US20180334231A1 - Watercraft stabilizing member with foam core and non-compressive bladder - Google Patents
Watercraft stabilizing member with foam core and non-compressive bladder Download PDFInfo
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- US20180334231A1 US20180334231A1 US15/971,917 US201815971917A US2018334231A1 US 20180334231 A1 US20180334231 A1 US 20180334231A1 US 201815971917 A US201815971917 A US 201815971917A US 2018334231 A1 US2018334231 A1 US 2018334231A1
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- Prior art keywords
- foam core
- stabilizing member
- wall portion
- outboard
- bladder
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING
- B63B43/00—Improving safety of vessels, e.g. damage control, not otherwise provided for
- B63B43/02—Improving safety of vessels, e.g. damage control, not otherwise provided for reducing risk of capsizing or sinking
- B63B43/10—Improving safety of vessels, e.g. damage control, not otherwise provided for reducing risk of capsizing or sinking by improving buoyancy
- B63B43/14—Improving safety of vessels, e.g. damage control, not otherwise provided for reducing risk of capsizing or sinking by improving buoyancy using outboard floating members
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING
- B63B43/00—Improving safety of vessels, e.g. damage control, not otherwise provided for
- B63B43/02—Improving safety of vessels, e.g. damage control, not otherwise provided for reducing risk of capsizing or sinking
- B63B43/10—Improving safety of vessels, e.g. damage control, not otherwise provided for reducing risk of capsizing or sinking by improving buoyancy
- B63B43/14—Improving safety of vessels, e.g. damage control, not otherwise provided for reducing risk of capsizing or sinking by improving buoyancy using outboard floating members
- B63B2043/145—Improving safety of vessels, e.g. damage control, not otherwise provided for reducing risk of capsizing or sinking by improving buoyancy using outboard floating members pneumatic, e.g. inflatable on demand
Definitions
- outboard stabilizers extend from the side sheets along substantially the entire length of the watercraft, from bow to stern.
- outboard stabilizers may extend along only a portion of the vessel side sheets.
- the outboard stabilizers must be securely fixed to the watercraft because outboard stabilizers are subject to very significant hydrodynamic forces, especially on high-performance watercraft. It is important for the integrity of the vessel that outboard stabilizers be fastened securely to the watercraft.
- Outboard stabilizing members that combine air bladders and foam members have become popular because they provide advantages over prior art air-only or foam-only stabilizing members.
- air-only stabilizing members may become entirely ineffective if they are punctured due to loss of air.
- Foam-only stabilizing members are typically difficult to remove. Removal of the stabilizers for conventional watercraft may be desirable, for example, to facilitate trailering or otherwise transporting the watercraft.
- the air bladders and/or foam members are enclosed in a collar or sheath for attachment to the watercraft.
- a disadvantage of conventional outboard stabilizing members that combine air bladders and foam members is that the foam members are compressed by the air bladders.
- the polymeric foams used for stabilizing members will shrink or compress when an external compressive force is applied. In fact, this property of the foam is often utilized to facilitate assembly of the stabilizing members.
- compression of the foam members during use may cause the foam members to become loose in the stabilizing member assembly.
- a user may inflate the bladder(s) further, thereby reapplying a compressive force on the foam member and causing the foam member to shrink further. Compressive shrinking of the foam may cause the collar to take on an undesirable shape and/or interfere with the attachment mechanism for the stabilizing members.
- the compressed foam members will provide less buoyancy.
- outboard stabilizers In order to increase the usable interior space of a towable watercraft having outboard stabilizers, it would be beneficial if the outboard stabilizers could be decreased in size or easily removed for transporting or towing the vessel, and easily and quickly reinstalled or expanded when the vessel arrives at the desired launching location.
- Prior art attachment mechanisms for outboard stabilizers typically require many hours and trained personnel to remove and reinstall. Such removal and installation may also require special tools and the like. There is a need for improved methods and systems for attaching outboard stabilizers to watercraft.
- An outboard stabilizing member for a watercraft includes a foam core having an outer surface and an inflatable bladder having (i) an inner wall portion that overlies at least part of the foam core outer surface, (ii) an outer wall portion, and (iii) a plurality of members that connect the inner wall portion to the outer wall portion.
- the inflatable bladder is configured to be inflated to a design pressure, for example, a pressure between 1 psig and 40 psig, without producing a compressive force on the foam core.
- the outboard stabilizing member includes a sheath that covers the bladder and removably attaches to the watercraft.
- the plurality of joining members are inelastic and are located at spaced locations along the inner and outer wall portions of the bladder, such that the outer wall portion prevents the inner wall portion from exerting a compressive force on the foam core when the bladder is inflated.
- the inelastic joining members are panels or are webbing that define a plurality of channels within the bladder.
- the inelastic members are a plurality of strings or rods, which may be spaced evenly throughout the bladder.
- the plurality of strings or rods are all approximately the same length. In another embodiment, the strings or rods have a variety of lengths.
- the foam core is formed from a plurality of foam sub-members that extend from a first end of the foam core to a second end of the foam core.
- at least one of the foam sub-members is wedge-shaped.
- the foam core has a D-shaped cross section.
- the outboard stabilizing member includes a second inflatable bladder having an inner wall portion and an outer wall portion, wherein the second bladder is configured to be inflated to the design pressure without applying a compressive force to the foam core, and the first and second bladders are positioned on opposite sides of the foam core.
- the bladder is configured to encircle the foam core.
- a watercraft comprises a planing hull with port and starboard side sheets and includes at least one motor attached to the hull.
- a port stabilizing member such as any of the embodiments described above is attached outboard to the port side sheet, and a corresponding starboard stabilizing member is attached outboard to the starboard side sheet.
- the stabilizing members each include a foam core and an inflatable bladder having an inner wall portion, an outer wall portion, and a plurality of connecting members that connect the inner wall potion to the outer wall portion.
- the bladder is configured to engage and at least partially encircle a portion of the associated foam core, such that when the bladder is inflated to a design pressure it does not exert a compressive force on the foam core.
- the foam core and bladder of each stabilizing member is removably attached to the watercraft with a sheath.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a watercraft having outboard stabilizers in accordance with the present invention
- FIG. 2 is a plan view of the watercraft of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of an outboard stabilizer in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of an outboard stabilizer in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of an outboard stabilizer in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view near one end of another embodiment of an outboard stabilizer in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 6B is a side view of the multi-part foam core member of the outboard stabilizer shown in FIG. 6A .
- FIG. 1 A watercraft 100 in accordance with the present invention is shown in FIG. 1 .
- the watercraft 100 includes a planing hull 99 having oppositely disposed port and starboard outboard stabilizing members 110 (only starboard stabilizing member 110 visible).
- the outboard stabilizing members 110 extend longitudinally along all or most of the length of the planing hull 99 , and are securely attached to the hull side sheets 102 .
- the stabilizing members 110 are disposed on the upper portion of the side sheets 102 , such that the stabilizing members 110 do not engage the water when the watercraft 100 is planing and travelling straight ahead. If the watercraft 100 heels sufficiently, for example, during high-speed turns, or the like, or due to weather and/or water conditions, one or both of the stabilizing members 110 may engage the water to thereby provide additional buoyancy. For example, during high-speed turns the stabilizing member 110 on the heel side may provide a buoyancy force countering the heeling forces.
- the watercraft in this embodiment includes a control console 96 and one or more outboard motors 95 .
- Other watercraft configurations are clearly contemplated, without departing from the present invention as will be apparent to persons of ordinary skill in the art.
- the present invention may be used in watercraft having inboard or sterndrive propulsion systems, and with a cabin cockpit or the like.
- FIG. 2 is a plan view of the watercraft 100 .
- the front end of the stabilizing member 110 in this embodiment is configured to be received into a receiver 94 , for example, a bow wrap securely fixed to the bow of the watercraft 100 .
- the stabilizing member 110 may be enclosed in a sheath or the like, to facilitate removable attachment to the watercraft 100 .
- FIG. 3 A cross-sectional view of a first embodiment for the stabilizing member 110 is shown in FIG. 3 .
- the stabilizing member 110 includes a foam core member 120 that in this embodiment is generally D shaped in cross section. Other cross-sectional shapes may be used, including, for example, circular, polygonal, or oval cross sections.
- the foam core member 120 has an inboard flat face 122 that may be positioned and shaped to abut the watercraft side sheet 102 and a curved outer face 123 .
- the foam core member 120 is shown as a solid member, it is contemplated that it may alternatively include apertures, cavities, or other vacancies.
- the foam core member 120 may alternatively be partially hollow.
- the foam core member 120 is formed in a number of different pieces or segments.
- the foam core member 120 may be formed in two or more segments that abut or interlock end-to-end.
- the foam core member 120 may comprise a plurality of elongate members that are positioned side-by-side, and may optionally be adhered or banded together.
- a pliable and inflatable U-shaped bladder 130 is disposed about the curved outer face 123 of the foam core member 120 .
- the U-shaped bladder 130 is configured such that it does not apply any significant compressive force to the foam core member 120 .
- an inflatable bladder that is configured to wrap at least partially around a foam core member, and to apply no significant compressive force to the foam core member when the bladder is inflated to a design pressure, is referred to as a non-compressive bladder.
- the bladder 130 includes a port or valve 132 that is configured for inflating the bladder 130 .
- the bladder 130 will be inflated with air, although any other suitable inflating gas may alternatively be used.
- the bladder 130 includes an inner wall portion 133 that generally follows the foam core curved outer face 123 and an outer wall portion 134 .
- the bladder 130 further includes a plurality of spaced-apart joining members 135 ( 15 shown) that connect the inner wall portion 133 to the outer wall portion 134 .
- the joining members 135 are spaced apart throughout the bladder 130 , and are configured to limit the separation between the inner wall portion 133 and the outer wall portion 134 . In this embodiment, the joining members 135 are all approximately the same length, such that the bladder 130 defines a bladder having a uniform thickness.
- the inner wall portion 133 and the outer wall portion 134 are uniformly spaced apart, and the outer wall portion 134 prevents the inner wall portion 133 from applying a significant pressure to the foam core member 120 .
- the joining members 135 are substantially inelastic in the range of the design forces resulting from inflation of the bladder 130 .
- the joining members 135 may be rigid but are preferably pliable.
- the joining members 135 in the bladder 130 are generally uniformly spaced connectors, it is contemplated that the joining members may be formed as linear members, e.g., strings or rods, that are uniformly distributed throughout the bladder 130 .
- the joining members 135 may be elongate panels or webbing that extend along the length of the bladder 130 , thereby dividing the bladder 130 into a plurality of channels.
- the elongate panels 135 may be configured with end openings (not shown) such that the channels are in fluid communication, or alternatively may define sections that are not fluidly connected (e.g., with separate valves 132 to permit pressurizing the channels independently).
- FIG. 4 A cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a stabilizing member 210 in accordance with the present invention is shown in FIG. 4 .
- the stabilizing member 210 includes a foam core 220 and a bladder 230 .
- the foam core 220 is formed as a plurality of separable elongate foam members 220 A, 220 B, 220 C that are generally rectangular in cross section.
- the bladder 230 includes an inner wall portion 233 that is shaped to approximately correspond to the foam core member 220 , and an outer wall portion 234 that may be shaped similar to the outer wall portion 134 shown in FIG. 3 .
- Joining members 235 connect the inner wall portion 233 to the outer wall portion 234 .
- the joining members have different lengths to provide the desired shape, and are configured such that when the bladder 230 is fully inflated to the design pressure the inner wall portion 233 does not apply a compressive force to the foam member 220 A, 220 B, 220 C.
- Forming the foam core 220 in a plurality of elongate components 220 A, 220 B, 220 C facilitates removing and reassembling the foam core 220 , which may be easily accomplished by first partially or fully deflating the bladder 230 .
- the foam members 220 A, 220 B, 220 C may include a low-friction coating or panel between adjacent members 220 A, 220 B, 220 C.
- the bladder 230 may be partially or fully deflated, without removing any portion of the stabilizing member 210 from the watercraft. This may be advantageous, for example, to reduce the total width of the watercraft 100 when trailering or otherwise transporting the watercraft 100 . The bladder 230 may then be re-inflated when the watercraft is ready for operation.
- FIG. 4 A cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a stabilizing member 310 in accordance with the present invention is shown in FIG. 4 , which is an improvement of the stabilizer disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,810,827, to Hansen (referenced above).
- the stabilizing member 310 includes an elongate foam core 320 that is approximately rectangular in cross section with rounded end faces.
- the stabilizing member 310 includes inner and outer bladders 330 A, 330 B, respectively.
- the bladders 330 A, 330 B each include an inner wall portion 333 that overlies one side of the foam core 320 , and an outer wall portion 334 that provides a desired shape, for example, to define a stabilizing member 310 that is approximately a circular cylinder.
- a plurality of substantially inelastic joining members 335 connect the inner wall portions 333 to the outer wall portion 334 .
- the joining members 335 have different lengths to accommodate the desired shape of the stabilizing member 310 , and are configured such that when the bladders 330 A, 330 B are pressurized to the design pressure the inner wall portions 333 do not apply a compressive force to the foam core 320 .
- a mounting and sheath assembly 340 attaches the stabilizing member 310 to the watercraft 100 .
- FIG. 6A illustrates a cross section of another embodiment of a stabilizing member 410 in accordance with the present invention.
- the foam core member 420 is formed in three elongate members 420 A, 420 B, 420 C.
- FIG. 6B is a side view of the foam core member 420 shown in isolation.
- the center elongate member 420 is generally wedge-shaped, to facilitate removal of the foam core member 420 .
- a bladder 430 is configured to substantially encircle the foam core member 420 .
- the bladder 430 includes an inner wall portion 433 and an outer wall portion 434 that cooperatively define the bladder volume.
- a plurality of substantially inelastic internal joining members 435 connect the inner and outer wall portions 433 , 434 and are configured to prevent the inner wall portion from exerting a significant compressive force on the foam core member 420 when the bladder 430 is pressurized.
- a sheath 440 for connecting the stabilizing member 410 to the watercraft is also provided, similar to the sheath assembly 340 discussed above.
- the relative sizes of the foam members and bladders for the outboard stabilizing members 110 , 210 , 310 , 410 disclosed herein may be selected to provide desired characteristics in the watercraft 100 .
- relatively larger bladders may be preferred to “soften” the ride characteristics of a watercraft 100 .
- relatively larger foam members may be preferred to optimize the floatation characteristics if the bladder is punctured.
- An additional advantage of some embodiments of the present invention is that the same mounting and sheath assembly 340 may be used with different foam core and bladder assemblies.
- a larger foam core 420 may be used in the sheath assembly 440 with a smaller bladder 430 in one configuration, and a smaller foam core 420 may be used with a larger bladder 430 in an alternative configuration.
- This novel feature allows a user to modify a particular watercraft configuration by simply replacing one foam core/bladder combination with a different but corresponding foam core/bladder assembly, to change the watercraft characteristics without any other changes.
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Abstract
Outboard stabilizing members (110, 210, 310, 410) include a foam core (120, 220, 320, 420) and a bladder (134, 234, 334, 434) configured to be inflated to a design pressure and configured to cover at least a portion of the associated foam core. The bladders are configured to be non-compressive to the foam core. A plurality of joining members (135, 235, 335, 435) connect an inner wall of the bladder with an outer wall of the bladder, such that when the bladder is inflated to the design pressure the outer wall and joining members prevent the inner wall from compressing the foam core. The joining members are preferably inelastic, and may be one-dimensional linear members such as strings or rods, two-dimensional panels, or other webbing.
Description
- This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/002217, filed Jan. 20, 2016, which claims the benefit of Provisional Application No. 62/106656, filed Jan. 22, 2015; the entire disclosures of said applications are hereby incorporated by reference herein.
- Watercraft that incorporate foam with the hull of a watercraft are known in the art, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,060,865, to Woolworth. Typically, foam is incorporated and enclosed within the hull structure itself. These boat designs are generally safer than designs that do not incorporate flotation devices within the hull. Outboard flotation members mounted to the sides of a boat are also known in the art. For example, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,287,624, to Lowther, foam flotation devices are attached to the exterior and interior of a low-speed fishing boat.
- In U.S. Pat. No. 5,282,436, to Hansen, the present inventor discloses outboard foam stabilizing members suitable for use on high-performance watercraft. Hansen discloses a watercraft having a rigid, planing hull and exterior foam stabilizing members that extend substantially around the perimeter of the boat hull. The foam stabilizing members are configured to remain substantially out of contact with the surface of the water when the boat is at cruising speed, so that the foam stabilizing members do not contribute to the wetted surface area of the watercraft while planing. The foam stabilizing members also act as a running surface when a sharp turn is performed at high speed.
- In U.S. Pat. No. 6,810,827, to Hansen, a watercraft with an outboard stabilizing member (or collar) that combines inflatable inboard and outboard air bladders with a foam member disposed between the inboard and outboard bladders is disclosed. Other stabilizing collars that combine air bladders and foam members are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,201,865, to Hansen, and in U.S. Pat. No. 6,371,040, to Hemphill et al.
- In some embodiments the outboard stabilizers extend from the side sheets along substantially the entire length of the watercraft, from bow to stern. Alternatively, outboard stabilizers may extend along only a portion of the vessel side sheets. The outboard stabilizers must be securely fixed to the watercraft because outboard stabilizers are subject to very significant hydrodynamic forces, especially on high-performance watercraft. It is important for the integrity of the vessel that outboard stabilizers be fastened securely to the watercraft.
- Outboard stabilizing members that combine air bladders and foam members have become popular because they provide advantages over prior art air-only or foam-only stabilizing members. For example, air-only stabilizing members may become entirely ineffective if they are punctured due to loss of air. Foam-only stabilizing members, on the other hand, are typically difficult to remove. Removal of the stabilizers for conventional watercraft may be desirable, for example, to facilitate trailering or otherwise transporting the watercraft. Typically the air bladders and/or foam members are enclosed in a collar or sheath for attachment to the watercraft.
- However, a disadvantage of conventional outboard stabilizing members that combine air bladders and foam members is that the foam members are compressed by the air bladders. The polymeric foams used for stabilizing members will shrink or compress when an external compressive force is applied. In fact, this property of the foam is often utilized to facilitate assembly of the stabilizing members. However, compression of the foam members during use may cause the foam members to become loose in the stabilizing member assembly. In order to compensate for the smaller foam members, a user may inflate the bladder(s) further, thereby reapplying a compressive force on the foam member and causing the foam member to shrink further. Compressive shrinking of the foam may cause the collar to take on an undesirable shape and/or interfere with the attachment mechanism for the stabilizing members. In particular, the compressed foam members will provide less buoyancy.
- This could be catastrophic, in particular if the air bladders are punctured, for example, in an accident event in which the foam members are relied on to keep the vessel afloat. The polymeric foam member may retain its compressed shape and volume for hours after the compressive force has been removed. Therefore, in an accident scenario wherein the air bladder has overly compressed the foam member and then deflated in a catastrophic event, the smaller compressed foam member will not provide the buoyancy that it was designed to provide.
- One challenge that has limited broader adoption of outboard stabilizers for high-performance watercraft is the additional maximum width, or beam, that results from outboard stabilizers. Watercraft may often be towed or otherwise transported over highways to a desired launch site. Highways generally have limitations on allowable vehicle width. For example, in the United States federal law sets a maximum commercial vehicle width of about 102 inches on the national network of highways (without special over-width permits) in 23 CFR Part 658.
- In order to increase the usable interior space of a towable watercraft having outboard stabilizers, it would be beneficial if the outboard stabilizers could be decreased in size or easily removed for transporting or towing the vessel, and easily and quickly reinstalled or expanded when the vessel arrives at the desired launching location. Prior art attachment mechanisms for outboard stabilizers typically require many hours and trained personnel to remove and reinstall. Such removal and installation may also require special tools and the like. There is a need for improved methods and systems for attaching outboard stabilizers to watercraft.
- There is also a need for an air/foam stabilizing member that can be repaired in situ. It would be beneficial to provide a stabilizing member with separable air bladders that can be quickly removed, repaired, and replaced without removing the buoyant stabilizing member from the watercraft, such that the foam members' contribution to the buoyancy of the stabilizing member is retained during the repair or maintenance.
- This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This summary is not intended to identify key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.
- An outboard stabilizing member for a watercraft includes a foam core having an outer surface and an inflatable bladder having (i) an inner wall portion that overlies at least part of the foam core outer surface, (ii) an outer wall portion, and (iii) a plurality of members that connect the inner wall portion to the outer wall portion. The inflatable bladder is configured to be inflated to a design pressure, for example, a pressure between 1 psig and 40 psig, without producing a compressive force on the foam core.
- In an embodiment, the outboard stabilizing member includes a sheath that covers the bladder and removably attaches to the watercraft.
- In an embodiment, the plurality of joining members are inelastic and are located at spaced locations along the inner and outer wall portions of the bladder, such that the outer wall portion prevents the inner wall portion from exerting a compressive force on the foam core when the bladder is inflated.
- In an embodiment, the inelastic joining members are panels or are webbing that define a plurality of channels within the bladder.
- In another embodiment, the inelastic members are a plurality of strings or rods, which may be spaced evenly throughout the bladder.
- In an embodiment, the plurality of strings or rods are all approximately the same length. In another embodiment, the strings or rods have a variety of lengths.
- In an embodiment, the foam core is formed from a plurality of foam sub-members that extend from a first end of the foam core to a second end of the foam core. In a particular embodiment, at least one of the foam sub-members is wedge-shaped.
- In an embodiment, the foam core has a D-shaped cross section.
- In an embodiment, the outboard stabilizing member includes a second inflatable bladder having an inner wall portion and an outer wall portion, wherein the second bladder is configured to be inflated to the design pressure without applying a compressive force to the foam core, and the first and second bladders are positioned on opposite sides of the foam core.
- In another embodiment, the bladder is configured to encircle the foam core.
- A watercraft comprises a planing hull with port and starboard side sheets and includes at least one motor attached to the hull. A port stabilizing member, such as any of the embodiments described above is attached outboard to the port side sheet, and a corresponding starboard stabilizing member is attached outboard to the starboard side sheet. The stabilizing members each include a foam core and an inflatable bladder having an inner wall portion, an outer wall portion, and a plurality of connecting members that connect the inner wall potion to the outer wall portion. The bladder is configured to engage and at least partially encircle a portion of the associated foam core, such that when the bladder is inflated to a design pressure it does not exert a compressive force on the foam core. In an embodiment, the foam core and bladder of each stabilizing member is removably attached to the watercraft with a sheath.
- The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of this invention will become more readily appreciated as the same become better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
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FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a watercraft having outboard stabilizers in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 2 is a plan view of the watercraft ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of an outboard stabilizer in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of an outboard stabilizer in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of an outboard stabilizer in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view near one end of another embodiment of an outboard stabilizer in accordance with the present invention; and -
FIG. 6B is a side view of the multi-part foam core member of the outboard stabilizer shown inFIG. 6A . - A
watercraft 100 in accordance with the present invention is shown inFIG. 1 . Thewatercraft 100 includes a planinghull 99 having oppositely disposed port and starboard outboard stabilizing members 110 (only starboard stabilizingmember 110 visible). In this particular embodiment, theoutboard stabilizing members 110 extend longitudinally along all or most of the length of the planinghull 99, and are securely attached to thehull side sheets 102. - The stabilizing
members 110 are disposed on the upper portion of theside sheets 102, such that the stabilizingmembers 110 do not engage the water when thewatercraft 100 is planing and travelling straight ahead. If thewatercraft 100 heels sufficiently, for example, during high-speed turns, or the like, or due to weather and/or water conditions, one or both of the stabilizingmembers 110 may engage the water to thereby provide additional buoyancy. For example, during high-speed turns the stabilizingmember 110 on the heel side may provide a buoyancy force countering the heeling forces. - In the embodiment of
FIG. 1 , the watercraft in this embodiment includes acontrol console 96 and one or moreoutboard motors 95. Other watercraft configurations are clearly contemplated, without departing from the present invention as will be apparent to persons of ordinary skill in the art. For example, the present invention may be used in watercraft having inboard or sterndrive propulsion systems, and with a cabin cockpit or the like. -
FIG. 2 is a plan view of thewatercraft 100. The front end of the stabilizingmember 110 in this embodiment is configured to be received into areceiver 94, for example, a bow wrap securely fixed to the bow of thewatercraft 100. It is contemplated that the stabilizingmember 110 may be enclosed in a sheath or the like, to facilitate removable attachment to thewatercraft 100. - A cross-sectional view of a first embodiment for the stabilizing
member 110 is shown inFIG. 3 . In this embodiment, the stabilizingmember 110 includes afoam core member 120 that in this embodiment is generally D shaped in cross section. Other cross-sectional shapes may be used, including, for example, circular, polygonal, or oval cross sections. In this embodiment, thefoam core member 120 has an inboardflat face 122 that may be positioned and shaped to abut thewatercraft side sheet 102 and a curvedouter face 123. Although thefoam core member 120 is shown as a solid member, it is contemplated that it may alternatively include apertures, cavities, or other vacancies. For example, thefoam core member 120 may alternatively be partially hollow. In another embodiment thefoam core member 120 is formed in a number of different pieces or segments. For example, thefoam core member 120 may be formed in two or more segments that abut or interlock end-to-end. In another embodiment, thefoam core member 120 may comprise a plurality of elongate members that are positioned side-by-side, and may optionally be adhered or banded together. - A pliable and inflatable
U-shaped bladder 130 is disposed about the curvedouter face 123 of thefoam core member 120. As discussed in more detail below, theU-shaped bladder 130 is configured such that it does not apply any significant compressive force to thefoam core member 120. As used herein, an inflatable bladder that is configured to wrap at least partially around a foam core member, and to apply no significant compressive force to the foam core member when the bladder is inflated to a design pressure, is referred to as a non-compressive bladder. Thebladder 130 includes a port orvalve 132 that is configured for inflating thebladder 130. Typically, thebladder 130 will be inflated with air, although any other suitable inflating gas may alternatively be used. - The
bladder 130 includes aninner wall portion 133 that generally follows the foam core curvedouter face 123 and anouter wall portion 134. Thebladder 130 further includes a plurality of spaced-apart joining members 135 (15 shown) that connect theinner wall portion 133 to theouter wall portion 134. The joiningmembers 135 are spaced apart throughout thebladder 130, and are configured to limit the separation between theinner wall portion 133 and theouter wall portion 134. In this embodiment, the joiningmembers 135 are all approximately the same length, such that thebladder 130 defines a bladder having a uniform thickness. - When the
bladder 130 is fully inflated to a design pressure, for example, between 1 psig and 40 psig, theinner wall portion 133 and theouter wall portion 134 are uniformly spaced apart, and theouter wall portion 134 prevents theinner wall portion 133 from applying a significant pressure to thefoam core member 120. Preferably the joiningmembers 135 are substantially inelastic in the range of the design forces resulting from inflation of thebladder 130. The joiningmembers 135 may be rigid but are preferably pliable. - Although in the illustrated embodiment the joining
members 135 in thebladder 130 are generally uniformly spaced connectors, it is contemplated that the joining members may be formed as linear members, e.g., strings or rods, that are uniformly distributed throughout thebladder 130. Alternatively, the joiningmembers 135 may be elongate panels or webbing that extend along the length of thebladder 130, thereby dividing thebladder 130 into a plurality of channels. Theelongate panels 135 may be configured with end openings (not shown) such that the channels are in fluid communication, or alternatively may define sections that are not fluidly connected (e.g., withseparate valves 132 to permit pressurizing the channels independently). - A cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a stabilizing
member 210 in accordance with the present invention is shown inFIG. 4 . In this embodiment, the stabilizingmember 210 includes afoam core 220 and abladder 230. Thefoam core 220 is formed as a plurality of separableelongate foam members bladder 230 includes aninner wall portion 233 that is shaped to approximately correspond to thefoam core member 220, and anouter wall portion 234 that may be shaped similar to theouter wall portion 134 shown inFIG. 3 . Joiningmembers 235 connect theinner wall portion 233 to theouter wall portion 234. The joining members have different lengths to provide the desired shape, and are configured such that when thebladder 230 is fully inflated to the design pressure theinner wall portion 233 does not apply a compressive force to thefoam member - Forming the
foam core 220 in a plurality ofelongate components foam core 220, which may be easily accomplished by first partially or fully deflating thebladder 230. In some embodiments thefoam members adjacent members - It will also be appreciated that the
bladder 230 may be partially or fully deflated, without removing any portion of the stabilizingmember 210 from the watercraft. This may be advantageous, for example, to reduce the total width of thewatercraft 100 when trailering or otherwise transporting thewatercraft 100. Thebladder 230 may then be re-inflated when the watercraft is ready for operation. - A cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a stabilizing
member 310 in accordance with the present invention is shown inFIG. 4 , which is an improvement of the stabilizer disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,810,827, to Hansen (referenced above). In this embodiment, the stabilizingmember 310 includes anelongate foam core 320 that is approximately rectangular in cross section with rounded end faces. The stabilizingmember 310 includes inner andouter bladders bladders inner wall portion 333 that overlies one side of thefoam core 320, and anouter wall portion 334 that provides a desired shape, for example, to define a stabilizingmember 310 that is approximately a circular cylinder. A plurality of substantially inelastic joiningmembers 335 connect theinner wall portions 333 to theouter wall portion 334. The joiningmembers 335 have different lengths to accommodate the desired shape of the stabilizingmember 310, and are configured such that when thebladders inner wall portions 333 do not apply a compressive force to thefoam core 320. A mounting andsheath assembly 340 attaches the stabilizingmember 310 to thewatercraft 100. -
FIG. 6A illustrates a cross section of another embodiment of a stabilizingmember 410 in accordance with the present invention. In this embodiment, thefoam core member 420 is formed in threeelongate members FIG. 6B is a side view of thefoam core member 420 shown in isolation. In this embodiment, the centerelongate member 420 is generally wedge-shaped, to facilitate removal of thefoam core member 420. - A
bladder 430 is configured to substantially encircle thefoam core member 420. Thebladder 430 includes aninner wall portion 433 and anouter wall portion 434 that cooperatively define the bladder volume. A plurality of substantially inelastic internal joiningmembers 435 connect the inner andouter wall portions foam core member 420 when thebladder 430 is pressurized. Asheath 440 for connecting the stabilizingmember 410 to the watercraft is also provided, similar to thesheath assembly 340 discussed above. - The relative sizes of the foam members and bladders for the
outboard stabilizing members watercraft 100. For example, in some applications relatively larger bladders may be preferred to “soften” the ride characteristics of awatercraft 100. In other applications relatively larger foam members may be preferred to optimize the floatation characteristics if the bladder is punctured. - An additional advantage of some embodiments of the present invention is that the same mounting and
sheath assembly 340 may be used with different foam core and bladder assemblies. For example, in thestabilizer assembly 410 shown inFIGS. 6A and 6B alarger foam core 420 may be used in thesheath assembly 440 with asmaller bladder 430 in one configuration, and asmaller foam core 420 may be used with alarger bladder 430 in an alternative configuration. This novel feature allows a user to modify a particular watercraft configuration by simply replacing one foam core/bladder combination with a different but corresponding foam core/bladder assembly, to change the watercraft characteristics without any other changes. - While illustrative embodiments have been illustrated and described, it will be appreciated that various changes can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
Claims (18)
1. An outboard stabilizing member for a watercraft comprising:
an elongate foam core having a radially outer surface disposed between opposite ends of the foam core; and
an inflatable bladder comprising an inner wall portion, an outer wall portion, and a plurality of connecting members that connect the inner wall portion to the outer wall portion, wherein the inner wall substantially encircles the radially outer surface of the foam core; and
a sheath enclosing the foam core and the inflatable bladder, and configured to retain the inflatable bladder on the foam core;
wherein the inflatable bladder is configured to be inflated to a design pressure without applying a compressive force to the foam core.
2. The outboard stabilizing member of claim 1 , wherein the design pressure is between 1 and 40 psig.
3. The outboard stabilizing member of claim 1 , wherein the sheath is configured to removably attach the stabilizing member to the watercraft.
4. The outboard stabilizing member of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of connecting members are inelastic and are located at spaced locations along the inner and outer wall portions such that an inflation pressure on the outer wall portion prevents the inner wall portion from exerting a compressive force on the foam core when the bladder is inflated to the design pressure.
5. The outboard stabilizing member of claim 4 , wherein the plurality of inelastic connecting members comprise a plurality of panels.
6. The outboard stabilizing member of claim 5 , wherein the plurality of panels define a plurality of channels in the bladder that are in fluid communication.
7. (canceled)
8. The outboard stabilizing member of claim 4 , wherein the plurality of inelastic connecting members comprise a plurality of strings or rods.
9. The outboard stabilizing member of claim 8 , wherein the plurality of strings or rods are evenly spaced throughout the bladder.
10. The outboard stabilizing member of claim 8 , wherein the plurality of strings or rods have a uniform length, such that the plurality of strings or rods maintain a constant spacing between the inner wall portion and the outer wall portion.
11. The outboard stabilizing member of claim 1 , wherein the foam core comprises a plurality of elongate foam sub-members that extend from a first end of the foam core to a second end of the foam core.
12. The outboard stabilizing member of claim 11 , wherein at least one of the plurality of foam sub-members is wedge-shaped.
13. The outboard stabilizing member of claim 1 , wherein the foam core comprises an elongate foam core having a D-shaped cross section.
14-16. (canceled)
17. A watercraft having a starboard stabilizing member and a port stabilizing member, wherein the port and starboard stabilizing members comprise the outboard stabilizing member of claim 1 .
18. A high-performance watercraft comprising:
a planing hull having a port side sheet and a starboard side sheet;
at least one motor attached to the hull;
a port stabilizing member attached to an outboard side of the port side sheet;
a starboard stabilizing member attached to an outboard side of the starboard side sheet;
wherein each of the port and starboard stabilizing members comprise:
an elongate foam core having a radially outer surface disposed between opposite ends of the foam core; and
an inflatable bladder comprising an inner wall portion, an outer wall portion, and a plurality of connecting members that connect the inner wall portion to the outer wall portion, wherein the inner wall portion substantially encircles the radially outer surface of the foam core; and
a sheath enclosing the foam core and the inflatable bladder, and configured to retain the inflatable bladder on the foam core;
wherein the inflatable bladder is configured to be inflated to a design pressure without producing a compressive force to the foam core.
19. (canceled)
20. The high-performance watercraft of claim 18 , wherein the plurality of connecting members comprise a plurality of strings or rods wherein the plurality of strings or rods have a uniform length, such that the plurality of strings or rods maintain a constant spacing between the inner wall portion and the outer wall portion.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US15/971,917 US20180334231A1 (en) | 2015-01-22 | 2018-05-04 | Watercraft stabilizing member with foam core and non-compressive bladder |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US201562106656P | 2015-01-22 | 2015-01-22 | |
US15/002,217 US9963208B2 (en) | 2015-01-22 | 2016-01-20 | Watercraft stabilizing member with foam core and non-compressive bladder |
US15/971,917 US20180334231A1 (en) | 2015-01-22 | 2018-05-04 | Watercraft stabilizing member with foam core and non-compressive bladder |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US15/002,217 Continuation US9963208B2 (en) | 2015-01-22 | 2016-01-20 | Watercraft stabilizing member with foam core and non-compressive bladder |
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US20180334231A1 true US20180334231A1 (en) | 2018-11-22 |
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US15/002,217 Active US9963208B2 (en) | 2015-01-22 | 2016-01-20 | Watercraft stabilizing member with foam core and non-compressive bladder |
US15/971,917 Abandoned US20180334231A1 (en) | 2015-01-22 | 2018-05-04 | Watercraft stabilizing member with foam core and non-compressive bladder |
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US15/002,217 Active US9963208B2 (en) | 2015-01-22 | 2016-01-20 | Watercraft stabilizing member with foam core and non-compressive bladder |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
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US (2) | US9963208B2 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2016209347A1 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2974665A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2016118664A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN111544947A (en) * | 2019-02-12 | 2020-08-18 | Fsp流动系统合伙控股股份公司 | Separation element and unit, filter element, housing and device and method |
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US20040083941A1 (en) * | 2001-01-12 | 2004-05-06 | Safe Boats International, L.L.C. | Rigid hull inflatable boat with foam insert |
US20090049757A1 (en) * | 2007-08-21 | 2009-02-26 | Potter Steven D | Roll-up inflatable beam structure |
US20140202370A1 (en) * | 2013-01-18 | 2014-07-24 | Team Scarab, Inc. | External inflatable drop stitch stability system for boats |
US8800466B1 (en) * | 2010-06-23 | 2014-08-12 | Navatek, Ltd. | Inflatable watercraft with reinforced panels |
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US2391906A (en) * | 1941-10-24 | 1946-01-01 | Cresson H Kearny | Inflatable boat |
US4351257A (en) * | 1981-01-26 | 1982-09-28 | Seaward International, Inc. | Marine fender |
US5282436A (en) * | 1992-01-15 | 1994-02-01 | Hansen William M | Foam stabilized watercraft |
US5878685A (en) * | 1997-09-30 | 1999-03-09 | Zodiac Hurricane Technologies, Inc. | Foam collar and boat incorporating same |
US20040069203A1 (en) * | 2002-10-11 | 2004-04-15 | Timothy Fleming | Foam and inflatable collar assemblies for watercraft |
US7070730B2 (en) | 2003-06-13 | 2006-07-04 | Safe Boats International, Llc | Method of manufacturing foam core boat collars |
US7421968B1 (en) * | 2007-02-20 | 2008-09-09 | Yen-Lu Hu | Boat that is provided with floating tubes in a multi-layer design |
AU2010201449B2 (en) * | 2010-04-13 | 2012-04-05 | Patrick Xavier Jones | Watercraft accessory |
US20130118395A1 (en) | 2011-11-16 | 2013-05-16 | John F. Cross | Conversion kit for personal watercraft to rigid inflatable |
-
2016
- 2016-01-20 WO PCT/US2016/014184 patent/WO2016118664A1/en active Application Filing
- 2016-01-20 AU AU2016209347A patent/AU2016209347A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2016-01-20 US US15/002,217 patent/US9963208B2/en active Active
- 2016-01-20 CA CA2974665A patent/CA2974665A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2018
- 2018-05-04 US US15/971,917 patent/US20180334231A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US20040083941A1 (en) * | 2001-01-12 | 2004-05-06 | Safe Boats International, L.L.C. | Rigid hull inflatable boat with foam insert |
US20090049757A1 (en) * | 2007-08-21 | 2009-02-26 | Potter Steven D | Roll-up inflatable beam structure |
US8800466B1 (en) * | 2010-06-23 | 2014-08-12 | Navatek, Ltd. | Inflatable watercraft with reinforced panels |
US20140202370A1 (en) * | 2013-01-18 | 2014-07-24 | Team Scarab, Inc. | External inflatable drop stitch stability system for boats |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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CN111544947A (en) * | 2019-02-12 | 2020-08-18 | Fsp流动系统合伙控股股份公司 | Separation element and unit, filter element, housing and device and method |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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WO2016118664A1 (en) | 2016-07-28 |
AU2016209347A1 (en) | 2017-08-10 |
US9963208B2 (en) | 2018-05-08 |
US20160214682A1 (en) | 2016-07-28 |
CA2974665A1 (en) | 2016-07-28 |
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