Patent Grant
12005995
The invention relates to a device for modifying the wake of a boat, as well as a boat equipped with one or more such devices.
Recreational sport boats are often used to tow water sports performers such as water skiers, wakeboarders, wake surfers, and the like. The optimal wake depends on which of these water sports a boat is used for, as well as the preferences and skill level of the performer. Water skiers generally prefer a relatively smooth water surface, while wakeboarders and wake surfers desire bigger wakes and wakes with more defined shapes. In recent years, boats have been equipped with various means for modifying the wake of the boat depending on how the boat is being used.
One example of a conventional means used to modify a boat's wake is a trim tab. Trim tabs originally were designed to adjust the trim of a boat. For example, when a boat is overloaded on the port side causing the boat to list to port, a trim tab may be deployed on the port side to cause the boat to return to an even keel. More recently, trim tabs have been used to purposefully modify the wake of a boat. One way to do so is to use one or more trim tabs to lift the stern of the boat. Lifting the stern minimizes the wake of a boat, resulting in a relatively smooth water surface, which is desirable for water skiing. Another way that trim tabs have been used is to increase the displacement of one side of the boat, which increases the size of the wake on the side of the boat with the increased displacement.
Each of the aforementioned trim tabs 10, 20, 30 is pivotable between a non-deployed position and a deployed position. In
In the embodiment shown in
Even with the trim tabs described above, wakeboarders and wake surfers desire larger wakes with improved shapes. For surfing in particular, wake surfers desire a wake with a large surfable area. The surfable area is the portion of the wake that pushes the surfer forward. This area generally extends from the curl of the wake to the swim platform.
In one aspect, the invention relates to a wake-modifying device adapted to be attached to a boat, aft of the boat's transom, on either a port or starboard side of the boat's centerline.
In another aspect, the invention relates to a recreational sport boat including a hull, having starboard and port sides and a transom, and a pair of wake-modifying devices positioned aft of the transom. One of the wake-modifying devices is positioned on a port side of the boat's centerline and another of the wake-modifying devices is positioned on a starboard side of the boat's centerline. Preferably, each wake-modifying device is pivotably attached directly to the transom. Alternatively, one or both of the wake-modifying devices may be attached to other portions of the boat, such as the bottom or sides of the hull or a swim platform.
In a further aspect of the invention, each wake-modifying device includes a plate-like member and at least one downturned surface at a trailing portion of the plate-like member. Each wake-modifying device is pivotable between a non-deployed position and a deployed position about a pivot axis that is horizontal or inclined no more than about 35° from horizontal. In the deployed position, the downturned surface is lower than it is in the non-deployed position so as to be able to modify the boat's wake.
The plate-like member and the downturned surface of each wake-modifying device may be an integral piece or separate pieces joined together. The downturned surface may be at a trailing edge of the plate-like member, for example, when they are an integral piece. Or the downturned surface may be inward of the trailing edge, for example, when the downturned surface is a separate piece attached to a lower surface of the plate-like member.
Preferably, an angle between the downturned surface of each wake-modifying device and a lower surface of a central portion of the plate-like member is between about 120° to about 135°, and the downturned surface extends between about 1 inch to about 2¼ inches below the lower surface of the plate-like member. The downturned surface may be oriented such that it intersects the plate-like member along a line that is generally parallel to the pivot axis, or along a line that is at an oblique angle relative to the pivot axis. The downturned surface and the plate-like member need not intersect along a straight line, and may instead intersect along a curved line.
Preferably, each wake-modifying device includes not one but two (or more) downturned surfaces at a trailing portion of the plate-like member. A first one of the downturned surfaces may intersect the plate-like member along a line that is generally parallel to the pivot axis, and a second one of the downturned surfaces may intersect the plate-like member along a line that is at an obtuse angle relative to the line along which the first downturned surface and the plate-like member intersect. Preferably, the obtuse angle is between about 135° to about 150°, and the first downturned surface is outboard of the second downturned surface.
Each wake-modifying device may also include at least one upturned surface at an outboard portion of the plate-like member, between the downturned surface and the pivot axis. The plate-like member and the upturned surface may be an integral piece or separate pieces joined together, and the upturned surface may be at an outboard edge of the plate-like member or inward of the outboard edge. An angle between the upturned surface and an upper surface of a central portion of the plate-like member preferably is between about 30° to about 150°, and more preferably is about 90°. The upturned surface preferably extends at least about 1 inch above an upper surface of the plate-like member.
At least one of the wake-modifying devices may include another downturned surface at an inboard portion of the plate-like member, between the first downturned surface and the pivot axis. An angle between this downturned surface and the lower surface of a central portion of the plate-like member preferably is between about 30° to about 150°, and more preferably is about 90°. The plate-like member and this downturned surface may be an integral piece or separate pieces joined together, and the downturned surface may be at an inboard edge of the plate-like member or inward of the inboard edge.
At least one of the wake-modifying devices may also include at least one fin attached to the lower surface of the plate-like member. An angle between the fin and the lower surface of the plate-like member preferably is between about 30° to about 150°, and more preferably is about 90°. The fin preferably extends at least about 1 inch below the lower surface of the plate-like member. The fin and the plate-like member preferably intersect along a line that is at an angle between about 15° and about 75° relative to the pivot axis, and more preferably between about 30° and about 60° relative to the pivot axis, and extends in a direction aft and outboard from the pivot axis. In some cases, it may be desirable to have at least two fins, which preferably are parallel to each other.
In still another aspect, the invention relates to a recreational sport boat. The boat includes a hull having starboard and port sides and a transom. The boat also includes a pair of wake-modifying devices positioned aft of the transom. One of the wake-modifying devices is positioned on a port side of the boat's centerline, and another of the wake-modifying devices is positioned on a starboard side of the boat's centerline. Each wake-modifying device is pivotable between a non-deployed position and a deployed position about a pivot axis that is horizontal or inclined no more than about 35° from horizontal. Each wake-modifying device includes a plate-like member and first and second downturned surfaces. The first downturned surface is at an outboard portion of the plate-like member and lies in a first plane. The second downturned surface is located entirely within a trailing portion of the plate-like member and lies in a second plane which intersects the first plane. In the deployed position, the second downturned surface is lower than it is in the non-deployed position so as to be able to modify the boat's wake.
In yet another aspect, the invention relates to a recreational sport boat. The boat includes a hull having starboard and port sides and a transom. The boat also includes a pair of wake-modifying devices positioned aft of the transom. One of the wake-modifying devices is positioned on a port side of the boat's centerline, and another of the wake-modifying devices is positioned on a starboard side of the boat's centerline. Each wake-modifying device is pivotable between a non-deployed position and a deployed position about a pivot axis that is horizontal or inclined no more than about 35° from horizontal. Each wake-modifying device includes a plate-like member, a downturned surface, and an upturned surface. The downturned surface is at an outboard portion of the plate-like member and lies in a first plane. The upturned surface is at an outboard portion of the plate-like member and lies in a second plane which intersects the pivot axis. In the deployed position, the downturned surface is lower than it is in the non-deployed position so as to be able to modify the boat's wake.
In still a further aspect, the invention relates to a recreational sport boat. The boat includes a hull having starboard and port sides and a transom. The boat also includes a pair of wake-modifying devices positioned aft of the transom. One of the wake-modifying devices is positioned on a port side of the boat's centerline, and another of the wake-modifying devices is positioned on a starboard side of the boat's centerline. Each wake-modifying device is pivotable between a non-deployed position and a deployed position about a pivot axis that is horizontal or inclined no more than about 35° from horizontal. Each wake-modifying device includes a plate-like member and a plurality of downturned surfaces at an outboard portion of the plate-like member. A first one of the downturned surfaces is forward of a second one of the downturned surfaces. The second downturned surface is angled obtusely relative to the first downturned surface. In the deployed position, the second downturned surface is lower than it is in the non-deployed position so as to be able to modify the boat's wake.
In yet a further aspect, the invention relates to a recreational sport boat. The boat includes a hull having starboard and port sides and a transom. The boat also includes a wake-modifying device positioned aft of the transom and spanning from a port side of the boat's centerline to a starboard side of the boat's centerline. The wake-modifying device is pivotable between a non-deployed position and a deployed position about a pivot axis. The wake-modifying device includes a plate-like member and a first downturned surface at a trailing portion of the plate-like member. In the deployed position, the first downturned surface is lower than it is in the non-deployed position so as to be able to modify the boat's wake.
In another aspect, the invention relates to a recreational sport boat. The boat includes a hull having starboard and port sides and a transom. The boat also includes a wake-modifying device positioned aft of the transom and spanning from a port side of the boat's centerline to a starboard side of the boat's centerline. The wake-modifying device is pivotable between a non-deployed position and a deployed position about a pivot axis. The wake-modifying device includes a plate-like member a first downturned surface, a second downturned surface on a port side of the first downturned surface, and a third downturned surface on a starboard side of the first downturned surface. The first downturned surface is at a trailing portion of the plate-like member. In the deployed position, the first downturned surface is lower than it is in the non-deployed position so as to be able to modify the boat's wake.
Each wake-modifying device preferably is capable of assuming multiple deployed positions. In each different deployed position the wake-modifying device is pivoted downwardly at a different angle relative to the non-deployed position. The boat may include multiple linear actuators, each operable to move a respective one of the wake-modifying devices between its non-deployed position and its deployed position. The boat also preferably includes an operator station with a controller configured to control the operation of each linear actuator.
The aspects of the invention are not mutually exclusive. Instead various aspects of the invention may be used in combination with other aspects of the invention or other means to modify the boat's wake. These and other aspects of the invention are further described and illustrated in the following description and accompanying drawings.
Exemplary preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying figures. Like reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements throughout the figures and description.
The boat 100 has a centerline 150 running down the center of the boat, halfway between the port and starboard sides 123, 124. A conventional trim tab 20 is pivotably attached to the transom 122 along the centerline 150. The wake-modifying devices 111, 112 are pivotably attached to the transom 122 on port and starboard sides of the centerline 150, respectively.
Each wake-modifying device 111, 112 includes a plate-like member 200 that is pivotably attached to the transom 122 of the boat 100. The plate-like member 200 pivots about a pivot axis 210 to move between a non-deployed position and a deployed position. In this embodiment, the pivot axis 210 is a hinge and is flush with the transom 122 of the boat 100. Here, the hinge is a piano hinge that is welded to a leading portion L of the plate-like member 200 and attached to the transom of the boat 100 using screws. However, any suitable pivotable connection may be used and it may be affixed to the wake-modifying device 111, 112 and transom 122 of the boat 100 using any suitable means, including but not limited to bolts, screws, rivets, welding, and epoxy. In addition, the wake-modifying device 111, 112 may be attached to the transom 122 such that the pivot axis 210 is not flush with the transom 122, for example, the pivot axis may be spaced further aft of the transom 122, as shown, for example, in
In the embodiment shown, the pivot axis 210 is parallel to the deadrise (the angle of the hull from the keel to the chine at the transom 122) of the boat 100. But the pivot axis 210 may instead be at an angle relative to the deadrise. Some boats, for example, have little or no deadrise. In such cases, it may be advantageous to orient the pivot axis 210 at an angle relative to the deadrise. Preferably, the pivot axis is inclined no more than about 35° from horizontal, more preferably no more than about 20° from horizontal, and most preferably no more than about 15° from horizontal. This inclination is preferably in the direction from the chine to the keel. Preferably, the pivot axis is inclined no more than about 15° more than the deadrise.
The plate-like member 200 has a trailing portion T that is aft of the leading portion L. The trailing portion T is the aft half of the plate-like member 200, and the leading portion L is the forward half of the plate-like member 200. The plate-like member 200 also has an inboard portion I and an outboard portion O. The inboard portion I is the inboard half of the plate-like member, and the outboard portion O is the outboard half of the plate-like member. Thus, the plate-like member may be divided into quadrants as shown in
In the embodiment shown, there are two downturned surfaces 310, 320 at the trailing portion T of the plate-like member 200. The first downturned surface 310 intersects the plate-like member 200 along a line that is generally parallel to the pivot axis 210. The second downturned surface 320 intersects the plate-like member 200 along a line that is oriented at an angle α relative to the pivot axis 210. In this embodiment, the first downturned surface 310 is outboard of the second downturned surface 320, which is at the trailing, inboard portion T, I of the plate-like member 200. The second downturned surface 320 may extend into adjacent quadrants without deviating from the scope of the invention. The first and second downturned surfaces 310, 320 preferably are at the edge of the plate-like member 200, but they may be inward of the edge.
The inventors believe that the combination of the plate-like member 200 and one or both of the downturned surfaces 310, 320 improves the size and shape of the wake. The side of the boat 100 with the desirable wake is referred to as the surf side. The surf side is the side of the boat 100 opposite a deployed wake-modifying device. The side with the deployed wake-modifying device is referred to as the non-surf side.
As the boat 100 moves through the water, the hull displaces water both downward under the hull 120 and outward of the sides 123, 124 of the hull 120. This creates a cavity immediately behind the boat 100. The displaced water recovers behind the boat 100 to fill the cavity. As the displaced water recovers, the water converges from under the boat 100 and from the sides 123, 124 of the hull 120. When the convergence occurs with sufficient force, it creates a v-shaped wave crest or “rooster tail” at the point of convergence. This v-shaped crest then propagates outward behind the boat 100 creating a wake that is suitable for wakeboarding, wake surfing, and the like. When one of the wake-modifying devices 111, 112 is in the deployed position, the downturned surfaces 310, 320 direct the water sharply downward. This sharp redirection of water results in an additional upward force to roll the boat 100 toward the surf side to a greater degree than the prior art trim tabs discussed above and shown in
The downturned surface 310, 320 should extend far enough in a downward direction to cause redirection of the water. The downturned surface 310, 320 should also be short enough that the downturned surface does not interact with the water when in the non-deployed position. Preferably, the downturned surface 310, 320 extends from about 1 inch to about 2¼ inches below a lower surface 220 of the plate-like member 200, and more preferably about 1½ inches below the lower surface 220 of the plate-like member 200. The downturned surface 310, 320 forms an angle β with a lower surface 220 of a central portion of the plate-like member 200. The inventors have found that this angle β should be sufficient to redirect the water, but not so sharp as to result in excessive force on the wake-modifying device 111, 112. Preferably, the angle β between the downturned surface 310, 320 and the lower surface 220 of the central portion of the plate-like member 200 is between about 120° and about 135°.
The water converging behind the boat 100 from the sides 123, 124 of the hull 120 forms an angle with the sides of the hull 123, 124. The inventors have found that orienting a downturned surface 320 to intersect this angle improves the wake on the surf side. Accordingly, the line where the second downturned surface 320 intersects the plate-like member 200 is oriented at an angle α relative to the pivot axis 210. This angle α preferably is perpendicular to the angle formed between the recovering water and the side 123, 124 of the hull 120. The angle α preferably is between about 30° to about 45°.
In the embodiment shown, the wake-modifying device 111, 112 has two upturned surfaces 410, 420 between the first downturned surface 310 and the pivot axis 210. These upturned surfaces 410, 420 are at the outboard portion O of the plate-like member 200, preferably at the edge of the plate-like member, but they may be inward of the edge. An angle γ between the upturned surfaces 410, 420 and an upper surface 230 of the central portion of the plate-like member 200 preferably is between about 30° to about 150°, and more preferably is about 90°. The inventors believe that these upturned surfaces 410, 420 delay the water on the non-surf side from converging behind the boat 100 and further shift the point of convergence aft of the transom 122 and toward the non-surf side. The upturned surfaces 410, 420 should extend far enough in an upward direction to delay the water. The upturned surfaces 410, 420 preferably extend at least about 1 inch above the upper surface 230 of the plate-like member 200, more preferably at least about 2 inches above the upper surface 230 of the plate-like member 200, and even more preferably at least about 2.5 inches above the upper surface 230 of the plate-like member 200. In this embodiment, the first upturned surface 410 intersects the plate-like member along a line that is generally parallel to either the port side 123 of the hull 120 or the starboard side 124 of the hull 120. The second upturned surface 420 is positioned between the first upturned surface 410 and the first downturned surface 310 and intersects the plate-like member along a line that is oriented at an oblique angle δ with respect to the pivot axis 210. The angle δ preferably is between about 60° to about 90°, and more preferably is about 75°.
A third downturned surface 330 between the second downturned surface 320 and the pivot axis 210 can further improve the wake on the surf-side. An angle c between the third downturned surface 330 and the lower surface 220 of the central portion of the plate-like member 200 preferably is between about 30° to about 150°, and more preferably is about 90°. The inventors believe this third downturned surface 330 further delays the water on the non-surf side from converging with the water on the surf side. In the embodiment shown, the third downturned surface 330 is positioned along the inboard portion I of the plate-like member 200 and intersects the plate-like member 200 along a line that is generally perpendicular to the pivot axis 210. The third downturned surface 330 preferably is at an inboard edge of the plate-like member, but it may be inward of the edge. Similar to the other downturned surfaces 310, 320, the third downturned surface 330 should extend far enough in a downward direction to delay or redirect the water. As with the other downturned surfaces 310, 320, the third downturned surface 330 is preferably short enough that the third downturned surface 330 does not interact (or at least minimizes interaction) with the water when in the non-deployed position. The third downturned surface 330 preferably extends between about ½ inch to about 3 inches below the lower surface 220 of the plate-like member 200, and more preferably extends about 1 inch below the lower surface 220 of the plate-like member 200.
The boat 100 of this embodiment uses a left-handed propeller 170, which causes the prop wash to be offset towards the starboard side. To balance the desirability of the surf wakes on both sides of the boat 100, the port wake-modifying device 111 of this embodiment provides more delay of the water than does the starboard wake-modifying device 112. In this embodiment, the port wake-modifying device 111 has the third downturned surface 330 while the starboard wake-modifying device 112 does not. However, the third downturned surface 330 may be provided on either the port or starboard wake-modifying device 111, 112, both, or neither.
In the embodiment shown, a linear actuator 510 is used to move the wake-modifying device 111, 112 between the deployed and non-deployed positions. The linear actuator 510 preferably is an electric linear actuator, such as one available from Lenco Marine. One end of the linear actuator 510 is screwed to the transom 122 of the boat 100. The other end of the linear actuator is connected to a u-shaped bracket 202 by a pin 204. The u-shaped bracket 202 is then bolted to the plate-like member 200. Any suitable means may be used to move the wake-modifying device 111, 112 between the deployed and non-deployed positions, including but not limited to hydraulic linear actuators and mechanical levers.
The size of the wake-modifying device 111, 112 may be varied depending upon the characteristics of the boat 100 and the desired wake. The lift provided by the wake-modifying device 111, 112 is generally proportional to the angles α, β, the surface area of the first and second downturned surfaces 310, 320, and the surface area of the plate-like member 200. In this embodiment, the wake-modifying device 111, 112 is about 17 inches long and about 14.5 inches wide. Preferably, the wake-modifying device 111, 112 is at least about 10 inches long and at least about 9 inches wide.
Because the wake-modifying device 111, 112 is used in a marine environment, it preferably is made of materials suitable for that environment. In this embodiment, these materials are primarily corrosion-resistant metal alloys such as stainless steel. The wake-modifying device 111, 112, including the plate-like member 200, preferably should not deform during operation. Preferably, the wake-modifying device 111, 112 will have sufficient rigidity to maintain its shape at all speeds and especially at speeds suitable for surfing (approximately 9 mph to 12 mph). In the preferred embodiment, the wake-modifying device 111, 112 is made from 12 gauge stainless steel plate. Other suitable materials may be used instead, such as wood, plastic, fiber reinforced composites, or other metals including aluminum.
Boat design plays an important role in establishing the wake shape. Design factors include, for example, the hull design and the weight of the boat. The wake-modifying device 111, 112 preferably is customized based on the boat design in order to produce the desired wake.
As an example of how hull design affects the boat's wake, a first boat having a steeper deadrise than a second boat will typically allow the water to recover closer to the transom of the boat. The shape of the corners between the sides of the hull and the transom also impact the recovery of the water. A boat with smooth corners (e.g., having a radius) will allow the water to recover faster than will a boat with square corners. The wake-modifying devices 111, 112 of the second embodiment are designed to provide greater lift to the boat on the non-surf side and further delay and direct the water on the non-surf side.
As with the first embodiment, the port and starboard wake-modifying devices 111, 112 of the second embodiment are not symmetrical with one another. Here, the port wake-modifying device 111 includes two fins 340, 350 attached to the lower surface 220 of the plate-like member 200. These fins 340, 350 extend at a downward angle η relative to the lower surface 220 of the plate-like member 200. The downward angle η preferably is between about 30° and about 150°, and more preferably is about 90°. The fins 340, 350 intersect the plate-like member 200 along lines that are oriented at an angle θ relative to the pivot axis 210. This angle θ preferably is between about 15° and about 75°, and more preferably is between about 30° and about 60°. In the embodiment shown, the fins 340, 350 are parallel to each other and at an angle θ of 60° relative to the pivot axis 210. The inventors believe these fins 340, 350 redirect the water outboard, further shifting the point of convergence aft from the transom 122 and toward the non-surf side. As with the downturned surfaces 310, 320, 330 and the upturned surfaces 410, 420, the fins 340, 350 should extend far enough away from the plate-like member 200 to redirect the water flow. The fins 340, 350 preferably should extend at least about 1 inch below the lower surface 220 of the plate-like member 200, and more preferably should extend at least about 2 inches below the lower surface 220 of the plate-like member 200. In the embodiment shown, the fins 340, 350 have different lengths. The fins preferably are about 4 inches to about 16 inches long, and more preferably are about 8 inches to about 12 inches long. The fins preferably do not extend beyond the edges of the plate-like member.
In the second embodiment, the third downturned surface 330 intersects the plate-like member along a line that is oriented at an oblique angle ϕ relative to the pivot axis 210. The angle ϕ preferably is between about 45° to about 90°, and more preferably is about 70°. All three of the downturned surfaces 310, 320, 330 form an angle α, ε with respect to the lower surface 220 of the central portion of the plate-like member 200 of about 135°. The wake-modifying devices 111, 112 of this embodiment preferably are about 17 inches wide and about 16 and ½ inches long.
The port and starboard wake-modifying devices 111, 112 in the previous two embodiments are asymmetrical with each other, but the wake-modifying devices 111, 112 can be symmetrical. Symmetrical wake-modifying devices 111, 112 may be used, for example, with heavy boats where the propeller 170 has less of an impact on the boat's wake. The third preferred embodiment shown in
In
As shown in
The fourth and fifth downturned surfaces 360, 370 may be angled downward relative to the plate-like member in a manner similar to the first, second, and third downturned surfaces 310, 320, 330. Preferably, the fourth and fifth downturned surfaces 360, 370 extend from about 1 inch to about 2¼ inches below the lower surface 220 of the plate-like member 200, and more preferably about 1½ inches below the lower surface 220 of the plate-like member 200. As with the first and second downturned surfaces 310, 320, the fourth and fifth downturned surfaces 360, 370 form an angle β with a lower surface 220 of a central portion of the plate-like member 200. Preferably, the angle β between each of the fourth and fifth downturned surface 360, 370 and the lower surface 220 of the central portion of the plate-like member 200 is between about 120° and about 135°.
The downturned surfaces, upturned surfaces, and fins discussed herein are not limited to generally rectangular shapes, but they may have other suitable shapes. For example, the fourth and fifth downturned surfaces 360, 370 each have a generally triangular shape. As shown in
As discussed above, the boat 100 may be equipped with a center tab 20. The center tab 20 is useful for adjusting the trim of the boat 100, reducing the wake (as discussed above), and helping the boat achieve planing, as discussed in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 9,914,503 (the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety). The inventors have found that the center tab 20 may be used not only for the previously mentioned purposes, but also to improve the quality and shape of the wake for water sports. The inventors have further found that alternate shapes of the center tab 20 and/or adding downturned surfaces may be beneficial to these aforementioned uses, particularly for water sports, such as wake surfing and wakeboarding.
Similar to the wake-modifying devices of the previous embodiments, the center wake-modifying device 700 includes a plate-like member 702 that is pivotably attached to the transom 122 of the boat 100. The plate-like member 702 pivots about a pivot axis 704 to move between a non-deployed position and a deployed position. In this embodiment, the pivot axis 704 is a hinge and is flush with the transom 122 of the boat 100. Here, the hinge is a piano hinge that is welded to a leading portion L of the plate-like member 702 and attached to the transom 122 of the boat 100 using screws. However, like the embodiments discussed above, any suitable pivotable connection may be used and it may be affixed to the center wake-modifying device 700 and transom 122 of the boat 100 using any suitable means. In addition, the center wake-modifying device 700 may be attached to the transom 122 such that the pivot axis 702 is not flush with the transom 122, for example, the pivot axis may be spaced further aft of the transom 122, like the wake modifying-device shown, for example, in
The pivot axis 704 preferably is parallel to the transom 122, but, like the wake-modifying device shown in
The center wake-modifying device 700 of this embodiment has a rectangular plate-like member 702 and the port-side portion P of the center wake-modifying device 700 and the starboard side portion S of the center wake-modifying device 700 are symmetrical. The center wake-modifying device 700 includes a downturned surface 706 at the trailing portion T of the plate-like member 702. In this embodiment, the downturned surface 706 spans the entire width of the plate-like member 702, from its port edge to its starboard edge, and thus is located in both the port-side portion P and the starboard-side portion S of the plate-like member 702. Other suitable widths of the downturned surface may be used, however. The downturned surface 706 intersects the plate-like member 702 along a line that is generally parallel to the pivot axis 704 and, in this particular embodiment, generally parallel to the transom 122 of the boat 100. The downturned surface 706 preferably is at the trailing edge of the plate-like member 702 and thus entirely within the trailing portion T of the plate-like member 702, but the downturned surface 706 also may be located inward (forward) of the trailing edge.
As with the downturned surfaces of the previous embodiments, the downturned surface 706 of the center wake-modifying device 700 should extend far enough in a downward direction to cause redirection of the water. The downturned surface 706 preferably is short enough that it does not meaningfully interact with the water when in the non-deployed position. Preferably, the downturned surface 706 extends from about 1 inch to about 2¼ inches below a lower surface 708 of the plate-like member 702, and more preferably about 1½ inches below the lower surface 708 of the plate-like member 702. The downturned surface 706 forms an angle β with the lower surface 708 of a central portion of the plate-like member 702. The inventors have found that this angle β should be sufficient to redirect the water, but not so sharp as to result in excessive force on the center wake-modifying device 700. Preferably, the angle β between the downturned surface 706 and the lower surface 708 of the central portion of the plate-like member 702 is between about 120° and about 180°.
In the deployed position, the trailing portion T of the center wake-modifying device 700 is lower than it is in the non-deployed position. In the deployed position, the plate-like member 702 preferably extends at a downward angle ζ, as shown in
As discussed above, the boat 100 of this embodiment uses a left-handed propeller 170, which causes the prop wash to be offset towards the starboard side. Thus, the inventors have found the center wake-modifying device 700 preferably is deployed when surfing on the side of the boat to which the prop wash is offset. In this embodiment, for example, the center wake-modifying device 700 may be deployed to help create the surf wake for surfing on the starboard side of the boat, but not deployed (or deployed to a lesser extent) for surfing on the port side of the boat.
The center wake-modifying device 700 is not limited to single downturned surface 706 on the trailing portion of the plate-like member 702 and the rectangular geometry of the plate-like member 702 shown and described above. Instead, the inventors have found other geometries for the plate-like member 702 to be suitable for the center wake-modifying device 700. Such suitable center wake-modifying devices include devices with more than one downturned surface and include, for example, the center wake-modifying devices shown in
Each the center wake-modifying devices 700, 710, 720, 730 discussed above is symmetrical about the centerline 742 of the plate-like member 702, and the centerline 742 of the plate-like member 702, in this embodiment, is co-linear with the centerline 150 of the boat 100. However, the center wake-modifying device is not so limited. In a fourth variation of the center wake-modifying device 740, for example, the center wake-modifying device 740 is asymmetrical about its centerline 742.
The second, third, fourth, and fifth downturned surfaces 714, 716, 722, 724 of the first variation of the center wake-modifying device 710 and the second variation of the center wake-modifying device 720 are oriented in such a way that their forward-most portions are outboard of their corresponding aft-most portions. Also, in the first variation of the center wake-modifying device 710 and the second variation of the center wake-modifying device 720, the first downturned surface 712 is located aft of each of the other downturned surfaces 714, 716, 722, 724. However, the center wake-modifying device is not so limited.
The inventors have found that the fifth variation of the center wake-modifying device 750 and the sixth variation of the center wake-modifying device 760 may be particularly beneficial in modifying the wake for wakeboarding. In such a case, the center wake-modifying device 750, 760 will be deployed at speeds suitable for wakeboarding (e.g., 18 mph to 25 mph) and used to shape the wake for wakeboarding. When used for wakeboarding, the center wake-modifying device, including the fifth and sixth variations of the center wake-modifying device 750, 760, preferably is deployed (angle between about 0° and about 30°. As discussed above, the rooster tail may result in asymmetry of the wake behind the boat, which is not generally desirable for wakeboarding. The inventors have found that deploying the center wake-modifying device, including the fifth and sixth variations of the center wake-modifying device 750, 760, helps to center the roost tail resulting in more even and symmetrical wakes, which are desirable for wakeboarding.
The center wake-modifying devices 700 discussed herein may also suitably be used for other water sports including water skiing. In such a case, the center wake-modifying device 700 will be deployed at speeds suitable for water skiing (e.g., 28 mph to 36 mph). The inventors have found that deploying the center wake-modifying device 700 helps to control and suppress the rooster tail and the height of the wakes, resulting in a flatter wake which is desirable for water skiing. When used in such a manner, the inventors have found that the angle preferably is between about 0° and about 70°, and more preferably between about 0° and about 50°.
Control System
Those skilled in the art understand that the weight and displacement of the boat has a significant impact on the size and shape of the wake. As a result, many recreational sport boats that are used for wakeboarding and wake surfing accommodate additional weight or ballast. In particular, many boats are designed to have ballast added to the surf side of the boat to increase the displacement of that side of the boat. This weight may be added by any number of ways known to those skilled in the art. One way is to position more people on the surf side of the boat than on the non-surf side. Another way is to add ballast through the use of ballast bags or ballast sacks. Yet another way to add weight is through ballast tanks installed in the boat. Preferably, two ballast tanks are positioned in the stern of the boat near the bottom of the hull, one on each side of the boat, and a third ballast tank is positioned along the boat's centerline near the bottom of the hull, forward of the two rear ballast tanks. If ballast bags are used in addition to ballast tanks, the ballast bags may be plumbed into the ballast system of the boat. Both the ballast tanks and the ballast bags operate similarly in that water may be pumped into the tank or bag by ballast pumps to add weight. In some boats, both ballast tanks and ballast bags may be used simultaneously. For example, all three ballast tanks may be filled to increase the displacement of the stern of the boat, and a ballast bag on the surf side of the boat may be filled to further increase the displacement on the surf side.
A control system is used to operate the wake-modifying devices 111, 112. When the wake-modifying devices 111, 112 are used with plumbed-in ballast, the control system preferably controls both the ballast and the wake-modifying devices 111, 112. This control system preferably includes a controller that controls the linear actuators 510 and the ballast pumps. The controller may be any suitable controller known in the art including a controller comprising a CPU, ROM, and RAM. The control system also includes an input device. In the preferred embodiment, the input device is a touch screen located at the control console 140 of the boat 100. Also in this embodiment, the controller is co-located with the touch screen. Those skilled in the art will recognize that any suitable input device including buttons, switches, dials, or the like may be used.
An exemplary touch screen 610 is shown in
As another option, the wake-modifying devices, ballast, and boat speed may be controlled using user-defined programmed settings. A user can manually set each of the parameters in the manual mode as described above and then save these settings as a user-defined profile. In operation, a touch location 610, shown in
In addition to or instead of the foregoing, the control system can include preprogrammed settings established by the boat manufacturer. After one of the preprogrammed settings has been selected by a user, a cruise control screen 630 may be displayed, such as shown in
The embodiments described and shown herein are examples of preferred embodiments of the present invention and are provided for illustrative purposes only. They are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Although specific configurations, structures, materials, etc. have been shown and described, such are not limiting. Modifications and variations are contemplated within the scope of the invention, which is to be limited only by the scope of the issued claims.
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/511,310, filed Jul. 15, 2019. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/511,310 is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/117,584, filed Aug. 30, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,358,189. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/117,584 is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/488,905, filed Apr. 17, 2017, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,259,534. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/488,905 is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/922,451, filed Oct. 26, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,643,697. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/922,451 is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/626,249, filed Feb. 19, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,174,703. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/626,249 is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/458,427, filed Aug. 13, 2014, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,067,644. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/458,427 is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/194,355, filed Feb. 28, 2014, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,833,286. U.S. Patent application Ser. No. 14/194,355 claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/889,752, filed Oct. 11, 2013, and titled “Wake-Modifying Device for a Boat.” U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/117,584 also claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/553,409, filed Sep. 1, 2017, and titled “Wake-Modifying Device for a Boat.” The foregoing applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties and are made a part of this specification for all that they disclose.
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| 20210300506 A1 | Sep 2021 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
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| 62553409 | Sep 2017 | US | |
| 61889752 | Oct 2013 | US |
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