WO1996041057A1 - Boat activated wave generator - Google Patents
Boat activated wave generator Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO1996041057A1 WO1996041057A1 PCT/US1996/009211 US9609211W WO9641057A1 WO 1996041057 A1 WO1996041057 A1 WO 1996041057A1 US 9609211 W US9609211 W US 9609211W WO 9641057 A1 WO9641057 A1 WO 9641057A1
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- WO
- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- water
- boat
- wave
- wave generator
- generator
- Prior art date
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Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B69/00—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports
- A63B69/0093—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for surfing, i.e. without a sail; for skate or snow boarding
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
- E04H4/00—Swimming or splash baths or pools
- E04H4/0006—Devices for producing waves in swimming pools
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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
- B63B1/00—Hydrodynamic or hydrostatic features of hulls or of hydrofoils
- B63B1/16—Hydrodynamic or hydrostatic features of hulls or of hydrofoils deriving additional lift from hydrodynamic forces
- B63B1/18—Hydrodynamic or hydrostatic features of hulls or of hydrofoils deriving additional lift from hydrodynamic forces of hydroplane type
- B63B2001/186—Sponsons; Arrangements thereof
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a generator for forming waves, and in particular, to a generator activated by a boat in a deep water environment.
- the present invention represents a substantial improvement over prior wave generating devices in that the present invention is boat activated and can be used at the convenience of the operator.
- the present invention can form a substantially perfect wave upon which surfing and/or wake-boarding manuevers can be performed, at virtually any time in virtually any deep body of water. All that is needed is a boat, a deep body of water, such as a lake, the wave generating device and fair weather.
- the present invention is essentially a wave generating device that is powered by a motor boat. It can be operated by being pulled from the back end of the boat, or otherwise affixed to the boat hull.
- the wave generating device comprises twin wave generating blades which, as they move through the water, scoop up water to form curling wave shapes thereon, or other wave formations.
- the device In the embodiment that is pulled by a boat, the device floats in water, and is pulled through the water from the stern of the boat by one or more ropes or cables.
- the rope(s) is connected to the device at a forward extending center portion.
- the twin curved surfaces or wave generating blades extend laterally outward and slightly rearward on either side of the center portion.
- the upper surfaces of each of the twin blades are curved in both horizontal and vertical directions so that as water is scooped up by the device, onto, over and across the curved surfaces, wave shapes are formed thereon.
- the wave generating device is more or less an extension of the boat hull itself, preferably at the side or rear of the boat, wherein the twin blades extend laterally outward from the boat hull, scooping up water on either side of the boat.
- the twin blades are designed to slice through water, each blade having laterally extending leading edges that help scoop water upward onto the blades.
- the upper surface of the twin blades of the wave generating device each have a concave shape, not only vertically, but also horizontally, or laterally, so that a theoretical infinitesmal body of water, moving along the face of the blades, encounters a force, which is primarily vertical and forward, as it travels along the curved face of the blades.
- a sheet of water, which the wave generating device pares as it moves forward, may form a tunnel shape, at the mouth of or within which a rider can manuever and perform surfing manuevers thereon.
- the ideal surface condition of the water is preferably calm, but even when the water surface is not calm, such as in windy weather, the wake formed by the boat as it moves through the water can, in some instances, provide a basis for forming a steady flow of water onto the blades. So long as the wake stays relatively steady, the water that the device travels through can be stabilized.
- the present invention is primarily boat activated, it is important that the wave generating device be positioned in the water so that, as it moves through the water, a steady flow of water flows upward onto the upper surface of the blades. For this reason, the depth at which the wave generating device, and more particularly, the leading edges of the twin blades, is maintained relative to the water surface, is important. If the leading edges of the blades are maintained too low, excess water may flow onto the blades, as the wave generating device moves through the water. Excess water may actually prevent the formation of a curling wave. If too much water flows onto the blades, the wave generating device may cut too deeply into the water, causing the device to dive, and possibly abruptly stopping its forward progress.
- the wave generating device merely skims or planes along the surface of the water, a sufficient flow of wave forming water may not be created at all. If this occurs, no ridable wave would be formed.
- the buoyancy characteristics of the device along with its weight and shape, help contribute to maintaining the twin blades at a substantially constant depth relative to the water surface.
- the boat itself helps to maintain the device substantially level in the water.
- the shape of the wave generating device contributes to maintaining the device at a substantially constant depth in the water.
- the upward forces are necessarily countered by the downward forces. More specifically, the tendency of the device to plane, or be lifted, is offset by an opposite tendency of the device to be pushed down by the mass of elevated water. Although other factors, such as weight, buoyancy, overall shape and size of the device, also have an effect on maintaining the device at a substantially constant depth, during operation, these factors must be taken into consideration so that the varying impact of hydro-dynamic forces are minimized.
- the wave generating device has a front leading edge that extends across the entire front edge of the device.
- the entire leading edge helps lift water onto the device as it moves through the water.
- the entire leading edge across the front of the wave generating device is wedge-shaped in cross section to enable the leading edge to cut into and through the water, and allow a sheet flow of water to flow onto the device.
- maintainance of depth relies heavily on the buoyancy of the materials used, along with the weight and shape of the wave generating device.
- the device is similar in shape to the preferred embodiment, but is more elongated, forming a narrower "V" shape from above.
- the elongated shape of this embodiment produces less drag, and thus, it can be pulled faster, with substantially less power than the preferred embodiment.
- This embodiment rather than producing surfable wave shapes, as discussed, produces wakes, or enhanced wakes, around, over or through which wake-boarding manuevers can be performed.
- a disc-like stabilizer that skims at or slightly below the surface of the water, can be attached in front of the wave generating device.
- the disc-like stabilizer which is connected to the wave generating device by a stabilizing rod, helps to maintain the wave generating device level and at a substantially constant depth in the water.
- Various other shapes such as a torpedoe-shape, can also be used.
- the device be symmetrical, with the extended twin blades being of equal size and shape on both sides of the center portion. Grooves, or scores, or even rudders, or one large rudder, can also be provided longitudinally along the bottom surface of the device to direct water from the front to the back, which also helps keep the device aligned.
- the rope or ropes that pull the device can also be connected to the forward-most center portion of the device, which helps to self-align the device as the boat pulls the device.
- two ropes can be used to further keep the wave generating device aligned in the direction of travel.
- twin wave generating blades may be attached to the boat hull itself.
- the boat from which the blades extend laterally, helps to stabilize the wave generating device in the water.
- Other embodiments such as those that move on rails, and are mechanically pulled, are also within the contemplation of the present invention.
- FIGURE 1 is a top view of the preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIGURE 2 is a side view of the preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIGURE 3 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIGURE 3a is a side view of the present invention in operation, being pulled by a boat, showing wave shapes that are formed.
- FIGURE 4 is a top view of the present invention with a disc-like stabilizer.
- FIGURE 5 is a top view of the present invention with a torpedoe-like stabilizer.
- FIGURE 6 is a tilted bottom view of the present invention with a torpedoe-like stabilizer and an optional center rudder.
- FIGURE 7 is a top view of an alternate embodiment.
- FIGURE 8 is a perspective view of an embodiment attached directly to a boat hull in operation.
- the present invention is a wave generating device 1 that is boat activated, such that it can be pulled by, or otherwise affixed to, a motor boat 2, in a deep water environment, wherein, as the boat is operated, the device moves through the water, scooping up water to form wave shapes, such as tunnel waves, spilling waves, or, in some embodiments, enhanced wakes.
- wave shapes such as tunnel waves, spilling waves, or, in some embodiments, enhanced wakes.
- a rider can ride on, or otherwise manuever about, the wave, or wake, performing various skimming, skiing, wake-boarding and/or surfing manuevers thereon, which can, in some cases, simulate the thrill of surfing, or, in other cases, enhance the sport of wake-boarding.
- the basic concept of the present invention is a wave generating device that is boat activated, and which, by the power of the boat, is moved through the water, such that it scoops up water to form wave shapes thereon.
- the preferred embodiment and several others are designed to create surfable wave shapes in the water, while other embodiments are designed to create ridable wakes, and enhanced wakes. While each of these embodiments may have common characteristics, there are also characteristics that are different and unique to each of the particular embodiments.
- the present invention is intended to include all of the embodiments and characteristics disclosed herein, as well as other embodiments and characteristics, which may not have been disclosed, which are nevertheless substantially consistent with the operation and function of the disclosed embodiments.
- the boat activated wave generating device 1 is substantially in the shape of a triangular wing, and has a forward extending center portion 3, from which the device 1 is pulled by the boat 2.
- "forward” will be the direction that the device 1 travels in the water, as shown by arrow 4, and "rearward” will be the opposite direction.
- Mgure 1 there are two substantially identically shaped wave generating blades 5, 7, hereinafter referred to as the "twin blades,” extending laterally and substantially horizontally at a rearward angle, from either side of the center portion 3, to form a substantial "V" shape from above.
- leading edges 9, 11 are preferably, in cross section, in the shape of a flattened wedge, having a forward extending point 25 in front of the forward center portion 3.
- the leading edges 9, 11 cut through the water, slightly below surface level, to form a layer, or sheet, of water 29, that flows onto the twin blades 5, 7.
- the leading edges 9, 11 extend substantially along the bottom edge 12 of the device 1, to help lift water 29 in an upward direction onto the twin blades 5, 7, such that wave shapes 21, 23 are formed thereon, as shown in Figure 3 a.
- the leading edges 9, 11, however, are preferably substantially dull, and covered with a soft material, as will be discussed, such that if a rider is accidentally struck, the rider will not be injured.
- each of the wave generator hulls 13, 15 preferably has a concave curvature, in both horizontal and vertical directions, as will be discussed, and has outwardly facing curved riding surfaces 31, 33.
- the generator hulls 13, 15 are angled horizontally, with respect to the direction of travel 4, at about a 45 degree angle, although the actual angle can vary between 30 to 50 degrees, or more.
- center wave generator hull 17 which extends above and slightly behind the center portion 3, and connects the two generator hulls 13, 15 together at the apex of the "V".
- the center generator hull 17 extends rearward from the center portion 3 and has a concave curvature in the vertical direction, but in a horizontal direction, has a convex curvature, as can be seen in Figure 1.
- the wave generator hulls 13, 15 have an inclined concave curvature which causes water flowing over the riding surfaces 31, 33 to flow in a forward and upward direction, relative to the surrounding water, and in a rearward and upward direction, relative to the riding surfaces 31, 33, as the device moves through the water.
- the generator hulls 13, 15 are also oriented laterally at an angle, as discussed, which causes the sheet flow of water 29 to flow laterally across the riding surfaces 31, 33, forming separate and substantially identical wave shapes 21, 23, on either side of the center portion 3.
- the incline and/or the degree of curvature of the riding surfaces 31, 33, and their lateral orientation determines the amount of forward and upward momentum exerted on the sheet flow 29, as the device travels through the water, and the size and height of wave shapes 21, 23. If the riding surfaces have a relatively steep incline, and/or a relatively tight curvature (in the vertical direction), for instance, wave shapes 21, 23 are likely to be relatively large and extend relatively high. Conversely, if the riding surfaces have a relatively shallow incline, and/or relatively open curvature, wave shapes 21, 23 are likely to be relatively small.
- the sheet flow of water 29 is likely to flow laterally across the riding surfaces, forming wave shapes 21, 23, which move upward and laterally across the riding surfaces 31, 33. If the angle of lateral orientation, on the other hand, is considerably less than 45 degrees, relative to the direction of flow, as in the alternate embodiment, the sheet flow of water 29 will flow relatively rearward, and only slightly forwardly and laterally, forming a relatively rearwardly flowing trajectory, rather than a curling wave.
- the twin blades 5, 7, the generator hulls 13, 15, and 17, and the riding surfaces 31, 33 form a top riding surface 27, which extends substantially across the width of the device. Specific characteristics of curvature which will accomplish the purposes of the present invention are described more fully hereinafter.
- the forward face of generator hulls 13, 15 is concave both vertically and horizontally.
- the leading edges 9, 11 which extend across the front of the generator hulls act as a scoop to lift water onto the generator hulls.
- the horizontal concavity creates forces tending to accelerate the displaced water outward along the face of generator hulls 13, 15.
- the water adjacent thereto creates a resultant force which propels the major portion of the displaced water along the path of least resistance, which is upward and outward along the vertical concavity, and eventually, at least in the preferred embodiment, forward, creating the desired tunnel shape with a continuously advancing mouth or opening.
- the forward facing riding surfaces 31, 33 can have a complex shape, of a concave curvature, both vertically and horizontally, which are substantially but not specifically illustrative of the range of possible shapes. That is, many shapes can provide the intended results, and therefore, the present invention is not limited to the specific shapes disclosed herein.
- the shape of the vertical curvature can be substantially a simple arc of a circle, or, a portion of a more complex, changing curve, i.e., an ellipse, parabola, hyperbola or spiral.
- changing curve i.e., an ellipse, parabola, hyperbola or spiral.
- the shape can change from a closing curve (i.e., the acsending water encounters a decreasing radius as it ascends the face of the hull) near the center portion 3, to an opening curve (i.e., the ascending water encounters an increasing radius as it ascends the face of the hull) toward the outer ends of the hulls.
- the shape of the horizontal curvature can also be substantially an arc of a circle, or, a portion of a more complex, changing, curve, i.e., an ellipse, a parabola, a hyperbola or spiral.
- the curvature can be open (i.e., have an increasing radius) from the center to the outer ends, when the device travels at high speeds, to create more rapidly moving waves, and more closed (have a decreasing radius) when the device travels at slower speeds for slower waves.
- the horizontal attitude of the forward face with respect to its direction of motion can also vary within certain limits, else the tunnel will not be developed.
- the horizontal angle of the twin blades with respect to the direction of motion is such that the angle of the center portion, as it moves through the water, varies up to an angle of as much as 50 degrees, with the angle of the preferred embodiment being about 40-45 degrees, and the alternate embodiment being about 15-25 degrees.
- the vertical angle of the leading edge with respect to the surface of the water can also vary from substantially parallel to the surface, to an angle of as great as 30 degrees or more, with the preferred angle being substantially about 15 degrees.
- the speed of the generator hull also has a preferred range. Below about 6 miles per hour (i.e., about 9.6 km per hour), the water will generally not be carried up and forward with sufficient velocity to form into a tunnel wave shape. Above about 20 miles per hour (i.e. about 32.2 km per hour), hydro-dynamic forces acting on the device, and the required operating energy, become very large, and the turbulences increase.
- the preferred range therefore, is a speed of about 10-12 miles per hour (i.e., about 16 to 19.2 km per hour).
- the vertical and horizontal position of the forward face can be adjusted in order to allow the device to travel at varying speeds, i.e., as the speed is increased, the attitude and inclination of the forward face must be decreased, and vice verse.
- the forces that act upon a theoretical infinitesimal volume of water as the device moves through the water can be described as an algebraic combination of forward, horizontal (lateral) and vertical forces.
- the water is acted upon due to the relative motion of the device in a forward direction, which in the preferred embodiment, due to the horizontal and vertical concavity, is greater than in the alternate embodiment, as will be discussed.
- the water is also acted upon in an upward direction due to the inclination of the generator hulls, with respect to the forward motion.
- the water is also acted upon outwardly, or laterally, due to the horizontal attitude of the generator hulls, with respect to the direction of motion, which in the preferred embodiment is greater than in the alternate embodiment.
- the device 1 is substantially symmetrical in configuration, such that as the device 1 moves through the water, the hydro-dynamic forces acting on the device 1 help to keep it aligned in the direction of travel. That is, the twin blades 5, 7 extend substantially identically from either side of the center portion 3, such that the twin blades experience substantially identical hydro-dynamic forces, which, during operation, tend to stabilize the device in the forward direction. Assymetrical devices, however, that have other stabilizing means, such as those disclosed herein, which can offset the hydro-dynamic forces acting on the twin blades, are also within the contemplation of the present invention.
- a ridge 35 which extends substantially across the width of the device, separating the top riding surface 27, from a back portion 37, located to the rear of the device.
- a rear stabilizing foil 39 Extending rearward from the ridge 35 on the back portion 37 is a rear stabilizing foil 39, and a concave center area 41 located substantially adjacent and behind the ridge 35.
- the center area 41 forms a substantially concave channel 43 extending rearward from the ridge 35 to a rear edge 45 of the device 1. This channel 43 helps permit water flowing over the ridge 35 to be channeled properly towards the rear 45 of the device, which further helps to stabilize the divice.
- a bottom side 47 is preferably elongated and concave in configuration such that it forms a downward facing channel 49 extending longitudinally in a forward to rearward direction. This orientation of the channel 49 helps to divert water, as the device 1 travels over the water, in a rearward direction, which stablizes the device in the direction of travel.
- a rearward portion 51 of the bottom surface 47 which is the underside of the rear stabilizing foil 39, is slightly rearwardly inclined to help water, over which the device travels, to be transitioned smoothly to the rear edge 45 of the device.
- the bottom surface can also be provided with grooves, ridges, scores, or even a rudder 65, as shown in Figure 6, extending longitudinally in the fore/aft direction, to further help stabilize the device in the direction of travel.
- the rudder 65 can be provided with stabilizing wings 63 which further help stabilize the device 1. Keeping the device 1 substantially level, and the leading edges 9, 1 1 at a substantially constant depth in the water, is important to the successful formation of wave shapes 21, 23. This is because the depth of the leading edges 9, 11, relative to the water surface level, to the extent the leading edges cut through and lift water onto the twin blades 5, 7, determines the thickness and consistency of the sheet flow of water 29, flowing onto the riding surfaces 31 , 33.
- the thickness of the sheet flow 29 is preferably consistently between 2 to 6 inches (i.e., about 5.1 cm to 15.2 cm), although consistency is difficult to achieve, absent ideal water surface conditions.
- the device is preferably designed so that the leading edges 9, 11 are consistently maintained at a depth of between 2 to 6 inches below the surface of the water, taking into consideration the weight, shape and buoyancy of the device. The depth at which the device travels should also take into consideration the speed at which it travels, and the manner in which it is pulled by the boat, as will be discussed.
- the depth should generally be sufficient to form a sheet flow of water 29 on the device, and yet shallow enough that undesireable hydro-dynamic drag is reduced, which might otherwise prevent the formation of wave shapes, or, dramatically reduce the speed of travel, and increase the amount of power needed to pull the device through the water.
- the buoyancy of the device helps to keep the device afloat in the water when the device is stationary.
- the buoyancy in effect creates an upward force, which is countered in part by the weight of the device, which provides a downward force component.
- the upward and downward forces are counter-balanced, in conjunction with the shape of the device, such that the device remains at a substantial equilibrium in the water, which helps to keep the device at a substantially constant depth.
- the shape of the device which is substantially wide, also displaces water over a relatively large area, which helps keep the device level in the water, by preventing undesireable tilting, which in turn, helps keep the device at a substantially constant depth.
- the shape of the device therefore, in conjunction with its weight and buoyancy, preferably help to stabilize the device in the water, even during rapid acceleration.
- Water flowing over the device causes a downward force, as water is lifted onto the twin blades.
- the speed at which the device travels also affects the extent to which the water flowing over the device will exert a downward force on the device.
- the bottom surface of the device tends to skim, or plane, over the water, which, in combination with the buoyancy of the device, tends to elevate the device in the water.
- the planing effect which causes the upward force is also a function of the speed of the device. Pulling the device by a rope, depending on the vertical placement of the rope, can also add an upward force component, as the rope becomes taught.
- the shape of the leading edges, the generator hulls and the bottom surface of the device which come into contact with the water, and the speed and orientation of the device, contribute to keeping the device in substantial hydro-dynamic equilibrium.
- These characteristics employ the necessary counteracting forces, which offset the upward and downward forces acting on the device, to help minimize the hydro-dynamic effects exerted on the device, and to keep the device at a substantially constant depth in the water.
- the buoyancy of the device is made possible by the materials used to make the device, by making the device hollow, or by inserting air pockets into the device. Even if the material itself does not float, the device can be made to float by making it hollow, or by adding air pockets. Air pockets of various sizes, and at various locations, can be dispersed within the body of the device, whenever additional buoyancy is needed.
- the device 1 is preferably made of a strong, durable, slightly flexible material, such as fibre-glass, wood, metal or carbon graphite composite.
- the device is also preferably integrally formed, i.e., a fibre-glass shell, and is manufactured by a conventional injection mold process.
- integrally forming the device the device can be made strong enough to withstand the impact of shear, torsion and bending, caused by hydro-dynamic forces, which are likely to act on the device during operation.
- the material should also be slightly flexible so that the device will not cause injury to a rider, who may fall or accidentally be struck by the device during use.
- the exterior of the device should also be covered by a soft, impact absorbant material, such as foam, or other material, that is easy to apply.
- a soft, impact absorbant material such as foam, or other material
- the device should be coated with a water proof, or water-resistant material, such as rubber, which has a low coefficient of friction, and can be formed without seams, so that hydro- dynamic drag is minimized.
- the outer layer or coating can be applied in any conventional manner, such as spray, glue, thermal heating, welding, or other method.
- the device is preferably between 5 to 20 feet (i.e., about 1.5 meters to 6.1 meters) wide and about 5 to 25 feet (i.e., about 1.5 meters to 7.6 meters) long.
- the preferred size allows for the formation of tunnel wave shapes on the device, and permits up to two riders to ride on the device simultaneously.
- the preferred size is also large enough that variations in the surface condition of the water will have relatively little effect on the device, hydro-dynamically speaking.
- the device can range in height from between 1 to 5 feet (i.e., about .30 meters to 1.5 meters), depending on the overall size of the device, and on the height, size and character of the desired wave shapes.
- the present invention is intended to be offered in a variety of sizes and shapes so that a variety of wave shapes and boats with varying amounts of power can be accomodated.
- the device 1 Prior to operation, the device 1 is connected to the boat 2 by a rope 53.
- the rope 53 is attached at its back end to the forward extending center portion 3, and at its forward end to the stern 55 of the boat 2.
- the rope 53 is preferably attached to the middle of the center portion 3 so that, as the boat pulls the device 1, the rope helps to self-align the wave generating device 1 in the direction of travel.
- the rope can be attached to the center portion 3 in any conventional manner, such as by a knot, a clamp, or a connecting joint, i.e., a ball and socket.
- the rope is detachable at both the front and back ends, to the boat and generator device 1 , respectively, so that the rope can easily be removed when needed.
- Dual ropes can also be provided, rather than a single rope, which can be connected at two points along the forward extending center portion 3, which can further help self-align the generator device 1 as it is pulled by the boat.
- the rope 53, or ropes can be of any conventional type, such as those used in the sport of water skiing, and preferably, is strong, flexible, durable, yet light-weight, and water resistant.
- the rope can be made of strands of fiber, such as nylon, fibre-glass, steel, etc., and can be coated with water resistant material, such as plastic, rubber, etc., if necessary.
- the above described manner of connecting the wave generating device 1 to the boat 2 is typical of the connection between not only this embodiment and the boat, but also other boat-pulled embodiments.
- the device is preferably aligned in the direction of travel, and floats in a deep body of water, with the leading edges 9, 11 facing forward.
- the rider, or riders, as the case may be, desiring to surf positions him/herself on top of the device.
- the rider can use a surfboard, boogie-board or other skimming device.
- Wake-boarders are pulled from behind the boat in a manner similar to water skiers.
- the rope 53 is preferably taught immediately before use so that a jolt is not caused by acceleration.
- the device is adjusted so that the leading edges 9, 11 of the device are kept level and at a substantially constant depth. This is important so that as the device accelerates and travels through the water, a proper amount of water will be lifted onto the twin blades. Getting the proper amount of water to flow initially onto the twin blades 5, 7 will make it easier to maintain a steady flow of water thereon.
- the device 1 is pulled in the forward direction, as indicated by the arrow 4, by the boat 2, so that the device moves through the water in a forward direction.
- the device can be accelerated slowly to allow the proper amount of water to flow onto the twin blades 5, 7.
- the rider of the present invention can position him/herself on the device even before it accelerates.
- the generator hulls 13, 15 have a concave curvature, in both horizontal and vertical directions, such that, as the device 1 is pulled through the water, a theoretical infinitesmal body of water, within the sheet of water 29, is acted upon both vertically and horizontally, forcing the infinitesmal body of water to accelerate in a forward and upward direction, above the surrounding body of water.
- the infinitesmal body of water not only flows upward and forward, but also flows laterally across the riding surfaces 31, 33, away from the center portion 3.
- a portion of the sheet flow 29, however, can flow over the center generator hull 17 toward the rear 45 of the device 1.
- the device To form a tunnel wave, the device must be accelerated with sufficient power to cause the sheet flow of water to flow forward and upward onto the riding surfaces 31, 33, and to create a supercritical flow, relative to the riding surfaces 31, 33, such that gravity can overcome the forward and upward momentum of the sheet flow, causing it to fall in a curling fashion, back onto the advancing sheet flow below.
- the speed at which the device is pulled determines to a large extent the size and character of the tunnel wave that is formed on the riding surfaces, i.e., the faster the device is pulled, the greater the forward and upward momentum that is created, and therefore, the faster and higher the supercritical sheet flow of water 29 will travel, relative to the riding surfaces.
- Other factors such as the depth of the leading edges, the amount of water flowing onto the twin blades, the condition of the water surface, and the stability of the wake formed behind the boat, as discussed, will affect the formation of the tunnel wave shapes.
- a wake 70 is also formed by the device as it moves through the water, upon which various wake-boarding and/or skimming manuevers can be performed.
- the wake forms, in effect, two solitary wave formations, one on each side of the device, trailing off at an angle behind the wave shapes 21, 23, as shown in Figure 3 a.
- the rider or riders can, once the boat is in motion, manuever onto the twin blades 5,
- the device 1 preferably moves through the water with sufficient speed and force to overcome any drag that may result from riders riding on the wave shapes 21, 23.
- the rider can, due to gravity, ride the wave shapes 21, 23, by reaching a substantial equilibrium, between the downward force exerted by gravity, and the upward momentum exerted by the flow of water 29, on the riding surfaces 31, 33.
- the rider can also manuever laterally across the wave shapes, away from the center portion 3, to ride the solitary wave shapes, formed on the wake that trails behind the device in the water.
- Wake-boarders similarly can manuever around and/or over the solitary wave shapes, in the manner discussed.
- the size of the wake 70, and the ability of riders to perform manuevers thereon, depends on the speed of the device, its size, and the amount of water being displaced. The greater the speed, size and/or displacement, the greater the size of the wake, and the better the chances are of a rider being able to manuever on the wake.
- Water that flows from the riding surfaces 31, 33 is permitted to flow either off to the side of the generator hulls 13, 15, or over the ridge 35, and down onto the center area 41. Because some water flows over the center portion 3 and onto and over the center generator hull 17, a rider can, with enough skill, and under ideal conditions, manuever from one side of the device, or riding surface, to the other side, or other riding surface, by traversing forward toward the center portion 3, and then cutting across the center portion 3.
- the degree of incline, curvature and orientation of the generator hulls 13, 15, and of the riding surfaces 31, 33, relative to the direction of travel determine to a large extent the nature and character of the wave shapes that are formed.
- Wave generating hulls 13, 15 that have only a slight incline, or curvature, as discussed, will form a relatively small, shallow wave shape.
- generator hulls that have a greater incline, or curvature, and/or vertical extension will form a relatively large, fully developed tunnel wave shape.
- the degree of incline, curvature and angle of orientation that is to be used in any particular circumstance is a function of various factors, as discussed above.
- the power of the boat that is used to pull the device 1 will also determine to what extent the wave generator hulls 13, 15 can form wave shapes 21, 23 thereon.
- a powerful boat will be required, for instance, to pull a large device, or one that can form a large, tunnel wave, rather than a small, shallow wave. This is because the hydro-dynamic drag caused by a relatively large device, or one having a relatively high degree of incline, curvature or angle of orientation, is greater than the drag caused by a relatively small device, or one having a relatively small degree of incline, curvature or angle of orientation. Additional Stabilizing Devices
- the surface of the water is relatively calm, so that the wave generating device 1 will remain relatively stable in the water.
- the surface of the water may become rough, or turbulent, which may cause the device to become relatively unstable.
- additional stabilizers can be provided to provide additional stabilization.
- additional stabilizers can be mounted in front of the device, such as a disc-like stabilizer 57, as shown in Figure 4, or a torpedoe-like stabilizer 59, as shown in Figures 5-6.
- the disc-like stabilizer 57 is essentially in the shape of a flattened disc, connected to the device 1 via a connecting rod 61.
- the rope 53 is connected to the front of the stabilizer 57, rather than the device, so that the boat pulls the stabilizer 57, which in turn pulls the device 1.
- the stabilizer 57 is preferably mounted about 2 to 10 feet (i.e., about .61 meters to 3.0 meters) in front of the device, which is close enough for the stablizer 57 to have maximum ballasting effect on the device, while far enough that the stabilizer 57 does not interfere with the riders riding on the device 1.
- the disc-like stablizer 57 helps to stabilize the device 1 in the water, in part due to its buoyancy characteristics, and in part due to its ability to plane, or otherwise skim, at or slightly below the surface level of the water, which, through the connecting rod 61, maintains the device 1 at a substantially constant elevation in the water.
- the stabilizer 57 prevents the device 1 from planing too far upward, or diving too far downward.
- the wide flat configuration of the stabilizer 57 also helps reduce the roughness, or turbulence, of water immediately in front of the device, so that, as the device moves through the water, water that eventually flows onto the device will be relatively calm.
- the disc-like stabilizer 57 is preferably about two-thirds the width of the device 1, which adds to its stabilizing effect. Its width, however, should not be much more that, so that undesireable drag is not created by the stabilizer 57.
- the connecting rod 61 is preferably made of a strong, durable, light-weight, relatively stiff, although somewhat flexible, material, such as fiber-glass, graphite composite, or steel, etc.
- the rod 61 is preferably stiff, although flexible, such that the stablizer 57 can flexibly ballast the device 1.
- the rod 61 is also affixed to the stabilizer 57 and the device 1, so that the connecting joints are relatively stiff.
- the materials from which the disc-like stabilizer 57 is made can be the same or similar to the materials from which the device 1 is made. Accordingly, the stabilizer can be hollow, or have air pockets, so that it floats in water.
- the safety features found in the device 1, as discussed above, however, are not as important to the stabilizer 57.
- the torpedoe-like stabilizer 59 is substantially in the shape of a torpedoe, and is attached, via a connecting rod 61, in much the same manner as the disc-like stabilizer 57. Much like the stablizer 57, the torpedoe-like stabilizer 59 helps to stabilize the device 1 by skimming at or slightly below the surface level of the water, ballasting the device 1.
- the torpedoe-like stabilizer 59 can be made from the same materials, and operate essentially in the same manner, as the disc ⁇ like stabilizer 57.
- the Alternate Embodiment The alternate embodiment, a wake enhancment device 101, as shown in Figure 7, is pulled by a boat in the same manner as the preferred embodiment.
- the wake enhancement device 101 is substantially similar in shape, in many respects, to the preferred embodiment, except that the device 101 is more elongated, forming a narrower, taller "V" shape from above.
- the relatively narrow configuration of the device 101 makes it possible for the device 101 to cut through the water more easily than the preferred embodiment, creating less drag, and making it advantageous for high speed applications. This makes it possible for the device 101 to be used in the sports of wake-boarding and water skiing, which require that the boat travel at relatively high speeds.
- the wake enhancement device 101 is substantially symmetrical, and has a forward extending center portion 103, onto which a rope 153 is attached, which provides the same self-aligning benefits of the preferred embodiment. That is, by pulling the device from a forward extending center portion 103, the device is self-aligned in the direction of travel.
- the wake enhancement device 101 forms wakes, or other wave formations, rather than surfable wave shapes 21, 23, upon which riders can ride, .
- the wake enhancement device can enhance an existing wake, such as the one formed by the boat 2, about, over or through which wake-boarding and/or water skimming manuevers can be performed, which significantly increases the challenge and/or diversity of those sports.
- the relatively elongated orientation of twin blades 105, 107, and wave generator hulls 113, 115 causes water flowing onto the twin blades to be accelerated upward, but not necessarily forwardly, or laterally, as in the preferred embodiment. That is, when an infinitesmal body of water encounters leading edges 109, 111, that body of water is lifted upward by the generator hulls 113, 115, but due to the relatively low horizontal angle of orientation of the riding surfaces 131, 133, with respect to the direction of travel, that body of water is only slightly accelerated in the forward direction, and travels only slightly laterally, away from the center portion 103.
- the device 101 displaces water to form a wake, or to enhance the boat's wake, forming solitary wave formations trailing behind the boat.
- the device 101 is preferably between 2 to 5 feet (i.e., about .6 meters to 1.5 meters) wide and 3 to 15 feet (i.e., about .91 meters to 4.5 meters) in length. Because it is intended for high speed applications, the device 101 is smaller than the preferred embodiment, and, as discussed, creates less drag. The device 101 is also preferably relatively light-weight, so that it can be pulled by the boat 2 at high speeds. This embodiment is otherwise made from the same materials from which the preferred embodiment is made. In use, as the wake enhancement device 101 is accelerated, the device 101 displaces water in such a way that creates, depending on the speed of the device, an enhanced wake, and/or other water formation, that trails behind the device.
- the device moves through the water, and causes water to flow onto the twin blades 105, 107. Water is then forced upward and rearward, relative to the device, forming water trajectories that eventually fall back into the surrounding body of water. At the same time, the displacement of water creates a wake that trails behind the device 101 in the water, upon which wake-boarding and/or other water skimming manuevers can be performed. Generally, a rider is pulled by the boat, and can ride the wake, much like a water skier, or wake boarder, can ride the wake of the boat.
- the device can be pulled from behind the boat 2 in a manner that enhances the wake being formed by the boat, by being positioned in the water so that it intercepts the boat's wake, amplifying and enhancing that wake, upon which wake-boarding, surfing, skimming and/or skiing manuevers can be performed.
- a rider pulled by the boat can perform manuevers around, over and/or through the enhanced wake formed by the device, as well as trick manuevers, using the wake as a ramp, or launch platform, as discussed.
- the present invention can also be affixed to the hull 208 of the boat 202, such that as the boat travels through the water, the device 201 is pushed, rather than pulled.
- twin blades 205, 207 are attached to, or otherwise integrally formed with, the hull 208 of the boat 202, such that the blades extend outwardly and laterally on either side of the boat.
- the device 201 can be positioned longitudinally along the side of the boat hull at the middle or back of the boat, although preferably, the device is attached at a location which would provide the most consistent and stable wave shapes, as will be discussed.
- the twin blades 205, 207 of this embodiment is similar in many ways to the twin blades 5, 7 of the preferred embodiment, except that they are affixed to, or otherwise extend from, the boat hull.
- the riding surfaces 231, 233 also have a concave curvature, horizontally and vertically, and extend rearwardly at an angle, as in the preferred embodiment, such that water flowing across the riding surfaces is accelarated forwardly, upwardly and laterally, away from the boat, as shown in Figure 8.
- this embodiment is secured to the side of a boat hull 208, and relies on the boat to keep the twin blades 205, 207 in substantial equilibrium and at a substantially constant depth.
- the depth at which the twin blades are positioned in the water is determined by the position of the twin blades relative to the boat hull 208. Because the amount and consistency of water flowing onto the twin blades will have a significant effect on the size and character of the wave shapes that are formed, the twin blades are preferably mounted so that, during acceleration, the leading edges are between 2 to 8 inches (i.e., about 5.1 cm to 20.3 cm) below the average surface level of the water. While a greater depth will cause more water to flow onto the twin blades, creating larger wave shapes, it will also result in increased hydro-dynamic drag, which may make it difficult for the boat to accelerate and maintain its speed.
- the relative position of the boat with respect to the surface level of the water, and therefore, the amount of water that is allowed to flow onto the twin blades may vary depending upon the operating water surface conditions, the speed and acceleration at which the boat travels, and the position of the device with respect to the boat. That is, as the boat accelerates, the front end of the boat is likely to plane upward, while the back end of the boat is likely to fall slightly in elevation, due to the boat's forward momentum. This shift will, of course, have an effect on the relative position of the twin blades in the water, and therefore, the proper mounting of the twin blades will have to take into consideration its operating position, rather than merely its stationary position, in the water.
- a bottom surface 247 of the twin blades 205, 207 is preferably configured so that it creates little or no hydro-dynamic effect, i.e., planing effect, which might affect the motion of the boat overall.
- the bottom surface can be horizontal, or even hollowed out underneath the riding surfaces, if desired, such that as the boat accelerates, the water will not create any upward effect on the device.
- the bottom surface can be slightly forwardly inclined, to help the device plane over the water, which will help the boat stay stabilized, and keep from excessively planing, even during rapid acceleration.
- the device When the device is attached near the middle of the boat, however, it may be desirable to mount the device such that it cuts slightly into the water, rather than skimming or planing over it, which can offset the planing that would otherwise occur. Excessive planing by the boat is preferably avoided to maintain the leading edges 209, 211 of the device 201 at a substantially constant elevation in the water.
- the device 201 is securely mounted onto the boat by any conventional means, such as by nut and bolt, or welding, but is preferably formed integrally with the boat hull 208.
- the device 201 is securely mounted to the boat, so that the device resists shear, bending and torsional forces, that may occur as the device moves through the water.
- a support member 214 is provided on each twin blade, behind the generator hulls, in the direction of travel, connecting the twin blades to the boat hull. Because the device, in effect, is a horizontal cantilever on either side of the boat, it must resist the tendency of the water to cause substantial shear, bending and torsional forces on the device.
- the support member 214 at that location is preferably strengthened. Conversely, the least amount of force is exerted at the farthest tip of the device 201, and therefore, the support member can be tapered towards the tip of each twin blade.
- This embodiment can be made from substantially the same materials as the preferred embodiment. If the device 201 is integrally formed with the boat, however, it must be made from the same material as the boat hull. For instance, if the boat hull is made of fibre-glass, the device 201 should also be made of fibre-glass. A protective coating and soft padding, as in the preferred embodiment, should also be used in this embodiment to increase safety. The boat should also be strengthened in the area near where the device is affixed so that forces acting on the device will not adversely affect the boat hull.
- the device 201 is preferably of a size and shape that is proportionate to the size, shape and power of the boat.
- the device 201 is preferably secured to the boat on the back half of the boat, as shown in Figure 8, so that the wake caused by the front of the boat is incorporated into the wave shape formed by the device.
- the boat In use, the boat is accelerated to speeds sufficient to form suitable wave shapes 221, 223 on the generator hulls 213, 215.
- the riders preferably ride on a wake 270 that extends from the wave shapes, rather than directly on the twin blades, due to the danger of being too close to the boat during use. Accordingly, the boat preferably travels at speeds sufficient to form wake 270, of substantial size extending from the wave shapes, as shown in Figure 8.
- the rider(s) 267 manuever into position in the water, rather than on the boat 202, so that as the boat passes by, the rider can, on his/her own, paddle in the same direction as the boat, and, can catch, and ride, the passing wave extending from the wake formed by the boat.
- the driver of the boat coordinates the speed and direction of the boat, with the speed, direction and skill of the rider.
- the rider will, with enough skill, be able to catch and ride the wave for an extended period of time.
- Embodiment on Rails The present invention can also be activated, or otherwise powered, by any conventional mechanical means, such as those that have been used to power a train, funicular, cable car, ski lift, trolley, etc., rather than a boat.
- the present invention can be positioned on rails attached to the bottom of a deep water environment, i.e., pool, so that it can be pulled by a rope or cable, creating wave formations on the surface of the pool.
- two sets of twin blades 5, 7 can be positioned back to back, so that one set faces one direction and another set faces another.
- the device can be positioned on a rail at the bottom of a pool of water, and then operated by a rope, pulling it through the water in one direction, creating wave shapes thereon, and then, in the opposite direction, creating additional wave shapes thereon. This will permit riders to go in one direction, and then ride back in the other direction, maximizing throughput.
Abstract
Description
Claims
Priority Applications (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
NZ310718A NZ310718A (en) | 1995-06-07 | 1996-06-04 | Boat activated wake generator |
BR9608480A BR9608480A (en) | 1995-06-07 | 1996-06-04 | Vessel-activated wave generator |
AU61560/96A AU714278B2 (en) | 1995-06-07 | 1996-06-04 | Boat activated wave generator |
EP96919146A EP0837972A4 (en) | 1995-06-07 | 1996-06-04 | Boat activated wave generator |
JP9501589A JPH11506714A (en) | 1995-06-07 | 1996-06-04 | Boat operated wave generator |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US08/475,092 | 1995-06-07 | ||
US08/475,092 US5664910A (en) | 1987-05-27 | 1995-06-07 | Boat activated wave generator |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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WO1996041057A1 true WO1996041057A1 (en) | 1996-12-19 |
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Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/US1996/009211 WO1996041057A1 (en) | 1995-06-07 | 1996-06-04 | Boat activated wave generator |
Country Status (9)
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US (3) | US5664910A (en) |
EP (1) | EP0837972A4 (en) |
JP (1) | JPH11506714A (en) |
CN (1) | CN1049943C (en) |
AU (1) | AU714278B2 (en) |
BR (1) | BR9608480A (en) |
CA (1) | CA2222577A1 (en) |
NZ (1) | NZ310718A (en) |
WO (1) | WO1996041057A1 (en) |
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- 1996-06-04 CN CN96194544A patent/CN1049943C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1996-06-04 CA CA002222577A patent/CA2222577A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 1996-06-04 NZ NZ310718A patent/NZ310718A/en unknown
- 1996-06-04 AU AU61560/96A patent/AU714278B2/en not_active Ceased
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- 1996-06-04 JP JP9501589A patent/JPH11506714A/en not_active Ceased
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Cited By (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP2078114A2 (en) * | 2006-10-17 | 2009-07-15 | American Wave Machines, Inc. | Barreling wave generating apparatus and method |
EP2078114A4 (en) * | 2006-10-17 | 2011-08-24 | American Wave Machines Inc | Barreling wave generating apparatus and method |
WO2013071362A1 (en) * | 2011-11-15 | 2013-05-23 | Gregory Webber | Wave generating apparatus |
US11534672B2 (en) | 2016-11-08 | 2022-12-27 | Ka'ana Wave Company Inc. | Wave producing method and apparatus |
US10119285B2 (en) | 2017-01-20 | 2018-11-06 | The Wave Pool Company, LLC | Systems and methods for generating waves |
US10662664B2 (en) | 2017-01-20 | 2020-05-26 | The Wave Pool Company, LLC | Systems and methods for generating waves |
US11352117B1 (en) | 2021-02-08 | 2022-06-07 | Gigawave Llc | Enhanced wave generation methods and systems |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US5860766A (en) | 1999-01-19 |
CA2222577A1 (en) | 1996-12-19 |
CN1189201A (en) | 1998-07-29 |
US5664910A (en) | 1997-09-09 |
AU714278B2 (en) | 1999-12-23 |
EP0837972A4 (en) | 1999-05-26 |
AU6156096A (en) | 1996-12-30 |
EP0837972A1 (en) | 1998-04-29 |
CN1049943C (en) | 2000-03-01 |
JPH11506714A (en) | 1999-06-15 |
US5911190A (en) | 1999-06-15 |
NZ310718A (en) | 1999-06-29 |
MX9709694A (en) | 1998-10-31 |
BR9608480A (en) | 1999-07-06 |
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