US20110223817A1 - Rudder assembly for a watercraft having a jet-drive outboard motor - Google Patents
Rudder assembly for a watercraft having a jet-drive outboard motor Download PDFInfo
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- US20110223817A1 US20110223817A1 US13/042,492 US201113042492A US2011223817A1 US 20110223817 A1 US20110223817 A1 US 20110223817A1 US 201113042492 A US201113042492 A US 201113042492A US 2011223817 A1 US2011223817 A1 US 2011223817A1
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- Prior art keywords
- steering stabilizer
- motor
- watercraft
- assembly
- steering
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- 239000003381 stabilizer Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 61
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 34
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- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000010935 stainless steel Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
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- 238000005553 drilling Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000009972 noncorrosive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
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- 230000006641 stabilisation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000011105 stabilization Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000012815 thermoplastic material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000003643 water by type Substances 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63H—MARINE PROPULSION OR STEERING
- B63H25/00—Steering; Slowing-down otherwise than by use of propulsive elements; Dynamic anchoring, i.e. positioning vessels by means of main or auxiliary propulsive elements
- B63H25/46—Steering or dynamic anchoring by jets or by rudders carrying jets
Definitions
- the present invention is directed to a rudder and, more specifically, to a rudder assembly for a watercraft having a jet-drive outboard motor.
- An exemplary embodiment includes a steering stabilizer assembly for use with a jet drive motor of a watercraft.
- the steering stabilizer assembly has a first support member which extends from the port side of the motor and a second support member which extends from the starboard side of the motor.
- a first steering stabilizer member extends from the first support member and a second steering stabilizer member extends from the second support member.
- the first and second steering stabilizer members have longitudinal axes which extend in a direction which is essentially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the motor and essentially perpendicular to longitudinal axes of the first and second support members.
- the first and second steering stabilizer members have sufficient surface area to cooperate with water when the watercraft is travelling at slow speeds, such that the steering stabilizer assembly provides an operator of the watercraft with improved steering control and response at low speeds.
- An alternate exemplary embodiment includes a jet drive motor for a watercraft.
- the motor has a steering stabilizer assembly which extends from the motor proximate the water intake.
- the steering stabilizer assembly has at least one support member and at least one steering stabilizer member extending from the at least one support member.
- the at least one steering stabilizer member has a longitudinal axes which extend in a direction which is essentially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the motor.
- the at least one steering stabilizer member has sufficient surface area to cooperate with water when the watercraft is travelling at slow speeds, such that the steering stabilizer assembly provides an operator of the watercraft with improved steering control and response at low speeds.
- An alternate exemplary embodiment includes a rudder assembly for use with a jet drive motor for a watercraft.
- the rudder assembly has at least one support member and at least one steering stabilizer member which extend from the at least one support member.
- the at least one steering stabilizer member has a longitudinal axes which extends in a direction which is essentially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the motor and essentially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the at least one support member.
- the at least one steering stabilizer member having sufficient surface area to cooperate with water when the watercraft is travelling at slow speeds, wherein the rudder assembly provides an operator of the watercraft with improved steering control and response at low speeds.
- FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic view of a portion of an exemplary jet drive motor, indicating the location of attachment of an exemplary embodiment of a rudder assembly according to the present invention.
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the motor of FIG. 1 with the exemplary rudder assembly attached thereto.
- FIGS. 3 through 5 are alternate perspective views of the motor of FIG. 1 with the exemplary rudder assembly attached thereto.
- FIG. 6 shows an exploded view of the major components of the rudder assembly, specifically, support members and steering stabilizer members.
- FIG. 7 shows a of the rudder assembly shown in FIG. 6 prior to assembly to the motor.
- FIG. 8 shows a front view of an example of a mounting bracket that can be used to secure the steering stabilization member to a support member.
- FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 8 .
- FIG. 10 is a diagrammatic view of a portion of the exemplary jet drive motor, indicating the location of attachment of a second exemplary embodiment of a rudder assembly according to the present invention.
- FIG. 11 is a top view of support members of the second exemplary embodiment of FIG. 10 .
- FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic view of the support members of FIG. 11 mounted to a water intake of the jet drive motor.
- FIG. 13 is an exploded view of the support members of the second exemplary embodiment of FIG. 11 showing mounting brackets exploded from the support members.
- FIGS. 1 through 5 illustrate a jet drive outboard engine or motor 10 used to propel a watercraft or the like.
- a rudder assembly 12 is attached to a section 14 of the jet drive motor 10 .
- the rudder assembly 12 provides the operator of the watercraft with improved steering control and response, particularly at low speeds required for trolling, maneuvering around obstacles, launching and retrieving operations, etc. While the exemplary embodiment illustrates the rudder assembly 12 attached to an outboard motor, a similar rudder assembly may also be used with a jet drive inboard/outboard motor.
- the rudder assembly includes a first support member or fin 20 which extends from the port side of the motor 10 in the port direction and a second support member or fin 22 which extends from the starboard side of the motor 10 in the starboard direction.
- the fins 20 , 22 are essentially mirror images of each other, however other configurations are possible.
- Each of the fins 20 , 22 has a leading end or edge 24 , a trailing edge 26 , an inboard side 27 positioned proximate the motor 10 and an outboard side 29 extending away from the motor 10 .
- the leading edges 24 of the fins 20 , 22 may be sloped rearward at an angle, thereby allowing the edges 24 to have a reduced thickness for the purpose of reducing drag when the watercraft is moving through the water.
- the fins 20 , 22 may be made of a material which allows the entire area of the fins to have a small thickness, thereby eliminating the need for the edges 24 of the fins 20 , 22 to be sloped, while still allowing the fins 20 , 22 to have reduced drag when the watercraft is moving through the water.
- each fin 20 , 22 has a generally arcuate or concave configuration which generally conforms to the shape of the portion of the motor 10 to which the fins 20 , 22 are mounted.
- Indentations 28 may be provided on the inboard sides 27 .
- the indentations 28 are dimensioned to engage a protrusion on the motor 10 . The engagement of the indentations 28 and the protrusion aids in preventing the fins 20 , 22 and the rudder assembly 12 from rotating or otherwise slipping about the motor 10 during operation.
- each of the fins 20 , 22 is provided with annular openings 30 , 32 proximate the inboard side 27 . Openings 30 are provided adjacent the leading edges 24 and openings 32 are provided adjacent the trailing edges 26 .
- the openings 30 , 32 are positioned to align with existing hardware on the motor water intake. The alignment of the openings 30 , 32 with the existing hardware allows the fins 20 , 22 to be easily mounted onto the existing hardware without the need for additional modifications to the motor 10 . While the exemplary embodiment illustrates the fins 20 , 22 mounted proximate the water intake, the fins 20 , 22 may be mounted in other areas of the motor 10 .
- each fin 20 , 22 has a generally linear configuration to which respective steering stabilizer members 50 , 52 attach.
- each of the fins 20 , 22 is provided with annular openings 40 , 42 proximate the outboard side 29 . Openings 40 are provided closer to the leading edges 24 and openings 42 are provided closer to the trailing edges 26 . The openings 40 , 42 are positioned to align with openings 44 , 46 of mounting brackets 48 .
- the steering stabilizer members or rudders 50 , 52 extend from the outboard side 29 of the fins 20 , 22 .
- the rudders 50 , 52 are essentially identical, with rudder 50 being attached to fin 20 and rudder 52 being attached to fin 22 .
- Each of the rudders 50 , 52 has a leading end or edge 54 and a trailing edge 56 .
- the leading edge 54 has V-shape, in which the point of the V is facing the bow of the watercraft to allow the rudders 50 , 52 to have reduced drag when the watercraft is moving through the water.
- the leading edges 54 may also be sloped rearward at an angle, thereby allowing the edges 54 to have a reduced thickness for the purpose of reducing drag when the watercraft is moving through the water.
- the rudders 50 , 52 may be made of a material which allows the entire area of the fins to have a small thickness, thereby eliminating the need for the edges 54 of the rudders 50 , 52 to be sloped, while still allowing the rudders 50 , 52 to have reduced drag when the watercraft is moving through the water.
- each of the rudders 50 , 52 is provided with annular openings 60 , 62 . Openings 60 are provided closer to the leading edges 54 and openings 62 are provided closer to the trailing edges 56 . The openings 60 , 62 are positioned to align with openings 64 , 66 of mounting brackets 48 ( FIGS. 8 and 10 ).
- the rudders 50 , 52 are mounted onto the fins 20 , 22 by use of the mounting brackets 48 . Openings 60 are aligned with openings 64 and openings 62 are aligned with openings 66 and mounting hardware 68 is inserted to maintain the rudders 50 , 52 is position relative to the mounting brackets 48 . Openings 40 are then aligned with openings 44 and openings 42 are aligned with openings 46 and mounting hardware 68 is inserted to maintain the mounting brackets 48 is position relative to the fins 20 , 22 . In so doing the rudders 50 , 52 are maintained in position relative to the fins 20 , 22 and relative to the motor 10 .
- the order in which the rudders, fins and mounting brackets are joined can be varied. Alternatively, each fin and rudder may be one piece, with the fin having the respective rudder integrally manufactured therewith.
- each rudder 50 , 52 has a longitudinal axis which extends in a direction which is essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the motor 10 and essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the fins 20 , 22 .
- Each rudder 50 , 52 must have sufficient surface area to cooperate with the water when the watercraft is travelling at slow speeds to provide the steering response required for controlled operation of the motor 10 and the watercraft.
- the rudders 50 , 52 project above and below the plane defined by the fins 20 , 22 .
- the rudders 50 , 52 This allows the rudders 50 , 52 to be used in areas of shallow water without causing damage to the rudders 50 , 52 or the motor 10 .
- the positioning of the rudders 50 , 52 relative to the fins 20 , 22 may be varied while still allowing the rudders 50 , 52 to provide the control required.
- the rudder assembly 12 stabilizes the watercraft when traveling at a slow speed. This allows more control when trolling with the jet drive motor 10 .
- the rudder assembly 12 also helps when driving the watercraft onto a trailer because of the additional steering control that is present at slow speeds.
- the use of the rudder assembly 12 can help to counteract the natural tendency of a watercraft to turn to one side or another when it starts in motion. The watercraft will accordingly steer in a straight line. Directional control of the watercraft is accordingly enhanced with the use of the rudder assembly 12 .
- the rudder assembly 12 is easy to assemble and can be easily retrofitted onto existing motors. It can be installed in approximately 15 minutes, and no drilling is required for installation.
- the tools required to install the rudder assembly generally are relatively simple. For example, an embodiment of the rudder assembly can be installed using an appropriate hex wrench.
- the fins 20 , 22 , rudders 50 , 52 , mounting brackets 48 and hardware 68 may be constructed of stainless steel or other non-corrosive metals. However, it is possible to use metals other than stainless steel such as, but not limited to, aluminum. Alternatively the fins and rudders may be made from thermoplastic material. It is understood that any suitable metal, plastic or other material having the appropriate strength and corrosive resistant properties may be used. A coating may also be applied to the material to improve its performance and characteristics in marine conditions.
- the mounting hardware 68 is shown to be bolts, nuts and washers, but other types of mounting hardware can be used.
- FIGS. 10 through 13 an alternate exemplary embodiment is shown.
- the operation of the rudder assembly 112 is the same as rudder assembly 12 .
- the difference between the embodiments relates to the mounting of the fins 120 , 122 to the motor 10 .
- mounting brackets 131 are provided.
- the mounting brackets 131 are mounted to the fins 120 , 122 using known hardware 133 or the like which extend through openings 137 of fins 120 , 122 and openings 139 of mounting brackets 131 .
- Annular openings 130 , 132 are provided on, and extend through the mounting brackets 131 .
- the openings 30 , 32 are positioned to align with existing hardware on the motor water intake 135 .
- the alignment of the openings 130 , 132 with the existing hardware allows the fins 120 , 122 to be easily mounted onto the existing hardware without the need for additional modifications to the motor 10 .
- the exemplary embodiment illustrates the fins 120 , 122 mounted proximate the water intake, the fins 120 , 122 may be mounted in other areas of the motor 10 .
- the use of the mounting brackets 131 provides the fins 120 , 122 with increased mounting stability and strength.
- the manufacturing tolerances associated with the fins 120 , 122 need not be as precisely controlled, as the mounting brackets 131 can accommodate slight misalignment of the fins 120 with the mounting hardware of the motor 10 .
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- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Ocean & Marine Engineering (AREA)
- Prevention Of Electric Corrosion (AREA)
Abstract
A rudder assembly for use with a jet drive motor for a watercraft. The rudder assembly has at least one support member and at least one steering stabilizer member which extend from the at least one support member. The at least one steering stabilizer member has a longitudinal axes which extends in a direction which is essentially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the motor and essentially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the at least one support member. The at least one steering stabilizer member having sufficient surface area to cooperate with water when the watercraft is travelling at slow speeds, wherein the rudder assembly provides an operator of the watercraft with improved steering control and response at low speeds.
Description
- The present invention is directed to a rudder and, more specifically, to a rudder assembly for a watercraft having a jet-drive outboard motor.
- An advantage of watercraft or other vessels having jet-drive outboard motors is that they can operate in shallower waters than comparable vessels having propeller-drive outboard motors. Nevertheless, vessels with jet-drive outboard motors are relatively difficult to steer at slow speeds. Consequently, it can be challenging to dock these vessels or maneuver them through congested waterways. Accordingly, there is a need for a rudder assembly that renders a vessel with a jet-drive outboard motor easier to steer at slow speed, but does not significantly interfere with the ability of the vessel to operate in shallow water.
- An exemplary embodiment includes a steering stabilizer assembly for use with a jet drive motor of a watercraft. The steering stabilizer assembly has a first support member which extends from the port side of the motor and a second support member which extends from the starboard side of the motor. A first steering stabilizer member extends from the first support member and a second steering stabilizer member extends from the second support member The first and second steering stabilizer members have longitudinal axes which extend in a direction which is essentially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the motor and essentially perpendicular to longitudinal axes of the first and second support members. The first and second steering stabilizer members have sufficient surface area to cooperate with water when the watercraft is travelling at slow speeds, such that the steering stabilizer assembly provides an operator of the watercraft with improved steering control and response at low speeds.
- An alternate exemplary embodiment includes a jet drive motor for a watercraft. The motor has a steering stabilizer assembly which extends from the motor proximate the water intake. The steering stabilizer assembly has at least one support member and at least one steering stabilizer member extending from the at least one support member. The at least one steering stabilizer member has a longitudinal axes which extend in a direction which is essentially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the motor. The at least one steering stabilizer member has sufficient surface area to cooperate with water when the watercraft is travelling at slow speeds, such that the steering stabilizer assembly provides an operator of the watercraft with improved steering control and response at low speeds.
- An alternate exemplary embodiment includes a rudder assembly for use with a jet drive motor for a watercraft. The rudder assembly has at least one support member and at least one steering stabilizer member which extend from the at least one support member. The at least one steering stabilizer member has a longitudinal axes which extends in a direction which is essentially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the motor and essentially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the at least one support member. The at least one steering stabilizer member having sufficient surface area to cooperate with water when the watercraft is travelling at slow speeds, wherein the rudder assembly provides an operator of the watercraft with improved steering control and response at low speeds.
- Other features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following more detailed description of the preferred embodiment, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the invention.
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FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic view of a portion of an exemplary jet drive motor, indicating the location of attachment of an exemplary embodiment of a rudder assembly according to the present invention. -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the motor ofFIG. 1 with the exemplary rudder assembly attached thereto. -
FIGS. 3 through 5 are alternate perspective views of the motor ofFIG. 1 with the exemplary rudder assembly attached thereto. -
FIG. 6 shows an exploded view of the major components of the rudder assembly, specifically, support members and steering stabilizer members. -
FIG. 7 shows a of the rudder assembly shown inFIG. 6 prior to assembly to the motor. -
FIG. 8 shows a front view of an example of a mounting bracket that can be used to secure the steering stabilization member to a support member. -
FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the mounting bracket ofFIG. 8 . -
FIG. 10 is a diagrammatic view of a portion of the exemplary jet drive motor, indicating the location of attachment of a second exemplary embodiment of a rudder assembly according to the present invention. -
FIG. 11 is a top view of support members of the second exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 10 . -
FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic view of the support members ofFIG. 11 mounted to a water intake of the jet drive motor. -
FIG. 13 is an exploded view of the support members of the second exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 11 showing mounting brackets exploded from the support members. - In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of various embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details, that the embodiments are not limited to the depicted embodiments, and that the embodiments may be practiced in a variety of alternative embodiments. In other instances, well known methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail.
- Further, various operations may be described as multiple discrete steps performed in a manner that is helpful for understanding the embodiments. However, the order of description should not be construed as to imply that these operations need be performed in the order they are presented, or that they are even order-dependent. Moreover, repeated usage of the phrase “in an embodiment” does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, although it may. Lastly, the terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and the like, as used in the present application, are intended to be synonymous unless otherwise indicated.
- Referring now to the drawings,
FIGS. 1 through 5 illustrate a jet drive outboard engine ormotor 10 used to propel a watercraft or the like. Arudder assembly 12 is attached to a section 14 of thejet drive motor 10. Among other advantages, therudder assembly 12 provides the operator of the watercraft with improved steering control and response, particularly at low speeds required for trolling, maneuvering around obstacles, launching and retrieving operations, etc. While the exemplary embodiment illustrates therudder assembly 12 attached to an outboard motor, a similar rudder assembly may also be used with a jet drive inboard/outboard motor. - As is best shown in
FIGS. 3 and 6 , the rudder assembly includes a first support member orfin 20 which extends from the port side of themotor 10 in the port direction and a second support member orfin 22 which extends from the starboard side of themotor 10 in the starboard direction. In the exemplary embodiment shown, thefins fins edge 24, atrailing edge 26, aninboard side 27 positioned proximate themotor 10 and anoutboard side 29 extending away from themotor 10. Theleading edges 24 of thefins edges 24 to have a reduced thickness for the purpose of reducing drag when the watercraft is moving through the water. Alternatively, thefins edges 24 of thefins fins - The
inboard side 27 of eachfin motor 10 to which thefins Indentations 28 may be provided on theinboard sides 27. Theindentations 28 are dimensioned to engage a protrusion on themotor 10. The engagement of theindentations 28 and the protrusion aids in preventing thefins rudder assembly 12 from rotating or otherwise slipping about themotor 10 during operation. - In the exemplary embodiment shown, each of the
fins annular openings inboard side 27.Openings 30 are provided adjacent the leadingedges 24 andopenings 32 are provided adjacent thetrailing edges 26. Theopenings openings fins motor 10. While the exemplary embodiment illustrates thefins fins motor 10. - The
outboard side 29 of eachfin steering stabilizer members fins annular openings outboard side 29.Openings 40 are provided closer to the leadingedges 24 andopenings 42 are provided closer to thetrailing edges 26. Theopenings mounting brackets 48. - The steering stabilizer members or
rudders outboard side 29 of thefins rudders rudder 50 being attached tofin 20 andrudder 52 being attached tofin 22. Each of therudders edge 56. The leadingedge 54 has V-shape, in which the point of the V is facing the bow of the watercraft to allow therudders edges 54 may also be sloped rearward at an angle, thereby allowing theedges 54 to have a reduced thickness for the purpose of reducing drag when the watercraft is moving through the water. Alternatively, therudders edges 54 of therudders rudders - In the exemplary embodiment shown, each of the
rudders leading edges 54 and openings 62 are provided closer to the trailingedges 56. The openings 60, 62 are positioned to align withopenings 64, 66 of mounting brackets 48 (FIGS. 8 and 10 ). - The
rudders fins brackets 48. Openings 60 are aligned with openings 64 and openings 62 are aligned withopenings 66 and mounting hardware 68 is inserted to maintain therudders brackets 48.Openings 40 are then aligned with openings 44 andopenings 42 are aligned with openings 46 and mounting hardware 68 is inserted to maintain the mountingbrackets 48 is position relative to thefins rudders fins motor 10. The order in which the rudders, fins and mounting brackets are joined can be varied. Alternatively, each fin and rudder may be one piece, with the fin having the respective rudder integrally manufactured therewith. - As shown in
FIG. 3 , eachrudder motor 10 and essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of thefins rudder motor 10 and the watercraft. In the embodiment shown, therudders fins rudders rudders motor 10. However, the positioning of therudders fins rudders - The
rudder assembly 12 stabilizes the watercraft when traveling at a slow speed. This allows more control when trolling with thejet drive motor 10. Therudder assembly 12 also helps when driving the watercraft onto a trailer because of the additional steering control that is present at slow speeds. In addition, the use of therudder assembly 12 can help to counteract the natural tendency of a watercraft to turn to one side or another when it starts in motion. The watercraft will accordingly steer in a straight line. Directional control of the watercraft is accordingly enhanced with the use of therudder assembly 12. - The
rudder assembly 12 is easy to assemble and can be easily retrofitted onto existing motors. It can be installed in approximately 15 minutes, and no drilling is required for installation. The tools required to install the rudder assembly generally are relatively simple. For example, an embodiment of the rudder assembly can be installed using an appropriate hex wrench. - The
fins rudders brackets 48 and hardware 68 may be constructed of stainless steel or other non-corrosive metals. However, it is possible to use metals other than stainless steel such as, but not limited to, aluminum. Alternatively the fins and rudders may be made from thermoplastic material. It is understood that any suitable metal, plastic or other material having the appropriate strength and corrosive resistant properties may be used. A coating may also be applied to the material to improve its performance and characteristics in marine conditions. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the mounting hardware 68 is shown to be bolts, nuts and washers, but other types of mounting hardware can be used. - Referring to
FIGS. 10 through 13 , an alternate exemplary embodiment is shown. In this embodiment, the operation of the rudder assembly 112 is the same asrudder assembly 12. The difference between the embodiments relates to the mounting of thefins 120, 122 to themotor 10. Rather than havingannular opening fins brackets 131 are provided. The mountingbrackets 131 are mounted to thefins 120, 122 using knownhardware 133 or the like which extend throughopenings 137 offins 120, 122 and openings 139 of mountingbrackets 131.Annular openings brackets 131. Theopenings motor water intake 135. The alignment of theopenings fins 120, 122 to be easily mounted onto the existing hardware without the need for additional modifications to themotor 10. While the exemplary embodiment illustrates thefins 120, 122 mounted proximate the water intake, thefins 120, 122 may be mounted in other areas of themotor 10. The use of the mountingbrackets 131 provides thefins 120, 122 with increased mounting stability and strength. In addition, the manufacturing tolerances associated with thefins 120, 122 need not be as precisely controlled, as the mountingbrackets 131 can accommodate slight misalignment of thefins 120 with the mounting hardware of themotor 10. - While the written description has referred to a preferred embodiment, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the patentable scope as defined by the claims. Therefore, it is intended that the patentable scope not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed as the best mode contemplated, but rather other embodiments are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.
Claims (20)
1. A steering stabilizer assembly for use with a jet drive motor of a watercraft, the steering stabilizer assembly comprising:
a first support member extending from the port side of the motor and a second support member extending from the starboard side of the motor;
a first steering stabilizer member extending from the first support member and a second steering stabilizer member extending from the second support member, the first and second steering stabilizer members having longitudinal axes which extend in a direction which is essentially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the motor and essentially perpendicular to longitudinal axes of the first and second support members, the first and second steering stabilizer members having sufficient surface area to cooperate with water when the watercraft is travelling at slow speeds;
wherein the steering stabilizer assembly provides an operator of the watercraft with improved steering control and response at low speeds.
2. The steering stabilizer assembly as recited in claim 1 , wherein the first and second support members are mirror images of each other.
3. The steering stabilizer assembly as recited in claim 1 , wherein each of the first and second support members has a leading end or edge, a trailing edge, an inboard side to be positioned proximate the motor and an outboard side to extend away from the motor, the leading edge is sloped rearward at an angle, whereby the leading edge has a reduced thickness for the purpose of reducing drag when the watercraft is moving through the water.
4. The steering stabilizer assembly as recited in claim 1 , wherein an inboard side of each first and second support member has a generally arcuate configuration which generally conforms to the shape of the portion of the motor.
5. The steering stabilizer assembly as recited in claim 4 , wherein at least one indentation is provided on each inboard side, the indentations are dimensioned to engage protrusions on the motor, whereby the engagement of the indentations and the protrusion aids in preventing the first and second support members from rotating or otherwise slipping about the motor during operation.
6. The steering stabilizer assembly as recited in claim 4 , wherein each of the support members is provided with openings proximate the inboard side, the openings are positioned to align with existing hardware on the motor, whereby the steering stabilizer assembly can be mounted onto the motor using the existing hardware without the need for additional modifications to the motor.
7. The steering stabilizer assembly as recited in claim 1 , wherein the steering stabilizer members extend from the outboard sided of the support members.
8. The steering stabilizer assembly as recited in claim 1 , wherein each of the steering stabilizer members has a leading edge and a trailing edge, each leading edge having a V-shape, in which the point of the V is facing the bow of the watercraft, the shape of the leading edges allows the steering stabilizer members to have reduced drag when the watercraft is moving through the water.
9. The steering stabilizer assembly as recited in claim 1 , wherein the steering stabilizer members project above and below the plane defined by the support members, whereby the steering stabilizer assembly can be used in areas of shallow water without causing damage to the steering stabilizer members or the engine.
10. A jet drive motor for a watercraft, the motor comprising:
a steering stabilizer assembly extending from the motor proximate the water intake, the steering stabilizer assembly comprising:
at least one support member and at least one steering stabilizer member extending from the at least one support member, the at least one steering stabilizer member having a longitudinal axes which extend in a direction which is essentially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the motor, the at least one steering stabilizer member having sufficient surface area to cooperate with water when the watercraft is travelling at slow speeds;
wherein the steering stabilizer assembly provides an operator of the watercraft with improved steering control and response at low speeds.
11. The jet drive motor as recited in claim 10 , wherein the at least one support member comprising first and second support members which are mirror images of each other.
12. The jet drive motor as recited in claim 11 , wherein each of the first and second support members has a leading end or edge, a trailing edge, an inboard side to be positioned proximate the water intake and an outboard side to extend away from the water intake, the leading edge is sloped rearward at an angle, whereby the leading edge has a reduced thickness for the purpose of reducing drag when the watercraft is moving through the water.
13. The jet drive motor as recited in claim 11 , wherein an inboard side of each first and second support member has a generally arcuate configuration which generally conforms to the shape of the portion of the motor proximate the water intake.
14. The jet drive motor as recited in claim 13 , wherein at least one indentation is provided on each inboard side, the indentations are dimensioned to engage protrusions on the motor proximate the water intake, whereby the engagement of the indentations and the protrusion prevents the first and second support members from rotating or otherwise slipping about the motor during operation.
15. The jet drive motor as recited in claim 10 , wherein the at least one steering stabilizer member extends from the outboard sided of the at least on support member.
16. The jet drive motor as recited in claim 10 , wherein the at least a portion of the at least one steering stabilizer member projects above the plane defined by the at least one support member, whereby the steering stabilizer assembly can be used in areas of shallow water without causing damage to the steering stabilizer assembly.
17. The jet drive motor as recited in claim 10 , wherein the motor is an outboard motor.
18. A rudder assembly for use with a jet drive motor for a watercraft, the rudder assembly comprising:
at least one support member and at least one steering stabilizer member extending from the at least one support member, the at least one steering stabilizer member having a longitudinal axes which extends in a direction which is essentially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the motor and essentially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the at least one support member, the at least one steering stabilizer member having sufficient surface area to cooperate with water when the watercraft is travelling at slow speeds;
wherein the rudder assembly provides an operator of the watercraft with improved steering control and response at low speeds.
19. The rudder assembly as recited in claim 18 , wherein the at least one support member comprising a first support member and a second support member.
20. The rudder assembly as recited in claim 18 , wherein the at least one steering stabilizer member comprising a first steering stabilizer member and a second steering stabilizer member, at least a portion of the first and second steering stabilizer members extend above the plane defined by the at least one support member and above a water intake of the motor, whereby the rudder assembly can be used in areas of shallow water without causing damage to the rudder assembly.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/042,492 US20110223817A1 (en) | 2010-03-10 | 2011-03-08 | Rudder assembly for a watercraft having a jet-drive outboard motor |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US31260510P | 2010-03-10 | 2010-03-10 | |
US13/042,492 US20110223817A1 (en) | 2010-03-10 | 2011-03-08 | Rudder assembly for a watercraft having a jet-drive outboard motor |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20110223817A1 true US20110223817A1 (en) | 2011-09-15 |
Family
ID=44560422
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/042,492 Abandoned US20110223817A1 (en) | 2010-03-10 | 2011-03-08 | Rudder assembly for a watercraft having a jet-drive outboard motor |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US20110223817A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
KR101339894B1 (en) * | 2013-05-03 | 2013-12-10 | 국방과학연구소 | Under water body with end-plate attatached to fully movable rudder |
US9821897B1 (en) | 2017-02-24 | 2017-11-21 | Edken Laboratories, LLC | Rudder technologies for outboard motors |
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US3304720A (en) * | 1964-12-07 | 1967-02-21 | Thomas J Craig | Water jet propelled outboard boat motor |
US3849982A (en) * | 1972-04-03 | 1974-11-26 | Hall Marine Corp | Marine jet propulsion apparatus |
US4977847A (en) * | 1989-07-20 | 1990-12-18 | Bartlett Dana W | Lift and rudder fin attachment |
US5094182A (en) * | 1991-03-21 | 1992-03-10 | Simner Ronald E | Enhanced ride plate and steering apparatus for jet drive watercraft |
US5231950A (en) * | 1991-10-07 | 1993-08-03 | Poulos John G | Hydrofoil for watercraft |
US5638765A (en) * | 1991-10-07 | 1997-06-17 | Poulos; John George | Hydrofoil assembly for marine use, and method for mounting the same |
US5846105A (en) * | 1997-07-29 | 1998-12-08 | Outboard Marine Corporation | Marine jet propulsion water inlet system |
US6302047B1 (en) * | 2000-09-14 | 2001-10-16 | Todd Randall Cannon | Retractable rudder assembly for personal watercraft |
USD509177S1 (en) * | 2003-10-24 | 2005-09-06 | Gary E. Clarke | Rudder |
US7063031B2 (en) * | 2004-05-28 | 2006-06-20 | Pivotal Designs Inc. | Wake control device for boat |
US7845997B2 (en) * | 2005-08-22 | 2010-12-07 | Honda Motor Co., Ltd. | Boat-propelling machine |
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2011
- 2011-03-08 US US13/042,492 patent/US20110223817A1/en not_active Abandoned
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US3304720A (en) * | 1964-12-07 | 1967-02-21 | Thomas J Craig | Water jet propelled outboard boat motor |
US3849982A (en) * | 1972-04-03 | 1974-11-26 | Hall Marine Corp | Marine jet propulsion apparatus |
US4977847A (en) * | 1989-07-20 | 1990-12-18 | Bartlett Dana W | Lift and rudder fin attachment |
US5094182A (en) * | 1991-03-21 | 1992-03-10 | Simner Ronald E | Enhanced ride plate and steering apparatus for jet drive watercraft |
US5231950A (en) * | 1991-10-07 | 1993-08-03 | Poulos John G | Hydrofoil for watercraft |
US5638765A (en) * | 1991-10-07 | 1997-06-17 | Poulos; John George | Hydrofoil assembly for marine use, and method for mounting the same |
US5846105A (en) * | 1997-07-29 | 1998-12-08 | Outboard Marine Corporation | Marine jet propulsion water inlet system |
US6302047B1 (en) * | 2000-09-14 | 2001-10-16 | Todd Randall Cannon | Retractable rudder assembly for personal watercraft |
USD509177S1 (en) * | 2003-10-24 | 2005-09-06 | Gary E. Clarke | Rudder |
US7063031B2 (en) * | 2004-05-28 | 2006-06-20 | Pivotal Designs Inc. | Wake control device for boat |
US7845997B2 (en) * | 2005-08-22 | 2010-12-07 | Honda Motor Co., Ltd. | Boat-propelling machine |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
KR101339894B1 (en) * | 2013-05-03 | 2013-12-10 | 국방과학연구소 | Under water body with end-plate attatached to fully movable rudder |
US9821897B1 (en) | 2017-02-24 | 2017-11-21 | Edken Laboratories, LLC | Rudder technologies for outboard motors |
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