U.S. patent application number 15/369258 was filed with the patent office on 2017-10-19 for amphibian.
This patent application is currently assigned to Gibbs Technologies Limited. The applicant listed for this patent is Gibbs Technologies Limited. Invention is credited to Stephen James Bailey, Alan Timothy Gibbs, Simon James Longdill.
Application Number | 20170297392 15/369258 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46465234 |
Filed Date | 2017-10-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170297392 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gibbs; Alan Timothy ; et
al. |
October 19, 2017 |
Amphibian
Abstract
The present invention provides, with reference to FIG. 2, an
amphibian operable in land and marine modes, the amphibian
comprising a hull, at least one discontinuity (wheel bay) provided
in the hull, and at least one retractable wheel or track assembly
at least partially located in the at least one discontinuity (wheel
bay). The hull is a planing hull, and the at least one
discontinuity (wheel bay) is provided in the front half of the hull
of the amphibian. The amphibian further comprises at least one
conduit which opens, or is provided with an entry which opens, into
or at the at least one discontinuity (wheel bay) and is configured
for channelling, in use, fluid away from the at least one
discontinuity (wheel bay).
Inventors: |
Gibbs; Alan Timothy;
(London, GB) ; Longdill; Simon James;
(Warwickshire, GB) ; Bailey; Stephen James;
(Warwickshire, GB) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Gibbs Technologies Limited |
Warwickshire |
|
GB |
|
|
Assignee: |
Gibbs Technologies Limited
Warwickshire
GB
|
Family ID: |
46465234 |
Appl. No.: |
15/369258 |
Filed: |
December 5, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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14130210 |
Aug 27, 2014 |
9511640 |
|
|
PCT/GB2012/051550 |
Jul 2, 2012 |
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15369258 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B60F 3/0007 20130101;
B63B 1/042 20130101; B60F 2301/00 20130101; B60F 3/0084 20130101;
B63H 5/07 20130101; B63H 11/02 20130101; B60F 3/0038 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B60F 3/00 20060101
B60F003/00; B60F 3/00 20060101 B60F003/00; B63H 11/02 20060101
B63H011/02; B60F 3/00 20060101 B60F003/00; B63H 5/07 20060101
B63H005/07 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jun 30, 2011 |
GB |
1111194.5 |
Jun 30, 2011 |
GB |
1111200.0 |
Claims
1. An amphibian operable in land and marine modes, the amphibian
comprising: a hull; at least one of a discontinuity provided in and
a discontinuity formed by the hull; and at least one of a
retractable wheel and a retractable track assembly at least
partially located in the at least one discontinuity, wherein: the
hull is a planing hull; the at least one discontinuity is provided
in a front half of the hull of the amphibian; and the amphibian
further comprises at least one of a conduit which opens and a
conduit provided with an entry which at least one of opens into and
opens at the at least one discontinuity and is configured for
channelling, in use, fluid away from the at least one
discontinuity.
2. The amphibian as claimed in claim 1 wherein the at least one
conduit is configured for channelling, in use, fluid away from the
at least one discontinuity to at least one of a side, along,
underneath, inside, and to a rear of the amphibian.
3. The amphibian as claimed in claim 1 wherein the at least one
conduit is configured for channelling, in use, fluid away from the
at least one discontinuity along the underside of the
amphibian.
4. The amphibian as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one
conduit is at least partially open at a point along a length of the
at least one conduit in the form of a channel.
5. The amphibian as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one
conduit is closed at a point along a length of the at least one
conduit in the form of at least one of a tunnel and a tube.
6. The amphibian as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cross section
of the at least one conduit is substantially uniform along a length
of the at least one conduit.
7. The amphibian as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cross section
of the at least one conduit varies along a length of the at least
one conduit.
8. The amphibian as claimed in claim 7 wherein the cross section of
the at least one conduit reduces along the length in a direction
downstream from an entry of the at least one conduit.
9. The amphibian as claimed in claim 7 wherein the cross section of
the at least one conduit increases along the length in a direction
downstream from an entry of the at least one conduit.
10. The amphibian as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one
conduit is formed in an underside of the hull.
11. The amphibian as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one
conduit is a discrete part of the amphibian separate from the
hull.
12. The amphibian as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one
conduit is formed, at least in part, inside of an underside of the
hull.
13. The amphibian as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one
conduit has an exit for fluid at any one or more of a side and an
end of the at least one conduit of a length of the at least one
conduit length.
14. The amphibian as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one
conduit channels, in use, water which accumulates in the at least
one discontinuity resulting from forward motion of the amphibian
when at least one of in and on water in marine mode.
15. The amphibian as claimed in claim 14 wherein: the at least one
conduit is formed in an underside of the hull and is partially open
at a point along a length of the at least one conduit in the form
of a channel in the underside of the hull; and the cross section of
the at least one conduit reduces along the length of the at least
one conduit in a direction downstream from an entry of the at least
one conduit, wherein: in use, water passing along the at least one
conduit is forced out of the conduit along the open underside
thereby generating lift.
16. The amphibian as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one
discontinuity provided in the hull comprises a front wheel bay.
17. The amphibian as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one
discontinuity provided in the hull comprises a single front wheel
bay.
18. The amphibian as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one
discontinuity provided in the hull comprises a front wheel bay
formed on the outside of the hull.
19. The amphibian as claimed in claim 16, wherein the hull extends
between a bow and a stern/transom, the bow having a central bow
portion and a pair of side bow portions, the central bow portion
being disposed rearwardly of the side bow portions so as to define
the front wheel bay.
20. The amphibian as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one of a
wheel and a track of the at least one retractable wheel and
retractable track assembly is retracted above a lowest point of the
hull when operating in marine mode, and at least part of the at
least one of the wheel and track is protracted below the lowest
point of the hull when operating in land mode.
21. The amphibian as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: a land
propulsion unit to propel the amphibian on land in the land mode,
the land propulsion unit comprising at least one of the wheel and
the track; and a marine propulsion unit to propel the amphibian on
water in the marine mode.
22. The amphibian as claimed in claim 21 wherein the marine
propulsion unit comprises at least one of jet drives and
propellers.
23. The amphibian as claimed in claim 22 wherein the at least one
of jet drives and propellers can propel the amphibian to a speed
where sufficient hydrodynamic lift is generated to enable the
amphibian to plane.
24. The amphibian as claimed in claim 1, wherein the amphibian is
an amphibian motorcycle having at least one of a front wheel and
track and at least one of a rear wheel and track.
25. The amphibian as claimed in claim 1, wherein the amphibian is
an amphibian motorcycle having at least one of a front wheel and
track station and at least one of a rear wheel and track
station.
26. The amphibian as claimed in claim 1, wherein the amphibian is
an amphibian tricycle having at least one of a front wheel and
track in a front half of the amphibian and at least one of two rear
wheels and tracks in a rear half of the amphibian.
27. The amphibian as claimed in claim 1, wherein the amphibian is
an amphibian tricycle having at least one of a front wheel and
track station in a front half of the amphibian and at least one of
two rear wheel and track stations in a rear half of the
amphibian.
28. The amphibian as claimed in claim 25, wherein the amphibian
comprises at least one of one or more wheels and tracks in at least
one of the front wheel and track station and the rear wheel and
track stations.
29. The amphibian as claimed in claim 1, wherein the amphibian
comprises a sit-in amphibian having at least one of a front wheel
and track in a front half of the amphibian and at least one of a
rear wheel and track in a rear half of the amphibian.
30. The amphibian as claimed in claim 1, wherein the amphibian
comprises a sit-in amphibian having at least one of a front wheel
and track in a front half of the amphibian and at least one of at
least two rear wheels and tracks in a rear half of the
amphibian.
31. The amphibian as claimed in claim 1, wherein the amphibian
comprises a sit-in amphibian having at least one of a front wheel
and track station in a front half of the amphibian and at least one
of a rear wheel and track station in a rear half of the
amphibian.
32. The amphibian as claimed in claim 1, wherein the amphibian is a
sit-in amphibian having at least one of a front wheel and track
station in a front half of the amphibian and at least one of at
least two rear wheel and track stations in a rear half of the
amphibian.
33. The amphibian as claimed in claim 1, wherein the amphibian has
a steering input for use by a rider or driver.
34. The amphibian operable in land and marine modes, the amphibian
comprising: a hull; at least one of a wheel bay and a track bay
provided in, or formed by, the hull; and at least one of a
retractable wheel and a retractable track assembly at least
partially located in the at least one of the wheel bay and the
track bay, wherein: the hull is a planing hull; the at least one of
the wheel bay and the track bay is provided in a front half of the
hull of the amphibian; and the amphibian further comprises at least
one of a conduit which opens and a conduit provided with an entry
which at least one of opens into and opens at the at least one of
the wheel bay and the track bay and is configured for channelling,
in use, fluid away from the at least one wheel or track bay.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/130,210, filed on Aug. 27, 2014, entitled
"AMPHIBIAN," which claims the benefit of International Application
No. PCT/GB2012/051550, filed on Jul. 2, 2012, entitled "AMPHIBIAN,"
the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by
reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to an amphibian and, in
particular, to a high speed amphibian with a hull form configured
with a single front wheel or track station, and/or for receiving
single front wheel or track.
[0003] Amphibians for recreation, business, and/or military uses
are known. In the past, designers of amphibians have focussed their
efforts on optimising either on-water or on-land performance. As a
result, either on-water performance has been sacrificed in order to
give satisfactory on-land performance, or on-land performance
sacrificed to give satisfactory on-water performance. The resulting
amphibians are compromised to one degree or another.
[0004] To enable an amphibian to attain greater speed on water, it
is desirable for the amphibian to be provided with a planing hull.
Such a hull can be powered from standing where it is fully
displaced to a speed where it can generate sufficient hydrodynamic
lift to rise up out of the water and plane across the surface of
the water. It is known for such amphibians to have a retractable
wheel assembly that enables the wheels of the amphibian to be
raised to a retracted position during use of the amphibian on the
water. In addition, a hull provides buoyancy to the amphibian such
that it floats while in the water.
[0005] Generally, for optimal performance, the surface of a planing
hull should contain as few discontinuities as possible, as
disruptions to the surface of the hull will increase drag and
compromise both the hydrodynamic lift achievable and handling on
water. However, the nature of an amphibian is such that it can
require the surface of the hull to contain discontinuities, such as
recesses within which components, for example wheel and suspension
assemblies, are located. When attempting to optimise on-water
performance, designers of amphibians with retractable wheel and
suspension assemblies have expended great effort in providing
movable cover mechanisms for wheel arch cut outs to re-establish
the smooth uninterrupted lines of a conventional marine hull when
the wheels are retracted. Movable covers and plates are known in
amphibians for example from United States patents U.S. Pat. No.
4,958,584 (Williamson), U.S. Pat. No. 3,421,472 (Oberg), and U.S.
Pat. No. 3,280,785 (Oberg). The sliding and/or hinging mechanisms
of movable covers or plates are liable to seize up through
corrosion, and/or through ingress of mud, sand, silt, salt, or
other marine debris. They may also be damaged through collision
with objects such as rocks during vehicle mode conversion or
off-road use. An amphibian which cannot change mode may be
immobilized; either on land, or even worse, on water. Furthermore,
the necessity of maintaining and scrupulously cleaning sliding
and/or hinging mechanisms may not likely be acceptable to the
vehicle owner, who will be accustomed to the less onerous demands
of modern cars and boats. Although movable covers or plates have
been proposed in several amphibians patents as noted above, these
have not made it to series production.
[0006] In addressing the above problems in the more recent past,
the applicant has retained wheel arches in the hull but developed
hydrodynamic aids such as planing plates to help recover at least
part of the hull form (as disclosed in the applicant's UK Patent
No. GB2401832B) and strakes to improve directional stability of the
hull when on the plane (as disclosed in the applicant's UK Patent
No. GB2401833B).
[0007] Hulls for amphibians comprising three or more wheels, at
least two of which are provided at the front of the amphibian,
typically provide sufficient buoyancy on water since the width of
the amphibian, and thus the hull, span the width of the front
and/or rear axle plus wheels. However, an amphibian having just one
front wheel or wheel station presents unique challenges with
respect to the hull shape, size, displacement etc., since the
amphibian can be required to lean sideways during riding/turning on
land, thereby requiring a hull with a relatively narrow width at
least at the front, yet the hull must provide sufficient buoyancy
to keep the amphibian afloat in the water. Prior art amphibian
motorcycles have attempted to meet these challenges using
additional movable flotation elements that extend from the hull
while the amphibian is in the water. These movable flotation
elements may take the form of inflatable bellows, movable or
foldable flotation aids, or other forms. Such systems have been
bulky, required additional moving parts/components, and can be
prone to failure. As such, an amphibian motorcycle with a hull that
does not require additional bellows, provides sufficient buoyancy
for the amphibian to float in the water, and yet allows the
amphibian to adequately lean/turn while on land would be
desirable.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The applicant has developed a high speed amphibian with a
single front wheel or track station, and/or single front wheel or
track. The amphibian may comprise one or more rear wheel or track
stations, and/or one or more rear wheels or tracks. Accordingly,
the high speed amphibian may take the form of a motorcycle,
tricycle or other configuration having a single front wheel or
track station, and/or single front wheel or track. The amphibian
need not be a motorcycle or tricycle (i.e. is not limited to an
amphibian having handlebars for steering and/or sit astride
seating). Alternatively, for example, the amphibian may take the
form of a sit in vehicle or buggy. The amphibian can plane on
water, yet has on-road, off-road and utilitarian capability.
Surprisingly, this new amphibian capability has been achieved
without using additional movable flotation elements that extend
from the hull while the amphibian is in the water. To this end, the
applicant has gone against conventional thinking and overcome
previous technical prejudices in arriving at the configuration
according to the present invention.
[0009] In particular, the applicant has developed the shape and
configuration of the front bow section of the hull of the amphibian
to include one or more conduits for channelling water in order to
arrive at an optimised hull form for high speed amphibian use and
which provides sufficient buoyancy. The optimised hull form retains
an exposed frontal wheel bay which, without the conduit(s) of the
present invention, suffered from accumulations of water resulting
from forward motion of the amphibian. These water accumulations in
the frontal wheel bay gave rise to significant spray and
inefficiencies in pushing this accumulated water forwards. The
optimised hull form provides for improved hydrodynamic performance
of the amphibian when on water as the accumulation of water in the
front wheel bay resulting from forward motion of the amphibian can
travel along the or each conduit as well as or in place of having
to pass under the bow portion of hull portion and on under the
hull. Furthermore, the hull form is also optimised for land use of
the amphibian.
[0010] Accordingly, the present invention provides, in a first
aspect, an amphibian operable in land and marine modes, the
amphibian comprising:
[0011] a hull;
[0012] at least one discontinuity provided in, or formed by, the
hull; and
[0013] at least one retractable wheel or track assembly at least
partially located in the at least one discontinuity, wherein:
[0014] the hull is a planing hull;
[0015] the at least one discontinuity is provided in the front half
of the hull of the amphibian; and
[0016] the amphibian further comprises at least one conduit which
opens, or is provided with an entry which opens, into or at the at
least one discontinuity and is configured for channelling, in use,
fluid away from the at least one discontinuity.
[0017] In a second aspect, the present invention provides an
amphibian operable in land and marine modes, the amphibian
comprising:
[0018] a hull;
[0019] at least one wheel or track bay provided in, or formed by,
the hull; and
[0020] at least one retractable wheel or track assembly at least
partially located in the at least one wheel or track bay,
wherein:
[0021] the hull is a planing hull;
[0022] the at least one wheel or track bay is provided in the front
half of the hull of the amphibian; and
[0023] the amphibian further comprises at least one conduit which
opens, or is provided with an entry which opens, into or at the at
least one wheel or track bay and is configured for channelling, in
use, fluid away from the at least one wheel or track bay.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0024] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be
described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying
drawings, in which:
[0025] FIG. 1 is a schematic top plan view of an amphibian
motorcycle according to a first preferred embodiment of the present
invention;
[0026] FIG. 2 is a schematic bottom plan view of the amphibian of
FIG. 1;
[0027] FIG. 3 is a schematic side elevation view of the amphibian
of FIG. 1 illustrating indicatively the front wheel and the rear
wheel in a protracted position and in a retracted position (in
phantom);
[0028] FIG. 4 is a schematic bottom plan view of a three wheel
amphibian according to a further preferred embodiment of the
present invention;
[0029] FIG. 5 is a detailed schematic bottom plan view of a frontal
bow section of an amphibian according to a further preferred
embodiment of the present invention;
[0030] FIG. 6 is an enlarged detailed schematic view from below and
to one side of the frontal bow section of FIG. 5;
[0031] FIG. 7 is a schematic bottom plan view of a two wheel
amphibian according to a further preferred embodiment of the
present invention; and
[0032] FIG. 8 is a schematic bottom plan view of a three wheel
amphibian according to a further preferred embodiment of the
present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0033] Referring first to FIGS. 1 to 3, a first preferred
embodiment of the present invention can be seen to comprise an
amphibian motorcycle 10 that has desirable leaning and/or turning
capability while in use on the land and desirable buoyancy and
stability while in use on water. It will be appreciated that for
the purposes of the present invention, the term motorcycle includes
mopeds, scooters and other single-track two-wheeled vehicles. In
addition, other single-track vehicles that use more than one wheel
or track as a front wheel and/or rear wheel are included within the
term motorcycle. For example, and for illustrative purposes only, a
scooter that has two wheels spaced closely together for use as the
front and/or rear wheel is included within the use of the term
motorcycle herein. In this case, there is a front wheel station and
a rear wheel station, with one or more wheels or tracks provided in
each wheel station.
[0034] The amphibian 10 can be seen to comprise a front wheel 110,
preferably provided with a front suspension system (not shown), and
a rear wheel 120, again preferably provided with a rear suspension
system (not shown). A track or tracks may be used as an alternative
to either or both of the front and rear wheels 110, 120. At least
one wheel retraction system (not shown) that is operable to move
the front wheel 110 and/or the rear wheel 120 between a protracted
position for use of the amphibian 10 on land and a retracted
position for use of the amphibian 10 on water is preferably
included. The front wheel 110 and/or the rear wheel 120 can then be
moved between a protracted position, for use of the amphibian 10 on
land (including entry into and egress from the water), and a
retracted position for use of the amphibian on water. The front
wheel 110 and/or the rear wheel 120 may moved into the retracted
position to reduce drag when the amphibian 10 is operated in water.
The amphibian 10 is provided with a hull 200 with a centre portion
210 and two oppositely disposed and spaced apart side portions 220.
Alternative hull configurations are possible. Each hull portion
210, 220 has a forward end defining a bow or bow portion 212, 222
and the hull portions 210, 220 are preferably fixed relative to one
another and form a generally rigid assembly with a generally
continuous outer hull surface. The two side portions 220 extend
forwardly beyond the centre portion 210 a predefined distance and
form a front wheel bay 116. The front wheel 110 can be located at
least partially within the front wheel bay 116 and the two side
portions 220 can extend forwardly beyond a rotation axis 111 of the
front wheel 110 when in the protracted land engaging position,
although this is not essential. In some instances, the two side
portions 220 can stop short of the rotation axis 111 of the front
wheel 110, or can extend at least partially or generally up to or
equal to a front surface of the front wheel 110. In the
alternative, the two side portions 220 can extend beyond the front
surface of the front wheel 110 when the front wheel 110 is in the
protracted position. The two side portions 220 can also extend
rearwardly beyond the centre portion 210 a predefined distance and
form a rear wheel bay 126. The rear wheel 120 can be located at
least partially within the rear wheel bay 126 and the two side
portions 220 can extend rearwardly up to, or beyond, a rotation
axis 122 of the rear wheel 120 when in the protracted position. In
some instances, the two side portions 220 can extend rearwardly at
least partially or generally up to or equal to a rear surface of
the rear wheel 120 or, in the alternative, the two side portions
220 can extend rearwardly beyond the rear surface of the rear wheel
120 when the rear wheel 120 is in the protracted position.
[0035] A conduit 214 is provided in one or both of the two side
portions 220 so as to provide at least one pathway between the
front wheel bay 116 the respective lateral side or sides of the
amphibian 10 for fluids (water and/or air) to pass. The or each
conduit 214 may take any suitable form. For example, the conduit
214 may be open on the underside in the form of a channel, or may
be at least partially closed (across and/or lengthways of the
conduit 214) by the hull 200 or other part of the amphibian 10 so
as to form a tunnel. Indeed, the conduit 214 may take the form of a
tube (e.g. a discrete part or formed by other parts of the
amphibian 10). The cross section of the conduit 214 may be
substantially uniform, or may vary along its length. More
particularly, the cross section of the conduit 214 may reduce along
its length in the rearward direction 2. Alternatively, the cross
section of the conduit 214 may increase along its length in the
rearward direction 2. The entry 215 to the conduit 214 may be
integrated with either one or more of the bow or bow portions 212,
222 of the hull portions 210, 220 or may be a discrete entry (such
as with a discrete tube). Preferably, the entry 215 to the conduit
214 is open at and/or to the front wheel bay 116. The exit 216 from
the conduit 214 may be an exit (discrete or otherwise) laterally to
the side of the amphibian 10, or may be integrated with either one
or both of the hull portions 210, 220. Alternatively, the conduit
214 may continue along a portion of, or the entire length of, the
amphibian 10 exiting at the rear stern or transom, or into and/or
at a rear wheel bay 126. The or each conduit 214 provides for
improved hydrodynamic performance of the amphibian 10 when on water
as the accumulation of water in the front wheel bay 116 resulting
from forward motion of the amphibian 10 can travel along the or
each conduit 214 as well as or in place of having to pass under the
bow portion 212 of hull portion 210 and on under the hull 200.
Further improved hydrodynamic performance of the amphibian 10 can
be achieved by shaping of the conduit, both in terms of its entry
215, exit 216, its path and its cross sectional area along its
length. For example, by reducing the cross sectional area along the
length of an open channel form of conduit 214, water passing along
is forced out of the conduit 214 along the open underside due to
its incompressibility, thereby generating lift. In order for the
amphibian 10 to make the transition from its hull 200 being in
displacement mode to one where it is planing, the through water
speed of the amphibian 10 must be increased to achieve the
necessary hydrodynamic lift. The hull 200 and bow portions 212, 222
of the hull portions 210, 220 are key in reducing the drag of the
hull 10 and facilitating the necessary gain in speed of the
amphibian through the water. Once on the plane, the hull 200
provides directional stability. However, the hull 200 may be
supplemented with conventional strakes or strakes as discussed in
the applicant's UK Patent No. GB2401833B.
[0036] With the two side portions 220 extending forwardly and/or
rearwardly beyond the centre portion 210 (as shown by way of
example in the Figures), a hull with desirable flotation and
minimum and/or desirable width is provided. Stated differently,
extension of the side portions 220 to form the front wheel bay 116
and/or the rear wheel bay 126 provides desirable and/or adequate
buoyancy for the amphibian 10 in the water and yet affords for the
amphibian 10 to desirably lean and/or turn during use on the
land.
[0037] With particular reference now to FIG. 1, the amphibian can
be seen to include a motorcycle form 100 and a hull form 200. The
motorcycle form 100 can have a seat 130, handlebars 140, a prime
mover (not shown), a transmission and/or speed change transmission
(not shown) and other components known to those skilled in the art
that are used, attached, etc. with or to a motorcycle. For example,
the rear wheel 120 can have a rear mudguard 121, a drive chain, and
the like. In addition, the front wheel 110 can have a front mud
guard (not shown), however this is not required. Alternatively or
additionally, fenders or mud guards may be fixed to the motorcycle
form 100, hull form 200 or other part that does not move with the
wheels 110, 120, at the front and/or the back.
[0038] Referring next to FIG. 2, the underside of the hull 200 can
be seen in detail. The overall hull 200 is defined by the
combination of the centre portion 210 and the side portions 220,
which are preferably rigid with respect to one another and together
form a continuous outer hull surface. The hull 200 may be said to
have a bow at the forward end (direction 1) and a stern or transom
at the rearward end (direction 2). The centre potion 210 has a
forward end defining a centre bow 212 or centre portion 212 of the
bow. Each of the side portions 220 has a forward end defining a
side bow 222 or a side portion 222 of the bow. As used herein, a
bow is the fowardmost end of the hull 200 or portion of the hull
200. In some instances, the side portions 220 can extend in a
forwardly direction 1 beyond the centre portion 210 and create a
front wheel bay 116. In addition the two side portions 220 can
extend in a rearwardly direction 2 beyond the centre portion 210
and create a rear wheel bay 126. The front wheel 110 can be located
at least partially within the front wheel bay 116 and the rear
wheel 120 can be located at least partially within the rear wheel
bay 126. The hull 200 can also have a waisted portion 204 that
affords a rider of the amphibian 10 the ability to place one or
more feet on a ground surface in order to stabilize or hold the
amphibian 10 in an upright position while in use on land when
stopped. In addition, the hull 200 can have one or more platforms
or sills 201 that afford for a rider to place their feet while
riding the amphibian 10 on land or water.
[0039] When on land, the amphibian 10 may be propelled by the rear
wheel 120 and/or front wheel 110 (or front or rear tracks where
provided). When on water, one or more jet drives or propellers or
other marine propulsion means may be used. A pair of jet drives 230
and 232 are shown in FIG. 2. Each jet drive 230, 232 has respective
inlet 234, 236 and respective outlet 238, 240. The jet drive 230 is
disposed at least partially in one of the side portions 220 on one
side of the rear wheel bay 126 and the other jet drive 232 is
disposed at least partially in the other side portion 220 on the
opposite side of the rear wheel bay 126. Alternatively, a single
jet drive or jet drive propulsion system (not shown) may be used.
The single jet drive may have one or more inlets and one or more
outlets, and be beneficially packaged as necessary. For example,
the single jet drive may disposed centrally or at least partially
in one of the side portions 220. The inlet(s) and outlet(s) may be
positioned as necessary, e.g. with ducts to provide ducted flow
around or on one or both sides the rear wheel 120.
[0040] Referring next to FIG. 3, a side view of the embodiment
shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is shown with the front wheel 110 and the
rear wheel 120 in a protracted position. It will be appreciated
that with the front wheel 110 and the rear wheel 120 in the
protracted position, one can operate the amphibian 10 on land as
one would generally operate a motorcycle. FIG. 3 also illustrates
in phantom the front wheel 110 and the rear wheel 120 in a
retracted position such that the amphibian can be operated at high
speed, planing, on the water. An indicative water line is shown at
w, representing where the water line may be with the amphibian 10
in full displacement mode in the water and not moving. Of course,
the actual water line may vary from this position dependent upon
the specific parameters of the amphibian 10. It will be appreciated
that with the two side portions 220 extending in the forwardly
direction 1 and/or in the rearwardly direction 2, the hull 200
provides a desirable buoyancy for the amphibian 10 while
maintaining a desirable and/or minimum width such that leaning
and/or turning can be achieved while in use on land. It will be
further appreciated that at least one wheel retraction system can
be included (not shown) in order to move the front wheel 110 and/or
the rear wheel 120 between the protracted position for use of the
amphibian 10 on land and the retracted position for use of the
amphibian on water.
[0041] The front wheel bay 116 and/or the rear wheel bay 126 can
have a cover, closure and the like across a top or upper portion
thereof, however this is not required. Such a top or upper cover or
closure may be fixed in place so as to form part of the upper,
surface of the body or hull, may be flexible, or may be operable.
In contrast, the front wheel bay 116 and the rear wheel 126 bay do
not have a closure along a bottom or lower portion thereof. This
means that there is no closure or cover in the outer/lower surface
of the hull 200. In this manner, the chance or threat of a cover,
closure and the like of being lost, broken, distorted, etc. during
use is prevented. In addition, any malfunction of such a cover,
closure, etc. due to contamination by sand, mud, dirt, grass, etc.
is also prevented. A closure is distinguished from a fender or mud
guard, which is permanently protracted whether the wheel is
protracted or retracted, and does not move from one position to
another during normal operation of the amphibian. Generally, a
closure will be located below the wheel when closed. A mud guard
will often be fixed to the body work and located above the wheel.
When a mud guard is mounted on the forks supporting the wheel, it
will be held in a fixed relationship to the wheel. Its orientation
may vary as the wheel is protracted or retracted, however unlike a
closure, it will not cover a gap in the hull.
[0042] Referring next to FIG. 4, a further preferred embodiment of
the present invention can be seen to comprise a three wheeled
amphibian 10 that has desirable leaning and/or turning capability
while in use on the land and desirable buoyancy and stability while
in use on water. It will be appreciated that for the purposes of
the present invention, the terms "three wheel" or "tricycle"
includes three wheel or tricycle mopeds, scooters and other
three-wheeled vehicles. In addition, other vehicles that use more
than one wheel or track as a front wheel and/or as one or more of
the rear wheels are included within the term three wheel or
tricycle. Again, for example, and for illustrative purposes only, a
three wheel or tricycle amphibian that has two wheels spaced
closely together for use as the front and/or as one or more of the
rear wheels is included within the use of the term three wheel or
tricycle herein. In this case, there is a front wheel station and
two rear wheel stations, with one or more wheels or tracks provided
in each wheel station. Furthermore, the amphibian need not be a
tricycle (i.e. not limited to an amphibian having handlebars for
steering and/or sit astride seating). Alternatively, for example,
the amphibian may take the form of a sit in vehicle or buggy with
other steering input (e.g. a steering wheel).
[0043] The amphibian 10 can be seen to comprise a front wheel 110,
preferably provided with a front suspension system (not shown), and
two rear wheels 120, 120' again preferably provided with a rear
suspension system (not shown). A track or tracks may be used as an
alternative to either or both of the front and rear wheels 110,
120, 120'. At least one wheel retraction system (not shown) that is
operable to move the front wheel 110 and/or the rear wheels 120,
120' between a protracted position for use of the amphibian 10 on
land and a retracted position for use of the amphibian 10 on water
is preferably included. The amphibian 10 is provided with a hull
200 with a centre portion 210 and two oppositely disposed and
spaced apart side portions 220. Alternatively, other hull forms may
be employed. Each hull portion 210, 220 has a forward end defining
a bow or bow portion 212, 222 and the hull portions 210, 220 are
preferably fixed relative to one another and form a generally rigid
assembly with a generally continuous outer hull surface.
[0044] The two side portions 220 extend forwardly beyond the centre
portion 210 a predefined distance and form a front wheel bay 116.
The front wheel 110 can be located at least partially within the
front wheel bay 116 and the two side portions 220 can extend
forwardly up to or beyond a rotation axis 111 of the front wheel
110 when in the protracted land engaging position. In some
instances, the two side portions 220 can extend at least partially
or generally up to or equal to a front surface of the front wheel
110 or, in the alternative, the two side portions 220 can extend
beyond the front surface of the front wheel 110 when the front
wheel 110 is in the protracted position. The two side portions 220
can also extend rearwardly along with the centre portion 210 a
predefined distance and form rear wheel bays 126, 126'. The rear
wheels 120, 120' can be located at least partially within the rear
wheel bays 126, 126' and the two side portions 220 can extend
rearwardly along with the centre portion 210 up to or beyond a
rotation axis 122, 122' of the rear wheels 120, 120' when in the
protracted position. In some instances, the two side portions 220
and centre portion 210 can extend rearwardly at least partially or
generally up to or equal to a rear surface of the rear wheels 120,
120' or, in the alternative, the two side portions 220 and centre
portion 210 can extend rearwardly beyond the rear surface of the
rear wheels 120, 120' when the rear wheels 120, 120' are in the
protracted position.
[0045] As with the first preferred embodiment described above, a
conduit 214 is provided in one or both of the two side portions 220
so as to provide at least one pathway between the front wheel bay
116 the respective lateral side or sides of the amphibian 10 for
fluids (water and/or air) to pass. Again, the or each conduit 214
may take any suitable form, as described in detail above for the
first preferred embodiment. For example, the conduit 214 may be
open on the underside in the form of a channel, or may be at least
partially closed (across and/or lengthways of the conduit 214) by
the hull 200 or other part of the amphibian 10 so as to form a
tunnel. Indeed, the conduit 214 may take the form of a tube (e.g. a
discrete part or formed by other parts of the amphibian 10). The
cross section of the conduit 214 may be substantially uniform, or
may vary along its length. More particularly, the cross section of
the conduit 214 may reduce along its length in the rearward
direction 2. Alternatively, the cross section of the conduit 214
may increase along its length in the rearward direction 2. The
entry 215 to the conduit 214 may be integrated with either one or
more of the bow or bow portions 212, 222 of the hull portions 210,
220 or may be a discrete entry (such as with a discrete tube).
Preferably, the entry 215 to the conduit 214 is open at and/or to
the front wheel bay 116. The exit 216 from the conduit 214 may be
an exit (discrete or otherwise) laterally to the side of the
amphibian 10, or may be integrated with either one or both of the
hull portions 210, 220. Alternatively, the conduit 214 may continue
along a portion of, or the entire length of, the amphibian 10
exiting at the rear stern or transom, or into and/or at either or
both of rear wheel bays 126, 126'. The or each conduit 214 provides
for improved hydrodynamic performance of the amphibian 10 when on
water as the accumulation of water in the front wheel bay 116
resulting from forward motion of the amphibian 10 can travel along
the or each conduit 214 as well as or in place of having to pass
under the bow portion 212 of hull portion 210 and on under the hull
200. Further improved hydrodynamic performance of the amphibian 10
can be achieved by shaping of the conduit, both in terms of its
entry 215, exit 216, its path and its cross sectional area along
its length. For example, by reducing the cross sectional area along
the length of an open channel form of conduit 214, water passing
along is forced out of the conduit 214 along the open underside due
to its incompressibility, thereby generating lift. In order for the
amphibian 10 to make the transition from its hull 200 being in
displacement mode to one where it is planing, the through water
speed of the amphibian 10 must be increased to achieve the
necessary hydrodynamic lift. The hull 200 and bow portions 212, 222
of the hull portions 210, 220 are key in reducing the drag of the
hull 10 and facilitating the necessary gain in speed of the
amphibian through the water. Once on the plane, the hull 200
provides directional stability. However, the hull 200 may be
supplemented with conventional strakes or strakes as discussed in
the applicant's UK Patent No. GB2401833B.
[0046] Again, with the two side portions 220 extending forwardly
and/or rearwardly beyond the centre portion 210, a hull with
desirable flotation and minimum and/or desirable width is provided.
Stated differently, extension of the side portions 220 to form the
front wheel bay 116 and/or the rear wheel bays 126, 126' provides
desirable and/or adequate buoyancy for the amphibian 10 in the
water and yet affords for the amphibian 10 to desirably lean and/or
turn during use on the land.
[0047] Referring next to FIGS. 5 and 6, a frontal bow section of an
amphibian according to a further preferred embodiment of the
present invention can be seen. In this further embodiment, the
amphibian 10 is provided with a hull 200 with a more rounded and
pointed centre portion 210 and two oppositely disposed and spaced
apart side portions 220. Indeed, this demonstrates what might be
considered as an alterative hull form as alluded to in the
embodiments described above. Here, the hull 200 may be considered
to simply comprise a main hull denoted by reference numeral 200
provided with a bow 210, and two forward side hull portions 220
each with a bow 222. As before, therefore, each hull portion 200,
220 has a forward end defining a bow or bow portion 212, 222 and
the hull portions 210, 220 are preferably fixed relative to one
another and form a generally rigid assembly with a generally
continuous outer hull surface. The two side portions 220 extend
forwardly beyond the main or centre portion 210 a predefined
distance and form a front wheel bay 116. The front wheel 110 can be
located at least partially within the front wheel bay 116 and the
two side portions 220 can extend forwardly up to or beyond a
rotation axis 111 of the front wheel 110 when in the protracted
land engaging position. The two side portions 220 extend at least
partially towards a front surface of the front wheel 110.
[0048] Conduits 214 are provided in or between each of the two side
portions 220 and the main or centre portion 210 so as to provide
one or more pathways between the front wheel bay 116 the respective
lateral side or sides of the amphibian 10 for fluids (water and/or
air) to pass. Each conduit 214 is open on the underside in the form
of a channel, and the cross section of each conduit 214 varies
along its length. More particularly, the cross section of each
conduit 214 becomes shallower but wider along its length in the
rearward direction 2. The entry 215 to the conduit 214 is
integrated with the bow portion 212 of the hull portion 210. The
exit 216 of each conduit 214 is a discrete exit laterally to the
side of the amphibian 10. Each conduit 214 provides for improved
hydrodynamic performance of the amphibian 10 when on water as the
accumulation of water in the front wheel bay 116 resulting from
forward motion of the amphibian 10 can travel along each conduit
214 as well as or in place of having to pass under the bow portion
212 of hull portion 210 and on under the hull 200. Further improved
hydrodynamic performance of the amphibian 10 is achieved by shaping
of the conduit, both in terms of its entry 215, exit 216 and its
cross sectional area along its length. The cross sectional area
reduces slightly along the length of the open channel form of each
conduit 214, and so water passing along is forced out of each
conduit 214 along the open underside due to its incompressibility,
thereby generating lift.
[0049] Referring next to FIG. 7, a further preferred embodiment of
the present invention can be seen to comprise a two wheeled
amphibian 10 that has desirable leaning and/or turning capability
while in use on the land and desirable buoyancy and stability while
in use on water. This alternative embodiment is similar to that
described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3, and as such like
features denoted by like reference numerals will not be described
further here. Instead, reference is made to the description above.
In this embodiment, however, the conduit 214 provides a pathway
between the front wheel bay 116 and rear wheel bay 126 for fluids
(water and/or air) to pass. Alternatively, the conduit could be
routed to the rear or transom of the amphibian 10. The conduit 214
(or each, if plural, or each part if branches of the conduit 214
are provided) may take any suitable form. For example, the conduit
214 may be open on the underside in the form of a channel, as
shown, or may be at least partially closed (across and/or
lengthways of the conduit 214) by the hull 200 or other part of the
amphibian 10 so as to form a tunnel. Indeed, the conduit 214 may
take the form of a tube (e.g. a discrete part or formed by other
parts of the amphibian 10), either inside of the lower planing
surface of the hull 200, or otherwise. The cross section of the
conduit 214 may be substantially uniform, as shown, or may vary
along its length. More particularly, the cross section of the
conduit 214 may reduce along its length in the rearward direction
2. Alternatively, the cross section of the conduit 214 may increase
along its length in the rearward direction 2. The entry 215 to the
conduit 214 may be integrated with either one or more of the bow or
bow portions 212, 222 of the hull portions 210, 220 or may be a
discrete entry (such as with a discrete tube). Preferably, the
entry 215 to the conduit 214 is open at and/or to the front wheel
bay 116. The exit 216 from the conduit 214 may be an exit (discrete
or otherwise) laterally to the side of the amphibian 10, or may be
integrated with either one or both of the hull portions 210, 220.
Alternatively, the conduit 214 may continue along a portion of, or
the entire length of, the amphibian 10 exiting at the rear stern or
transom, or into and/or at a rear wheel bay 126 (as shown). The or
each conduit 214 provides for improved hydrodynamic performance of
the amphibian 10 when on water as the accumulation of water in the
front wheel bay 116 resulting from forward motion of the amphibian
10 can travel along the or each conduit 214 as well as or in place
of having to pass under the bow portion 212 of hull portion 210 and
on under the hull 200. Further improved hydrodynamic performance of
the amphibian 10 can be achieved by shaping of the conduit, both in
terms of its entry 215, exit 216, its path and its cross sectional
area along its length.
[0050] Referring next to FIG. 8, a further preferred embodiment of
the present invention can be seen to comprise a three wheeled
amphibian 10 that has desirable leaning and/or turning capability
while in use on the land and desirable buoyancy and stability while
in use on water. This alternative embodiment is similar to that
described above with reference to FIG. 4, and as such like features
denoted by like reference numerals will not be described further
here. Instead, reference is made to the description above. In this
embodiment, however, the conduit 214 provides a pathway between the
front wheel bay 116 and rear wheel bays 126, 126' for fluids (water
and/or air) to pass. The conduit 214, as shown, branches mid-way
and provides two exits, one at each of wheel bays 126, 126'.
However, this branching is optional and just one conduit, or
multiple discrete conduits, may be provided. Alternatively, the or
each conduit (or branch thereof) could be routed to the rear or
transom of the amphibian 10. The conduit 214 (or each, if plural)
may take any suitable form. For example, the conduit 214 may be
open on the underside in the form of a channel, as shown, or may be
at least partially closed (across and/or lengthways of the conduit
214) by the hull 200 or other part of the amphibian 10 so as to
form a tunnel. Indeed, the conduit 214 may take the form of a tube
or tubes (e.g. a discrete part or formed by other parts of the
amphibian 10), either inside of the lower planing surface of the
hull 200, or otherwise. The cross section of the conduit 214 may be
vary, as shown, or may be substantially uniform along its length.
More particularly, the cross section of the conduit 214 may reduce
along its length in the rearward direction 2. Alternatively, the
cross section of the conduit 214 may increase along its length in
the rearward direction 2. The entry 215 to the conduit 214 may be
integrated with either one or more of the bow or bow portions 212,
222 of the hull portions 210, 220 or may be a discrete entry (such
as with a discrete tube). Preferably, the entry 215 to the conduit
214 is open at and/or to the front wheel bay 116. The exits 216
from the conduit 214 may be an exit (discrete or otherwise)
laterally to the side of the amphibian 10, or may be integrated
with either one or both of the hull portions 210, 220.
Alternatively, the conduit 214 may continue along a portion of, or
the entire length of, the amphibian 10 exiting at the rear stern or
transom, or into and/or at a rear wheel bays 126, 126' (as shown).
The or each conduit 214 provides for improved hydrodynamic
performance of the amphibian 10 when on water as the accumulation
of water in the front wheel bay 116 resulting from forward motion
of the amphibian 10 can travel along the or each conduit 214 as
well as or in place of having to pass under the bow portion 212 of
hull portion 210 and on under the hull 200. As before, further
improved hydrodynamic performance of the amphibian 10 can be
achieved by shaping of the conduit, both in terms of its entry 215,
exit 216, its path and its cross sectional area along its
length.
[0051] Although the hull 200 has been described as a hull, it is
common for amphibians to have a hull, which is a lower water
facing/engaging enclosure, and a body, which is an upward
enclosure. These may be joined together at a peripheral joint, as
disclosed in applicant's co-pending application published as U.S.
Application Publication No. 2006/0199499, which is incorporated
herein in its entirety by reference. In the alternative, a singular
hull can be used which may or may not have a lower body with a
separate but permanently attached upper body. Such a hull 200 can
provide attractive styling for the amphibian, can provide sealing
of the steering system against water ingress, can provide sealing
of the at least one wheel retraction system against water ingress,
and can provide mountings for desirable equipment such as an
instrument console, a windscreen and the like.
[0052] Whilst in certain embodiments the hull has been described as
comprising central and side portions, these are only exemplary and
other hull configurations are possible. For example, the hull may
comprise a main hull with forwardly positioned and laterally spaced
apart hull portions. The forwardly positioned and laterally spaced
apart hull portions may define a front wheel bay. Alternatively,
the hull may comprise two laterally spaced apart hull portions
running fore and aft, with a lower planing surface at least
partially joining the two laterally spaced apart hull portions. Yet
further, the hull may comprise one central and two laterally spaced
apart hull portions running fore and aft, with a lower planing
surface at least partially joining the centre and two laterally
spaced apart hull portions. The various hull forms may have a wheel
bay or discontinuity provided at a forward end of the hull.
[0053] The term "discontinuity" as used herein includes within its
ambit the simple provision, or forming of, a wheel bay in or on the
wet side or outside of the hull, and is not limited to a
discontinuity or other irregularity in, or through, the surface of
the hull. As such, a wheel bay (and in particular each of wheel
bays 116, 126 and 126') is a discontinuity in the hull.
[0054] As used herein, the term "outside" or "wet side" of the hull
is a side or surface of the hull exposed to water, as opposed to
the inside of the hull, which is normally substantially dry, being
effectively sealed against water ingress. Consequently, the front
and/or rear wheels 110, 120 located in the front and/or rear wheels
bays 116, 126, 126' are located on the outside or wet side of the
hull in both the protracted and retracted position. It is
acknowledged that a conventional engine compartment requires
ingress and egress of air for cooling, combustion and exhaust
purposes, but such air intakes and exhaust openings have
labyrynthine passages, commonly known as dorades, in order to
exclude as much water as possible from the "inside" or "dry side"
of the hull. That said, bilge or other pumps may be provided on the
"inside" or "dry side" of the hull to remove unwanted water.
[0055] The present invention may further comprise a frame, hull or
body form or other structure for supporting one or components or
sub-assemblies of the amphibian. The front wheel and front
suspension system can be mounted to said frame, hull or body form
or other structure mounted to said frame, and the rear wheel(s) and
rear suspension system(s) can also be mounted to said frame, hull
or body form or other structure mounted to said frame.
[0056] Each feature disclosed in this specification (including the
accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), may be replaced by
alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar
purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly
stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a
generic series of equivalent or similar features. In addition, all
of the features disclosed in this specification (including the
accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the
steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any
combination, except combinations where at least some of such
features and/or steps are mutually exclusive. Accordingly, while
different embodiments of the present invention have been described
above, any one or more or all of the features described,
illustrated and/or claimed in the appended claims may be used in
isolation or in various combinations in any embodiment. As such,
any one or more feature may be removed, substituted and/or added to
any of the feature combinations described, illustrated and/or
claimed. For the avoidance of doubt, any one or more of the
features of any embodiment may be combined and/or used separately
in a different embodiment with any other feature or features from
any of the embodiments.
[0057] The invention is not restricted to the illustrative
embodiments described above. Whereas the present invention has been
described in relation to what is presently considered to be the
most practical and preferred embodiments, it is to be understood
that the invention is not limited to the disclosed arrangements but
rather is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent
constructions included within the scope of the appended claims.
* * * * *