inlet conduit portion 208 and outlet conduit portion 211. Subsequently, removable assembly 228 may be translated upwardly and through first hatch 220 because the second envelope 261 of removable assembly 228 is smaller than the first envelope 221. In various embodiments, one or more hooks, or eyelets 229 (see FIG. 8B), may be coupled to, mounted to, or integrally formed on, center manifold conduit portion 210. In various embodiments, center manifold conduit portion 210 comprises a first eyelet 229 positioned on first conduit 210A and a second eyelet 229 positioned on second conduit 210B. Eyelets 229 may be used to be grasped onto by a hand, a rope, a chain, a hook, or other coupling mechanism to better handle and move removable assembly 228.
As shown in FIG. 8A, removable assembly 228 is shown removed from thruster system 200 and positioned external to central pontoon 124. In this position, center manifold conduit portion 210, first motor 216, and second motor 218 may be more easily serviced, replaced, cleaned, or otherwise worked on. Second envelope 261 is smaller than first envelope 221, and therefore, removable assembly 228 may move up and down through first hatch 220. Removable assembly 228 may be lowered through first hatch 220 to be coupled to each of inlet conduit portion 208 and outlet conduit portion 211. Referring to FIG. 8B, as removable assembly 228 is lowered towards each of inlet conduit portion 208 and outlet conduit portion 211, the angled flanges 264, 268 and the angled flanges 284, 288 allow for longitudinal alignment of removable assembly 228 relative to inlet conduit portion 208 and outlet conduit portion 211.
As best seen in FIGS. 8B-8C, thruster system 200 further comprises locating features including a pair of recesses 274 positioned in inner flange 268 configured to mate with a pair of protrusions 272 positioned on first flange 264. In embodiments, protrusions 272 are configured to sit in recesses 274 when center manifold conduit portion 210 is appropriately placed relative to outlet conduit portion 211. That is, protrusions 272 are complementary to recesses 274. Further, thruster system 200 comprises a pair of recesses 294 positioned in inner flange 288 configured to mate with a pair of protrusions 292 positioned on second flange 284. In embodiments, protrusions 292 are configured to sit in recesses 294 when center manifold conduit portion 210 is appropriately placed relative to inlet conduit portion 208. In embodiments, each of apertures 272, recesses 274, protrusions 292, recesses 294 are positioned at a lateral center of their respective flanges (i.e., first flange 264, inner flange 268, second flange 284, inner flange 288). In this way, locating features (i.e., apertures 272, recesses 274, protrusions 292, recesses 294) are configured to assist a user in laterally aligning center manifold conduit portion 210 relative to inlet conduit portion 208 and outlet conduit portion 211, and also help keep center manifold conduit portion 210 placed relative to inlet conduit portion 208 and outlet conduit portion 211 when a user is removing or inserting fasteners into apertures 266, 270, 286, 290. In this way, the angled flanges (i.e., first flange 264, inner flange 268, second flange 284, inner flange 288) and the locating features (i.e., apertures 272, recesses 274, protrusions 292, recesses 294) are configured to assist a user in aligning center manifold conduit portion 210 both longitudinally and laterally relative to inlet conduit portion 208 and outlet conduit portion 211.
Now referring to FIG. 9, inlet conduit portion 208 comprises a flange 308 that surrounds inlet 202. Flange 308 comprises a plurality of apertures 309 surrounding inlet 202. Flange 308 is configured to couple to central pontoon 124. Illustratively, central pontoon 124 comprises an inlet aperture 320 and a plurality of apertures 322 surrounding the inlet aperture 320. Inlet aperture 320 is configured to align with inlet 202 when apertures 309 of flange 308 aligns with apertures 322 of central pontoon 124. In various embodiments, a support plate 310 is configured to be coupled to central pontoon 124. Support plate 310 comprises a filter 312 configured to allow fluid (e.g., water 10) through filter 312 but prohibit particulates, weeds, debris, gravel, mud, or other fragments of a specified size from entering inlet 202. Illustratively, filter 312 is sized and shaped to fit within inlet aperture 320. Support plate 310 also comprises a plurality of apertures 314 configured to align with apertures 322 and apertures 309. In embodiments, support plate 310 is configured to be bonded to an outer surface of central pontoon 124 using an adhesive and positioned such that filter 312 aligns with inlet aperture 320 and apertures 314 align with apertures 322 and apertures 309.
A plurality of fasteners (not shown) are configured to extend through apertures 309, 322, and 314 to couple flange 308 to central pontoon 124 and support plate 310. After support plate 310 is coupled to central pontoon 124, support plate provides additional rigidity to the connection locations of flange 308 to central pontoon 124. Additionally, flange 308 is removably coupled to central pontoon 124 by the plurality of fasteners, allowing the removal of inlet conduit portion 208. In various embodiments, support plate 310 is coupled to central pontoon 124 by a weld, a rivet, or another type of coupling method. In embodiments, support plate is positioned on an internal wall of central pontoon 124 instead of on the exterior of central pontoon 124.
In embodiments, first outlet 204 comprises a flange 213 (see FIG. 7) and second outlet 206 comprises a flange 215 (see FIG. 7). In embodiments, each of flanges 213, 215 may be coupled to central pontoon 124 in a similar method that flange 308 is coupled to central pontoon 124. That is, a separate support plate (not shown) may be coupled to central pontoon 124 (e.g., by bonding, adhesive, weld, rivet, fastener, or other method) to align with each of first outlet 204 and second outlet 206 in order to increase the rigidity of central pontoon 124 at the coupling point of first outlet 204 and second outlet 206. In various embodiments, fasteners (not shown) may be configured to extend through first outlet 204, central pontoon 124, and a corresponding support plate to couple first outlet 204 to central pontoon 124 and the corresponding support plate. Similarly, fasteners (not shown) may be configured to extend through second outlet 206, central pontoon 124, and a corresponding support plate to couple second outlet 206 to central pontoon 124 and the corresponding support plate.
Now referring to FIG. 10, pontoon 100 may be configured so that thruster system 200 and second thruster system 230 are positioned in other configurations. Illustratively in FIG. 10, thruster system 200 may be rotated 180 degrees so that each of first outlet 204 and second outlet 206 are pointed towards lateral centerline 142 and positioned closer to lateral centerline 142 than inlet 202. Similarly, second thruster system 230 may be rotated 180 degrees so that each of first outlet 234 and second outlet 236 are pointed towards lateral centerline 142 and positioned closer to lateral centerline 142 than inlet 202. As shown in FIG. 10, positioning thruster system 200 and second thruster system 230 so that first outlet 204, second outlet 206 and first outlet 234, second outlet 236 are generally facing each other would decrease the first distance and position inlet 202 and inlet 232 at more extreme longitudinal positions of central pontoon 124.
Now referring to FIG. 11, pontoon 100 may be configured with an alternative thruster system 200′ configured with an inlet 202′ that may be the same as inlet 202. Alternative thruster system 200′ is configured with outlets 204′ and 206′ that are pointed to direct fluid (e.g., water 10) external to central pontoon 124 on a path generally perpendicular to longitudinal centerline 140. In embodiments, thruster system 200′ is positioned forwardly of longitudinal centerline 140. Similarly, an alternative thruster system 230′ is configured with an inlet 232′ that may be the same as inlet 232. Alternative thruster system 230′ is configured with outlet 234′ and 236′ that are pointed to direct fluid (e.g., water 10) external to central pontoon 124 on a path generally perpendicular to longitudinal centerline 140. In embodiments, second thruster system 230′ is positioned rearwardly of lateral centerline 142.
Now referring to FIG. 12, a control system 326 is configured to control each of thruster system 200 and second thruster system 230. Control system 326 is configured with a bus 332 configured to transmit data between one or more components. Bus 332 may operate on a CAN (Controller Area Network), a LIN (Local Interconnect Network), or another type of communication network. Bus 332 is communicably coupled to a user input 334 configured to receive an input from a user, or operator, of pontoon 100. Bus 332 may also be coupled to a display 336, a controller 338, a processor 340, a memory 342, a storage 344, a ROM 346, and a network interface 348. In certain examples, the network interface 348 is coupled to a network 350 (e.g., a server or cloud network). In various embodiments, the network interface 348 is coupled to a mobile device 352 via a communication protocol (e.g., a cellular network, Wi-Fi, BLTE).
In various embodiments, the processor 340 includes one or more general purpose microprocessors. In some examples, the main memory 342 (e.g., random access memory (RAM), cache and/or other dynamic storage devices) is configured to store information and instructions to be executed by the processor 340. In certain examples, the main memory 342 is configured to store temporary variables or other intermediate information during execution of instructions to be executed by processor 340. For example, the instructions, when stored in the storage unit 344 accessible to processor 340, render the control system 326 into a special-purpose machine that is customized to perform the operations specified in the instructions (e.g., operating motors 216, 218, 246, 248). In some examples, the ROM 346 is configured to store static information and instructions for the processor 340. In certain examples, the storage unit 344 (e.g., a magnetic disk, optical disk, or flash drive) is configured to store information and instructions.
Thus, control system 326 may include at least some form of computer readable media. The computer readable media may be any available media that can be accessed by processor 340 or other devices. For example, the computer readable media may include computer storage media and communication media. The computer storage media may include volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data. The computer storage media may not include communication media.
Control system 326 further comprises at least one motor controller 358. Motor controller 358 is communicably coupled to bus 332 as well as each of first motor 216, second motor 218, first motor 246, and second motor 248. In embodiments, each of first motor 216, second motor 218, first motor 246, and second motor 248 has a dedicated motor controller 358. Motor controller 358 is configured to receive instructions from controller 338 via bus 332 to provide operational instructions to at least one of first motor 216, second motor 218, first motor 246, and second motor 248. A battery 330 is configured to provide electrical power to the various components of control system 326, including at least one motor controller 358, bus 332, user input 334, display 336, controller 338, processor 340, memory 342, storage 344, ROM 346, and network interface 348. In embodiments, battery 330 may be configured to be charged by an alternator (not shown) of outboard motor 170. Motor controller 358 is configured to provide both electrical power from battery 330 and instructions from controller 338 to each of first motor 216, second motor 218, first motor 246, and second motor 248.
In embodiments, user input 334 is a joystick. In various embodiments, user input is an input capable of receiving discrete inputs, variable inputs, or a combination of discrete and variable inputs. In one example, user input 334 is a joystick configured to receive four signals (e.g., left, right, forward, reverse). In various examples, user input 334 is a joystick configured to receive fewer than four signals or greater than four signals. In embodiments, user input 334 includes a steering wheel and a forward/reverse throttle.
Referring to FIG. 13A, user input 334 is a joystick in a first position, indicating a user desire to move in a left direction. In response, controller 338 sends, by the bus 332, instructions to motor controller 358 to turn on second motor 218 and second motor 248. As best seen in FIG. 13B, when second motor 218 and second motor 248 are operating, fluid (e.g., water 10) will be propelled out of second outlet 206 and second outlet 236, creating a reaction force on pontoon boat 100, and thereby rotating pontoon 100 in a first rotational direction 176, i.e., a left, counter-clockwise rotational direction.
Referring to FIG. 14A, user input 334 is a joystick in a second position, indicating a user desire to move in a right direction. In response, controller 338 sends, by the bus 332, instructions to motor controller 358 to turn on first motor 216 and first motor 246. As best seen in FIG. 14B, when first motor 216 and first motor 246 are operating, fluid (e.g., water 10) will be propelled out of first outlet 204 and first outlet 234, creating a reaction force on pontoon boat 100, and thereby rotating pontoon 100 in a second rotational direction 178, i.e., a right, clockwise rotational direction.
Referring to FIG. 15A, user input 334 is a joystick in a third position, indicating a user desire to move in a forward direction. In response, controller 338 sends, by the bus 332, instructions to motor controller 358 to turn on first motor 246 and second motor 248. As best seen in FIG. 15B, when first motor 246 and second motor 248 are operating, fluid (e.g., water 10) will be propelled out of first outlet 234 and second outlet 236, creating a reaction force on pontoon boat 100, and thereby propelling pontoon 100 in a forward direction 172.
Referring to FIG. 16A, user input 334 is a joystick in a fourth position, indicating a user desire to move in a backward direction. In response, controller 338 sends, by the bus 332, instructions to motor controller 358 to turn on first motor 216 and second motor 218. As best seen in FIG. 16B, when first motor 216 and second motor 218 are operating, fluid (e.g., water 10) will be propelled out of first outlet 204 and second outlet 206, creating a reaction force on pontoon boat 100, and thereby propelling pontoon 100 in a backward direction 174.
In embodiments, motor controller 358 is configured to operate each of first motor 216, second motor 218, first motor 246, second motor 248 discretely. That is, either in an ON state or an OFF state. In various embodiments, motor controller 358 is configured to operate each of first motor 216, second motor 218, first motor 246, second motor 248 in a variable manner that allows for any of motors 216, 218, 246, 248 to operate at any variable power level between and including 0%-100%.
In various embodiments, user input 334 may be configured to recognize additional user inputs. In one embodiment, a fifth position (not shown) may indicate a desire from an operator to go directly left, (i.e., direction 180). In response, controller 338 sends, by the bus 332, instructions to motor controller 358 to turn on second motor 218 and first motor 246. When second motor 218 and first motor 246 are operating, fluid (e.g., water 10) will be propelled out of second outlet 206 and second outlet 236, creating a reaction force on pontoon boat 100, and thereby propelling pontoon 100 in left direction 180.
In various embodiments, user input 334 may be configured to recognize additional user inputs. In one embodiment, a sixth position (not shown) may indicate a desire from an operator to go directly right, (i.e., direction 182). In response, controller 338 sends, by the bus 332, instructions to motor controller 358 to turn on first motor 216 and second motor 248. When first motor 216 and second motor 248 are operating, fluid (e.g., water 10) will be propelled out of first outlet 204 and first outlet 234, creating a reaction force on pontoon boat 100, and thereby propelling pontoon 100 in right direction 182.
Additional details regarding operation of thruster systems may be found in U.S. Pat. No. 11,208,188, issued Dec. 28, 2021, titled THRUSTER ARRANGEMENT FOR A BOAT, attorney docket no. PLR-933-28857.02P-US; U.S. application Ser. No. 17/032,300, filed Sep. 25, 2020, titled SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR POSITIONING AN AQUATIC VESSEL, attorney docket no. PLR-933-28865.02P-US, the entire disclosures of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.
Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, an alternative pontoon boat 400 is floating in body of water 10 having top surface 12. Pontoon boat 400 includes a deck 404 supported by a plurality of pontoons 406. The deck 404 supports railing 108 including gate 110. Pontoon boat 400 may further include seats 114, a canopy (not shown), and other components supported by deck 404.
The plurality of pontoons 406 include a starboard pontoon 420 and a port pontoon 422. Each of starboard pontoon 420 and port pontoon 422 support deck 404 through respective brackets 426. Each of starboard pontoon 420, port pontoon 122, and central pontoon 124 support deck 104 above top surface 12 of water 10. Further, the alternative thruster systems described herein may be used with a single hull vessel or a pontoon with three pontoons, four pontoons, or more pontoons.
Referring to FIG. 19, pontoon 400 has a longitudinal centerline 440 and a lateral centerline 442 that converge at a vehicle center point 441. Longitudinal centerline 440 divides pontoon boat 400 into a port side 446 of pontoon boat 400 and a starboard side 448 of pontoon boat 400. Lateral centerline 442 divides pontoon boat 400 into bow portion 430 of pontoon boat 400 and a stern portion 432 of pontoon boat 400. Deck 404 of pontoon boat 400 includes an outer perimeter 449 including a bow perimeter portion 439, a starboard perimeter portion 434, a stern perimeter portion 438, and a port perimeter portion 436. The plurality of pontoons 406 define a port extreme extent 443 corresponding to an outer extent of port pontoon 422 and a starboard extreme extent 444 corresponding to an outer extent of starboard pontoon 420.
Pontoon boat 400 includes an outboard motor 170 which extends beyond stern perimeter portion 438 of deck 404. In embodiments, outboard motor 170 is an internal combustion engine which power rotation of an impeller (not shown). The impeller may be rotated in a first direction to propel pontoon boat 400 forward in direction 172 or in a second direction to propel pontoon boat 400 rearward in direction 174. In embodiments, outboard motor 170 is rotatably mounted relative to deck 404 such that an orientation of the impeller may be adjusted to turn pontoon boat 400 in one of direction 176 and direction 178. In embodiments, multiple outboard motors 170 may be provided.
Referring to FIGS. 19-22, a first alternative thruster system 450 and a second alternative thruster system 500 are positioned in each of starboard pontoon 420 and port pontoon 422. Alternative thruster system 450 includes a manifold system 451 comprising an inlet conduit portion 452 with a flange 468, an outlet conduit portion 456 with a flange 474, and a center conduit portion 454 with a first flange 470 and a second flange 476, the center conduit portion 454 coupled between inlet conduit portion 452 and outlet conduit portion 456. Inlet conduit portion 452 comprises an inlet 458 configured to allow fluid (e.g., water 10) to flow into manifold system 451 from a position external to either of pontoon 420, 422. Outlet conduit portion 456 comprises an outlet 460 configured to allow fluid (e.g., water 10) to flow out of manifold system 451 to a position external to either of pontoon 420, 422. Illustratively, inlet conduit portion 452 is coupled to center conduit portion 454 at a first coupling point 466 by a plurality of fasteners (not shown) extending through and coupling flange 468 to first flange 470. Similarly, center conduit portion 454 is coupled to outlet conduit portion 456 at a second coupling point 472 by a plurality of fasteners (not shown) extending through and coupling flange 474 to second flange 476.
First alternative thruster system 450 also comprises a first motor 478 coupled to center conduit portion 454. That is, a mounting flange 480A is coupled to an upper extent of center conduit portion 454 at a plurality of apertures (not shown, similar to apertures 211A, FIG. 4). Mounting flange 480A is configured to mate with a mounting flange 480B on first motor 478 so that first motor 478 may couple to, and interface with, center conduit portion 454. An output shaft (not shown, similar to output shaft 217) of first motor 478 extends downwardly from first motor 478, through mounting flanges 480A, 480B, and extends into center conduit portion 454. A propeller (not shown, similar to propeller 225) is coupled to the output shaft, and the propeller is configured to rotate within center conduit portion 454 and propel fluid (e.g., water 10) within center conduit portion 454. That is, the propeller is configured to create movement of fluid (e.g., water 10) from the inlet 458 to the outlet 460. A gearset (not shown, similar to gearset 223) may be coupled between the output shaft and the propeller, and the gearset may be a right-angle drive.
Still referring to FIGS. 19-22, second alternative thruster system 500 includes a manifold system 501 comprising an inlet conduit portion 502 with a flange 518, an outlet conduit portion 506 with a flange 524, and a center conduit portion 504 with a first flange 520 and a second flange 526, the center conduit portion 504 coupled between inlet conduit portion 502 and outlet conduit portion 506. Inlet conduit portion 502 comprises an inlet 508 configured to allow fluid (e.g., water 10) to flow into manifold system 501 from a position external to either of pontoon 420, 422. Outlet conduit portion 506 comprises an outlet 510 configured to allow fluid (e.g., water 10) to flow out of manifold system 501 to a position external to either of pontoon 420, 422. Illustratively, inlet conduit portion 502 is coupled to center conduit portion 504 at a first coupling point 516 by a plurality of fasteners (not shown) extending through and coupling flange 518 to first flange 520. Similarly, center conduit portion 504 is coupled to outlet conduit portion 506 at a second coupling point 522 by a plurality of fasteners (not shown) extending through and coupling flange 524 to second flange 526.
Alternative thruster system 500 also comprises a second motor 528 coupled to center conduit portion 504. That is, a mounting flange 530A is coupled to an upper extent of center conduit portion 504 at a plurality of apertures (not shown, similar to apertures 211A, FIG. 4). Mounting flange 530A is configured to mate with a mounting flange 530B on second motor 528 so that second motor 528 may couple to, and interface with, center conduit portion 504. An output shaft (not shown, similar to output shaft 217) of second motor 528 extends downwardly from second motor 528, through mounting flanges 530A, 530B, and extends into center conduit portion 504. A propeller (not shown, similar to propeller 225) is coupled to the output shaft, and the propeller is configured to rotate within center conduit portion 504 and propel fluid (e.g., water 10) within center conduit portion 504. That is, the propeller is configured to create movement of fluid (e.g., water 10) from the inlet 508 to the outlet 510. A gearset (not shown, similar to gearset 223) may be coupled between the output shaft and the propeller, and the gearset may be a right-angle drive.
Alternative thruster systems 450, 500 also comprises a flange assembly 462, 512 with a plurality of apertures 463, 513, respectively. Flange assembly 462, 512 may operate substantially similar to flange 308. That is, a support plate (not shown) may be configured to be bonded to pontoon 420, 422, and the support plate may comprise a filter that aligns with inlets 460, 510. Flange assembly 462, 512 may then couple to the support plate to provide additional support. Further, alternative thruster systems 450, 500 comprise flanges 464, 514, respectively, surrounding outlets 460, 510. Flanges 464, 514 are configured to couple to pontoon 420, 422, and may be coupled in a way substantially similar to flange 308.
Illustratively, first alternative thruster system 450 and second alternative thruster system 500 are similar, however, outlets 460 and 510 are directed differently (e.g., opposing directions) to direct water in different direction. That is, outlet 460 of first alternative thruster system 450 is configured to direct water in a first direction while outlet 510 of second alternative thruster system 500 is configured to direct water in a second direction different than the first direction. To illustrate further, referring to FIGS. 18-19, second alternative thruster system 500 is in a Position A (within bow portion 430 and starboard side 448) and first alternative thruster system 450 is in a Position B (within bow portion 430 and port side 446). In both Position A and Position B, each of second alternative thruster system 500 and first alternative thruster system 450 have an inlet 508, 458, respectively, that is closer to the lateral centerline 442 than the respective outlets 510, 460. As such, manifold assemblies 501, 451 extend forwardly from inlets 508, 458 and are configured to direct water towards the longitudinal centerline 440. That is, in Position A, second alternative thruster system 500 is configured to direct water forwardly and toward the port side of pontoon 400, and in Position B, first alternative thruster system 450 is configured to direct water forwardly and toward the starboard side of pontoon 400. Further, as seen in FIG. 17, first alternative thruster system 450 is configured to direct water out of outlet 460 along a path 461 that extends below starboard pontoon 420 and second alternative thruster system 500 is configured to direct water out of outlet 510 along a path 511 that extends below port pontoon 422. In this way, the path of fluid (e.g., water 10) out of each of thruster system 450, 500 is unobstructed by either of starboard pontoon 420 and port pontoon 422, thereby reducing turbulence between pontoons 420, 422, and increasing the efficacy and effective power of thruster systems 450, 500.
Still referring to FIGS. 18-19, pontoon 400 has a pair of the first alternative thruster system 450 and a pair of the second alternative thruster system 500. Illustratively, a first system 450 of the pair of first alternative thruster systems 450 is positioned in Position B, within a forward portion of port pontoon 422, within bow portion 430. As such, first system 450 of the pair of first alternative thruster system 450 is configured to direct fluid (e.g., water 10) forwardly and toward a starboard side of pontoon 400. Further, a first system 500 of the pair of second alternative thruster systems 500 is positioned in a Position C (within stern portion 432 and port side 446), rearwardly of Position B in port pontoon 422, within stern portion 432. Illustratively, the first system 500 in Position C has an inlet 508 positioned closer to the lateral centerline 442 than the outlet 510. As such, first system 500 of the pair of second alternative thruster systems 500 is configured to direct fluid (e.g., water 10) rearwardly and toward a starboard side of pontoon 400. A second system 500 of the pair of second alternative thruster systems 500 is positioned in Position A, at a forward portion of starboard pontoon 420, within bow portion 430. As such, second system 500 of the pair of second alternative thruster system 500 is configured to direct fluid (e.g., water 10) forwardly and toward a port side of pontoon 400. Further a second system 450 of the pair of first alternative thruster systems 450 is positioned in a Position D (within stern portion 432 and starboard side 448), rearwardly of Position A in starboard pontoon 420, within bow portion 430. Illustratively, the second system 450 in Position D has an inlet 458 positioned closer to the lateral centerline 442 than the outlet 460. As such, second system 450 of the pair of first alternative thruster systems 450 is configured to direct fluid (e.g., water 10) rearwardly and toward a port side of pontoon 400.
Referring now to FIG. 20, pontoon 420 (not shown, but also pontoon 422) is positioned in the water in a neutral position. That is, in embodiments, when pontoon boat 400 is at a dry weight (e.g., no storage, no passenger) and not moving, pontoon 420 is configured to sit within the water 10 low enough, or below top surface 12, such that manifold system 451 and manifold system 501 are filled with fluid (e.g., water 10). When manifold system 451 and manifold system 501 remain filled with water, each of the propellers positioned within center conduit 454 and center conduit 504 are able to propel fluid out of outlet 460 and outlet 510 and thereby provide propulsion to pontoon 400. In embodiments, all of inlet conduit portion 452, center conduit portion 454, and outlet conduit portion 456 of manifold system 451 and all of inlet conduit portion 502, center conduit portion 504, and outlet conduit portion 506 of manifold system 501 are positioned in the lower half of pontoon 420. In various embodiments, all of inlet conduit portion 452, center conduit portion 454, and outlet conduit portion 456 of manifold system 451 and all of inlet conduit portion 502, center conduit portion 504, and outlet conduit portion 506 of manifold system 501 are positioned in the lower quarter of pontoon 420.
In various embodiments, either of starboard pontoon 420 or port pontoon 422 may comprise a hatch 532 positioned in bow portion 430 and a hatch 482 positioned in stern portion 432. Similar to the removal of removable assembly 228, a portion, or all of first alternative thruster system 450 and second alternative thruster system 500 may be removed from either of hatch 532 or hatch 482. In various embodiments, each of center conduit portion 454 and first motor 478 comprises a removable assembly that may be removed and/or installed together. Further, in various embodiments, each of center conduit portion 504 and second motor 528 comprises a removable assembly that may be removed and/or installed together.
Further, as best seen in FIG. 20, each of first alternative thruster system 450 in Position A, second alternative thruster system 500 in Position B, second alternative thruster system 500 in Position C, and first alternative thruster system 450 in Position D are positioned within outer perimeter 449. Additionally, they are positioned between stern perimeter portion 438, bow perimeter portion 439, port extreme extent 443, and starboard extreme extent 444.
Now referring to FIG. 23, a control system 328 is configured to control each of alternative thruster system 450 and alternative thruster system 500. In embodiments, control system 328 is substantially similar to control system 326. That is, control system 328 is configured with bus 332 configured to transmit data between one or more components. Bus 332 may operate on a CAN (Controller Area Network), a LIN (Local Interconnect Network), or another type of communication network. Bus 332 is communicably coupled to a user input 334 configured to receive an input from a user, or operator, of pontoon 100. Bus 332 may also be coupled to display 336, controller 338, processor 340, memory 342, storage 344, ROM 346, and network interface 348. In certain examples, the network interface 348 is coupled to network 350 (e.g., a server or cloud network). In various embodiments, the network interface 348 is coupled to mobile device 352 via a communication protocol (e.g., a cellular network, Wi-Fi, BLTE).
In various embodiments, the processor 340 includes one or more general purpose microprocessors. In some examples, the main memory 342 (e.g., random access memory (RAM), cache and/or other dynamic storage devices) is configured to store information and instructions to be executed by the processor 340. In certain examples, the main memory 342 is configured to store temporary variables or other intermediate information during execution of instructions to be executed by processor 340. For example, the instructions, when stored in the storage unit 344 accessible to processor 340, render the control system 326 into a special-purpose machine that is customized to perform the operations specified in the instructions (e.g., operating motors 216, 218, 246, 248). In some examples, the ROM 346 is configured to store static information and instructions for the processor 340. In certain examples, the storage unit 344 (e.g., a magnetic disk, optical disk, or flash drive) is configured to store information and instructions.
Thus, control system 326 may include at least some form of computer readable media. The computer readable media may be any available media that can be accessed by processor 340 or other devices. For example, the computer readable media may include computer storage media and communication media. The computer storage media may include volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data. The computer storage media may not include communication media.
Control system 326 further comprises at least one motor controller 358. Motor controller 358 is communicably coupled to bus 332 as well as each of the motors 478, 528. In embodiments, each of motors 478, 528 has a dedicated motor controller 358. That is, motor controller 358 is configured to provide instructions to each of first motor 478 of the first system 450 of the pair of first alternative thruster systems 450, second motor 528 of the first system 500 of the pair of second alternative thruster systems 500, first motor 478 of the second system 450 of the pair of first alternative thruster systems 450, and second motor 528 of the second system 500 of the pair of second alternative thruster systems 500. Motor controller 358 is configured to receive instructions from controller 338 via bus 332 to provide operational instructions to at least one of the motors 478, 528. A battery 330 is configured to provide electrical power to the various components of control system 326, including at least one motor controller 358, bus 332, user input 334, display 336, controller 338, processor 340, memory 342, storage 344, rom 346, and network interface 348. In embodiments, battery 330 may be configured to be charged by an alternator (not shown) of outboard motor 170. Motor controller 358 is configured to provide both electrical power from battery 330 and instructions from controller 338 to each of first motor 478 of the first system 450 of the pair of first alternative thruster systems 450, second motor 528 of the first system 500 of the pair of second alternative thruster systems 500, first motor 478 of the second system 450 of the pair of first alternative thruster systems 450, and second motor 528 of the second system 500 of the pair of second alternative thruster systems 500.
In embodiments, user input 334 is a joystick. In various embodiments, user input is an input capable of receiving discrete inputs, variable inputs, or a combination of discrete and variable inputs. In one example, user input 334 is a joystick configured to receive four signals (e.g., left, right, forward, reverse). In various examples, user input 334 is a joystick configured to receive fewer than four signals or greater than four signals. In embodiments, user input 334 includes a steering wheel and a forward/reverse throttle.
In various embodiments, user input 334 is a joystick in a first position (similar to FIG. 13A), indicating a user desire to move in a left direction. In response, controller 338 sends, by the bus 332, instructions to motor controller 358 to turn on first motor 478 in Position B and first motor 478 in Position D. When first motor 478 in Position B and first motor 478 in Position D are operating, fluid (e.g., water 10) will be propelled out of each of outlets 460, creating a reaction force on pontoon boat 400, and thereby rotating pontoon 400 in a first rotational direction 176, i.e., a left, counter-clockwise rotational direction.
In various embodiments, user input 334 is a joystick in a second position (similar to FIG. 14A), indicating a user desire to move in a right direction. In response, controller 338 sends, by the bus 332, instructions to motor controller 358 to turn on second motor 528 in Position A and second motor 528 in Position C. When second motor 528 in Position A and second motor 528 in Position C are operating, fluid (e.g., water 10) will be propelled out of each of outlets 510, creating a reaction force on pontoon boat 400, and thereby rotating pontoon 400 in a second rotational direction 178, i.e., a right, clockwise rotational direction.
In various embodiments, user input 334 is a joystick in a third position (similar to FIG. 15A), indicating a user desire to move in a forward direction. In response, controller 338 sends, by the bus 332, instructions to motor controller 358 to turn on first motor 478 in Position D and second motor 528 in Position C. When first motor 478 in Position D and second motor 528 in Position C are operating, fluid (e.g., water 10) will be propelled out of each of outlets 460 and 510, creating a reaction force on pontoon boat 400, and thereby propelling pontoon 400 in a forward direction 172.
In various embodiments, user input 334 is a joystick in a fourth position, (similar to FIG. 16A), indicating a user desire to move in a backward direction. In response, controller 338 sends, by the bus 332, instructions to motor controller 358 to turn on first motor 478 in Position D and second motor 528 in Position C. When first motor 478 in Position D and second motor 528 in Position C are operating, fluid (e.g., water 10) will be propelled out of each of outlets 460, 510, creating a reaction force on pontoon boat 400, and thereby propelling pontoon 400 in a backward direction 174.
In embodiments, motor controller 358 is configured to operate each of first motors 478 and second motors 528 discretely. That is, either in an ON state or an OFF state. In various embodiments, motor controller 358 is configured to operate each of first motors 478 and second motors 528 in a variable manner that allows for any of first motors 478 and second motors 528 to operate at any variable power level between and including 0%-100%.
In various embodiments, user input 334 may be configured to recognize additional user inputs. In one embodiment, a fifth position (not shown) may indicate a desire from an operator to go directly left (i.e., direction 180). In response, controller 338 sends, by the bus 332, instructions to motor controller 358 to turn on first motor 478 in Position B and second motor 528 in Position C. When first motor 478 in Position B and second motor 528 in Position C are operating, fluid (e.g., water 10) will be propelled out of outlets 460, 510, creating a reaction force on pontoon boat 400, and thereby propelling pontoon 400 in left direction 180.
In various embodiments, user input 334 may be configured to recognize additional user inputs. In one embodiment, a sixth position (not shown) may indicate a desire from an operator to go directly right (i.e., direction 182). In response, controller 338 sends, by the bus 332, instructions to motor controller 358 to turn on inlet 458 in Position A and second motor 528 in Position D. When inlet 458 in Position A and second motor 528 in Position D are operating, fluid (e.g., water 10) will be propelled out of outlets 460, 510, creating a reaction force on pontoon boat 400, and thereby propelling pontoon 400 in right direction 182.
While this invention has been described as having an exemplary design, the present invention may be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using its general principles. Further, this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this invention pertains.
Patent Application
20240239460
