CA2324744A1 - Portable paddle assembly for a watercraft - Google Patents
Portable paddle assembly for a watercraft Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2324744A1 CA2324744A1 CA 2324744 CA2324744A CA2324744A1 CA 2324744 A1 CA2324744 A1 CA 2324744A1 CA 2324744 CA2324744 CA 2324744 CA 2324744 A CA2324744 A CA 2324744A CA 2324744 A1 CA2324744 A1 CA 2324744A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- propulsion system
- paddle
- assembly
- drive shaft
- paddles
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63H—MARINE PROPULSION OR STEERING
- B63H16/00—Marine propulsion by muscle power
- B63H16/08—Other apparatus for converting muscle power into propulsive effort
- B63H16/12—Other apparatus for converting muscle power into propulsive effort using hand levers, cranks, pedals, or the like, e.g. water cycles, boats propelled by boat-mounted pedal cycles
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63H—MARINE PROPULSION OR STEERING
- B63H1/00—Propulsive elements directly acting on water
- B63H1/02—Propulsive elements directly acting on water of rotary type
- B63H1/04—Propulsive elements directly acting on water of rotary type with rotation axis substantially at right angles to propulsive direction
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- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Ocean & Marine Engineering (AREA)
- Other Liquid Machine Or Engine Such As Wave Power Use (AREA)
Abstract
A multipurpose propulsion system for a personal watercraft comprises a pair of paddle assemblies and a drive shaft extending between the paddle assemblies to induce co-joint rotation thereof. A drive mechanism is coupled to the drive shaft and a pair of supports connect the drive shaft to the watercraft on opposite sides thereof to permit rotation about a common axis.
The drive shaft is connected to the paddle assemblies by a releasable coupling to permit ready disassembly thereof. The paddle assembly comprises a central hub and a plurality of paddles coupled to and radially extending from the central hub. Each of the plurality of paddles comprises a front surface and a rear surface, wherein the front surface of the paddles is oriented away from the personal watercraft when the paddle assembly is positioned adjacent thereto. The propulsion system is separable into a plurality of individual sections and is thereby portable. The propulsion system can also be assembled into alternate configurations for use as alternate paddle types, or can be combined with alternate attachments to provide a multipurpose functionality.
The drive shaft is connected to the paddle assemblies by a releasable coupling to permit ready disassembly thereof. The paddle assembly comprises a central hub and a plurality of paddles coupled to and radially extending from the central hub. Each of the plurality of paddles comprises a front surface and a rear surface, wherein the front surface of the paddles is oriented away from the personal watercraft when the paddle assembly is positioned adjacent thereto. The propulsion system is separable into a plurality of individual sections and is thereby portable. The propulsion system can also be assembled into alternate configurations for use as alternate paddle types, or can be combined with alternate attachments to provide a multipurpose functionality.
Description
..
PORTABLE PADDLE ASSEMBLY FOR A WATERCRAFT
The present invention relates to a propulsion assembly for a personal watercraft.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
A watercraft like a canoe or rowboat is traditionally propelled through the water by paddles or ores. The operation of paddles or oars can be tiresome on the arm and back muscles, in particular for people with physical ailments and disabilities. Current watercraft propulsion systems can restrict the operator to using either their feet or hands. Few options exist to balance physical fatigue between the upper and lower body while operating a watercraft. In an emergency or adverse weather conditions, propelling the watercraft by an individual while keeping it in a desired direction without slowing or stopping can be difficult.
One solution is to use a propulsion aid such as a paddle wheel. Current means for attaching a paddle wheel assembly to a watercraft is taught by Le Blanc in Canadian Pat. No.
1,316,411 ('441) and by Carlton in Canadian Pat. No. 329,367 ('367). The means of clamping taught in the '411 and '367 patents require altering the watercraft which may damage or structurally weaken the craft, provide a clamping system which is not easily removed while providing adequate security during operation. Installation of the above taught clamping systems may also require the use of additional tools and skill. A further disadvantage of the above paddle wheels is that they are devices that are typically dedicated to only one usage, i.e. aiding the propulsion and operation of the watercraft. This arrangement can be undesirable for journeys wherein the user has a limited number of equipment and/or weight that can be accommodated.
Accordingly, there is a need for a multifunctional apparatus that can be adapted to a variety of uses, including use as the propulsion aid when secured to the watercraft.
The complexity of present clamping systems requires an undesirable amount of time to install or remove the clamping systems from the watercraft. As such, these systems do not lend themselves to the practical activities of camping and portaging with a canoe, where one does not want to be bothered by having to carry bulky equipment and extra gear.
Moreover, present propulsion aids can lack the versatility to adjust to different users and/or watercraft configurations. Furthermore, the setup of present propulsions aids can restrict placement of the aid to one location within the watercraft. This arrangement can present difficulties in providing a customized setup of the aid in the watercraft, based on user preferences.
A further problem can exist when a component of the present propulsion aids breaks during operation. In situations where the user is far from their starting point, the user is faced with the prospect of carrying a bulky apparatus that is a transport liability rather than an asset.
Because the canoes may be used in shallow water, paddle assemblies of the paddle wheel are prone to damage from a variety of adjacent objects, such as rocks.
Breakage of individual paddle members may also occur during launching or removal of the watercraft from the water.
Damage to the paddles is sometimes preventable but when damage does occur, the damaged components are difficult to replace with new components.
A further problem with paddle wheels is that the use of the paddle assembly can generate splashing of water into the canoe and cause possible discomfort to the user. A
number of paddle wheel assemblies in the prior art, such as the '411 patent, teach the use of splash guards to protect the user from splashing. A disadvantage of this system is that the splash guards are bulky, they can restrict the surrounding view from the user, and they can hinder the user from access to the paddle members if desired.
It is an object of the present invention to obviate or mitigate some or all of the above mentioned disadvantages.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
One aspect of the present invention relates to a propulsion system for a personal watercraft comprises a pair of paddle assemblies and a drive shaft extending between the paddle assemblies to induce co joint rotation thereof. A drive mechanism is coupled to the drive shaft and a pair of supports connect the drive shaft to the watercraft on opposite sides thereof to permit rotation about a common axis. The drive shaft is connected to the paddle assemblies by a releasable coupling to permit ready disassembly thereof. The propulsion system is separable into individual sections and is thereby portable.
Another aspect of the present invention relates to a paddle assembly for positioning adjacent to a personal watercraft. The paddle assembly comprises a central hub and a plurality of paddles coupled to and radially extending from the central hub. A connector mechanism is ., used to couple the paddle assembly to a drive shaft. Each of the plurality of paddles comprises a front surface and a rear surface, wherein the front surface of the paddles is oriented away from the personal watercraft when the paddle assembly is positioned adjacent thereto.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
Figure 1 is an end view of a propulsion assembly;
Figure 2 is a side view of a propulsion assembly of Figure 1;
Figure 3 is an unassembled joint of Figure 2;
Figure 4 is a section 4-4 view of an assembled joint of Figure 2;
Figure 5 shows grips used with the propulsion assembly of Figure 2;
Figure 6 is a side view of a clamp assembly of Figure 2;
Figure 7 is a side section 7-7 view of Figure 6;
Figure 8 is a section 8-8 view of Figure 2;
Figure 9 shows variable position of a paddle assembly of Figure 2;
Figure 10 is a section view of Figure 2;
Figure 11 is an exploded view of the paddle assembly of Figure 2;
Figure 12 shows the propulsion assembly of Figure 1 in operation;
Figure 13 is an unassembled collection of components of the propulsion assembly of Figure 2;
Figure 14 is a further embodiment of Figure 2;
Figure 15 is a further embodiment of Figure 2;
Figure 16 is a further embodiment of a clamp assembly of Figure 6;
Figure 17 is a section 17-17 view of Figure 16;
Figure 18 demonstrates an operation of the embodiment of Figure 16.;
Figure 19 another operation of the embodiment of Figure 16;
Figure 20 is a further embodiment of the propulsion assembly of Figure 2;
Figure 21 is a further embodiment of the joint of Figure 3;
Figure 22 is a further embodiment of the joint of Figure 4;
PORTABLE PADDLE ASSEMBLY FOR A WATERCRAFT
The present invention relates to a propulsion assembly for a personal watercraft.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
A watercraft like a canoe or rowboat is traditionally propelled through the water by paddles or ores. The operation of paddles or oars can be tiresome on the arm and back muscles, in particular for people with physical ailments and disabilities. Current watercraft propulsion systems can restrict the operator to using either their feet or hands. Few options exist to balance physical fatigue between the upper and lower body while operating a watercraft. In an emergency or adverse weather conditions, propelling the watercraft by an individual while keeping it in a desired direction without slowing or stopping can be difficult.
One solution is to use a propulsion aid such as a paddle wheel. Current means for attaching a paddle wheel assembly to a watercraft is taught by Le Blanc in Canadian Pat. No.
1,316,411 ('441) and by Carlton in Canadian Pat. No. 329,367 ('367). The means of clamping taught in the '411 and '367 patents require altering the watercraft which may damage or structurally weaken the craft, provide a clamping system which is not easily removed while providing adequate security during operation. Installation of the above taught clamping systems may also require the use of additional tools and skill. A further disadvantage of the above paddle wheels is that they are devices that are typically dedicated to only one usage, i.e. aiding the propulsion and operation of the watercraft. This arrangement can be undesirable for journeys wherein the user has a limited number of equipment and/or weight that can be accommodated.
Accordingly, there is a need for a multifunctional apparatus that can be adapted to a variety of uses, including use as the propulsion aid when secured to the watercraft.
The complexity of present clamping systems requires an undesirable amount of time to install or remove the clamping systems from the watercraft. As such, these systems do not lend themselves to the practical activities of camping and portaging with a canoe, where one does not want to be bothered by having to carry bulky equipment and extra gear.
Moreover, present propulsion aids can lack the versatility to adjust to different users and/or watercraft configurations. Furthermore, the setup of present propulsions aids can restrict placement of the aid to one location within the watercraft. This arrangement can present difficulties in providing a customized setup of the aid in the watercraft, based on user preferences.
A further problem can exist when a component of the present propulsion aids breaks during operation. In situations where the user is far from their starting point, the user is faced with the prospect of carrying a bulky apparatus that is a transport liability rather than an asset.
Because the canoes may be used in shallow water, paddle assemblies of the paddle wheel are prone to damage from a variety of adjacent objects, such as rocks.
Breakage of individual paddle members may also occur during launching or removal of the watercraft from the water.
Damage to the paddles is sometimes preventable but when damage does occur, the damaged components are difficult to replace with new components.
A further problem with paddle wheels is that the use of the paddle assembly can generate splashing of water into the canoe and cause possible discomfort to the user. A
number of paddle wheel assemblies in the prior art, such as the '411 patent, teach the use of splash guards to protect the user from splashing. A disadvantage of this system is that the splash guards are bulky, they can restrict the surrounding view from the user, and they can hinder the user from access to the paddle members if desired.
It is an object of the present invention to obviate or mitigate some or all of the above mentioned disadvantages.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
One aspect of the present invention relates to a propulsion system for a personal watercraft comprises a pair of paddle assemblies and a drive shaft extending between the paddle assemblies to induce co joint rotation thereof. A drive mechanism is coupled to the drive shaft and a pair of supports connect the drive shaft to the watercraft on opposite sides thereof to permit rotation about a common axis. The drive shaft is connected to the paddle assemblies by a releasable coupling to permit ready disassembly thereof. The propulsion system is separable into individual sections and is thereby portable.
Another aspect of the present invention relates to a paddle assembly for positioning adjacent to a personal watercraft. The paddle assembly comprises a central hub and a plurality of paddles coupled to and radially extending from the central hub. A connector mechanism is ., used to couple the paddle assembly to a drive shaft. Each of the plurality of paddles comprises a front surface and a rear surface, wherein the front surface of the paddles is oriented away from the personal watercraft when the paddle assembly is positioned adjacent thereto.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
Figure 1 is an end view of a propulsion assembly;
Figure 2 is a side view of a propulsion assembly of Figure 1;
Figure 3 is an unassembled joint of Figure 2;
Figure 4 is a section 4-4 view of an assembled joint of Figure 2;
Figure 5 shows grips used with the propulsion assembly of Figure 2;
Figure 6 is a side view of a clamp assembly of Figure 2;
Figure 7 is a side section 7-7 view of Figure 6;
Figure 8 is a section 8-8 view of Figure 2;
Figure 9 shows variable position of a paddle assembly of Figure 2;
Figure 10 is a section view of Figure 2;
Figure 11 is an exploded view of the paddle assembly of Figure 2;
Figure 12 shows the propulsion assembly of Figure 1 in operation;
Figure 13 is an unassembled collection of components of the propulsion assembly of Figure 2;
Figure 14 is a further embodiment of Figure 2;
Figure 15 is a further embodiment of Figure 2;
Figure 16 is a further embodiment of a clamp assembly of Figure 6;
Figure 17 is a section 17-17 view of Figure 16;
Figure 18 demonstrates an operation of the embodiment of Figure 16.;
Figure 19 another operation of the embodiment of Figure 16;
Figure 20 is a further embodiment of the propulsion assembly of Figure 2;
Figure 21 is a further embodiment of the joint of Figure 3;
Figure 22 is a further embodiment of the joint of Figure 4;
Figure 23 is a further embodiment of the hinge assembly of Figure 8;
Figure 24 shows the operation of the hinge of Figure 23;
Figure 25 is a side view of a clip for the propulsion assembly of Figure 20;
Figure 26 is an end view of the clip of Figure 25;
Figure 27 is a further embodiment of the grips of Figure 5;
Figure 28 is a perspective view of an assembled grip of Figure 27;
Figure 29 is an alternate embodiment of the clamp of Figure 6;
Figure 30 is an alternate embodiment of the clamp of Figure 7;
Figure 31 is a side view of a sail attachment of Figure 14;
Figure 32 is a handle grip for the propulsion assembly of Figure 20;
Figure 33 is an alternate paddle configuration of Figure 20;
Figure 34 is a further paddle configuration of Figure 20;
Figure 35 shows various types of paddle blades;
Figure 36 shows various attachments to the assembly of Figure 20;
Figure 37 is a further embodiment of Figure 13; and Figure 38 demonstrates a splash guard of the assembly of Figure 20; and Figure 39 is a further embodiment of Figure 3.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Referring to Figures 1 and 2, a propulsion assembly 10 includes a crank assembly 12 connected to a pair of paddle assemblies 14 by two drive shafts 16. The drive shafts 16 are fastened to a pair of gunwhales 18 of a canoe 20 by a pair of clamp assemblies 22. A user 24 can operate the crank assembly 12, thereby rotating the paddle assemblies 14 as indicated by arrow 26 to propel the canoe 20 through the water 28 by feet, or by hand as indicated in ghosted view by arrow 11.
As shown in Figure 2, the crank assembly 12 has a pair of cranks 30 into which the user 24 places their hands or feet. A pair of ergonomically designed grips 32 (Figure S), adapted for either the hands or feet, are clipped onto a base member 34 of the crank 30.
An exterior surface of the base member 34 and an interior surface of the grips 32 are preferably smooth and of a circular cross section, to facilitate relative rotational displacement therebetween during operation of the crank assembly 12. The cranks 30 are connected to each other by a cross piece 38. A gap 25 is provided between the crank assembly 12 and the bottom 21 of the canoe 20, to facilitate prior positioning of the area for either hand or foot operation of the propulsion assembly 10.
Referring to Figure 3, a joint assembly 58 is used to connect the crank assembly 12 with the drive shafts 16. The joint assembly 58 includes a female connector 40 at opposite ends of the crank assembly 12 and an associated male connector 46. The female connector 40 is tubular in cross section, has a bore 42, and two holes 44. The male connector 46 is also tubular, with the exterior diameter slightly smaller than the inside diameter of the bore 42.
This permits the male connector 46 to be received in the bore 42 of the female connector 40. The male connector 46 also has two holes 48, which are alignable with the holes 44 of the female connector 40. A
spring clip 50 is attached to an interior 52 of the male connector 46 and has two nodules 60 that engage the holes 44, 48 to retain releasably the connection of the drive shafts 16 with the crank assembly 12.
The spring clip 50, preferably made of spring steel, has a base 54 attached to the interior 52 and a spring arm 56 attached to the base 54. The two nodules 60 are hollow, semi-spherical, and are spaced apart in a manner corresponding to the spacing of two sets of holes 44, 48. The holes 44, 48 and the nodules 60 are preferably of similar diameter. Refernng to Figure 4, the joint 58 is assembled when the male connector 46 is received by the bore 42 of the female connector 40. The spring force of the clip 50 forces the nodules 60 radially outwards and into a passageway 62 formed by the aligned holes 44, 48, thereby forming a releasably secure connection between the connectors 40, 46. The nodules 60 restrict relative rotational displacement between the connectors 40, 46 when assembled and permit a transfer of torque during rotation of the crank assembly 12. A steel ball 64 may be pressed into the interior 66 of the nodule 60, in order to resist deformation of the hollow nodule 60 due to shear forces between the female connector 40 and the male connector 46. The disassembly of the joint 58 is obtained by depressing the nodule 60 radially inward and removing the male connector 46 from the bore 42 of the female connector 40. Assembly and disassembly of the joint 58 can be accomplished by the user 24 without the aid of additional tools.
Referring to Figures 1 and 5, one of the male connectors 46 is positioned at one end 67 of the drive shaft 16. A series of holes 68 are distributed in an axially spaced relationship on the drive shaft 16. The holes 68 permit a placement of the clamp assembly 22 at various axial locations on the drive shaft 16, in order to accommodate canoes 20 of different dimensions.
Cotter pin 70 is clipped into a selected one of the holes 68 to restrict axial displacement of a clamp washer 72 towards the crank assembly 12. A similar cotter pin 74 and a clamp washer 76 are located on the opposite side the crank assembly 12. The two cotter pins 70, 74 and clamp washers 72, 76 locates the position of the crank assembly 12 between the gun whales 18, when the drive shafts 16 are attached to the canoe 20 by means of the clamp assemblies 22.
The clamp assemblies 22, shown in Figures 5, 6, 7, consist of a bushing 78 made of a resilient material such as plastic or hard rubber. A cutout 80 extends along the length of the bushing 78. The cutout 80 facilitates attachment of the clamp assembly 22 to the drive shaft 16, by passing the driveshaft 16 through the cutout 80 and into the interior 82.
The interior diameter of the bushing 78 is slightly larger than that of the exterior diameter of the drive shaft 16. This difference in diameters provides retention of the drive shaft 16 in the interior 82, once inserted, and permits relative rotational displacement between the components 16, 22. A
reinforcement strip 84 is attached by threaded fasteners 86 to the bushing 78. Attached to the bushing 78 by the fastener 86 is a C-clamp 88, which permits the secure attachment of the clamp assembly 22 to be to the gunwhales 18 of the canoe 20. Protective pads 90, made out of resilient material such as rubber, may be employed to cover a mating surface 92 of the C-clamp 88. These pads 90 can be employed to protect the gunwhales 18 from damage during repeated installation on the canoe 20 of the propulsion assembly 10. A safety rope 93 can be employed to couple the propulsion assembly 10 to the canoe 20, in the event the drive shaft 16 is disconnected from the clamp assemblies 22. An additional safety rope 93 can be employed to connect the clamp assemblies 22 to the canoe 20, if desired.
A pair of extensions 94, shown in Figure 8, are attached to the drive shafts 16 by a pair of corresponding hinge plates 96. The hinge plates 96 are securely attached to an opposite end 98 of the drive shaft 16 by threaded fasteners 100. The extension 94 is securely attached to the hinge plate 96 by a pin joint 102, which allows for pivoting motion of the extension 94 with respect to the drive shaft 16 as shown in Figure 9. A series of aligned holes 104 in the plate 96 and the extension 94, in combination with a spring clip 106 attached to the interior 108 of the extension 94, permits a releasably secure connection when the extension 94 is rotated into one of the three positions 110, 112, 114. The operation of the releasable connection is similar to that described above with reference to Figure 4. As shown in Figure 9, position 110 is employed during operation of the propulsion assembly 10. Position 112 can be used when the canoe 20 is in shallow water to hold the paddle assemblies 14 out of the water, to prevent damage to the paddle assemblies 14. Position 114 can be employed when placing the canoe 20 beside a dock 116.
Positions 112 and 114 also facilitate the use of other paddles or oars while the propulsion 10 is attached to the canoe 20.
The paddle assemblies 14, as shown in Figures 10 and 11, comprise a central hub 118 consisting of a plurality of spokes 119. The hub 118 is attached by the female connector to the male connector 46 of the extension 94. The female connector 40 is secured to the central hub 118 by means of a threaded fastener 120 and a series of washers 122. The washers 122 are employed to inhibit relative rotational displacement between the hub 118 and the connector 40.
Each of a series of paddles 123 comprises a blade 124 attached to a paddle arm 126 by threaded fasteners 128, or by corresponding spring clips 50 and holes 44, 48 if desired. The paddle arm 126 is connected to the central hub 118 by means of the male connector 46, that is the same as that used to attach the drive shafts 16 to the crank assembly 12. The holes 130 on the female connector of the hub 118 are aligned so as to orient a surface 132 of the paddle blades 124 outwardly away from the canoe 20. This outward orientation of the blades 124 inhibits splashing of the user 24 during operation of the propulsion assembly 10. This is accomplished by directing water running off the blades 124, away from the canoe 20, as indicated by arrow 134 in Figure 12. The surface 132 of the blades 124 is of a cupped profile both axially and laterally. The lateral cupped profile enhances the redirection 134 of the water. The axial cupped profile enhances axial rigidity of the blade 124 and inhibits bending 137 of the blade tip 136 during operation, shown in ghosted view in Figure 10.
In operation of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the individual unassembled components are removed from a case 136 as shown in Figure 13. The grips 32 are clipped onto the crank assembly 12, which is subsequently connected to the drive shafts 16. The paddles 123 are coupled to the spokes 119 of the central hubs 118, which is fiu-ther coupled to the extensions 94. The bushings 78 of the clamp assemblies 22 are clipped onto the drive shafts 16. The location of the clamp assemblies 22 on the drive shafts 16 are fixed into position by the cotter pins 70, 74 and clamp washers 72, 76. The C-clamps 88 of the clamp assemblies 22 are then fastened to the gun-whales 18 of the canoe 20, thereby attaching the assembled propulsion assembly 10 to the canoe 20. The extensions 94 may then be placed in positions 112 or 114.
The user 24 then enters the canoe 20 and navigates by a traditional paddle (not shown) until the paddle assemblies 14 can be lowered into position 110. At this point the user 24 then places either his feet or his hands into the grips 132, depending upon the sitting position chosen in the canoe 20. The crank assembly 12 is then rotated in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, thereby propelling the canoe 20 in either a forward or backward direction respectively.
The canoe 20 can be steered during operation of the propulsion assembly 10 by a traditional canoe paddle, or by adjusting ones position within the canoe 20. Upon disembarking from the canoe 20, the user 24 may choose to disassemble the propulsion assembly 10 in a reverse order to that described above. Upon disassembly, the individual components of the propulsion assembly 10 can be returned to the case 136. The case 136 is preferably compact enough to facilitate portability of the propulsion assembly 10 by the user 24 and for seasonal storage.
The resiliency of the bushings 78, and the provision of the cutout 80, permit the drive shafts 16 to automatically release from the clamp assemblies 22 if the paddle assemblies 24 hit an obstruction. This helps to prevent damage to the assembly 10 and gunwhales 18, due to 1 S sudden forces applied to the C-clamps 88. The design of the clamp assemblies 22 also facilitates removal of the propulsion assembly 10 from the canoe 20, without first removing the C-clamps 88.
The propulsion assembly 10 is rigid enough to aid a user 24 in propulsion of the canoe 20, while at the same time is separable into individual sections that are manageable and can be placed into a relatively small carrying bag 136 for ease of transportation, as shown in Figure 13.
The use of releasably secure joints 58 allows the user 24 to replace broken components, such as paddles 123, in situations where traditional tools such as a wrench are not available or are awkward to use. The option of using the hands or the feet to operate the crank assembly 12, provides for operation of the propulsion assembly 10 in a variety of situations.
An alternative embodiment, shown in Figure 14, includes a sail 138. The sail 138 may be is fastened at opposite ends to the extensions 94, when they are placed in position 112. A pin 139 may be inserted in an aligned hole 141 through the clamp assembly 22 and drive shaft 16, in order to restrict rotation of the drive shafts 16 in the bushings 78.
In a further embodiment, as shown in Figure 15, a pair of pontoons 140 are coupled to the extensions 94. The pontoon 140 is attached to the female connector 40 by a series of support arms 42. The pontoon 140 may be used in rough water conditions or in other situations where added stability of the canoe is desired.
A further embodiment of the present invention comprises a swing assembly 142, which includes a C-clamp 143 to attach the assembly 142 to a crossbar 144 of the canoe 20, as shown in Figure 16. A clevis 146 is connected to the C-clamp 143 by a pin joint 148.
The pin joint 148 includes an aligned hole 152 in both the clevis 146 and the C-clamp 143. A pin 154 is received in the hole 152 and retained by a cotter pin 156, as shown in Figure 17. The pin joint 148 allows for rotation of the assembly 142 about an axis 150.
A bar 158 is bolted to the clevis 146 at one end and is fastened to a clamp assembly 160 at the other end, by means of a pin joint 162. The clamp assembly 160 is supported by a "U"
shaped holder 165. The clamp assembly 160 is similar in form and function to the clamp assembly 22 of Figures 6 and 7 and will therefore not be described further.
The pin joint162 allows or rotation of the clamp assembly 160 about an axis 164. This rotation of the clamp assembly 160 facilitates steering of the propulsion assembly 10 connected to the swing assembly 142, as shown in Figure 18.
Use of the swing assembly 142, over that of the pair of clamp assemblies 22, provides for a transfer of the propulsion assembly 10 from the user 24 to a second user 166 in the canoe 20, shown in Figure 19. This transfer can be accomplished without the users 24 and 166 switching seating positions in the canoe 20.
A further embodiment of the propulsion assembly 10 is shown in Figure 20, wherein a driveshaft 16 has a telescoping portion 200. The telescoping portion 200 can be used to increase the length of the paddle assembly 10 for accommodating different widths of watercraft 20 or a distance between the gunwhales 18 and paddle assembly 14. The spokes 119 of the paddle assemblies 14 can also have telescoping portions 202 for adjusting the depth of paddle penetration into the water 28.
Refernng to Figures 21 and 22 wherein like numerals with a suffix "a" refer to similar components to those of preceding figures, a joint assembly 58a has a spring clip 50a to mate portions 208, 209 of telescoping section 200 to one another. The series of holes 44a, 48a when aligned, readily permit extension of the sections 208, 209 with respect to one another as indicated by arrow 210. The spring clip 50a has a solid button head 60a to be received by the bore formed when respective ones of holes 44a, 48a are aligned. The portion 209 also has a tube end protector 212 for hindering damage to the exposed tube end during handling of the unassembled components of the assembly 20. The protectors 212 are used to help retain the original cross sectional shape of the tube ends so that insertion of one tube into the mating tube of the connection 58a is facilitated. The protectors 212 can also be applied to other tube ends of the assembly 20 as desired. The protector 212 can be made of a rubber or plastic material if desired.
Referring to Figures 20, 23 and 24, a hinge assembly 214 includes a pin joint connecting driveshaft 16 with shaft 218, which connects to the remainder of the driveshaft 16 by means of pin 50a and corresponding hole 48. The hinge assembly 214 also includes a sleeve 220, which can be displaced along drivesha$ 16, as indicated by arrow 222. A
spring 224 is situated around the driveshaft 16 and between the sleeve 220 and connector 40.
The spring 224 is used to bias the sleeve 220 over the section of the hinge assembly 214 containing the pin joint 216.
When the sleeve 220 is secured releasably over the section in an extended position, as shown in Figure 23, the sleeve 220 inhibits potential angular displacement of section 218 with respect to the drive shaft 16 (shown by arrow 222). The extended sleeve 220 facilitates substantial alignment of the rotational axis of sections 218 and 16, thereby permitting co joint rotation of section 216 and 16 during operation of the crank assembly 12. As can be seen in Figure 24, retraction of the sleeve 220 by the user 24 towards the connector 40 allows the user to rotate the paddle assembly 14 towards the interior of the canoe 20. The extended position of the sleeve 220 and corresponding spatial relationships between the driveshaft 16 and section 218 is shown in ghosted view.
Referring to Figures 20, 25, and 26, a further embodiment of the cotter pin 70 (see Figure 5 ) is a ring clip 222. The clip 222 is connected to the driveshaft 16 and positioned adjacent to the clamp assembly 22 for inhibiting lateral displacement of the attached propulsion assembly 10 with respect to the canoe 20. The ring clip 222 has a spool portion 224 with an interior 226 that is of a sufficient diameter to position the clip 222 on the drive shaft 16.
The clip 222 also has a pair of endwalls 228, whereby one of the endwalls 228 can abut against an end of the adjacent clamp assembly 22. The clip 222 also has a clip ring 230 with a corresponding head 232. The head 232 is inserted into a selected one of the holes 48a in the driveshaft 16 (see Figure 21), in order to releasably secure the clip 222 to a user selected location along the driveshaft 16. The user can force tab 234 of the ring 230 away from the spool portion 224, in order to release the head 232 from the selected hole 48a once inserted. The clip ring 230 is preferably made of a flexible material, such as but not limited to spring steel. It should be noted that both clips 222 may not be in direct abutment with their respective clamp assemblies 22 during operation of the S assembly 10. Some lateral displacement of the assembly 10 with respect to the canoe 20 can be accommodated, depending upon the degree of inter-hole spacings between holes 48a on the shaft 16.
Referring to Figures 27 and 28, the grips 32a,b are attached to the base member 34a of the crank 30a. The grip 32a is shaped to accommodate a user's hand 236 and grip 32b a user's foot 238. The grip 32b can be secured releasably to the grip 32a by a strap 240, such as but not limited to a velcro strap. This arrangement facilitates adaptation of the propulsion assembly 10 to be operated by either the user's hands 236 or feet 238, as shown in Figure 1.
Referring to Figures 29 and 30, a clamp assembly 22a can be releasably secured to the driveshaft 16 by a strap 93a. The strap 93a helps to retain the driveshaft 16 when placed in the clamp assembly 22, as shown in Figure 29. Figure 30 shows the strap 93a in an unassembled state whereby the shaft 16 is removed from the clamp assembly 22a. It should be noted that the strap 93a is attached to the clamp 88. It should also be noted that the clamp 88 can be other than a C-clamp as shown, as long as the clamp 88 can secure the clamp assembly 22a to the canoe 20.
Regarding Figures 14, 29, 30, and 31, an elbow connector 242 is secured to the clamp assembly 22a by bolts 244. The sail 138 can be fastened to extensions 246, which can be connected to the elbow connector 242. This arrangement facilitates attachment of the sail 138 to the propulsion assembly 10. It should be noted that the cutout 80a of the clamp 22a can also be situated opposite to the gunwhale 18, as shown.
Refernng to Figures 20 and 32, a paddle handle 248 can also be coupled to the assembly 10. The handle 248 is preferably made of foam or other resilient material and can be provided with ergonomical grooves 256. A central bore 252 of the handle 248 is of a sufficient diameter to slide over the exterior surface of the driveshaft 16. The handle 248 also includes a female connector 40, which can be secured to an adjacent shaft 254 by a corresponding clip 50 and holes 44, 48 arrangement. As can be seen in Figures 33 and 34, components of the assembly 10 can be used to configure emergency paddles 256 and/or a Kayak paddle 258. It should be noted that the flotation portions 206, drive shaft 16, and paddle blades 124 can be used to assemble the alternate paddle configurations 256, 258. The paddle 256, 258 can be used in situations where portions of the complete paddle assembly 10 are broken, thereby hindering its operation, or in situations where a different propulsion aid other than the complete assembly 10 is desired by the user 24.
Figure 35 shows various example configurations of paddle blades 124, such as symmetrical 124a and asymmetrical 124b shaped blades. In addition, Figure 36 provides alternate attachments that can be used to provide a multipurpose functionality when assembled in conjunction with selected components of the assembly 10.
Figure 37 shows the propulsion assembly 10 in a disassembled form including elbow 214, telescoping shafts 200 for the paddle assembly 14 and driveshaft 16, flotation devices 206, 207, and paddle handle 248.
It should be noted that the devices 206, 207, and 248 can also act as drip rings when connected to the drive shaft 16 and used in operation of the assembly 10.
Figure 38 also shows a splash guard 260 that can be attached to the canoe 20 by clamps 88 and elbow connector 242 if desired. The sail 138 could also be used as the guard 260, if desired.
Referring to Figure 39, wherein like elements with a suffix "b" refer to similar elements of preceding figures, a spring clip 50b is used to connect a crank 30b to a driveshaft 16b. The clip 50b has solid heads 60b and 262 attached to a spring member 264, which biases the heads 60b and 262 to extend through holes 44b located in the crank 30b. The heads 60b and 262 have a sufficient resistance to shear, so that they can transfer torque generated by the crank 30b to the driveshaft 16b. In an unassembled state of Figure 39a, the driveshaft 16b is oriented so that the holes 48b are in line with holes 44b. Referring to Figure 39b in an assembled state, the holes 44b and 48b are aligned by inserting an end of crank 30b into the corresponding end of driveshaft 16b. Once aligned, the heads 262 extend through holes 44b and 48b for releasably securing crank 30b to shaft 16b. Upon disassembly the user 24 depresses heads 60b, so that heads 262 are disengaged from the holes 48b, and then removes crank 30b from the driveshaft 16b.
It should be noted that although a canoe 20 is employed in the preferred embodiments of the present invention, the propulsion assembly 10 could also be used with other watercra$ such as rowboats, duckboats, sailboats, kayaks and dugouts and the like. Releasably secured joints other than those shown may also be employed, if desired. The hinge plate 96 can be attached to the end 98 of the drive shaft by a coupling similar to the joint assembly 58.
The coupling can also facilitate the direct connection of the end 98 of the drive shaft 16 to the adjacent end of the extension 94. A length of the paddle arms 126 may be adjustable to accommodate various S heights of watercraft, if desired. The shaft components are preferably made of telescopic aluminum tube, but other rigid materials could be substituted such as steel, plastic, or those manufactured from composite fibers. The crank assembly 12 is preferably made from stainless steel but other rigid materials could also be used, if desired. A buoyant material, such as foam or cork, may be installed in the interiors of the tubes in order to provide for floatation of the components. Floatation devices 206, 207 may also be coupled to the exterior of the components as well, as shown in Figure 20. These floatation devices 206, 207 can be ergonomically designed to include grips, as shown in Figures 32, for helping the user 24 to lift and carry the various corresponding components of the assembly 20 in either assembled or disassembled configurations. The paddle blades 124 are preferably made from a rigid yet resilient material, such as plastic, fiberglass, and wood.
Although the invention has been described with reference to certain specific embodiments, various modifications thereof will be apparent in those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as outlined in the claims appended hereto.
Figure 24 shows the operation of the hinge of Figure 23;
Figure 25 is a side view of a clip for the propulsion assembly of Figure 20;
Figure 26 is an end view of the clip of Figure 25;
Figure 27 is a further embodiment of the grips of Figure 5;
Figure 28 is a perspective view of an assembled grip of Figure 27;
Figure 29 is an alternate embodiment of the clamp of Figure 6;
Figure 30 is an alternate embodiment of the clamp of Figure 7;
Figure 31 is a side view of a sail attachment of Figure 14;
Figure 32 is a handle grip for the propulsion assembly of Figure 20;
Figure 33 is an alternate paddle configuration of Figure 20;
Figure 34 is a further paddle configuration of Figure 20;
Figure 35 shows various types of paddle blades;
Figure 36 shows various attachments to the assembly of Figure 20;
Figure 37 is a further embodiment of Figure 13; and Figure 38 demonstrates a splash guard of the assembly of Figure 20; and Figure 39 is a further embodiment of Figure 3.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Referring to Figures 1 and 2, a propulsion assembly 10 includes a crank assembly 12 connected to a pair of paddle assemblies 14 by two drive shafts 16. The drive shafts 16 are fastened to a pair of gunwhales 18 of a canoe 20 by a pair of clamp assemblies 22. A user 24 can operate the crank assembly 12, thereby rotating the paddle assemblies 14 as indicated by arrow 26 to propel the canoe 20 through the water 28 by feet, or by hand as indicated in ghosted view by arrow 11.
As shown in Figure 2, the crank assembly 12 has a pair of cranks 30 into which the user 24 places their hands or feet. A pair of ergonomically designed grips 32 (Figure S), adapted for either the hands or feet, are clipped onto a base member 34 of the crank 30.
An exterior surface of the base member 34 and an interior surface of the grips 32 are preferably smooth and of a circular cross section, to facilitate relative rotational displacement therebetween during operation of the crank assembly 12. The cranks 30 are connected to each other by a cross piece 38. A gap 25 is provided between the crank assembly 12 and the bottom 21 of the canoe 20, to facilitate prior positioning of the area for either hand or foot operation of the propulsion assembly 10.
Referring to Figure 3, a joint assembly 58 is used to connect the crank assembly 12 with the drive shafts 16. The joint assembly 58 includes a female connector 40 at opposite ends of the crank assembly 12 and an associated male connector 46. The female connector 40 is tubular in cross section, has a bore 42, and two holes 44. The male connector 46 is also tubular, with the exterior diameter slightly smaller than the inside diameter of the bore 42.
This permits the male connector 46 to be received in the bore 42 of the female connector 40. The male connector 46 also has two holes 48, which are alignable with the holes 44 of the female connector 40. A
spring clip 50 is attached to an interior 52 of the male connector 46 and has two nodules 60 that engage the holes 44, 48 to retain releasably the connection of the drive shafts 16 with the crank assembly 12.
The spring clip 50, preferably made of spring steel, has a base 54 attached to the interior 52 and a spring arm 56 attached to the base 54. The two nodules 60 are hollow, semi-spherical, and are spaced apart in a manner corresponding to the spacing of two sets of holes 44, 48. The holes 44, 48 and the nodules 60 are preferably of similar diameter. Refernng to Figure 4, the joint 58 is assembled when the male connector 46 is received by the bore 42 of the female connector 40. The spring force of the clip 50 forces the nodules 60 radially outwards and into a passageway 62 formed by the aligned holes 44, 48, thereby forming a releasably secure connection between the connectors 40, 46. The nodules 60 restrict relative rotational displacement between the connectors 40, 46 when assembled and permit a transfer of torque during rotation of the crank assembly 12. A steel ball 64 may be pressed into the interior 66 of the nodule 60, in order to resist deformation of the hollow nodule 60 due to shear forces between the female connector 40 and the male connector 46. The disassembly of the joint 58 is obtained by depressing the nodule 60 radially inward and removing the male connector 46 from the bore 42 of the female connector 40. Assembly and disassembly of the joint 58 can be accomplished by the user 24 without the aid of additional tools.
Referring to Figures 1 and 5, one of the male connectors 46 is positioned at one end 67 of the drive shaft 16. A series of holes 68 are distributed in an axially spaced relationship on the drive shaft 16. The holes 68 permit a placement of the clamp assembly 22 at various axial locations on the drive shaft 16, in order to accommodate canoes 20 of different dimensions.
Cotter pin 70 is clipped into a selected one of the holes 68 to restrict axial displacement of a clamp washer 72 towards the crank assembly 12. A similar cotter pin 74 and a clamp washer 76 are located on the opposite side the crank assembly 12. The two cotter pins 70, 74 and clamp washers 72, 76 locates the position of the crank assembly 12 between the gun whales 18, when the drive shafts 16 are attached to the canoe 20 by means of the clamp assemblies 22.
The clamp assemblies 22, shown in Figures 5, 6, 7, consist of a bushing 78 made of a resilient material such as plastic or hard rubber. A cutout 80 extends along the length of the bushing 78. The cutout 80 facilitates attachment of the clamp assembly 22 to the drive shaft 16, by passing the driveshaft 16 through the cutout 80 and into the interior 82.
The interior diameter of the bushing 78 is slightly larger than that of the exterior diameter of the drive shaft 16. This difference in diameters provides retention of the drive shaft 16 in the interior 82, once inserted, and permits relative rotational displacement between the components 16, 22. A
reinforcement strip 84 is attached by threaded fasteners 86 to the bushing 78. Attached to the bushing 78 by the fastener 86 is a C-clamp 88, which permits the secure attachment of the clamp assembly 22 to be to the gunwhales 18 of the canoe 20. Protective pads 90, made out of resilient material such as rubber, may be employed to cover a mating surface 92 of the C-clamp 88. These pads 90 can be employed to protect the gunwhales 18 from damage during repeated installation on the canoe 20 of the propulsion assembly 10. A safety rope 93 can be employed to couple the propulsion assembly 10 to the canoe 20, in the event the drive shaft 16 is disconnected from the clamp assemblies 22. An additional safety rope 93 can be employed to connect the clamp assemblies 22 to the canoe 20, if desired.
A pair of extensions 94, shown in Figure 8, are attached to the drive shafts 16 by a pair of corresponding hinge plates 96. The hinge plates 96 are securely attached to an opposite end 98 of the drive shaft 16 by threaded fasteners 100. The extension 94 is securely attached to the hinge plate 96 by a pin joint 102, which allows for pivoting motion of the extension 94 with respect to the drive shaft 16 as shown in Figure 9. A series of aligned holes 104 in the plate 96 and the extension 94, in combination with a spring clip 106 attached to the interior 108 of the extension 94, permits a releasably secure connection when the extension 94 is rotated into one of the three positions 110, 112, 114. The operation of the releasable connection is similar to that described above with reference to Figure 4. As shown in Figure 9, position 110 is employed during operation of the propulsion assembly 10. Position 112 can be used when the canoe 20 is in shallow water to hold the paddle assemblies 14 out of the water, to prevent damage to the paddle assemblies 14. Position 114 can be employed when placing the canoe 20 beside a dock 116.
Positions 112 and 114 also facilitate the use of other paddles or oars while the propulsion 10 is attached to the canoe 20.
The paddle assemblies 14, as shown in Figures 10 and 11, comprise a central hub 118 consisting of a plurality of spokes 119. The hub 118 is attached by the female connector to the male connector 46 of the extension 94. The female connector 40 is secured to the central hub 118 by means of a threaded fastener 120 and a series of washers 122. The washers 122 are employed to inhibit relative rotational displacement between the hub 118 and the connector 40.
Each of a series of paddles 123 comprises a blade 124 attached to a paddle arm 126 by threaded fasteners 128, or by corresponding spring clips 50 and holes 44, 48 if desired. The paddle arm 126 is connected to the central hub 118 by means of the male connector 46, that is the same as that used to attach the drive shafts 16 to the crank assembly 12. The holes 130 on the female connector of the hub 118 are aligned so as to orient a surface 132 of the paddle blades 124 outwardly away from the canoe 20. This outward orientation of the blades 124 inhibits splashing of the user 24 during operation of the propulsion assembly 10. This is accomplished by directing water running off the blades 124, away from the canoe 20, as indicated by arrow 134 in Figure 12. The surface 132 of the blades 124 is of a cupped profile both axially and laterally. The lateral cupped profile enhances the redirection 134 of the water. The axial cupped profile enhances axial rigidity of the blade 124 and inhibits bending 137 of the blade tip 136 during operation, shown in ghosted view in Figure 10.
In operation of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the individual unassembled components are removed from a case 136 as shown in Figure 13. The grips 32 are clipped onto the crank assembly 12, which is subsequently connected to the drive shafts 16. The paddles 123 are coupled to the spokes 119 of the central hubs 118, which is fiu-ther coupled to the extensions 94. The bushings 78 of the clamp assemblies 22 are clipped onto the drive shafts 16. The location of the clamp assemblies 22 on the drive shafts 16 are fixed into position by the cotter pins 70, 74 and clamp washers 72, 76. The C-clamps 88 of the clamp assemblies 22 are then fastened to the gun-whales 18 of the canoe 20, thereby attaching the assembled propulsion assembly 10 to the canoe 20. The extensions 94 may then be placed in positions 112 or 114.
The user 24 then enters the canoe 20 and navigates by a traditional paddle (not shown) until the paddle assemblies 14 can be lowered into position 110. At this point the user 24 then places either his feet or his hands into the grips 132, depending upon the sitting position chosen in the canoe 20. The crank assembly 12 is then rotated in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, thereby propelling the canoe 20 in either a forward or backward direction respectively.
The canoe 20 can be steered during operation of the propulsion assembly 10 by a traditional canoe paddle, or by adjusting ones position within the canoe 20. Upon disembarking from the canoe 20, the user 24 may choose to disassemble the propulsion assembly 10 in a reverse order to that described above. Upon disassembly, the individual components of the propulsion assembly 10 can be returned to the case 136. The case 136 is preferably compact enough to facilitate portability of the propulsion assembly 10 by the user 24 and for seasonal storage.
The resiliency of the bushings 78, and the provision of the cutout 80, permit the drive shafts 16 to automatically release from the clamp assemblies 22 if the paddle assemblies 24 hit an obstruction. This helps to prevent damage to the assembly 10 and gunwhales 18, due to 1 S sudden forces applied to the C-clamps 88. The design of the clamp assemblies 22 also facilitates removal of the propulsion assembly 10 from the canoe 20, without first removing the C-clamps 88.
The propulsion assembly 10 is rigid enough to aid a user 24 in propulsion of the canoe 20, while at the same time is separable into individual sections that are manageable and can be placed into a relatively small carrying bag 136 for ease of transportation, as shown in Figure 13.
The use of releasably secure joints 58 allows the user 24 to replace broken components, such as paddles 123, in situations where traditional tools such as a wrench are not available or are awkward to use. The option of using the hands or the feet to operate the crank assembly 12, provides for operation of the propulsion assembly 10 in a variety of situations.
An alternative embodiment, shown in Figure 14, includes a sail 138. The sail 138 may be is fastened at opposite ends to the extensions 94, when they are placed in position 112. A pin 139 may be inserted in an aligned hole 141 through the clamp assembly 22 and drive shaft 16, in order to restrict rotation of the drive shafts 16 in the bushings 78.
In a further embodiment, as shown in Figure 15, a pair of pontoons 140 are coupled to the extensions 94. The pontoon 140 is attached to the female connector 40 by a series of support arms 42. The pontoon 140 may be used in rough water conditions or in other situations where added stability of the canoe is desired.
A further embodiment of the present invention comprises a swing assembly 142, which includes a C-clamp 143 to attach the assembly 142 to a crossbar 144 of the canoe 20, as shown in Figure 16. A clevis 146 is connected to the C-clamp 143 by a pin joint 148.
The pin joint 148 includes an aligned hole 152 in both the clevis 146 and the C-clamp 143. A pin 154 is received in the hole 152 and retained by a cotter pin 156, as shown in Figure 17. The pin joint 148 allows for rotation of the assembly 142 about an axis 150.
A bar 158 is bolted to the clevis 146 at one end and is fastened to a clamp assembly 160 at the other end, by means of a pin joint 162. The clamp assembly 160 is supported by a "U"
shaped holder 165. The clamp assembly 160 is similar in form and function to the clamp assembly 22 of Figures 6 and 7 and will therefore not be described further.
The pin joint162 allows or rotation of the clamp assembly 160 about an axis 164. This rotation of the clamp assembly 160 facilitates steering of the propulsion assembly 10 connected to the swing assembly 142, as shown in Figure 18.
Use of the swing assembly 142, over that of the pair of clamp assemblies 22, provides for a transfer of the propulsion assembly 10 from the user 24 to a second user 166 in the canoe 20, shown in Figure 19. This transfer can be accomplished without the users 24 and 166 switching seating positions in the canoe 20.
A further embodiment of the propulsion assembly 10 is shown in Figure 20, wherein a driveshaft 16 has a telescoping portion 200. The telescoping portion 200 can be used to increase the length of the paddle assembly 10 for accommodating different widths of watercraft 20 or a distance between the gunwhales 18 and paddle assembly 14. The spokes 119 of the paddle assemblies 14 can also have telescoping portions 202 for adjusting the depth of paddle penetration into the water 28.
Refernng to Figures 21 and 22 wherein like numerals with a suffix "a" refer to similar components to those of preceding figures, a joint assembly 58a has a spring clip 50a to mate portions 208, 209 of telescoping section 200 to one another. The series of holes 44a, 48a when aligned, readily permit extension of the sections 208, 209 with respect to one another as indicated by arrow 210. The spring clip 50a has a solid button head 60a to be received by the bore formed when respective ones of holes 44a, 48a are aligned. The portion 209 also has a tube end protector 212 for hindering damage to the exposed tube end during handling of the unassembled components of the assembly 20. The protectors 212 are used to help retain the original cross sectional shape of the tube ends so that insertion of one tube into the mating tube of the connection 58a is facilitated. The protectors 212 can also be applied to other tube ends of the assembly 20 as desired. The protector 212 can be made of a rubber or plastic material if desired.
Referring to Figures 20, 23 and 24, a hinge assembly 214 includes a pin joint connecting driveshaft 16 with shaft 218, which connects to the remainder of the driveshaft 16 by means of pin 50a and corresponding hole 48. The hinge assembly 214 also includes a sleeve 220, which can be displaced along drivesha$ 16, as indicated by arrow 222. A
spring 224 is situated around the driveshaft 16 and between the sleeve 220 and connector 40.
The spring 224 is used to bias the sleeve 220 over the section of the hinge assembly 214 containing the pin joint 216.
When the sleeve 220 is secured releasably over the section in an extended position, as shown in Figure 23, the sleeve 220 inhibits potential angular displacement of section 218 with respect to the drive shaft 16 (shown by arrow 222). The extended sleeve 220 facilitates substantial alignment of the rotational axis of sections 218 and 16, thereby permitting co joint rotation of section 216 and 16 during operation of the crank assembly 12. As can be seen in Figure 24, retraction of the sleeve 220 by the user 24 towards the connector 40 allows the user to rotate the paddle assembly 14 towards the interior of the canoe 20. The extended position of the sleeve 220 and corresponding spatial relationships between the driveshaft 16 and section 218 is shown in ghosted view.
Referring to Figures 20, 25, and 26, a further embodiment of the cotter pin 70 (see Figure 5 ) is a ring clip 222. The clip 222 is connected to the driveshaft 16 and positioned adjacent to the clamp assembly 22 for inhibiting lateral displacement of the attached propulsion assembly 10 with respect to the canoe 20. The ring clip 222 has a spool portion 224 with an interior 226 that is of a sufficient diameter to position the clip 222 on the drive shaft 16.
The clip 222 also has a pair of endwalls 228, whereby one of the endwalls 228 can abut against an end of the adjacent clamp assembly 22. The clip 222 also has a clip ring 230 with a corresponding head 232. The head 232 is inserted into a selected one of the holes 48a in the driveshaft 16 (see Figure 21), in order to releasably secure the clip 222 to a user selected location along the driveshaft 16. The user can force tab 234 of the ring 230 away from the spool portion 224, in order to release the head 232 from the selected hole 48a once inserted. The clip ring 230 is preferably made of a flexible material, such as but not limited to spring steel. It should be noted that both clips 222 may not be in direct abutment with their respective clamp assemblies 22 during operation of the S assembly 10. Some lateral displacement of the assembly 10 with respect to the canoe 20 can be accommodated, depending upon the degree of inter-hole spacings between holes 48a on the shaft 16.
Referring to Figures 27 and 28, the grips 32a,b are attached to the base member 34a of the crank 30a. The grip 32a is shaped to accommodate a user's hand 236 and grip 32b a user's foot 238. The grip 32b can be secured releasably to the grip 32a by a strap 240, such as but not limited to a velcro strap. This arrangement facilitates adaptation of the propulsion assembly 10 to be operated by either the user's hands 236 or feet 238, as shown in Figure 1.
Referring to Figures 29 and 30, a clamp assembly 22a can be releasably secured to the driveshaft 16 by a strap 93a. The strap 93a helps to retain the driveshaft 16 when placed in the clamp assembly 22, as shown in Figure 29. Figure 30 shows the strap 93a in an unassembled state whereby the shaft 16 is removed from the clamp assembly 22a. It should be noted that the strap 93a is attached to the clamp 88. It should also be noted that the clamp 88 can be other than a C-clamp as shown, as long as the clamp 88 can secure the clamp assembly 22a to the canoe 20.
Regarding Figures 14, 29, 30, and 31, an elbow connector 242 is secured to the clamp assembly 22a by bolts 244. The sail 138 can be fastened to extensions 246, which can be connected to the elbow connector 242. This arrangement facilitates attachment of the sail 138 to the propulsion assembly 10. It should be noted that the cutout 80a of the clamp 22a can also be situated opposite to the gunwhale 18, as shown.
Refernng to Figures 20 and 32, a paddle handle 248 can also be coupled to the assembly 10. The handle 248 is preferably made of foam or other resilient material and can be provided with ergonomical grooves 256. A central bore 252 of the handle 248 is of a sufficient diameter to slide over the exterior surface of the driveshaft 16. The handle 248 also includes a female connector 40, which can be secured to an adjacent shaft 254 by a corresponding clip 50 and holes 44, 48 arrangement. As can be seen in Figures 33 and 34, components of the assembly 10 can be used to configure emergency paddles 256 and/or a Kayak paddle 258. It should be noted that the flotation portions 206, drive shaft 16, and paddle blades 124 can be used to assemble the alternate paddle configurations 256, 258. The paddle 256, 258 can be used in situations where portions of the complete paddle assembly 10 are broken, thereby hindering its operation, or in situations where a different propulsion aid other than the complete assembly 10 is desired by the user 24.
Figure 35 shows various example configurations of paddle blades 124, such as symmetrical 124a and asymmetrical 124b shaped blades. In addition, Figure 36 provides alternate attachments that can be used to provide a multipurpose functionality when assembled in conjunction with selected components of the assembly 10.
Figure 37 shows the propulsion assembly 10 in a disassembled form including elbow 214, telescoping shafts 200 for the paddle assembly 14 and driveshaft 16, flotation devices 206, 207, and paddle handle 248.
It should be noted that the devices 206, 207, and 248 can also act as drip rings when connected to the drive shaft 16 and used in operation of the assembly 10.
Figure 38 also shows a splash guard 260 that can be attached to the canoe 20 by clamps 88 and elbow connector 242 if desired. The sail 138 could also be used as the guard 260, if desired.
Referring to Figure 39, wherein like elements with a suffix "b" refer to similar elements of preceding figures, a spring clip 50b is used to connect a crank 30b to a driveshaft 16b. The clip 50b has solid heads 60b and 262 attached to a spring member 264, which biases the heads 60b and 262 to extend through holes 44b located in the crank 30b. The heads 60b and 262 have a sufficient resistance to shear, so that they can transfer torque generated by the crank 30b to the driveshaft 16b. In an unassembled state of Figure 39a, the driveshaft 16b is oriented so that the holes 48b are in line with holes 44b. Referring to Figure 39b in an assembled state, the holes 44b and 48b are aligned by inserting an end of crank 30b into the corresponding end of driveshaft 16b. Once aligned, the heads 262 extend through holes 44b and 48b for releasably securing crank 30b to shaft 16b. Upon disassembly the user 24 depresses heads 60b, so that heads 262 are disengaged from the holes 48b, and then removes crank 30b from the driveshaft 16b.
It should be noted that although a canoe 20 is employed in the preferred embodiments of the present invention, the propulsion assembly 10 could also be used with other watercra$ such as rowboats, duckboats, sailboats, kayaks and dugouts and the like. Releasably secured joints other than those shown may also be employed, if desired. The hinge plate 96 can be attached to the end 98 of the drive shaft by a coupling similar to the joint assembly 58.
The coupling can also facilitate the direct connection of the end 98 of the drive shaft 16 to the adjacent end of the extension 94. A length of the paddle arms 126 may be adjustable to accommodate various S heights of watercraft, if desired. The shaft components are preferably made of telescopic aluminum tube, but other rigid materials could be substituted such as steel, plastic, or those manufactured from composite fibers. The crank assembly 12 is preferably made from stainless steel but other rigid materials could also be used, if desired. A buoyant material, such as foam or cork, may be installed in the interiors of the tubes in order to provide for floatation of the components. Floatation devices 206, 207 may also be coupled to the exterior of the components as well, as shown in Figure 20. These floatation devices 206, 207 can be ergonomically designed to include grips, as shown in Figures 32, for helping the user 24 to lift and carry the various corresponding components of the assembly 20 in either assembled or disassembled configurations. The paddle blades 124 are preferably made from a rigid yet resilient material, such as plastic, fiberglass, and wood.
Although the invention has been described with reference to certain specific embodiments, various modifications thereof will be apparent in those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as outlined in the claims appended hereto.
Claims (39)
1. A propulsion system for a personal watercraft comprising:
a pair of paddle assemblies, a drive shaft extending between said paddle assemblies to induce co joint rotation thereof, a drive mechanism coupled to said drive shaft, at least one support to connect said drive shaft to said watercraft on opposite sides thereof and permit rotation about a common axis; said drive shaft connectable to said paddle assemblies by a releasable coupling to permit ready disassembly thereof.
a pair of paddle assemblies, a drive shaft extending between said paddle assemblies to induce co joint rotation thereof, a drive mechanism coupled to said drive shaft, at least one support to connect said drive shaft to said watercraft on opposite sides thereof and permit rotation about a common axis; said drive shaft connectable to said paddle assemblies by a releasable coupling to permit ready disassembly thereof.
2. A propulsion system according to claim 1, wherein said drive shaft includes a releasable coupling to permit ready disassembly thereof.
3. A propulsion system according to claim 1, wherein said support releasably engages said drive shaft to permit removal thereof from said watercraft independently of said supports.
4. A propulsion system according to claim 1, wherein said drive mechanism includes a crank assembly.
5. A propulsion system according to claim 4, wherein a pair of foot grips are couplable to said crank assembly.
6. A propulsion system according to claim 4, wherein a pair of hand grips are couplable to said crank assembly.
7. A propulsion system according to claim 1, wherein each of said paddle assemblies comprises a plurality of paddles connectable to a central hub.
8. A propulsion system according to claim 7, wherein said plurality of paddles are connectable to said central hub by releasable couplings to permit ready disassembly thereof.
9. A propulsion system according to claim 7, wherein a blade of paddles is oriented non-orthogonally with respect to a side surface of said personal watercraft.
10. A propulsion system according to claim 1, wherein said drive shaft includes a pivot connection located between said drive mechanism and said paddle assembly.
11. A propulsion system according to claim 10, wherein operation of said pivot connection is retainable at a variety of positions.
12. A propulsion system according to claim 1, wherein said drive shaft is extendable.
13. A propulsion system according to claim 3, wherein said supports are securable releasably to said personal watercraft.
14. A propulsion system according to claim 3, wherein a longitudinal position of said support on said drive shaft is variable.
15. A propulsion system according to claim 3, wherein said support includes a body to retain releasably said drive shaft.
16. A propulsion system according to claim 15, wherein said body is of a tubular shape comprising an annular wall and opposing end portions.
17. A propulsion system according to claim 16, wherein a cutout in said annular wall extends axially between said end portions.
18. A propulsion system according to claim 16, wherein said cutout in said annular wall is orientable towards a user of said propulsion system.
19. A propulsion system according to claim 1, further including a plurality of tubular members.
20. A propulsion system according to claim 19, wherein an interior of said tubular members contains a medium whose density is less than that of water.
21. A propulsion system according to claim 19, wherein a plurality of floatation aids are couplable to said tubular members.
22. A propulsion system according to claim 1, wherein said paddle assemblies are replacable by a sail assembly coupled to said drive shaft.
23. A propulsion system according to claim 1, wherein said paddle assemblies are replacable by a pair of buoyant bodies coupled to said drive shaft.
24. A paddle assembly for positioning adjacent to a personal watercraft comprising: a central hub, a plurality of paddles couplable to and radially extendable from said hub, and a connector to couple said paddle assembly to a drive shaft; each of said plurality of paddles comprising a front surface; and a rear surface, wherein said front surface of said panels is oriented away from said personal watercraft when said paddle assembly is positioned adjacent thereto.
25. A paddle assembly according to claim 24, wherein said surfaces of said paddles are arcuately shaped.
26. A paddle assembly according to claim 24, wherein said paddle members are releasably securable to said central hub.
27. A paddle assembly according to claim 24, wherein said paddles are made of a resilient material.
28. A paddle assembly according to claim 24, wherein a number of said paddles is at least 3.
29. A propulsion system according to claim 10 further comprising a sleeve for retaining said pivot connection in a selected orientation.
30. A propulsion system according to claim 29 wherein a resilient member is connectable to said sleeve for releasably securing said sleeve in a selected position along a longitudinal axis of said driveshaft.
31. A propulsion system according to claim 12, wherein said driveshaft is telescopic.
32. A propulsion system according to claim 24, wherein said plurality of paddles are connectable to said central hub by corresponding telescopic members.
33. A propulsion system according to claim 21, wherein said flotation aids are usable as drip rings to inhibit water from traveling along said drive shaft.
34. A propulsion system according to claim 1 further comprising a paddle handle couplable to said driveshaft or a shaft of said paddle assemblies.
35. A propulsion system according to claim 34, wherein selected components of said propulsion system are couplable to said paddle handle for providing a paddle of alternate configuration.
36. A propulsion system according to claim 35, wherein said paddle of alternate configuration is a kayak paddle.
37. A propulsion system according to claim 25, wherein said paddle of alternate configuration is a canoe paddle.
38. A propulsion system according to claim 2, further comprising an accessory attachment couplable to selected components of said propulsion system for providing an alternate configuration thereof.
39. A propulsion system according to claim 38, wherein said accessory attachment is selected from the group comprising: a shovel blade; a saw blade; a fishing net; a cane handle; a crutch handle; kitchen utensils; and a pontoon stabilizer.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2324744 CA2324744A1 (en) | 1999-10-26 | 2000-10-26 | Portable paddle assembly for a watercraft |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002287594A CA2287594A1 (en) | 1999-10-26 | 1999-10-26 | Portable paddle assembly for a watercraft |
| CA2,287,594 | 1999-10-26 | ||
| CA 2324744 CA2324744A1 (en) | 1999-10-26 | 2000-10-26 | Portable paddle assembly for a watercraft |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2324744A1 true CA2324744A1 (en) | 2001-04-26 |
Family
ID=25681278
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2324744 Abandoned CA2324744A1 (en) | 1999-10-26 | 2000-10-26 | Portable paddle assembly for a watercraft |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2324744A1 (en) |
-
2000
- 2000-10-26 CA CA 2324744 patent/CA2324744A1/en not_active Abandoned
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued | ||
| FZDE | Discontinued |
Effective date: 20041026 |