Combination hand-held multi-directional propulsion device, and powered oar/paddle for rowboat, canoe, kayak, and the like

Abstract

A multi-functional modular device includes: a shaft; electric motor(s); propeller(s); battery(s); and paddle blade(s) being removably attachable to the shaft for levering of a boat. With the blade(s) attached to the shaft and motor(s) de-energized, the device is usable for manual levering, and with the motor(s) energized, propeller thrust selectively assists in levering to propel the boat. Propeller thrust in a direction opposite to a propulsive direction from levering reduces work required per stroke, reducing the total levering power per stroke. Alternatively, using the thrust in the same direction as propulsive levering increases total propulsive power per stroke, but requires greater strength / work output by the rower / paddler. Removing the blade permits the propeller and motor to be statically submerged and clocked for directional propulsion. A hinged kayak paddle embodiment is adapted for pure levering, and is convertible to a propulsion device by releasably attaching an electric pod motor to the blade(s).

Description

CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 12 / 924,627, filed on Sep. 30, 2010, which claimed priority on U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61 / 281,035, filed on Nov. 12, 2009 with the title, “Hand-Held Propulsion / Navigational Boating Device and Powered Oar / Paddle For Canoe, Kayak, Rowboat, Raft and the Like,” with the disclosures of each being incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates to improvements in directional and propulsive control over small watercraft, and more particularly to an oar or paddle which is capable of providing powered assistance to the paddler or rower.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]Recreational boating is a favorite American pastime, and such pleasure craft come in many different forms or categories: dinghies, paddlesports boats, runabouts, daysailers, cruisers, etc. The type of boat chosen by an individual will naturally suit the par...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0010]It is an object of the invention to provide an enhanced means of rowing or paddling for users of canoes, kayaks, rowboats, rafts, and the like.

[0011]It is another object of the invention to provide an oar or a paddle which decreases the physical exertion involved in propelling paddle sports watercraft.

[0012]It is a further object of the invention to provide an oar or paddle that increases the range which may be attained when traveling in a paddle sports watercraft.

Problems solved by technology

This added strength requirement may preclude its use by many recreational rowers.

The Horan device uses two parallel shafts being pivotally linked on both ends to keep the “oar's blade and handle parallel to one another and perpendicular to the boat throughout the rowing cycle,” which “is critical to achieving a powerful, efficient stroke.” This would arguably increase the efficiency of each stroke without the corresponding increase in strength requirements necessitated by the Fan oar; however, it does not serve to dramatically ease the rower's burden for a sustained period of use.

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