WO2016149206A1

WO2016149206A1 - Wave-propelled vehicle

Info

Publication number: WO2016149206A1
Application number: PCT/US2016/022351
Authority: WO
Inventors: Michael S. SAYRE
Original assignee: Sayre Michael S
Priority date: 2015-03-14
Filing date: 2016-03-14
Publication date: 2016-09-22
Also published as: US20180043973A1

Abstract

A wave-propelled or fluid-propelled vehicle, having a body extending from a nose portion to a tail portion and having a middle portion disposed between the nose portion and the tail portion; and at least one interior thrust cavity formed within at least a portion of the body, wherein each interior thrust cavity extends from a cavity inlet aperture formed proximate the tail portion to a back wall. A cavity outlet aperture may optionally be associated with each thrust cavity, such that each cavity outlet aperture is formed proximate the back wall and is in fluid communication with the cavity outlet aperture, via the interior thrust cavity.

Description

WAVE-PROPELLED VEHICLE

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This patent application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent

Application Ser. No. 62/133,305, filed March 14, 2015, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR

DEVELOPMENT

[0002] Not Applicable.

REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING. A TABLE. OR A COMPUTER

PROGRAM LISTING COMPACT DISC APPENDIX

[0003] Not Applicable.

NOTICE OF COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL

[0004] The disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever. Unless otherwise noted, all trademarks and service marks identified herein are owned by the applicant.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

1. Field of the Disclosed Embodiments

[0005] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of fluid- propelled vehicles. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a wave force multiplying or wave propelled vehicle.

2. Description of Related Art

[0006] There are presently a number of surfboards and surfboard styles. Some are better suited for certain types of surfers, while others are more suited for certain types of wave conditions. Typical surfboard designs include similar components or elements. The nose is typically the front portion of the surfboard and is meant to be out of the water. The nose can either be pointed or rounded, depending on the type of surfboard. The upper part of the surfboard, where the surfer lies while paddling or stands while surfing is referred to as the deck.

[0007] The rear of the board is typically referred to as the tail. Like the nose, the tail can come in a number of different shapes. The shape of the tail typically determines the ability of the board to turn. The edges of the board, which extend from the top portion, or nose, to the bottom portion, or tail, are known as the rails.

[0008] Foam boards typically include a stringer that comprises a portion of strengthening material (typically a thin piece of wood) that extends from the nose to the tail. The stringer provides strength and/or rigidity to the board. Certain epoxy, soft boards, and carbon fiber surfboards do not include a stringer.

[0009] According to recent statistics, there are approximately 3.5 million surfers in the United States. There were approximately 26 million surfers worldwide in 2001 and 35 million surfers worldwide as of 201 1 . Growth in the surfing community has been predominately from people between the ages of 35-35.

[0010] The average surfer in the U.S. is 33 years of age, with a college education or higher, is employed full-time, earns an income between $50,000 and $70,000, owns an average of 3 surfboards, and visits the beach 100 times each year.

[0011] The surf industry boasts $7.29 billion annually in surf hard goods and revenue from surfboards alone is $1 .56 billion per year. The average board is designed for a rider weighing 10Olbs.

[0012] Surfing is no longer just a young person's sport. With a current average age of 33, and industry growth coming from the 30+ crowd, there has been a shift to make boards lighter and thicker to carry larger surfers.

[0013] Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles, or the like, which has been included in the present specification is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present disclosure as it existed before the priority date of each claim of this application.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSED EMBODIMENTS

[0014] Particularly with the shift in board design to accommodate larger surfers, surfers must be able to paddle the board fast enough to match their speed with the wave speed in order to catch the wave. To date, there has been no non-mechanical solution to this problem.

[0015] The features and elements of the present disclosure address certain shortcomings of the present surfboard designs by providing one or more recesses, openings, or channels proximate the back end, or tail, of the surfboard. In various exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, unique foil shaped cavities serve to increase the speed of the water as it is channeled into the board. These cavities, in turn, transfer the power of the wave into thrust (or push) inside the board.

[0016] As a result, the surfer will not need to paddle as hard or as fast in order to match the speed of the wave. Therefore, in an hour-long session in which a surfer might typically catch a wave or two before tiring out, a surfer using a wave-propelled surfboard of the present design might be able to catch 6 to 10 waves. Catching more waves means more fun, and the ability to develop surfing skills more quickly. With no mechanical parts to rely on to create thrust, the boards will be cost comparable to standard boards and allow more people to enjoy the sport of surfing and surfers to enjoy catching more waves.

[0017] The features and elements of the present disclosure allow the natural power of the wave to be captured by the wave-propelled surfboard to produce thrust, which allows the wave-propelled surfboard to match wave speed more easily, thus allowing beginner/intermediate surfers to catch more waves and have more fun. This is a non-mechanical solution to providing thrust, using the wave and the natural, kinetic energy of the wave to produce that thrust.

[0018] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the wave- propelled surfboard of the present disclosure comprises a wave-propelled or fluid-propelled vehicle, having a body extending from a nose portion to a tail portion and having a middle portion disposed between the nose portion and the tail portion; and at least one interior thrust cavity formed within at least a portion of the body, wherein each interior thrust cavity extends from a cavity inlet aperture formed proximate the tail portion to a back wall. A cavity outlet aperture may optionally be associated with each thrust cavity, such that each cavity outlet aperture is formed proximate the back wall and is in fluid communication with the cavity outlet aperture, via the interior thrust cavity.

[0019] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the wave-propelled surfboard of the present disclosure comprises a wave-propelled or fluid- propelled vehicle, having a body extending from a nose portion to a tail portion and having a middle portion disposed between the nose portion and the tail portion; at least one thrust cavity assembly recess formed proximate the tail portion, wherein the at least one thrust cavity assembly recesses extends from an end of the body; and at least one thrust cavity assembly, wherein the at least one thrust cavity assembly is formed so as to be at least partially positioned within the at least one thrust cavity assembly recess, and wherein the at least one thrust cavity assembly includes an interior thrust cavity extending from a cavity inlet aperture and defined by at least a back wall, an upper surface wall, a lower surface wall.

[0020] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the wave-propelled surfboard of the present disclosure comprises a wave-propelled surfboard body having an elongate, buoyant, planing hull, extending from a nose portion to a tail portion, and having a middle portion disposed between the nose portion and the tail portion. One or more thrust cavities extend within the surfboard body, from a rear portion of the wave-propelled surfboard, beginning proximate the tail portion, toward the middle portion. Each thrust cavity includes one or more interior walls extending from a cavity aperture formed proximate the rear portion and defining the cavity. Each thrust cavity extends forward to a back wall or endpoint proximate the front of the thrust cavity.

[0021] In various exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the wave- propelled surfboard of the present disclosure comprises a planing hull having a flat or concave bottom contour so as to allow the surfboard to plane on top of the water. In this manner, the hull design allows the wave-propelled surfboard to move on top of water at relatively high speeds. In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the wave-belt surfboard is relatively flat proximate the tail.

[0022] Alternatively, the wave-propelled surfboard may optionally comprise a displacement hull, having a belly, or convex, bottom contour and/or planing surface. In still other exemplary embodiments, the wave- propelled surfboard may optionally comprise a semi-displacement hull, a semi-planing hull, or a modified transitional displacement hull.

[0023] In certain exemplary embodiments, standard fins are optionally included, which extend downward from a bottom of the wave-propelled surfboard.

[0024] In various exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, the wave- propelled surfboard of the present disclosure comprises a wave-propelled surfboard body having an elongate, buoyant, planing hull, extending from a nose portion to a tail portion, and having a middle portion disposed between the nose portion and the tail portion. One or more stabilizer/thrust rails extend from a bottom of the wave-propelled surfboard, beginning proximate the nose portion and/or the middle portion and extending to the tail portion. The one or more stabilizer/thrust rails include one or more interior walls defining a cavity formed from a rear of the stabilizer/thrust rail, making the stabilizer/thrust rail extend forward from a hollow portion to a back wall or endpoint proximate the front of the stabilizer/thrust rail.

[0025] The one or more stabilizer/thrust rails provide extra stability on take-off and allow water from a wave to enter with no escape point. The force of the water entering the cavity of the stabilizer/thrust rail and impacting a surface of the back wall or endpoint produces thrust or "pushes" the wave- propelled surfboard, using the wave's kinetic energy.

[0026] The stabilizer/thrust rails also operate as a fin or fins for the wave- propelled surfboard, allowing the board to be maneuvered on the wave.

[0027] While a single stabilizer/thrust rail may be utilized, in various exemplary embodiments, to stabilizer/thrust rails extend from the bottom of the wave-propelled surfboard.

[0028] In certain exemplary embodiments, a third, standard center fin is optionally included between the stabilizer/thrust rails to produce a thruster set up.

[0029] Accordingly, the presently disclosed embodiments provide a wave- propelled surfboard that allows a volume of water from a wave to enter one or more cavities to produce thrust for the wave-propelled surfboard.

[0030] The presently disclosed embodiments separately provide a wave- propelled surfboard that utilizes kinetic energy from a wave to produce thrust.

[0031] The presently disclosed embodiments separately provide a wave- propelled surfboard that provides a non-mechanical solution to providing thrust to a surfboard.

[0032] The presently disclosed embodiments separately provide a wave- propelled surfboard that can be easily ridden by a surfer.

[0033] These and other aspects, features, and advantages of the present disclosure are described in or are apparent from the following detailed description of the exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure and the accompanying Figures. Other aspects and features of embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the following description of specific, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure in concert with the

Figures. While features of the present disclosure may be discussed relative to certain embodiments and Figures, all embodiments of the present disclosure can include one or more of the features discussed herein.

Further, while one or more embodiments may be discussed as having certain advantageous features, one or more of such features may also be used with the various embodiments of the embodiments discussed herein. In similar fashion, while exemplary embodiments may be discussed below as device, system, or method embodiments, it is to be understood that such exemplary embodiments can be implemented in various devices, systems, and methods of the present disclosure.

[0034] Any benefits, advantages, or solutions to problems that are described herein with regard to specific embodiments are not intended to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature(s) or element(s) of the present disclosure or the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] As required, detailed exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary and that the present disclosure may be embodied in various and alternative forms, within the scope of the present disclosure. The Figures are not necessarily to scale; some features may be exaggerated or minimized to illustrate details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to employ the present disclosure.

[0036] The exemplary embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail, with reference to the following Figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views, and wherein:

[0037] FIG. 1 illustrates a rear, perspective view of a first exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0038] FIG. 2 illustrates a top view of the first exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0039] FIG. 3 illustrates a rear view of the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0040] FIG. 4 illustrates a front view of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0041] FIG. 5 illustrates a top view of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0042] FIG. 6 illustrates a bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0043] FIG. 7 illustrates a right side view of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0044] FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view, taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 5, of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0045] FIG. 9 illustrates a left side view of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure; [0046] FIG. 10 illustrates a rear view of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0047] FIG. 1 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view, taken along line 1 1 -1 1 of

FIG. 7, of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0048] FIG. 12 illustrates a rear view of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0049] FIG. 13 illustrates a right side cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0050] FIG. 14 illustrates a bottom cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0051 ] FIG. 15 illustrates a rear view of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0052] FIG. 16 illustrates a rear view of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0053] FIG. 17 illustrates a bottom cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0054] FIG. 18 illustrates a top view of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0055] FIG. 19 illustrates a bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0056] FIG. 20 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view, taken along line

20-20 of FIG. 18, of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0057] FIG. 21 illustrates a partial bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, wherein the optional wall inserts are not yet installed in the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0058] FIG. 22 illustrates a partial bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, wherein the optional wall inserts are installed in the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure; [0059] FIG. 23 illustrates a rear cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, wherein the optional wall inserts are not yet installed in the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0060] FIG. 24 illustrates a rear cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, wherein the optional wall inserts are installed in the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0061 ] FIG. 25 illustrates a top view of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0062] FIG. 26 illustrates a bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0063] FIG. 27 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a thrust cavity assembly, according to this disclosure;

[0064] FIG. 28 illustrates a bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of a thrust cavity assembly, according to this disclosure;

[0065] FIG. 29 illustrates a rear view of an exemplary embodiment of a thrust cavity assembly, according to this disclosure;

[0066] FIG. 30 illustrates a partial, right side cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, wherein the optional thrust cavity assembly is not yet installed in the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0067] FIG. 31 illustrates a partial, right side cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, wherein the optional thrust cavity assembly is installed in the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0068] FIG. 32 illustrates a left side view of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure;

[0069] FIG. 33 illustrates a rear view of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure; and

[0070] FIG. 34 illustrates a rear view of an exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard, according to this disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSED EMBODIMENTS

[0071] For simplicity and clarification, the design factors and operating principles of the wave-propelled surfboard according to this disclosure are explained with reference to various exemplary embodiments of a wave- propelled surfboard according to this disclosure. The basic explanation of the design factors and operating principles of the wave-propelled surfboard is applicable for the understanding, design, and operation of the wave- propelled surfboard of this disclosure. It should be appreciated that the wave-propelled surfboard can be adapted to many applications where a wave-propelled surfboard or strap can be used.

[0072] As used herein, the word "may" is meant to convey a permissive sense (i.e., meaning "having the potential to"), rather than a mandatory sense (i.e., meaning "must"). Unless stated otherwise, terms such as "first" and "second" are used to arbitrarily distinguish between the elements such terms describe. Thus, these terms are not necessarily intended to indicate temporal or other prioritization of such elements.

[0073] The term "coupled", as used herein, is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically. The terms "a" and "an" are defined as one or more unless stated otherwise.

[0074] Throughout this application, the terms "comprise" (and any form of comprise, such as "comprises" and "comprising"), "have" (and any form of have, such as "has" and "having"), "include", (and any form of include, such as "includes" and "including") and "contain" (and any form of contain, such as "contains" and "containing") are used as open-ended linking verbs. It will be understood that these terms are meant to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer, step, or group of elements, integers, or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer, step, or group of elements, integers, or steps. As a result, a system, method, or apparatus that "comprises", "has", "includes", or "contains" one or more elements possesses those one or more elements but is not limited to possessing only those one or more elements. Similarly, a method or process that "comprises", "has", "includes" or "contains" one or more operations possesses those one or more operations but is not limited to possessing only those one or more operations.

[0075] It should also be appreciated that the terms "wave-propelled", "wave-propelled surfboard", "surfboard body", and "surfboard" are used for basic explanation and understanding of the operation of the systems, methods, and apparatuses of this disclosure. Therefore, the terms "wave- propelled", "wave-propelled surfboard", "surfboard body", and "surfboard" are not to be construed as limiting the systems, methods, and apparatuses of this disclosure. For example, while the present disclosure is described as being utilized in conjunction with various exemplary embodiments of a surfboard, it should be appreciated that the features of the present disclosure may be utilized in conjunction with various exemplary

embodiments of a fluid-propelled vehicle, including, for example, a surfboard (including, but not limited to shortboards, longboards, fish-style surfboards, or gun-style surfboards), boogie board, body board, paddleboard, kayaks, canoes, jet skis, and other powered or non-powered wave riding or recreational vehicles.

[0076] Turning now to the drawing Figs., Figs. 1 -17 illustrate certain optional elements and/or aspects of certain exemplary embodiments of the wave-propelled surfboard 100, according to this disclosure. Figs. 18-24 illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a wave-propelled surfboard 200, while Figs. 25-31 illustrate yet another exemplary embodiment of the wave- propelled surfboard 300, and while Figs. 32-34 illustrate yet another exemplary embodiment of the wave-propelled surfboard 400, according to this disclosure.

[0077] In illustrative, non-limiting embodiment(s) of this disclosure, as illustrated in Figs. 1 -17, the wave-propelled surfboard 100 comprises a wave-propelled surfboard body 105 having an elongate, at least partially or completely buoyant hull, extending from a nose portion 107 to a tail portion 109 and extending to opposing side rails 1 17. A middle portion 1 15 is disposed between the nose portion 107 and the tail portion 109. In various exemplary embodiments, depending upon the construction of the surfboard 100, a stringer 1 19 may also be included within the surfboard body 105, extending from the tail portion 109 to the nose portion 107.

[0078] In various exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the surfboard body 105 comprises a planing hull having a substantially flat or concave bottom contour. In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the bottom 1 12 of the surfboard body 105 is relatively flat proximate the tail. It should be appreciated that the surfboard body 105 may alternatively comprise a hull having a relative belly, "V", channel/hall, tri-plane, hydroplane, or other bottom contour.

[0079] Alternatively, the wave-propelled surfboard 100 may comprise a displacement hull, having a belly, or convex, bottom contour and/or planing surface. In still other exemplary embodiments, the wave-propelled surfboard 100 may comprise a semi-displacement hull, a semi-planing hull, or a modified transitional displacement hull.

[0080] The rails 1 17 may optionally have an edge that is hard, soft, tucked under, down or down-turned, round, rolled, egg, 50/50, 60/40, or the like.

[0081] In various exemplary embodiments, the rear of the tail portion 109 is substantially straight or square. Alternatively, the tail portion 109 may include wings, bumps, or steps and the rear of the tail portion 109 may comprise a rounded pin, a pin, a round, a diamond, a rounded diamond, a square, a rounded square, a squash, a star, a swallow, an asymmetrical, or other profile.

[0082] Thus, it should be appreciated that the overall size, shape, and/or profile of the wave-propelled surfboard 100 is a design choice based upon the desired appearance and/or functionality of the wave-propelled surfboard 100.

[0083] One or more interior thrust cavities 130 extend within at least a portion of the surfboard body 105. Each interior thrust cavity 130 extends from a cavity inlet aperture 132 formed proximate the rear portion or the rear of the tail portion 109, and extends toward the middle portion 1 15, within the surfboard body 105. Each interior thrust cavity 130 is defined by one or more interior walls that extend from the cavity inlet aperture 132 to a back wall 133 or endpoint proximate a front of the interior thrust cavity 130. The back wall 133 creates additional thrust for the wave-propelled surfboard 100. In certain exemplary embodiments, the back wall 133 may comprise a closed, substantially rounded back wall 133. Alternatively, the back wall 133 may comprise a substantially flat or planar surface that may be formed substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis, AL of the wave-propelled surfboard 100 or at an acute or obtuse angle relative to the longitudinal axis, AL of the wave-propelled surfboard 100.

[0084] In various exemplary embodiments, the cavity inlet apertures 132 are positioned proximate an upper, top portion or the deck 1 10 of the wave- propelled surfboard 100, so that little or no drag is created at the rear of the wave-propelled surfboard 100 by the interior thrust cavities 130 or the cavity inlet apertures 132.

[0085] When viewed from the rear, as illustrated in Figs. 3, 10, and 12, each of the cavity inlet apertures 132 may comprise a substantially rounded aperture or a truncated or elongated teardrop shaped aperture. The overall size of each of the cavity inlet apertures 132 may be altered depending on the desired volume of fluid that is to be allowed into the interior thrust cavities 130 and the rate at which the desired volume of fluid is to flow into the interior thrust cavities 130. It should be understood and appreciated that the size, shape, and placement of each of the cavity inlet apertures 132 is a design choice, based upon the desired appearance and/or functionality of the cavity inlet apertures 132.

[0086] In certain exemplary embodiments, the interior thrust cavities 130 are sized and shaped so as to allow water from a wave to enter through the cavity inlet apertures 132. As water from the wave enters through the cavity inlet apertures 132, the water is directed through the interior thrust cavities 130 toward the back wall 133. When the force of the entering water impacts the back wall 133, the impact creates thrust that is transferred to the surfboard body 105, providing additional thrust to the wave-propelled surfboard 100.

[0087] As illustrated most clearly in FIG. 8, when viewed from the side, the interior thrust cavities 130 may optionally comprise an overall

aerodynamic or airfoil shape. In certain exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the upper surface wall 136 of the interior thrust cavity 130 may be more convex than the lower surface wall 137 of the interior thrust cavity 130. Alternatively, the interior thrust cavities 130 may optionally comprise an overall expanding or contracting shape, a conical shape, or may optionally comprise a substantially open-ended, rectangular shape, having substantially parallel upper surface walls 136 and lower surface walls 137.

[0088] Similarly, as illustrated most clearly in FIG. 12, when viewed from the top, the interior thrust cavities 130 may have an overall expanding shape. Alternatively, the interior thrust cavities 130 may have an overall contracting shape, conical shape, or may have substantially parallel side surface walls.

[0089] During use, the force of the water or fluid entering the interior thrust cavities 130 and impacting a surface of the back wall 133 produces thrust that urges or "pushes" the wave-propelled surfboard 100 forward, capturing and utilizing the wave's kinetic energy.

[0090] In various exemplary embodiments, as illustrated in Figs. 13-15, the interior thrust cavities 130 each include one or more obstacles 139 such as, for example, one or more bumps formed proximate the cavity inlet apertures 132. Each obstacle 139 comprises at least one bump, lump, hump, bulge, protuberance, or area, which is raised above a level of the surrounding surface of the lower surface wall 137. Alternatively, each obstacle 139 may optionally comprise a textured area or a series of raised fins or other portions to disturb water as it enters into the interior thrust cavity 130.

[0091 ] While the obstacle 139 is illustrated as being formed in the lower surface wall 137 of the interior thrust cavity 130, it should be appreciated that the obstacle 139 may optionally be created in the lower surface wall 137, the upper surface wall 136, for both surface walls of the interior thrust cavity 130. By including one or more obstacles 139 proximate the cavity inlet aperture 132, it is possible to create a Venturi, half-Venturi, or stream tube-pinching effect within the open interior thrust cavity 130.

[0092] Thus, the one or more obstacles 139 act as an obstruction or impediment to the flow of water entering the interior thrust cavity 130. As a result, the flow of fluid over the upper surface wall 1 36 and lower surface wall 1 37 is "pinched" and, as a result of the stream tube mass-flux conservation or the Venturi effect, the velocity of the fluid is increased. This increase in fluid allows the water to impact the back wall 1 33 with greater velocity and force.

[0093] In certain exemplary embodiments, standard fins 1 20 are optionally included, which extend downward from a bottom 1 12 of the wave- propelled surfboard 1 00. The fins 1 20, if included, may be positioned at desired angles relative to the longitudinal axis, AL, of the wave-propelled surfboard 1 00 and/or the bottom plane of the wave-propelled surfboard 1 00.

[0094] FIGS. 16-1 7 illustrate another exemplary embodiment of certain components of the wave-propelled surfboard 1 00' , according to this disclosure. As shown in FIGS. 1 6-1 7, the wave-propelled surfboard 1 00' , the interior thrust cavities 1 30 are merged into a single interior thrust cavity 1 30' having a single cavity inlet aperture 1 32' , a back wall 1 33' , an upper surface wall 1 36' (not labeled), and a lower surface wall 1 37' . It should be understood that one or more obstacles 1 39' may optionally be included within the cavity inlet aperture 1 32' , but are merely optional and are not required. It should be appreciated that the single interior thrust cavity 1 30' is formed so as to have the same or similar features and elements as the one or more interior thrust cavities 1 30 of the wave-propelled surfboard 1 00' of FIGS. 1 -1 5.

[0095] FIGS. 1 8-24 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of certain components of a wave-propelled surfboard 200, according to this disclosure. As shown in FIGS. 1 8-24, the wave-propelled surfboard 200 comprises at least some of a wave-propelled surfboard body 205 extending from a nose portion 207 to a tail portion 209, a deck 21 0, a bottom 212 , a middle portion 21 5, opposing side rails 21 7, a stringer 21 9, optional fins 220, one or more interior thrust cavities 230, each extending from a cavity inlet aperture 232 and defined by at least a back wall 233, an upper surface wall 236, a lower surface wall 237, and an optional obstacle 239 optionally formed within each thrust cavity 230.

[0096] It should be understood and appreciated that the general construction of the wave-propelled surfboard 200 may optionally be similar to that of the wave-propelled surfboard 1 00, as described with reference to in FIGS. 1 -1 7 and that each of these elements of the wave-propelled surfboard 200 may optionally correspond to and operate similarly to the wave- propelled surfboard body 1 05, the nose portion 1 07, the tail portion 1 09, the deck 1 1 0, the bottom 1 1 2, the middle portion 1 1 5, the opposing side rails 1 1 7, the stringer 1 1 9, the optional fins 1 20, the one or more interior thrust cavities 1 30, the cavity inlet aperture(s) 1 32, the back wall 1 33, the upper surface wall 1 36, the lower surface wall 1 37, and the optional obstacle(s) 1 39, as described above with reference to the wave-propelled surfboard 1 00 of FIGS. 1 -1 7.

[0097] However, as shown in FIGS. 1 8-24, each of the interior thrust cavities 230 of the wave-propelled surfboard 200 includes a cavity outlet aperture 238 formed proximate the back wall 233. Thus, as water enters the interior thrust cavities 230, through the cavity inlet apertures 232, the water is directed through the interior thrust cavities 230 toward the back wall 233. When the force of the entering water impacts the back wall 233, the impact creates thrust that is transferred to the surfboard body 205, providing additional thrust to the wave-propelled surfboard 200. Then, as water continues to enter the interior thrust cavities 230, the water is directed downward by the back wall 233 and out of the cavity outlet apertures 238.

[0098] In addition, water is also able to enter through the cavity outlet apertures 238, passed through the interior thrust cavities 230, and exit through the cavity inlet apertures 232. In this manner, when a rider is paddling against the current, coming up the front portion of the wave, water may pass through the cavity outlet apertures 238 formed through the bottom 212 and out the cavity inlet apertures 232, releasing positive pressure on the bottom 212, allowing wave-propelled surfboard 200 to fall down the face of the wave with much less effort. Once the wave-propelled surfboard 200 is on the wave, the water flow reverses direction and flows through the cavity inlet apertures 232 , into the interior thrust cavities 230 and out of the cavity outlet apertures 238, thereby creating thrust for the wave-propelled surfboard 200. [0099] In various exemplary embodiments, a beveled or sloped wall portion 235 is formed at least between a portion of the rear end of the wave- propelled surfboard 200 and each of the one or more cavity outlet apertures 238. If included, the sloped wall portion 235 may reduce drag on the bottom 212 and allow water to more easily flow into or out of the cavity outlet apertures 238. In various exemplary embodiments, the sloped wall portion 235 is formed at an angle of approximately 1 5° relative to a bottom surface portion of the lower surface wall 237.

[00100] In certain exemplary embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 21 -24, each interior thrust cavity 230 may optionally be formed by creating a compound recess in the bottom 212 of the wave-propelled surfboard 200. The compound recess includes at least some of the upper surface wall 236, side walls, and the back wall 233. The compound recess further includes shoulders 231 that extend beyond the side walls of the interior thrust cavity 230. A wall insert 234 is formed so as to be fitted atop the shoulders 231 . When appropriately fitted atop the shoulders 231 , a top surface of the wall insert 234 forms the lower surface wall 237 of the interior thrust cavity 230.

[00101] The overall length of the wall insert 234 may be altered to determine the length of the cavity outlet aperture 238 of the interior thrust cavity 230. The wall insert 234 may optionally include the sloped wall portion 235 to facilitate the flow of water into or out of the cavity outlet aperture 238.

[00102] By utilizing the wall insert 234, production of the wave-propelled surfboard 200 may be simplified. Depending on the desired overall size and shape of the interior thrust cavity 230 (and the accompanying wall insert 234), it may be more efficient to form the compound recess in the wave- propelled surfboard 200 (from the bottom 212 or the rear of the wave- propelled surfboard 200) and subsequently affix the wall insert 234 than to form the interior thrust cavity 230 only from the rear of the wave-propelled surfboard 200.

[00103] It should also be understood and appreciated that while the compound recess is illustrated as having been formed from the bottom 21 2 and the wall insert 234 being affixed to the bottom 212, this is an optional and not a required configuration. Therefore, it should be understood and appreciated that the compound recess may be formed from the top or deck 210 and the wall insert 234 may be affixed to the top or deck 210 of the wave-propelled surfboard 200.

[00104] FIGS. 25-31 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of certain components of a wave-propelled surfboard 300, according to this disclosure. As shown in FIGS. 25-31 , the wave-propelled surfboard 300 comprises at least some of a wave-propelled surfboard body 305 extending from a nose portion 307 to a tail portion 309, a deck 310, a bottom 312, a middle portion 315, opposing side rails 317, a stringer 319, and optional fins 320.

[00105] It should be understood and appreciated that the general construction of the wave-propelled surfboard 300 may optionally be similar to that of the wave-propelled surfboard 100, as described with reference to in FIGS. 1 -17 and that each of these elements of the wave-propelled surfboard 300 may optionally correspond to and operate similarly to the wave- propelled surfboard body 105, the nose portion 107, the tail portion 109, the deck 1 10, the bottom 1 12, the middle portion 1 15, the opposing side rails 1 17, the stringer 1 19, and the optional fins 120, as described above with reference to the wave-propelled surfboard 100 of FIGS. 1 -17.

[00106] However, as shown in FIGS. 25-31 , two thrust cavity assembly recesses 340 are formed proximate the tail portion 309. The thrust cavity assembly recesses 340 extend from an end of the wave-propelled surfboard 300, toward the middle portion 315 and are each formed so as to receive a thrust cavity assembly 345 therein. As illustrated most clearly in FIGS. 27-31 , each thrust cavity assembly 345 includes an interior thrust cavity 330 extending from a cavity inlet aperture 332 and defined by at least a back wall 333, an upper surface wall 336, a lower surface wall 337, and an optional obstacle 339 (not shown) optionally formed within each thrust cavity 330.

[00107] As illustrated most clearly in FIGS. 30-31 , the inclusion of the thrust cavity assembly recess 340, allows for a relatively simple installation of the thrust cavity assembly 345 within the wave-propelled surfboard 300. Thus, a plurality of thrust cavity assembly 345 (or a variety of thrust cavity

assemblies 345) can be manufactured and assembled within wave-propelled surfboards 300. In this manner, thrust cavity assemblies 345 having varying characteristics can easily be mixed and matched with a variety of wave- propelled surfboards 300 to provide a finished product having a desired appearance and/or functionality.

[00108] It should be appreciated that while the wave-propelled surfboard 300 is shown and described as having two thrust cavity assembly recesses 340, this is merely exemplary not limiting the present disclosure. Therefore, it should be appreciated and understood that a single thrust cavity assembly recess may be provided so as to receive a single thrust cavity assembly, having a desired size, shape, and feature set. Additionally, it should also be understood and appreciated that while the thrust cavity assembly recesses 340 are illustrated as having been formed from the bottom 312 and the thrust cavity assemblies 345 being affixed from the bottom 312, this is an optional and not a required configuration. Therefore, it should be understood and appreciated that the thrust cavity assembly recesses 340 may be formed from the top or deck 310 and the thrust cavity assembly 345 may be affixed to the top or deck 310 of the wave-propelled surfboard 300.

[00109] FIGS. 42-34 illustrate another exemplary embodiment of certain components of a wave-propelled surfboard 400, according to this disclosure. As shown in FIGS. 42-34, the wave-propelled surfboard 400 comprises a wave-propelled surfboard body 405 extending from a nose portion 407 to a tail portion 409, and having a deck 410, a bottom 412, a middle portion 415, opposing side rails 417, a stringer 419, and the optional fins 420. It should be understood and appreciated that the general construction of the surfboard body 405 may optionally be similar to that of the surfboard body 105 described with reference to in FIGS. 1 -17.

[001 10] However, as shown in FIGS. 42-34, the wave-propelled surfboard 400 includes one or more stabilizer/thrust fins 450 that extend from a bottom 412 of the wave-propelled surfboard 400. Typically, two stabilizer/thrust fins 450 are included and are spaced equal distance from the stringer 419 or centerline of the wave-propelled surfboard 400. However, in certain exemplary embodiments, a single stabilizer/thrust rail 417 may be included that is aligned along the stringer 419 or centerline of the surfboard body 405. [00111] In various exemplary embodiments, the stabilizer/thrust fins 450 begin to extend from the bottom 412 of the wave-propelled surfboard 400 proximate the nose portion 407 and/or the middle portion 41 5 and extend rearward, to the tail portion 409 or rear portion of the wave-propelled surfboard 400. The stabilizer/thrust fins 450 may optionally extend to and merge with fins 420 or fin elements formed proximate the tail portion 409 of the wave-propelled surfboard 400.

[00112] The one or more stabilizer/thrust fins 450 include one or more interior walls defining a stabilizer/thrust fin cavity 430 formed from a rear of the stabilizer/thrust rail 41 7. Thus, the stabilizer/thrust rail(s) 41 7 extend forward from a hollow or cavity portion to a back wall 433 proximate the front of the stabilizer/thrust rail 41 7.

[00113] During use, the one or more stabilizer/thrust fins 450 provide extra stability on take-off and allow water from a wave to enter with no escape point. The force of the water entering the stabilizer/thrust fin cavity 430 of the stabilizer/thrust rail 41 7 and impacting a surface of the back wall 433 produces thrust or "pushes" the wave-propelled surfboard 400, using the wave's kinetic energy.

[00114] In certain exemplary embodiments, the stabilizer/thrust fins 450 may be positioned at desired angles relative to the longitudinal axis, AL, of the wave-propelled surfboard 400 and/or the bottom plane of the wave- propelled surfboard 400. Thus, as illustrated most clearly in FIG. 33, the stabilizer/thrust fins 450 may optionally extend at an angle of approximately - 30° relative to a horizontal plane of the wave-propelled surfboard 400. In other embodiments, the stabilizer/thrust fins 450 may optionally extend at an angle of between approximately -20° and -30° relative to the horizontal plane of the wave-propelled surfboard 400.

[00115] Because of the size and shape of the stabilizer/thrust fins 450, the stabilizer/thrust fins 450 operate as a fin or fins for the wave-propelled surfboard 400, allowing the wave-propelled surfboard 400 to be more easily maneuvered on the wave.

[00116] In certain exemplary embodiments, at least one additional, standard fin 420 is optionally included between the stabilizer/thrust fins 450. In certain exemplary embodiments, the standard fin 420 extends downward from a bottom 412 of the wave-propelled surfboard 400 and may be positioned at any desired angle relative to the longitudinal axis, AL, of the wave-propelled surfboard 400 and/or the bottom plane of the wave-propelled surfboard 400.

[001 17] While the present disclosure has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments outlined above, the foregoing description of exemplary embodiments, as set forth above, are intended to be illustrative, not limiting and the fundamental disclosure should not be considered to be necessarily so constrained. It is evident that the present disclosure is not limited to the particular variation set forth and many alternatives, adaptations modifications, and/or variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[001 18] Furthermore, where a range of values is provided, it is understood that every intervening value, between the upper and lower limit of that range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is

encompassed within the present disclosure. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently be included in the smaller ranges and is also encompassed within the disclosure, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included in the disclosure.

[001 19] It is to be understood that the phraseology of terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs.

[00120] In addition, it is contemplated that any optional feature of the inventive variations described herein may be set forth and claimed independently, or in combination with any one or more of the features described herein.

[00121 ] Accordingly, the foregoing description of exemplary

embodiments will reveal the general nature of the disclosure, such that others may, by applying current knowledge, change, vary, modify, and/or adapt these exemplary, non-limiting embodiments for various applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure and elements or methods similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in practicing the present disclosure. Any and all such changes, variations, modifications, and/or adaptations should and are intended to be

comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed exemplary embodiments and may be substituted without departing from the true spirit and scope of the disclosure.

[00122] Also, it is noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "and", "said", and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Conversely, it is contemplated that the claims may be so-drafted to require singular elements or exclude any optional element indicated to be so here in the text or drawings. This statement is intended to serve as antecedent basis for use of such exclusive terminology as "solely", "only", and the like in connection with the recitation of claim elements or the use of a "negative" claim limitation(s).

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1 . A fluid-propelled vehicle:

a body extending from a nose portion to a tail portion and having a middle portion disposed between the nose portion and the tail portion; and

at least one interior thrust cavity formed within at least a portion of the body, wherein each interior thrust cavity extends from a cavity inlet aperture formed proximate the tail portion to a back wall.

2. The fluid-propelled vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the fluid- propelled vehicle comprises a surfboard, a shortboard, a longboard, a fish- style surfboard, a gun-style surfboard, a boogie board, a body board, a paddleboard, a kayak, a canoe, a jet ski, or a powered or non-powered wave riding or watercraft.

3. The fluid-propelled vehicle of claim 1 , wherein two interior thrust cavities are formed within at least a portion of the body.

4. The fluid-propelled vehicle of claim 1 , wherein a single interior thrust cavity is formed within at least a portion of the body, wherein the single interior thrust cavity extends from a single cavity inlet aperture.

5. The fluid-propelled vehicle of claim 1 , wherein a single interior thrust cavity is formed within at least a portion of the body, and wherein the single interior thrust cavity extends from two or more cavity inlet apertures.

6. The fluid-propelled vehicle of claim 1 , wherein a rear of the tail portion is substantially straight, square, rounded pin, a pin, a round, a diamond, a rounded diamond, a square, a rounded square, a squash, a star, a swallow, or an asymmetrical profile.

7. The fluid-propelled vehicle of claim 1 , wherein each interior thrust cavity extends toward the middle portion.

8. The fluid-propelled vehicle of claim 1 , wherein each cavity inlet aperture is positioned proximate a deck of the fluid-propelled vehicle.

9. The fluid-propelled vehicle of claim 1 , wherein each cavity inlet aperture comprises a substantially rounded aperture, a substantially truncated or substantially elongated teardrop shaped aperture, a

substantially rectangular aperture, or a substantially square aperture.

10. The fluid-propelled vehicle of claim 1 , wherein each of the interior thrust cavities includes one or more obstacles formed therein.

1 1 . The fluid-propelled vehicle of claim 10, wherein each obstacle comprises an area that is raised above a level of a surrounding surface.

12. The fluid-propelled vehicle of claim 1 , further comprising a cavity outlet aperture associated with each thrust cavity, wherein the cavity outlet aperture is formed proximate the back wall, and wherein the cavity inlet aperture is in fluid communication with the cavity outlet aperture, via the interior thrust cavity.

13. A fluid-propelled vehicle, comprising:

a body extending from a nose portion to a tail portion and having a middle portion disposed between the nose portion and the tail portion;

at least one interior thrust cavity formed within at least a portion of the body, wherein each interior thrust cavity extends from a cavity inlet aperture formed in a rear end of the body and is defined by one or more interior walls that extend from the cavity inlet aperture to a back wall; and a cavity outlet aperture associated with each thrust cavity, wherein the cavity outlet aperture is formed proximate the back wall, and wherein the cavity inlet aperture is in fluid communication with the cavity outlet aperture, via the interior thrust cavity.

14. The fluid-propelled vehicle of claim 13, wherein a beveled or sloped wall portion is formed at least between a portion of the tail portion of the fluid-propelled vehicle and each cavity outlet aperture.

15. The fluid-propelled vehicle of claim 13, wherein each interior thrust cavity is formed by a compound recess having shoulders that extend beyond side walls of interior thrust cavity, and wherein a wall insert is formed so as to be fitted adjacent the shoulders, such that a surface of the wall insert forms the surface wall of the interior thrust cavities.

16. The fluid-propelled vehicle of claim 13, wherein the compound recess is formed in a bottom of the fluid-propelled vehicle or a top of the fluid-propelled vehicle.

17. A fluid-propelled vehicle, comprising: a body extending from a nose portion to a tail portion and having a middle portion disposed between the nose portion and the tail portion;

at least one thrust cavity assembly recess formed proximate the tail portion, wherein the at least one thrust cavity assembly recesses extends from an end of the body; and

at least one thrust cavity assembly, wherein the at least one thrust cavity assembly is formed so as to be at least partially positioned within the at least one thrust cavity assembly recess, and wherein the at least one thrust cavity assembly includes an interior thrust cavity extending from a cavity inlet aperture and defined by at least a back wall, an upper surface wall, a lower surface wall.

18. The fluid-propelled vehicle of claim 17, further comprising a cavity outlet aperture associated with each thrust cavity, wherein the cavity outlet aperture is formed proximate the back wall, and wherein the cavity inlet aperture is in fluid communication with the cavity outlet aperture, via the interior thrust cavity.

19. The fluid-propelled vehicle of claim 17, wherein the at least one thrust cavity assembly recess is formed in a bottom of the body or in a top of the body.

20. The fluid-propelled vehicle of claim 17, further comprising at least one obstacle formed within each thrust cavity.