U.S. patent application number 12/546320 was filed with the patent office on 2009-12-17 for watercraft with wave deflecting hull.
Invention is credited to Elbert H. Baker.
Application Number | 20090308300 12/546320 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43649887 |
Filed Date | 2009-12-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090308300 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Baker; Elbert H. |
December 17, 2009 |
WATERCRAFT WITH WAVE DEFLECTING HULL
Abstract
The invention is directed to a watercraft hull design that
comprises a hull having a bow, stern, top, and bottom. A
wedge-shaped wave spreading system is located at a forward portion
of the craft. The wave-contacting surface planes of the wave
spreading system are positioned substantially perpendicular to the
plane of smooth water. The bottom edge of the wave spreading system
is positioned near the level of smooth water when the watercraft is
at cruising speed. The wave spreading system has a forward apex
which forms a substantially perpendicular or vertical leading wedge
to the plane of water. Since the apex and planes of the wave
spreader are substantially perpendicular to the water, oncoming
waves encountered by the wave spreader will tend to be deflected
horizontally. Accordingly, the watercraft will more easily "cut
through" waves instead of riding over them. Located rearwardly of
the wave spreader, an internal hull prow is spaced from the wave
spreading system, creating an air space therebetween. The air space
extends from the rearward surface of the wave spreader to the front
of internal hull prow, creating a buffer zone or dampening space to
further minimize any wave action not detected by the spreading
system.
Inventors: |
Baker; Elbert H.; (Hudson,
OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
HAHN LOESER & PARKS, LLP
One GOJO Plaza, Suite 300
AKRON
OH
44311-1076
US
|
Family ID: |
43649887 |
Appl. No.: |
12/546320 |
Filed: |
August 24, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12057039 |
Mar 27, 2008 |
7578250 |
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12546320 |
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11028274 |
Jan 3, 2005 |
7188575 |
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12057039 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
114/288 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B63B 1/042 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
114/288 |
International
Class: |
B63B 1/40 20060101
B63B001/40 |
Claims
1. A watercraft comprising: a hull having a bow, a stern, a port
side, and a starboard side, the hull having two outer hull portions
and a center hull portion, having a volume of space therebetween,
wherein each hull portion is formed with a bottommost portion
formed as a substantially flat ski type surface, the outer and
center hull portions having a front portion comprising a wedge
shaped structure forming a forward apex and two side walls
extending rearwardly from the apex; and wherein waves impinging
upon the front portion of each hull portion are spread laterally
away from the watercraft and into the volume of space between the
outer hull portions; and wherein the volume of space is at least as
great as the volume of laterally spread waves.
2. The watercraft as recited in claim 1, further comprising wave
slicing structures extending from a bottom of the front portion of
said substantially flat ski type surface of the hull portions, said
wave slicing structure comprising a substantially triangular shaped
structure having a forward apex and two transitioning side walls
extending rearwardly from the apex comprise a leading edge
substantially perpendicular to said substantially flat ski surface
with the sides transitioning to a substantially horizontal position
adjacent to said substantially flat ski type surface.
3. The watercraft as recited in claim 1, wherein the separate wave
spreading structure is formed as a wedge shaped structure having a
front apex and sidewalls extending rearwardly from the apex.
4. The watercraft as recited in claim 1, wherein the hull portions
each have a substantially flat ski type bottom surface that extends
to the front of the hull portion.
5. The watercraft as recited in claim 1, further comprising a wave
slicing structure extending from a front portion of the
substantially flat ski type bottom surface of each hull
portion.
6. The watercraft as recited in claim 1, wherein the wave slicing
structure associated with each hull portion comprises a
substantially triangular shaped structure having a forward apex and
two transitioning sidewalls extending rearwardly from the apex,
wherein said wave slicing structure generates a vortex with a water
surface.
7. The watercraft as recited in claim 1, wherein the center hull
portion has a length which is approximately 5 to 25% greater than
the outer hull lengths.
8. The watercraft as recited in claim 1, wherein the volume of
laterally spread waves is channeled through the volume of space
between the hull portions, the volume of space providing a relief
zone between hull portions at the stern of the watercraft.
9. A watercraft comprising: a hull having a bow, a stern, a port
side, and a starboard side the hull having two outer hull portions
and a center hull portion positioned between the outer hull
portions, the hull further having a volume of space between each of
the two outer hull portions and the center hull portion, wherein
the hull portions are formed with a bottommost portion formed as a
substantially flat ski type surface, and having a wave spreading
structure including a front portion comprising a wedge shaped
structure from a forward apex and two side walls extending
rearwardly from the apex; and wave slicing structures extending
from a bottom of the front portion of said substantially flat ski
type surface of the hull portions, said wave slicing structures
comprising a substantially triangular shaped structure having a
forward apex and two transitioning side walls extending rearwardly
from the apex.
10. The watercraft as recited in claim 9, wherein the wave slicing
structure associated with the each hull portion generates a vortex
with a water surface.
11. The watercraft as recited in claim 10, wherein the center hull
portion has a length which is approximately 5 to 25% greater than
the outer hull lengths.
12. The watercraft as recited in claim 9, wherein the center hull
portion includes a separate wave spreading structure with an
internal prow spaced from the wave spreading structure, the
internal prow positioned at approximately 50 to 90% of the length
of the hull extending from the stern.
13. The watercraft as recited in claim 12, wherein the wave
spreading structure associated with the center hull portion forms a
cavity in front of the internal prow.
14. The watercraft as recited in claim 9, wherein the volume of
waves impinging upon the front portion of the outer hull portions
is spread laterally away from the watercraft and into the volumes
of space between the outer hull portions and the center hull
portion and the volume of waves impinging upon the front portion of
the center hull portion is spread approximately equally into each
of the volumes of spaces; wherein the volumes of space are at least
as great as the volume of laterally spread waves.
15. A monolithic watercraft hull comprising a hull having a bow, a
stern, a port side, a starboard side, and a bottom; with at least
two outer hull portions at the port and starboard sides, the at
least two outer hull portions having a substantially flat ski type
bottommost surface, and a wave spreading structure disposed at the
forward ends, the wave spreading structure comprising a wedge
shaped structure having a forward apex and two side walls extending
rearwardly from the apex, wherein the side walls are positioned
with a lower edge disposed just above the smooth water level when
the craft is in operation, and the forward apex being a
substantially vertically oriented wedge surface with the height of
the forward apex extending out of flat water to a height above any
expected waves so as to deflect oncoming waves away from the wave
spreading structures and the hull portions disposed rearwardly
thereof.
16. The watercraft hull as recited in claim 15, further comprising
at least one center hull portion having a substantially flat ski
type bottommost surface, and a wave spreading structure positioned
at the forward end.
17. The watercraft hull as recited in claim 15, wherein the center
hull portion includes a separate wave spreading structure with an
air space is formed between the wave spreading structure and the
front surface of the hull portion intermediate the bow and
stern.
18. The watercraft hull as recited in claim 15, wherein the wave
spreading structure of the center hull portion extends forwardly of
the wave spreading structure of the outer hull portions.
19. The watercraft hull as recited in claim 15, further comprising
wave slicing structures extending from the bottom of the front
portion of said substantially flat ski type surface of each hull
portion.
20. The watercraft hull as recited in claim 19, wherein the wave
slicing structures comprise a leading edge substantially
perpendicular to said flat ski type surface with sides that
transition to a substantially horizontal position adjacent to said
substantially flat ski type surface.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS/INCORPORATION BY
REFERENCE
[0001] This U.S. patent application is a continuation-in-part of
and claims priority to pending U.S. patent application Ser. No.
12/057,039 filed on Mar. 27, 2008 which is incorporated herein by
reference in its entirety, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/028,274 filed on Jan. 3, 2005, now
U.S. Pat. No. 7,188,575 issued on Mar. 13, 2007. U.S. Pat. No.
7,188,575 is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates generally to watercraft. More
specifically, the present invention relates to watercraft hulls
designed to displace water in a manner to provide enhanced
stability and movement through the water.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Conventional recreational and commercial watercraft, for the
most part, incorporate hulls which have V-shaped bottoms, with the
V-shape, at its lowest point, forming a keel. The V-shape is
thought to enable the boat, as speed is increased, to be pushed
upwardly out of the water, as the water traversing against the
boat's bow is forced sideways and downwardly at a vector to the
outer shape of the hull. Such designs have been used for years, but
have various deficiencies.
[0004] One detriment to such hull designs is that the draft of the
boat tends to sit relatively deep in the water in relation to the
length and beam of the boat, thus requiring sufficient depth of
water to accommodate that draft. Another detriment to such hull
designs is that they require a relatively large amount of force
(and horsepower) to propel such a boat forward at a sufficient
speed to stabilize the boat, i.e., to force the water sideways and
downwardly as the boat travels generally horizontally through the
water.
[0005] With V-shaped hull designs, initially, as velocity begins to
increase from zero, the bow of the boat acts much like a plow,
digging into and through the surface of the water. This creates
what is known as a "bow wave". As velocity increases more, the bow
tends to be forced upwardly by the sideways and downward force
being applied to the water by the curvature of the V-shape of the
hull being forced horizontally forward and up over the bow
wave.
[0006] Finally, when sufficient velocity is approached and then
reached, the apex of the force on the V-shaped hull travels
aftwardly along the hull, forcing the boat more upwardly to an
increasing degree until a point is reached at which the bow, now
out of the water, tends, by force of gravity, to descend toward the
water, pivoting on the apex of the force against the sides and
bottom of the V-shaped hull. This pivoting serves to raise the
stern of the boat as the bow descends until the whole boat is
lifted upwardly into what is known as a planing position. At this
point, because there is relatively less water contacting the hull,
drag from that water is reduced and the boat is correspondingly
able to go significantly faster given the same amount of force
propelling the boat forward.
[0007] Of course, as might be anticipated, the hydraulic force of
the water against the V-shaped hull is substantial, and thus at
least an equally substantial counteracting force must be provided
by the engine of the boat. Significant power is required to get the
boat up to the planing position and to maintain it there. The
ultimate speed of the boat, when planing, depends on the specific
design of the V-shaped hull, the weight (and weight distribution)
of the boat, and the available power, i.e., the size of the engine
and the size and pitch of the propeller which is driven by the
engine. However, in all cases, the forward movement of the boat, at
any speed, whether up on plane or not, is counteracted by both
sideways and downward vectors of force produced by the relative
hydraulic movement of the water against the hull.
[0008] The amount of fuel needed to power a boat at a given
velocity is in direct proportion to the overall degree of each of
the forces needed to be overcome to move that boat forward over a
given distance. The greater those forces, the greater will be the
amount of fuel consumed. Thus as a general proposition, if fuel
economy is a concern, hull designs are desirable which tend to
reduce the overall amount of opposing forces directed against the
hull during forward movement of the boat. One approach to this is
the use of relatively flat bottom hulls wherein there is less
counteracting hydraulic force imposed against the hull as the boat
moves forward. A flat hull is more readily pushed directly up over
the bow wave to a position substantially on top of the water,
creating less displacement of water by the hull in the dynamic mode
as distinguished from the static mode. In other words, dynamic
displacement of water is significantly less with a flat bottom boat
than with a V-shaped bottom. On the other hand, static
displacement, when the boat is at rest, is substantially the same
for a flat bottom or a V-bottom boat, given equivalent boat weights
and hull surface contact with the water.
[0009] Watercraft or boats with flat bottom hulls have been known
for years. Small fishing boats have been manufactured using this
design. Such boats have a relatively shallow draft to enable sports
fishermen to get into shallow waters along shorelines, into
shallow, swampy areas, and into lakes, ponds and streams which are
not sufficiently deep to accommodate the draft of conventional
V-bottom boats.
[0010] Such designs have evolved into what are popularly called
"bass boats". Bass boat hulls are relatively narrow, in relation to
length, with generally flat bottoms and relatively shallow
V-shapes, if any. The draft of these boats is relatively shallow in
comparison to V-shaped hulls. Once up on a plane, the vector force
of the water is mostly downwardly, forcing these boats to rise up
out of the water to a greater degree at relatively slower speeds,
thus ultimate velocity can be greater, and relatively less engine
power may be required to reach a given velocity.
[0011] The down side is that, because bass boats are relatively
narrow beamed and because there is relatively little sideways or
lateral force being exerted against the hull of a bass boat, there
is correspondingly less lateral stability, and, due to a relatively
narrow beam, such boats tend to be susceptible to laterally moving
waves. Such flat bottom hulls are also generally more susceptible
to waves as the hull rides more on top of the waves rather than
slicing somewhat through waves as V-shaped hulls do to a greater
degree. Also, such boats do not steer as easily or as precisely as
those with distinct, V-shaped hulls, due again to the fact that
such boats incur relatively less opposing sideways forces, being
those forces which tend to hold a boat to a straight forward
movement. Such forces if present can be precisely altered by a
rudder device at the stern. Therefore, when steered to turn, bass
boats tend to skid laterally sideways more readily, thus making
turning a much less precise and controllable skidding action,
rather than the positive, more precisely controllable action of
V-shaped hulls. Bass boat designs rarely incorporate sponsons,
thus, for the sake of safety, it is almost necessary to slow some
high-powered bass boats down before turning, to both effect a more
precise turn and to prevent the boat from flipping over.
[0012] Both types of hulls are susceptible to wave action and may
produce instability depending on the height and direction of waves.
Both types of hulls have large surfaces which absorb the force of
waves, and cause significant vibration, vertical or lateral
movement, or a combination of these. Other boats include hull
designs which incorporate pontoons or sponsons for lateral
stability and floatation, but such systems are undesirable for a
number of reasons.
[0013] There is thus a need for a watercraft that overcomes the
deficiencies of the prior art, and efficiently maneuverable in the
water, while providing increased fuel efficiency and a smooth,
stable ride, even in rough water.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0014] The invention is therefore directed to a watercraft hull
design that overcomes the deficiencies of prior designs. The
watercraft comprises a hull having a bow, stern, top, and bottom. A
wedge-shaped wave-spreading multi-hull at a forward portion of the
craft. The wave-contacting surface planes of the wave spreading
hull system are positioned substantially perpendicular to the plane
of smooth water, at least adjacent the water surface.
[0015] The wave spreading hull portions have a forward apex which
forms a substantially perpendicular or vertical leading wedge to
the plane of water. Since the apex and planes of the wedge shaped
hull portions are substantially perpendicular to the water,
oncoming waves encountered by the hull portions will tend to be
deflected horizontally. Accordingly, the watercraft will more
easily "cut through" waves instead of riding over them.
[0016] Located rearwardly of the wave spreaders, an internal hull
prow portion is spaced from the wave spreading surfaces, creating
an air space therebetween. The air space extends from the rearward
surface of the wave spreader to the front of internal hull prow,
creating a dampening space to further minimize any wave action not
deflected by the hull portions. The internal hull prow portion
extends to a flat-bottomed section of the hull. The air space
further eliminates any surface that would tend to ride up onto a
wave.
[0017] The portion of the hull that contacts water while the
watercraft is at cruising speed is spaced rearwardly of the air
space. This portion of the hull that contacts the water is
generally flat, as opposed to the V-shape commonly found in
watercraft. This flat-bottomed hull enables the watercraft to
easily reach a plane, while displacing a smaller amount of water
than typical V-shaped hulls. The multi-hull design according to the
invention also facilitates displacement of water between hulls, to
further minimize forces acting on the boat.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a watercraft and hull in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0019] FIG. 2 is a back perspective view of a watercraft and hull
of FIG. 1.
[0020] FIG. 3 is a schematic bottom view of an embodiment of a hull
design according to the invention.
[0021] FIG. 4 is a schematic bottom view of an alternate embodiment
of a hull design according to the invention.
[0022] FIG. 5 is a schematic bottom view of an alternate embodiment
of a hull design according to the invention.
[0023] FIG. 6 is a schematic bottom view of an alternate embodiment
of a hull design according to the invention.
[0024] FIG. 7 is a side view of a wave slicer and a splash guard in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0025] FIG. 8 is a schematic bottom view of an alternate embodiment
of a hull design according to the invention.
[0026] FIG. 9 is a side view of a center hull design according to
the invention.
[0027] FIG. 10 is a schematic bottom view of an alternate
embodiment of a hull design according to the invention.
[0028] FIG. 11 is a side view of a center hull design according to
the embodiment of FIG. 10 of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0029] Reference will now be made in detail to an embodiment of the
invention as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
[0030] Turning to FIGS. 1-2, an embodiment of a watercraft,
generally identified by reference number 10, is illustrated. The
watercraft 10 comprises a hull 12 having a bow 14, stern, 16, port
side 18, and starboard side 20. The watercraft 10 may be built out
of aluminum with a formed hull or sheets with welded seams. The
hull 12 and other portions of watercraft 10 could also be
fabricated from other materials such as, for example, FRP,
high-density polyethylene, other metals, or other suitable
materials.
[0031] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, and with reference to the
schematic of the hull configuration in FIG. 3, the watercraft 10
comprises a hull 12 which is designed to cut through waves or wakes
of other boats, and minimize the forces acting on the hull to
reduce the pounding experienced with typical hull designs. The hull
12 further reduces lateral action on the hull which produces
pitching. The hull 12 is of a multi-hull configuration, having
first and second outer deep V-hulls 22 (only one shown in FIG. 1)
and a central wave-deflecting hull 24. The hulls 22 and 24 each
have a unique configuration to allow the above advantages to be
realized. A gunwale 15 is mounted above hull 12, and a windshield
17 is mounted above the gunwale and toward the bow 14. The gunwale
15 has side rails 19, forming a passenger compartment for use of
the boat 10. A motor mount 21 is provided for mounting of a boat
motor 23 to propel the watercraft 10.
[0032] The hull portions 22 and 24 each have a very narrow profile,
and outer hulls 22 each have a pointed V-shaped front-end wave
spreading structure 26. The central hull 24 extends forward of the
outer hulls 22, and has a wave spreading structure 25 associated
therewith. The extent that the central hull 24 extends forwardly of
the outer hulls 22 can vary depending on the size of the watercraft
10, and the type of water body the craft is designed to operate in.
In general, the central hull 24 length may be from between 5 to 25%
greater than the outer hull lengths. With reference to FIG. 3, the
hull 24 is configured to have a substantially flat bottom portion
28, with a upwardly tapered front end 30. The front end 30 would
normally be exposed to oncoming waves, but in the present
invention, the wave spreading structure 25 deflects any waves away
from the portion 30. This results in the hull portions 30 and 28
being recessed or internal to the wave contacting surfaces of the
hull 12. The wave spreading structure 25 may be formed of sheet
material, configured into a wedge shape having first and second
sides 32 and 34 and a front edge 36 directed forwardly. The sides
32 and 34 of the wedge shape present substantially vertical
surfaces to facilitate water displacement, resulting in a
configuration that cuts through any waves, minimizing wave forces
acting on the hull 12. This also results in the boat 10 remaining
substantially level as it moves across the water, even if waves or
wake are encountered. Further, the boat 10 remains substantially
level at different speeds when on plane, even if loaded. The sides
32 and 34 extend toward the rear of boat 10, forming a cavity
behind the front edge 36. The sides 32 and 34 may extend to a
position which is adjacent the position that water contacts the
internal prow formed by the portions 28 and 30 as the boat 10 moves
across the water. The sides also extend toward the water to a
position just above the level of smooth water as the boat 10 moves
through the water.
[0033] Each hull portion 22 is also formed with a large, somewhat
vertical front edge profile, presenting the approaching water with
a knife-edge type of profile. This edge cuts through any waves or
wake and displaces water laterally of each hull portion 22 along
with the wave spreader 25 associated with center hull 24. From the
front edges 26, the hull portions 22 are formed to have
substantially flat bottoms 40, with a slight upward taper 27 formed
at the forward end of each hull 22 to facilitate water displacement
and planing of the boat during operation. The front edge 26 and
forward side sections 29 of the hull portions 22 form v-shaped or
wedge shaped portions which present somewhat vertically oriented
wave spreading surfaces. Each hull portion 22 acts to spread waves
laterally of the boat, and into the spaces 23 between hull
sections. The spaces 23 between hulls 22 and 24 are designed to
accommodate the volume of water displaced by the hulls based upon
the size of the boat.
[0034] The wave spreading hull portions 22 may extend to a position
that is spaced rearwardly from the front of center hull 24, such
that oncoming wavers are first contacted by center hull 24, and
subsequently contacted by the hulls 22. The hulls 22 are configured
to cut through and deflect with minimal resistance, the initially
deflected oncoming waves, before contacting the remaining portions
of hull 12. The hull portions 22 are designed such that the forward
sections are positioned just above the smooth water level when the
craft is in operation, such that smooth water will not impose
substantial forces on the hull portions 22. Oncoming waves are
spread and directed immediately away from craft 10 by the
substantially vertically oriented wedge surfaces 34 and 36 of hull
portion 24, and the surfaces 29 of hull portions 22, which cut
through and deflect water with less drag than other hull
configurations. The height of the apex 26 of portions 22 and 24 may
be suitable for the environment in which the watercraft 10 is to be
used. Each front edge 26 on hulls 22 and 24 are designed to extend
out of flat water to a height above any expected waves based on the
size of boat and type of water bodies such a boat would be operated
in. For example, for watercraft adapted for use in larger bodies of
water with larger waves, the vertical height of the forward
sections of portions 22 and 24 may have a greater height.
[0035] Since the wave spreading configuration of each hull portion
22 and 24 is designed to deflect oncoming waves substantially
horizontally, the wave-contacting surface planes 34 and 36 are
preferably substantially perpendicular, to the smooth water surface
while the watercraft is at cruising speed. However, it is also
contemplated that the wave-contacting surface planes of the
portions 22 and 24 may be scooped or at a slight acute or obtuse
angle to the smooth water while the watercraft is at cruising
speed. For example, a slight obtuse angle between the plane of
smooth water and the wave-contacting surface planes of the wave
spreader 25 will tend to deflect oncoming waves more upwardly and
therefore increasingly drive the watercraft through the waves.
[0036] Referring again to FIG. 3, and the hull portion 24, there
may be formed an air cavity 38 located rearwardly of the wave
spreader 30. The air cavity 38 facilitates minimizing any pitching
and pounding against the waves by eliminating forward hull surfaces
that would tend to ride up on or pound against waves. The air
cavity 38 extends from the upper edges of the hull portion 24 in a
sloped configuration which terminates at the internal hull prow 30.
Internal hull prow 30 comprises the forward end of the hull bottom,
and extends into the substantially flat-bottomed section 28. In
this embodiment, internal hull prow 30 is located at approximately
sixty percent (60%) of the length of hull 12 as measured from the
stern 14, but lengths between approximately 50 to 90% are
contemplated. The length of hull bottom 28, and thus the location
of internal hull prow 30, can vary further for more particular
designs associated with different applications or environments
within the scope of the present invention. Due to the wave
spreading action of the hulls 22 and 24, generally, internal hull
prow 30 encounters mostly smooth water. If desired to provide a
further surface for deflection of any wave, the wave contacting
surface planes of internal hull prow 30 may be formed in a slight
v-bottom configuration, but forming a substantially flat bottom 28
toward the stern 16 of craft 10.
[0037] The hull bottom 28 is located aft of the air cavity 38. A
problem with conventional flat-bottomed watercraft has been their
tendency to pitch and roll upon encountering waves. With the
present invention, this problem is greatly reduced by the wave
spreading hull portions 22 and 24. As the surfaces 34 and 36 spread
or deflect oncoming waves substantially horizontally away from the
hull 12, waves which would tend to cause a flat bottomed to pitch
up are reduced significantly.
[0038] The hull bottoms 28 and 40 generally provides a large flat
surface transitioning from the forward wave-deflecting surfaces or
from internal prow 30, such that the hull displaces less water than
conventional v-bottomed hulls at cruising speed. The smaller
displacement of water enables the watercraft to cruise higher in
the water, as compared to conventional v-bottomed watercrafts.
Additionally, the watercraft leaves a smaller wake and requires
less power for propulsion. Therefore, fuel economy is increased as
compared to conventional v-bottomed boat hulls. Further, at the
stern 16 of the craft 10, the bottoms 40 of the outer hulls 22
extend to a position rearward of the rear wall or motor mount 21,
to extend the flat bottom surface which rides on the water during
operation. The center hull 24 is then configured such that the
bottom surface 28 terminates before reaching the stern. Water
deflected by the wave deflecting surfaces of hulls 22 and 24, is
thereby channeled through the spaces 23 between hulls, and at the
stern, only the outer hulls have bottom surfaces contacting the
water, to provide a relief zone between hulls 22 at the rear of the
craft 10. An upwardly angled transition surface 46 extends from the
stern to the bottom surface 28 at the rear of bottom surface 40 to
the gunwale and back wall 21.
[0039] In this embodiment of the watercraft 10 and hull 12, each of
the hull portions 22 and 24 has at its top end, upwardly angled
transition surfaces 42 and 44, extending from the apex 26. If waves
are encountered which extend up to this height, these surfaces 42
and 44 will also deflect waves away from the hull. Further, to
facilitate stabilizing the craft 10 in the water, whether under
power or at rest, each hull portion 22 and 24 may be formed in
sections, with a lower section being substantially vertically
oriented relative to smooth water, and upper sections which are
angled outwardly to form a larger water displacing structure.
[0040] Turning to FIG. 4, an alternate embodiment of the hull
configuration is shown at 100, and again may comprise a central
hull 104 and two outer hulls 102, each of which has a wave
spreading structure 105 associated therewith. In this embodiment,
the wave spreading structure 105 of the outer hulls 102 and central
hull 104, extends to approximately the same forward position, such
that each will engage and deflect waves. As in the prior
embodiment, the hull portions 102 and 104 may be configured to have
a substantially flat bottom portions 106 and 108, with a upwardly
tapered front ends 110 and 112 respectively. The front ends 110 and
112 would normally be exposed to oncoming waves, but in this
embodiment, the wave spreading structures 105 deflect any waves
away from the portions 110 and 112. This results in the hull
portions being recessed or internal to the wave contacting surfaces
of the hull 12. The wave spreading structures 105 may again be
configured as a wedge shape having first and second sides 114, 116
and a front edge 118 directed forwardly. The sides 114 and 116 of
the wedge shape present substantially vertical surfaces to
facilitate water displacement, resulting in a configuration that
cuts through any waves, minimizing wave forces acting on the boat
100. This also results in the boat 100 remaining substantially
level as it moves across the water, even if waves or wake are
encountered. Further, the boat 10 remains substantially level at
different speeds when on plane, even if loaded. The sides 114 and
116 extend toward the rear of boat 100, forming a cavity behind the
front edge 118. The sides 114 and 116 may extend to a position
which is adjacent the position that water contacts the internal
prow formed by the portions 110 and 112 as the boat 10 moves across
the water. The sides also extend toward the water to a position
just above the level of smooth water as the boat 100 moves through
the water. Each hull portion 102 and 104 acts to spread waves
laterally, and into the spaces 120 between hull sections. The
spaces 120 between hulls are designed to accommodate the volume of
water displaced by the hulls based upon the size of the boat.
[0041] Turning to FIG. 5, an alternate embodiment of the hull
configuration is shown at 150, and may comprise first and second
outer hulls 152 and 154, each of which has a wave spreading
structure 155 associated therewith. In this embodiment, the wave
spreading structure 155 of the outer hulls 152 and 154, extend to a
forward position of the hull, such that each will engage and
deflect waves away from the other portions off hull. As in the
prior embodiments, the hull portions 152 and 154 may be configured
to have a substantially flat bottom portions 156 and 158, with an
upwardly tapered front ends 160 and 162 respectively. The front
ends 160 and 162 would normally be exposed to oncoming waves, but
in this embodiment, the wave spreading structures 155 deflect any
waves away from the portions 160 and 162. This results in the hull
portions being recessed or internal to the wave contacting surfaces
of the hull. The wave spreading structures 155 may again be
configured as a wedge shape having first and second sides 164, 166
and a front edge 168 directed forwardly. The sides 164 and 166 of
the wedge shape present substantially vertical surfaces to
facilitate water displacement, resulting in a configuration that
cuts through any waves, minimizing wave forces acting on the boat.
This also results in the boat remaining substantially level as it
moves across the water, even if waves or wake are encountered.
Further, the boat remains substantially level at different speeds
when on plane, even if loaded. The sides 164 and 166 extend toward
the rear of boat 150, forming a cavity behind the front edge 168.
The sides 164 and 166 may extend to a position which is adjacent
the position that water contacts the internal prow formed by the
portions 160 and 162 as the boat 150 moves across the water. The
sides also extend toward the water to a position just above the
level of smooth water as the boat 150 moves through the water. Each
hull portion 152 and 154 acts to spread waves laterally, and into
the spaces between hull sections. The spaces 170 between hulls are
designed to accommodate the volume of water displaced by the hulls
based upon the size of the boat.
[0042] Turning to FIG. 6, an alternate embodiment of the hull
configuration is shown at 250, and may comprise first and second
outer hulls 252 and 254, each of which has a wave slicing structure
225. The hull portions 252 and 254 may be configured to have a
substantially flat bottom portions 256 and 258. The first and
second outer hulls 252 and 254 may be configured as a wedge shape
having first and second sides 264, 266 and a front edge 268
directed forwardly. The sides 264 and 266 of the wedge shape
present substantially vertical surfaces to facilitate water
displacement, resulting in a configuration that cuts through any
waves, minimizing wave forces acting on the boat. This also results
in the boat remaining substantially level as it moves across the
water, even if waves or wake are encountered. Further, the boat
remains substantially level at different speeds when on plane, even
if loaded. The sides 264 and 266 extend toward the rear of hull
250, and when on plane, the hull portions 252 and 254 ride
substantially on top of the water due to the flat, ski-like bottom
portions 256 and 258. The sides 264 and 266 are then positioned at
about the level of smooth water as the hull 250 moves through the
water. Each hull portion 252 and 254 acts to spread waves
laterally, and into the space outside or between hull sections. The
space 270 between hulls portion 252 and 254 may be designed to
accommodate the volume of water displaced by the hulls based upon
the size of the boat. Further, the wave slicing structures 225, as
shown in FIG. 7, extend from the front portion of the flat bottom
portions 256 and 258. The wave slicing structures 225 may be
configured to have a front edge 268 which is oriented in a
substantially vertical position, and transitions to be
substantially horizontally oriented at the rear thereof. The
slicing structure 225 therefore has a triangular shape wherein the
two sides of the triangle shape are substantially vertical at the
front edge 268 and transition to a substantially horizontal
position at the rear which is substantially flat against the flat
bottom portions 256 and 258. The wave slicing structures 255
generate a vortex in the water that forces water to the bottom and
outside edge of outer hulls 252 and 254. The water is then forced
by gravity back into the water and not into the boat's cockpit.
This slicing structure may be termed a wave diffusion system.
Further, splash guards 271 may be provided to extend outwardly from
the front portion of the outer hulls 252 and 254. The splash guards
271 extend rearwardly from the front edge 268, and may be above the
surface of the water. Each splash guard 271 blocks any water that
is forced upward due to the interaction between the hull 250 and
the water.
[0043] Turning to FIG. 8, an alternate embodiment of the hull
configuration is shown at 350, hull portions 322 and 324 each have
a narrow flat profile and a wave slicing structure 355. The outer
hulls 322 each have a pointed V-shaped front-end wave spreading
structure 326. The central hull 324 extends forward of the outer
hulls 322, and the front portion of the central hull 324 includes a
wave spreading structure 325. The extent that the central hull 324
extends forwardly of the outer hulls 322 can vary depending on the
size of the watercraft 10, and the type of water body the craft is
designed to operate in. In general, the central hull 324 length may
be from between 5 to 25% greater than the outer hull 322 lengths.
The hull portions 322 and 324 are configured to have a
substantially flat bottom portion 340 and 328, respectively. On the
outer hull portions 322, the substantially flat bottom portion 340
begins at the front edge 326 and extends rearwardly to the rear of
hull portions 322. On the center hull 324, the flat bottom portion
328 begins at a front edge 336 of the wave spreading structure 325
and extends rearwardly to the rear of the central hull 324. The
center hull portion 324 has a front end 330, which would normally
be exposed to oncoming waves, but in the present embodiment, the
wave spreading structure 325 is positioned forwardly of portion 330
and deflects any waves away from the portion 330, similar to the
wave spreading structures described in prior embodiments. This
results in the hull portion 330 being recessed or internal to the
wave contacting surfaces of the hull 350. The wave spreading
structure 325 may be formed of sheet material, configured into a
wedge shape having first and second sides 332 and 334 and the front
edge 336 directed forwardly. The sides 332 and 334 of the wedge
shape present substantially vertical surfaces to facilitate water
displacement, resulting in a configuration that cuts through any
waves, minimizing wave forces acting on the hull 350, and
particularly hull portion 324. This also results in the hull 350
remaining substantially level as it moves across the water, even if
waves or wake are encountered. Further, the hull 350 remains
substantially level at different speeds when on plane, even if
loaded. The sides 332 and 334 extend toward the rear of boat 10,
forming a cavity behind the front edge 336. Toward the rear portion
of the wave spreading structure 325, the sides 332 and 334 taper
upward toward the rear, as shown in FIG. 9. The sides 332 and 334
may extend to a position which is adjacent the position that water
contacts the internal prow formed by the front portion 330 allowing
access to the front apex 390 and front portion 330. The wave
slicing structures 355 extend from the front portion of the flat
bottom portions 328 and 340. The wave slicing structures 355 may be
configured similarly to that described in the embodiment of FIGS. 6
and 7 for example. The two sides of the wave slicing structures 355
are substantially vertical at the front edges 326 and 336 and
transition to a substantially horizontal position adjacent the flat
bottoms 328 and 340. If desired, the rear of the sides of the wave
slicing structures 355 may be cut at an angle as shown, forming
another triangular shape at the rear of the wave slicing structures
355. The wave slicing structures 355 generate a vortex in the water
that forces water to the bottom and outside edges of hull portions
322 and 324. The water is then forced by gravity back into the
water and not into the boat's cockpit. This slicing structure may
be termed a wave diffusion system. Further, splash guards 371 may
be provided to extend outwardly from the front portion of the outer
hulls 322. The splash guards 371 extend rearwardly from the front,
and may be above the surface of the water. Each splash guard 371
blocks any water that is forced upward due to the interaction
between the hull portions 322 and the water.
[0044] Each hull portion 322 is also formed with a substantially
vertical front edge profile, presenting the approaching water with
a knife-edge type of profile. This edge cuts through any waves or
wake and displaces water laterally of each hull portion 322 along
with the wave spreader like structure 325 associated with center
hull 324. From the front edges 326, the hull portions 322 are
formed to have substantially flat bottoms 340, to facilitate water
displacement and planing of the boat during operation. Also, from
the front edge 336, the hull portion 324 is formed to have a
substantially flat bottom 328, to facilitate water displacement and
planing of the boat during operation.
[0045] The front edge 326 and forward side sections 329 of the hull
portions 322 form v-shaped or wedge shaped portions which present
somewhat vertically oriented wave spreading surfaces. Each hull
portion 322 acts to spread waves laterally of the boat, and into
the spaces 323 between hull sections. The spaces 323 between hulls
322 and 324 are designed to accommodate the volume of water
displaced by the hulls based upon the size of the boat.
[0046] The wave spreading hull portions 322 may extend to a
position that is spaced rearwardly from the front of center hull
324, such that oncoming wave are first contacted by center hull
324, and subsequently contacted by the hulls 322. The hulls 322 and
wave spreading portion 325 associated with hull portion 324 are
configured to cut through and deflect waves with minimal
resistance. The hull portions 322 and wave spreading section 325
are designed such that the forward sections are positioned just
above the smooth water level when the craft is in operation, such
that smooth water will not impose substantial forces on the hull
portions 322 and wave spreading section 325. Oncoming waves are
spread and directed immediately away from the hull portions 322 and
wave spreading section 325 by the substantially vertically oriented
wedge surfaces 332 and 334 of hull portion 324, and the surfaces
329 of hull portions 322, which cut through and deflect water with
less drag than other hull configurations. The height of the apex
326 of hull portions 322 and 336 of wave spreading portion 325 may
be suitable for the environment in which the watercraft is to be
used, and generally are designed to extend out of flat water to a
height above any expected waves based on the size of boat and type
of water bodies the boat would be operated in. For example, for
watercraft adapted for use in larger bodies of water with larger
waves, the vertical height of the forward sections may have a
greater height.
[0047] Since the wave spreading configuration of each hull portion
322 and 324 is designed to deflect oncoming waves substantially
horizontally, the wave-contacting surfaces are preferably
substantially perpendicular to the smooth water surface while the
watercraft is at cruising speed. However, it is also contemplated
that the wave-contacting surface planes may be scooped or at a
slight acute or obtuse angle to the smooth water while the
watercraft is at cruising speed. For example, a slight obtuse angle
between the plane of smooth water and the wave-contacting surface
planes of the hull portions 322 and wave spreader structure 325
will tend to deflect oncoming waves and therefore increasingly
drive the watercraft through the waves.
[0048] Referring again to FIG. 8, and the hull portion 324, it
should be recognized that there is formed an air cavity 338 located
rearwardly of the wave spreader structure 325. The air cavity 338
extends from the wave spreader 325 to the internal hull prow 330.
Internal hull prow 330 comprises the forward end of the hull
bottom, and extends into the substantially flat-bottomed section
328. In this embodiment, internal hull prow 330 is located at
approximately sixty percent (60%) of the length of hull 350 as
measured from the stern 14, but lengths between approximately 50 to
90% are contemplated. The location of internal hull prow 330, can
vary further for different applications or environments within the
scope of the present embodiment. Due to the wave spreading action
of the hulls 322 and wave spreading structure 325, generally,
internal hull prow 330 encounters mostly smooth water.
[0049] Conventional flat-bottomed watercraft have a tendency to
pitch and roll upon encountering waves. With the present invention,
this problem is greatly reduced by the wave spreading hull portions
322 and structure 325. As the surfaces 334 and 336 spread or
deflect oncoming waves substantially horizontally away from the
hull 350, waves which would tend to cause a flat bottomed hull to
pitch up are significantly reduced.
[0050] The hull bottoms 328 and 340 generally provide a large flat
surface transitioning from the forward wave-deflecting surfaces,
such that the hull displaces less water than conventional
v-bottomed hulls at cruising speed. The smaller displacement of
water enables the watercraft to cruise higher in the water, as
compared to conventional v-bottomed watercrafts. Additionally, the
watercraft leaves a smaller wake and requires less power for
propulsion. Therefore, fuel economy is increased as compared to
conventional v-bottomed boat hulls. Further, at the stern 16 of the
craft 10, the bottoms 340 of the outer hulls 322 may extend to a
position rearward of the rear wall or motor mount adjacent the rear
of center hull section 324, to extend the flat bottom surface which
ride on the water during operation. The center hull 324 may be
configured such that the bottom surface 328 terminates at a
position forward of the outer hulls 322. Water deflected by the
wave deflecting surfaces of hulls 322 and 324, is thereby channeled
through the spaces 323 between hulls, and at the stern, only the
outer hulls have bottom surfaces contacting the water, to provide a
relief zone between hulls 322 at the rear of the hull 350.
[0051] Turning to FIGS. 10 and 11, an alternate embodiment of the
hull configuration is shown at 400, with outer hull portions 402
and 404 and center hull portion 406, each having a wave slicing
structure 410 similar to that described in FIGS. 8 and 9 associated
therewith. In this embodiment, the outer hulls 402 and 404, as well
as the center hull portion 406 each have a pointed V-shaped
front-end comprising a wedge-shaped structure forming a forward
apex and two side walls extending rearwardly from the apex. If
desired, the center hull portion 406 may not be provided, with just
the outer hull portions 402 and 404 provided. In this embodiment,
the central hull 406 does not have a separated wave spreading
structure associated therewith, but still may itself extend
forwardly of the outer hulls 402 and 404. The extent that the
central hull 406 extends forwardly of the outer hulls 402 and 404
can vary depending on the size of the watercraft 400, and the type
of water body the craft is designed to operate in. In general, the
central hull 406 length may be from between 5 to 25% greater than
the outer hull lengths. Each of the hull portions 402, 404 and 406
are configured to have a substantially flat bottom portion 412,
with the substantially flat bottom portion 412 beginning at the
front edge of each hull portion and extending rearwardly to the
rear of hull portions. The wedge shaped structure of each of the
hull portions 402, 404 and 406 cuts through and deflects any waves
away from the hull portions to the outside of the outer hull
portions and spaces between hull portions, similar to the wave
spreading structures described in prior embodiments. The sides of
the wedge shaped structures of each hull portion present
substantially vertical surfaces to facilitate water displacement,
resulting in a configuration that cuts through any waves,
minimizing wave forces acting on the hull portions. This also
results in the hull 400 remaining substantially level as it moves
across the water, even if waves or wake are encountered. Further,
the hull 400 remains substantially level at different speeds when
on plane, even if loaded. The wave slicing structures 410 extend
from the front portion of the flat bottom portions 412. The wave
slicing structures 410 may be configured similarly to that
described in the prior embodiments for example. The two sides of
the wave slicing structures 410 are substantially vertical at the
front edges and transition to a substantially horizontal position
adjacent the flat bottoms 412. The wave slicing structures 410
again generate a vortex in the water that forces water to the
bottom and outside edges of hull portions 402, 404 and 406. This
slicing structure may be termed a wave diffusion system. In this
embodiment, the ski portions 412 are configured to match the shape
of the front portion of each hull portion, and no splash guards are
utilized, but the arrangement of the prior embodiments could also
be used.
[0052] Thus, in this embodiment, each hull portion 402, 404 and 406
is formed with a substantially vertical front edge profile,
presenting the approaching water/waves with a knife-edge type of
profile. This edge cuts through any waves or wake and displaces
water laterally of each hull portion. From the front edges, the
hull portions 402, 404 and 406 are formed to have substantially
flat bottoms 412, to facilitate water displacement and planing of
the boat during operation. The front edge and forward side sections
of the hull portions 402, 404 and 406 form v-shaped or wedge shaped
portions which present somewhat vertically oriented wave spreading
surfaces. Each hull portion acts to spread waves laterally of the
boat, and into the spaces between hull sections. The spaces between
hulls 402, 404 and 406 are designed to accommodate the volume of
water displaced by the hulls based upon the size of the boat and
expected wave sizes.
[0053] The outer wave spreading hull portions 402 and 404 may
extend to a position that is spaced rearwardly from the front of
center hull 406, such that oncoming waves are first contacted by
center hull 406, and displaced toward the spaces between outer
hulls 402 and 404 subsequently contacted by the hulls 402 and 404.
The hull portions are configured to cut through and deflect waves
with minimal resistance. The hull portions are designed such that
the forward sections are positioned just above the smooth water
level when the craft is in operation, such that smooth water will
not impose substantial forces on the hull portions. Oncoming waves
are spread and directed immediately away from the hull portions by
the substantially vertically oriented wedge surfaces of each hull
portion, which cut through and deflect water with less drag than
other hull configurations. The height of the apex of each hull
portion may be suitable for the environment in which the watercraft
is to be used, and generally are designed to extend out of flat
water to a height above any expected waves based on the size of
boat and type of water bodies the boat would be operated in. For
example, for watercraft adapted for use in larger bodies of water
with larger waves, the vertical height of the forward sections may
have a greater height.
[0054] Since the wave spreading configuration of each hull portion
is designed to deflect oncoming waves substantially horizontally,
the wave-contacting surfaces are preferably substantially
perpendicular to the smooth water surface while the watercraft is
at cruising speed. However, it is also contemplated that the
wave-contacting surface planes may be scooped or at a slight acute
or obtuse angle to the smooth water while the watercraft is at
cruising speed. For example, a slight obtuse angle between the
plane of smooth water and the wave-contacting surface planes of the
hull portions will tend to deflect oncoming waves and therefore
increasingly drive the watercraft through the waves.
[0055] As with the other embodiments, the problems associated with
conventional flat-bottomed watercraft which have a tendency to
pitch and roll upon encountering waves, are resolved. As the
wedge-shaped structures of each hull portion spread or deflect
oncoming waves substantially horizontally away from the hull 400,
which would tend to cause a flat bottomed hull to pitch up are
significantly reduced.
[0056] The hull bottoms 412 generally provide a large flat surface
transitioning from the forward wave-deflecting surfaces, such that
the hull displaces less water than conventional v-bottomed hulls at
cruising speed. The smaller displacement of water enables the
watercraft to cruise higher in the water, as compared to
conventional v-bottomed watercrafts. Additionally, the watercraft
leaves a smaller wake and requires less power for propulsion.
Therefore, fuel economy is increased as compared to conventional
v-bottomed boat hulls.
[0057] The foregoing disclosure is illustrative of embodiments of
the present invention and is not to be construed as limiting
thereof. Although one or more embodiments of the invention have
been described, persons of ordinary skill in the art will readily
appreciate that numerous modifications could be made without
departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosed invention. As
such, it should be understood that all such modifications are
intended to be included within the scope of this invention. The
written description and drawings illustrate the present invention
and are not to be construed as limited to the specific embodiments
disclosed.
* * * * *