Amphibious vehicle

Abstract

The present invention provides an amphibian capable of operating on land and in / on water. The amphibious vehicle comprises: a sliding hull; at least one retractable wheel, the at least one retractable wheel being retractable from an extended land-engaged position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water; at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and / or in / on water; and at least one steerable wheel directly or indirectly connected to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian, at least when the amphibian is operated on land.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with the international application date of October 12, 2015, the national application number 201580066894.7, and the name “Amphibious Vehicle”. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to amphibians and in particular to high speed amphibians having what are generally known as utility mission vehicles (UTVs) in land-going vehicles.Preferably, the amphibian has seats arranged in a side-by-side manner. Background Art

[0003] UTV and all-terrain vehicles (ATV) for land travel are well known in the art and have some similarities. However, they are different vehicles intended for different purposes and therefore adopt different configurations. ATV is generally an off-road straddle-type vehicle intended for use as a recreational vehicle for riders, which has the ability to ride on rough terrain. UTV is also intended for use on rough terrain, but this vehicle is driven rather than ridden, and because two or more people can sit next to each other on a bench seat or bucket seat in the driver's area or in the cab, this vehicle is often referred to as a side-by-side vehicle. In addition, UTV is usually provided with a roll bar (rollbar) or roll cage (rollcage) arrangement. In addition, UTV is designed to carry or haul loads and is therefore usually characterized by a cargo area or truck-like bed specifically for this purpose.

[0004] Amphibians are now well known in the art. Historically, prior art amphibians have either been optimized for operation in a land mode when used on land, or, alternatively, optimized for operation in a water mode when used in water. The result has been an amphibian with inferior performance in one operating mode or the other. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present applicant has identified a need for an amphibious vehicle that has the capabilities of a UTV on land and behaves as a high-speed vessel on water.

[0006] In a first aspect, the present invention provides an amphibian capable of operating both on land and in / on water, comprising:

[0007] a planing hull;

[0008] at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water;

[0009] at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and in / on water;

[0010] at least one steerable wheel, at least when the amphibian is operated on land, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian; and wherein

[0011] The steering control apparatus is movable across the width or beam of the amphibian between at least two different laterally spaced positions.

[0012] In a second aspect, the present invention provides an amphibian capable of operating both on land and in / on water, comprising:

[0013] a planing hull;

[0014] at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water;

[0015] at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and in / on water;

[0016] at least one steerable wheel, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian, at least when the amphibian is operated on land; and

[0017] Side-by-side seating.

[0018] In a third aspect, the present invention provides an amphibian capable of operating both on land and in / on water, comprising:

[0019] a planing hull;

[0020] at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water;

[0021] at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and in / on water;

[0022] at least one steerable wheel, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian, at least when the amphibian is operated on land; and

[0023] A rollover protection system.

[0024] In a fourth aspect, the present invention provides an amphibian capable of operating both on land and in / on water, comprising:

[0025] a planing hull;

[0026] at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water;

[0027] at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and in / on water;

[0028] at least one steerable wheel, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian, at least when the amphibian is operated on land; and

[0029] A cargo area or truck-like bed, preferably open.

[0030] In a fifth aspect, the present invention provides an amphibian capable of operating both on land and in / on water, comprising:

[0031] a planing hull;

[0032] at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water;

[0033] at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and in / on water;

[0034] at least one steerable wheel, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian, at least when the amphibian is operated on land; and

[0035] Two seat belts and three seat belt buckles or buckle positions, or two seat belt buckles or buckle positions and three seat belts.

[0036] In a sixth aspect, the present invention provides an amphibian capable of operating both on land and in / on water, comprising:

[0037] a planing hull;

[0038] at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water;

[0039] at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and in / on water;

[0040] at least one steerable wheel, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian, at least when the amphibian is operated on land; and

[0041] A footwell area that is free of a transmission tunnel.

[0042] In a seventh aspect, the present invention provides an amphibian capable of operating both on land and in / on water, comprising:

[0043] a planing hull;

[0044] at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water;

[0045] at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and in / on water;

[0046] at least one steerable wheel, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian, at least when the amphibian is operated on land; and

[0047] A footwell and seating area configured so as not to obstruct or restrict movement of a driver and / or passenger ingress via one side of the amphibian, egress from another side of the amphibian, and passage therebetween.

[0048] In an eighth aspect, the present invention provides an amphibian capable of operating both on land and in / on water, comprising:

[0049] a planing hull;

[0050] at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water;

[0051] at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and in / on water;

[0052] at least one steerable wheel, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian, at least when the amphibian is operated on land; and

[0053] A positive buoyancy system and / or a deployable righting system.

[0054] In a ninth aspect, the present invention provides an amphibian capable of operating both on land and in / on water, comprising:

[0055] a planing hull;

[0056] at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water;

[0057] at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and in / on water;

[0058] at least one steerable wheel, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian, at least when the amphibian is operated on land; and

[0059] An interlock or safety system that prevents operation / activation of at least one operator or automatically controlled parameter of the amphibian unless a first condition is sensed / determined to have been met.

[0060] In general, the present application discloses the following schemes 1-51:

[0061] Solution 1. An amphibious vehicle capable of operating on land and in / on water, comprising:

[0062] a planing hull;

[0063] at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water;

[0064] at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and / or in / on water;

[0065] at least one steerable wheel, at least when the amphibian is operated on land, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian; and wherein

[0066] The steering control apparatus is movable across the width or beam of the amphibian between at least two different laterally spaced positions.

[0067] Solution 2. An amphibious vehicle capable of operating on land and in / on water, comprising:

[0068] a planing hull;

[0069] at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water;

[0070] at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and / or in / on water;

[0071] at least one steerable wheel, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian, at least when the amphibian is operated on land; and

[0072] Side-by-side seating.

[0073] Solution 3. An amphibious vehicle capable of operating on land and in / on water, comprising:

[0074] a planing hull;

[0075] at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water;

[0076] at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and / or in / on water;

[0077] at least one steerable wheel, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian, at least when the amphibian is operated on land; and

[0078] A rollover protection system.

[0079] Solution 4. An amphibious vehicle capable of operating on land and in / on water, comprising:

[0080] a planing hull;

[0081] at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water;

[0082] at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and / or in / on water;

[0083] at least one steerable wheel, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian, at least when the amphibian is operated on land; and

[0084] A cargo area or truck-like bed, preferably open.

[0085] Solution 5. An amphibious vehicle capable of operating on land and in / on water, comprising:

[0086] a planing hull;

[0087] at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water;

[0088] at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and / or in / on water;

[0089] at least one steerable wheel, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian, at least when the amphibian is operated on land; and

[0090] Two seat belts and three seat belt buckles or buckle positions, or two seat belt buckles or buckle positions and three seat belts.

[0091] Solution 6. An amphibious vehicle capable of operating on land and in / on water, comprising:

[0092] a planing hull;

[0093] at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water;

[0094] at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and / or in / on water;

[0095] at least one steerable wheel, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian, at least when the amphibian is operated on land; and

[0096] A footwell area that is free of a transmission tunnel.

[0097] Solution 7. An amphibious vehicle capable of operating on land and in / on water, comprising:

[0098] a planing hull;

[0099] at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water;

[0100] at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and / or in / on water;

[0101] at least one steerable wheel, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian, at least when the amphibian is operated on land; and

[0102] A footwell and seating area configured so as not to obstruct or restrict movement of a driver and / or passenger ingress via one side of the amphibian, egress from another side of the amphibian, and passage therebetween.

[0103] Solution 8. An amphibious vehicle capable of operating on land and in / on water, comprising:

[0104] a planing hull;

[0105] at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water;

[0106] at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and in / on water;

[0107] at least one steerable wheel, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian, at least when the amphibian is operated on land; and

[0108] A positive buoyancy system and / or deployable righting system.

[0109] Solution 9. An amphibious vehicle capable of operating on land and in / on water, comprising:

[0110] a planing hull;

[0111] at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water;

[0112] at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and in / on water;

[0113] at least one steerable wheel, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian, at least when the amphibian is operated on land; and

[0114] An interlock or safety system that prevents operation / activation of at least one operator or automatically controlled parameter of the amphibian unless a first condition is sensed / determined to have been met.

[0115] Embodiment 10. An amphibian according to embodiment 9, wherein the interlock or safety system prevents operation / activation of at least one driver or automatically controlled parameter of the amphibian unless at least two different conditions are sensed / determined to have been met.

[0116] Option 11. An amphibian according to option 9 or option 10, wherein the interlock or safety system prevents operation / activation of the deployable righting system if the sensed roll of the amphibian is not at or beyond a predetermined threshold.

[0117] Option 12. An amphibian according to any one of options 9 to 11, wherein the interlock or safety system prevents operation / activation of the deployable righting system if the sensed roll of the amphibian is not at or above a predetermined threshold and / or the amphibian is not in water mode.

[0118] Option 13. An amphibian according to any one of options 9 to 12, wherein the interlock or safety system prevents operation / activation of the prime mover without the steering assembly being locked in position.

[0119] Option 14. An amphibian according to any one of the preceding options, wherein the amphibian is a UTV and has UTV capabilities.

[0120] Option 15. An amphibian according to any preceding option, wherein the steering control device is movable across the width or beam of the amphibian between at least two different laterally spaced positions.

[0121] Aspect 16: The amphibious vehicle according to any one of the preceding aspects, further comprising side-by-side seats.

[0122] Option 17. The amphibian of Option 16, wherein the side-by-side seating comprises one or more bench seats and / or bucket seats.

[0123] Solution 18. The amphibious vehicle according to any one of the preceding solutions, further comprising a rollover protection system, wherein the rollover protection system comprises an anti-roll bar or a roll cage.

[0124] Embodiment 19. The amphibian of embodiment 18, wherein the roll bar or roll cage at least partially defines a crew or cab area for at least one driver of the amphibian.

[0125] Option 20. An amphibian according to option 19, wherein the roll bar or roll cage at least partially defines a crew or cab area for at least one driver and one or two passengers of the amphibian.

[0126] Option 21. An amphibious vehicle according to any one of the preceding options, further comprising a positive buoyancy system and / or a deployable righting system.

[0127] Option 22. An amphibious vehicle according to any preceding option, further comprising an open cargo area cargo or truck-like bed.

[0128] Embodiment 23. An amphibian according to embodiment 22, wherein the open cargo area cargo or truck-like bed is located behind the crew or cab area.

[0129] Option 24. An amphibian according to option 22 or option 23, wherein the open cargo area cargo or truck-like bed is positioned behind the driver.

[0130] Option 25. An amphibian according to any one of the preceding options, further comprising two seat belts and three seat belt buckles or buckle locations, or two seat belt buckles or buckle locations and three seat belts.

[0131] Embodiment 26. The amphibian of embodiment 25, wherein the two seat belt buckle locations include three seat belt buckles.

[0132] Option 27. An amphibious vehicle according to any preceding option, further comprising a footwell area without a transmission tunnel.

[0133] Embodiment 28. An amphibian according to any preceding embodiment, further comprising a footwell area configured to automatically scoop out any water that enters the vessel while the amphibian is in use.

[0134] Option 29. An amphibian according to option 28, wherein the footwell area includes a curved floor or curved floor portion.

[0135] Option 30. An amphibian according to any of the preceding options, further comprising a footwell and seating area, the footwell and seating area being configured so as not to obstruct or restrict the movement of a driver and / or passenger into or out of one side of the amphibian, out of or between the other side of the amphibian.

[0136] Embodiment 31. An amphibian according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the footwell area does not include a footrest.

[0137] Option 32. The amphibious vehicle according to any one of the preceding options, further comprising a door.

[0138] Option 33. The amphibian according to any one of the preceding options, further comprising a fabric door.

[0139] Option 34. An amphibious vehicle according to any one of options 1 to 32, not including a door.

[0140] Option 35. An amphibian according to any one of the preceding options, further comprising a roll cage, said roll cage forming an integral part of the overall structure of the amphibian.

[0141] Option 36. An amphibious vehicle according to any one of the preceding options, further comprising at least one water propulsion device.

[0142] Embodiment 37. The amphibian of any preceding embodiment, wherein the planing hull is a V-shaped hull.

[0143] Option 38. An amphibious vehicle according to any of the preceding options, further comprising a speed change transmission device, which provides the amphibious vehicle with a plurality of different gear ratios between the prime mover and one or both of i) at least one driven wheel and ii) at least one aquatic propulsion device.

[0144] Option 39. An amphibian according to any preceding option, wherein when one or more of the wheels moves between the extended position and the retracted position, one or more of the wheels pivots about an axis extending along the amphibian from front to back.

[0145] Embodiment 40. An amphibian according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the at least one steerable wheel comprises two front steerable wheels.

[0146] Embodiment 41. An amphibian according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the at least one steerable wheel comprises two rear steerable wheels.

[0147] Option 42. An amphibian according to any preceding option, wherein a separate spring and shock absorber unit is provided for each wheel.

[0148] Option 43. An amphibious vehicle according to any of the preceding options, wherein the speed change transmission comprises a manually operable gearbox and a manually operable gear selection device is provided, the gear selection device being operable by a driver of the vehicle to select one of the gear transmission ratios.

[0149] Option 44. An amphibious vehicle according to any one of the preceding options, wherein the speed change transmission comprises an automatic gearbox.

[0150] Option 45. An amphibious vehicle according to any preceding option, wherein the speed change transmission comprises a continuously variable transmission.

[0151] Embodiment 46. An amphibian according to any preceding embodiment, wherein during retraction, the at least one retractable wheel is pivoted through 15° or more.

[0152] Option 47. An amphibious vehicle according to any of the preceding options, wherein the at least one retractable or steerable wheel is retracted above the lowest point of the hull for use in / on water in the water mode, and is extended below the lowest point of the hull for use on land in the land mode.

[0153] Option 48. An amphibian according to any one of the preceding options, wherein when the amphibian is operating in / on water in the water mode, the water propulsion device is capable of powering the amphibian to a speed that enables the amphibian to obtain sufficient hydrodynamic lift to plan.

[0154] Aspect 49. An amphibian according to any preceding aspect, wherein when the amphibian is operated in the land mode, the amphibian is drivable with one or more wheel drives.

[0155] Embodiment 50. An amphibian substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to or as shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0156] 51. An amphibian comprising a steering assembly substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to or as shown in the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0157] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0158] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view from the front and above of an amphibian according to the invention with its wheels shown in an extended land-engaging position (with certain parts omitted for clarity);

[0159] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 a schematic side elevational view of an amphibian of FIG. 1 , wherein the wheels of the amphibian are shown in an extended land engaging position;

[0160] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 a schematic front elevational view of an amphibian of FIG. 1 , wherein the wheels of the amphibian are shown in an extended land engaging position;

[0161] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 a schematic top plan view of an amphibian of FIG. 1 , wherein the wheels of the amphibian are shown in an extended land engaging position;

[0162] Figure 5 yes Figure 1a schematic side elevational view of an amphibian with its wheels in a retracted position;

[0163] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 a schematic front elevational view of an amphibian with its wheels in a retracted position;

[0164] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 a schematic top plan view of an amphibian with its wheels in a retracted position;

[0165] Figure 8 is a schematic perspective view from the rear and side of a steering assembly according to the present invention, wherein the steering control device is shown in a right-hand position laterally spaced from a left-hand position and a center position;

[0166] Figure 9 It is from Figure 8 a schematic perspective view of a steering assembly of FIG. 1 from behind and from the side, wherein the steering control device is shown in a central position laterally spaced from a left-hand position and a right-hand position;

[0167] Figure 10 It is from Figure 8 a schematic perspective view of a steering assembly of FIG. 1 from behind and from the side, wherein the steering control device is shown in a left-hand position laterally spaced from the right-hand position and the center position;

[0168] Figure 11 yes Figure 8 a schematic side elevation view of a steering assembly of FIG, with certain portions omitted for clarity;

[0169] Figure 12 yes Figure 8 A schematic front elevation view of a steering assembly of FIG. 1 , wherein the steering control device is shown moved to the right from a center position;

[0170] Figure 13 It is from Figure 1 Schematic perspective views from the front and top of an amphibian provided with an optional positive buoyancy system;

[0171] Figure 14 It is from Figure 1 a schematic perspective view from the front and above of an amphibian provided with an optional deployable righting system; and

[0172] Figure 15 It is from Figure 14 Schematic perspective view of an amphibian viewed from the front and above with the deployable righting system deployed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0173] Now refer to Figures 1 to 7 , an amphibian 10 is illustrated having a forward bow end 12 and a rear stern end 14 .

[0174] The amphibian 10 has four road wheels 50, 51, 52, 53 connected to the rest of the amphibian 10 by a wheel suspension and retraction system (omitted for clarity) for moving the wheels 50, 51, 52, 53 between an extended land-engaging position for use on land in the amphibian 10's land mode and a retracted position for use in / on water in the amphibian 10's water mode. The front wheels 50 and 53 are steerable by the driver of the amphibian 10 via a steering assembly 60, which in the preferred embodiment shown has a steering control device in the form of a handlebar 62. Alternatively, the steering control device may take the form of a steering wheel, a steering lever, or any other suitable steering control device capable of transmitting steering input from the driver. In the preferred embodiment shown, the rear wheels 51, 52 are driven to propel the amphibian 10 on land, but as an alternative, front-wheel drive and / or four-wheel drive may be employed. Furthermore, as an alternative, any one or more of the wheels may be driven when the amphibian 10 is in use. One or more aquatic propulsion devices (omitted for clarity) propel the amphibian 10 in / on the water, and this / these aquatic propulsion devices may take the form of jet drives and / or thrusters, for example. Power is provided by one or more prime movers (such as internal combustion engines, electric motors, or hydraulic motors), and this power may be delivered to the wheels and / or aquatic propulsion devices directly via a transmission, or indirectly via a gearbox or other speed-changing device (e.g., a continuously variable transmission) that varies the speed of the output from the prime mover relative to the input drive of one or more driven wheels and / or aquatic propulsion devices.

[0175] The structure of the amphibian 10 includes an upper body 30, a rollover protection system (ROPS) 20 in the form of a roll cage, and a hull 40. The body 30 and the roll cage of the ROPS 20 are each connected to the hull 40 (but are detachable from the hull, either in whole or in part). This allows easy access to the internal components of the amphibian 10 for maintenance, etc. A cargo area or truck bed is provided, preferably open and preferably behind the ROPS. Alternatively, the ROPS can be extended to at least partially assume the protection of the cargo area or truck bed. In an alternative embodiment, the cargo area or truck bed is located near the waterline for easy loading and unloading, etc., for use in deploying and / or recovering personnel in a rescue situation. As another alternative embodiment, the cargo area or truck bed is movable between a first position above the waterline and a second position located near the waterline for easy loading and unloading.

[0176] The roll cage of the ROPS 20 forms an integral part of the overall structure of the amphibian 10. The roll cage is a structural component and is not merely a cladding. Typically, the roll cage takes the form of one or more elongated tubular or angular cross-section structural members, one or more of which are directly connected to the composite structure of the hull 40 (e.g., fiberglass or carbon fiber disposed in a resin) and not via an intermediate frame or chassis. This reduces overall weight while improving rigidity and strength. Handles and / or grab bars 22 are optionally provided. Additionally or alternatively, optional fabric "doors" and / or restraint bars (not shown) may be provided in place of doors in conventional vehicles. The roll cage of the ROPS 20 provides an ideal structure for mounting or positioning these optional handles and / or grab bars 22 and the fabric "doors" and / or restraint bars. Where localised areas of strength are required to help form or enhance the integrity of the connection between the roll cage of the ROPS 20 and the body 30 and / or hull 40, additional layers or mats of fibres and / or other (e.g., metal) components may be laid up within the body 30 and / or hull 40 during manufacture. If desired, the body 30 and / or hull 40 themselves may be formed with localised areas of reinforcement and provide a complete support structure for the components comprising the amphibian 10. In the preferred form of the roll cage of the ROPS 20 shown, a cab area is defined, and this cab area is where the driver and passengers of the amphibian 10 are seated during use. The upper frame portion 24 of the roll cage of the ROPS 20 can be seen protruding above the upper surface of the body 30, providing overhead, front, rear and side protection for the driver and passengers of the amphibian 10. Furthermore, the roll cage of ROPS 20 provides an ideal structure for mounting or positioning a towing hook and / or rope, for example, for use in wakeboarding, where the increased height provides more lift when performing jumps and / or aerial stunts. Still further, the roll cage of ROPS 20 provides an ideal structure for i) storing items, ii) positioning a mount for storing items, or iii) mounting or positioning a storage box / container, for example, for a wakeboard, water skis, fishing rods, or other sporting equipment and / or tools.

[0177] A side-by-side seating arrangement is provided in the form of a bench seat 150. The bench seat 150 extends laterally (transversely) across the width (beam) of the amphibian 10. This provides at least three different driving positions for the amphibian 10, i) right-hand drive, ii) center drive, and iii) left-hand drive. If desired or required by local regulations, optional seat belts and seat belt buckles or harnesses may be provided. Furthermore, the roll cage of the ROPS 20 provides an ideal structure for mounting or positioning these seat belts and seat belt buckles or harnesses. In the case of a three seat arrangement as described above, the applicant has determined that a particularly effective arrangement is one having two seat belts and three seat belt buckle or buckle locations, or two seat belt buckle or buckle locations and three seat belts. In the former case, by arranging three seat belt buckles / positions spaced laterally across the amphibian and / or bench seat 150 with two seat belts, it has been found that this provides an optimal solution for unrestricted entry into or egress from the amphibian 10. Similarly, in the latter case, by arranging two seat belt buckles / positions spaced laterally across the amphibian and / or bench seat 150 with three seat belts, for example, at substantially the 1 / 3 position and the 2 / 3 position, it has been found that this provides an optimal solution for unrestricted entry into or egress from the amphibian 10. As will be further described below, the steering assembly effectively provides multiple driving positions across the entire width of the amphibian, which provides flexibility that increases the functionality of the amphibian 10. As an alternative to the bench seat 150, one or more bucket seats may be provided instead. In practice, this provides further flexibility, as one or more bucket seats and / or bench seats can be modular in nature and can be utilized and positioned as needed, and thus across the width (beam) of the amphibian 10, to provide a variety of driving and passenger positions and configurations. In practice, multiple rows of seats can be provided, or even a mix of seat types and arrangements can be used. Where bucket seats are used, these can be mounted to allow for swiveling motion, so that the driver and / or passenger can, for example, fish from one / each side of the amphibian 10 while seated. A supplementary footwell area 80 also extends laterally (transversely) across the width (beam) of the amphibian 10 to accommodate all possible driving positions. The footwell area 80 can optionally be provided with a means for automatically scooping out any water that enters the boat while the amphibian 10 is in use. One such embodiment of a means for automatically scooping out is to provide a curved floor or curved floor portion (eg, arranged with a central peak) in the footwell area 80 to direct and guide water away from and away from the amphibian 10 .

[0178] As will be appreciated from the foregoing, the seating and footwell areas are configured so as not to obstruct or restrict the driver and / or passengers, but rather to facilitate entry to, exit from, and movement between the amphibian 10 via either side. Indeed, to further assist in this regard, the functionality of conventional footrests may be integrated with the steering assembly or otherwise incorporated into the amphibian 10, as further described below, thereby obviating the need for any footrests in the seating and footwell areas altogether. Alternatively, the functionality of conventional footrests may be provided by one or more sets of footrests positioned, if desired, in the footwell area (e.g., in one or more driving positions) or otherwise. Indeed, these footrests may be retractable or foldable to clear the footwell or other area, and / or slidable across the amphibian in a manner similar to that of the steering control arrangement.

[0179] Front and rear wheel arches 36, 37 are provided on either side of the amphibian 10 to at least partially house wheel suspension and / or retraction assemblies that are retracted when the amphibian 10 is operating in / on the water in the water mode.

[0180] The air intake 31 provides an inlet for cooling air (e.g., ram or fan-assisted) used by the cooling system of the amphibian 10. Air drawn in through the air intake 31 is ultimately exhausted through an exhaust port (not shown). A dorade system is installed between the air intake 31 and the exhaust port to prevent the ingress of water.

[0181] An instrument panel 38 is provided in the cab area to communicate relevant parameters (e.g., operation, control, and / or status) of the amphibian 10 to the driver. Furthermore, side and rear view mirrors (not shown) may be provided as visual aids for the driver, if desired. Furthermore, land and water navigation lights may be provided and operated in accordance with local regulations.

[0182] The hull 40 can be seen extending along the longitudinal axis of the amphibian 10 from the front bow section 12 to the rear stern section 14, and spanning the transverse axis of the amphibian 10. In effect, the hull extends across the width (beam) of the amphibian 10 between the front and rear wheels at hull section 41. When the amphibian 10 is operating at high speed on water in the water mode, the hull section 41 provides stability because it provides a displacement laterally spaced from the centerline of the amphibian 10. Thus, for example, when making a sharp turn, the righting force increases as the angle of bank increases.

[0183] The hull 40 comprises a V-shaped configuration 42 having a keel section 43 extending from the bow 12 of the amphibian to the point where the keel splits to include a water intake area 44 for a jet-driven water propulsion unit (omitted for clarity). Consequently, the wheels 50, 51, 52, 53 must be extended and retracted through a greater height to provide good ground clearance of the hull 40 when the amphibian 10 is used on land in land mode, while positioning the wheels 50, 51, 52, 53 clear of the waterline when the amphibian 10 is used in / on water in water use. However, this strategy does provide an amphibian with UTV capabilities both on land and water. Even though the hull 40 of the amphibian 10 has a small footprint, the hull 40 is able to effortlessly propel the amphibian 10 onto a flat surface in a short period of time. Surprisingly, the amphibian's performance in / on water is not compromised, and sufficient ground clearance is obtained even for off-road use.

[0184] Next, refer to Figures 8 to 12 , the steering assembly 60 can be seen. Figure 8 As can be seen in the figure, the handlebars 62 are connected via a steering column 64 to a steering mechanism 66 that steers the wheel hubs 70, 73. Optional power steering 65 is provided. The wheel hubs 70, 73 are connected to the front wheels 50, 53 via suspension uprights (omitted for clarity). At each end of the steering column 64 is a universal joint 63 to provide rotation and articulation. The steering column 64 includes a splined connection to provide the necessary rotation and extension. The handlebars 62 are mounted via a handlebar bearing housing 61 to upper and lower handlebar rails 67, 68 that guide the lateral translation of the handlebars 62. Together, these features facilitate the handlebars to be moved laterally (transversely) across the width (beam) of the amphibian 10. This provides at least three different driving positions for the amphibian 10: i) right-hand drive, ii) center drive, and iii) left-hand drive.

[0185] The interlock safety device 90 includes one or more biased locking pins 92 mounted via the handlebar bearing housing 61, each locking pin 92 having a protrusion that is received within one of a series of guide holes 69 provided in either or both of the upper handlebar rail 67 and the lower handlebar rail 68. Furthermore, a proximity sensor and / or a "dead man" key can be utilized to prevent the prime mover from starting or "killing" the prime mover if the handlebar 62 is not locked in place. To reposition the handlebar 62, the operator can pull on the biased locking pins 92 to remove the protrusion from the corresponding guide hole 69, and then translate the handlebar 62 laterally along the rails 67, 68 to the desired position, whereupon the biased locking pins 92 can be released and the protrusion engages the corresponding guide hole 69 corresponding to the new steering position. Alternatively, a friction lever arrangement can be utilized to provide unlimited lateral positioning. In addition, height adjustment may also be provided, for example, by rotation of the steering assembly 60 about the transverse axis of the amphibian 10. Although the steering control device is described as taking the form of a handlebar 62, it may alternatively take the form of a steering wheel, a steering lever, or any other suitable steering control device capable of conveying steering input from the driver, as described above. However, the applicant has found that the use of a handlebar has particular advantages in optimizing the full range of steering input angles required for steering in both land and water modes (a steering wheel typically requires more than one full rotation from lock to lock, whereas a handlebar requires only a fraction of a full rotation).

[0186] Other important benefits of the steering assembly disclosed herein are: i) it enables throttle and brake functions to be easily translated along with the steering input device without the need or complexity of having to move foot control pedals, and ii) no steering disconnect is required between land and water mode changes. Both remain connected throughout use in both land and water modes, reducing complexity (familiarity / intuition of use by the driver in both modes) and increasing safety (by avoiding the need to disconnect / reconnect separate systems).

[0187] The rollover protection system (ROPS) 20 is configured to provide a number of different functions in the amphibian 20 according to the present invention. Not only does it act as a structural component, with its roll cage providing the important function of protecting occupants in a rollover situation on land, but it can also be used to introduce a system to prevent inversion in the event of a capsize on water, and / or be used to provide active righting of the amphibian 10 in the event of an inversion or capsize. By way of example, and with particular reference to Figures 13 to 15The upper frame 24 of the roll cage of the ROPS 20 may be provided with a positive buoyancy system 120 and / or a deployable righting system 140. The positive buoyancy system 120 is illustrated in FIG. Figure 13 The upper frame 24 is provided with a plurality of closed cellular structures or closed volume structures 122, 124 mounted on or to the upper frame 24. The closed cellular structure(s) or closed volume structure(s) 122, 124 provide positive buoyancy in the event of a capsize on the water, displacing the volume of the water with a lower density medium to provide positive buoyancy. This reduces the likelihood of the amphibian 10 becoming inverted. Alternatively, or in addition to the positive buoyancy system 120, a deployable righting system 140, such as a Figure 14 and Figure 15 exemplified in FIG. A deployable righting system 140 takes the form of an inflatable structure 142 having a sensor, an inflation source, and a control system. The sensor can be configured to detect the roll angle of the amphibian 10 relative to a reference (e.g., fully upright) position, and the control system can be configured to trigger inflation of the inflatable structure 142 via the inflation source when a selected threshold is reached or exceeded. Appropriate safety measures can be implemented to avoid unwanted triggering, such as also sensing that the amphibian is in water mode and / or sensing that a water sensor, for example, mounted on the upper frame 24, is submerged in water. When the inflatable structure 142 is inflated, a significant righting force is achieved (given its position, i.e., the distance above the upper frame 24), which causes the amphibian 10 to roll vertically. Furthermore, the positive buoyancy system 120 and / or the deployable righting system 140 can also be configured and employed in land mode to protect the driver and passengers from impacts by cushioning them (much like the function of airbags in land-only vehicles).

[0188] Preferably, spring and shock absorber assemblies are provided for the wheels 50, 51, 52, 53. Hydraulic (or other) actuators may be provided to allow the wheels to be moved from Figures 1 to 4 Their extended position shown in Figures 5 to 7 , and the like. The hydraulic actuators are powered by a supply of hydraulic fluid from a pump (not shown) powered by a prime mover. Each wheel suspension assembly comprises a suspension column member connected to the outboard ends of the upper and lower suspension arms and arranged for retraction between an extended position and a retracted position. Each wheel 50, 51, 52 and 53 is mounted to a hub rotatably engaged with and / or carried on the suspension column member. The hydraulic actuators each have a piston rod which acts to retract and extend the suspension assembly about an axis extending longitudinally along the amphibian from nose to tail. Other actuators (e.g. electric rotary or linear, or pneumatic) may be used.

[0189] Cooling is provided via a radiator (or otherwise) located at the front of the amphibian 10 acted upon by air entering through the air intake 31 and which can cool the prime mover at least when the amphibian 10 is used on land. When the amphibian 10 is used in / on water, cooling can additionally be provided by a water / water heat exchanger, where water is drawn from outside the amphibian 10. Furthermore, exhaust gas cooling may be employed using the same heat exchanger / system or by using a separate dedicated heat exchanger of the same or similar form.

[0190] Although wheels are described throughout as land propulsion means, track drives or individual track drives (i.e., to replace individual wheels) may be used in place of or in combination with wheels. Thus, references in the specification and claims to a wheel or wheels should be interpreted as including a track drive or a plurality of track drives.

[0191] Each feature disclosed in this specification (including the accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) can be replaced by an alternative feature that serves the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless otherwise expressly stated. Therefore, unless otherwise expressly stated, each feature disclosed is merely an example of a series of generally equivalent or similar features. In addition, all features disclosed in this specification (including the accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and / or all steps of the method or process, can be combined in any combination, except for at least some mutually exclusive combinations of such features and / or steps. Therefore, although different embodiments of the present invention have been described above, any one or more or all of the features described, illustrated, and / or claimed in the accompanying claims can be used in any embodiment alone or in multiple combinations. In this way, any one or more features can be removed, replaced and / or added to any combination of features described, illustrated and / or claimed. In order to avoid doubt, any one or more features of any embodiment can be combined with any other features from any embodiment and / or used alone in a different embodiment.

[0192] While the invention has been described with reference to what are presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the arrangements disclosed, but is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent constructions included within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An amphibious vehicle capable of operating on land and in / on water, comprising: a planing hull; at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water; at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and / or in / on water; at least one steerable wheel, at least when the amphibian is operated on land, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian; and wherein The steering control apparatus is movable across the width or beam of the amphibian between at least two different laterally spaced positions.

2. An amphibious vehicle capable of operating on land and in / on water, comprising: a planing hull; at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water; at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and / or in / on water; at least one steerable wheel, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian, at least when the amphibian is operated on land; as well as Side-by-side seating.

3. An amphibious vehicle capable of operating on land and in / on water, comprising: a planing hull; at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water; at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and / or in / on water; at least one steerable wheel, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian, at least when the amphibian is operated on land; as well as A rollover protection system.

4. An amphibious vehicle capable of operating on land and in / on water, comprising: a planing hull; at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water; at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and / or in / on water; at least one steerable wheel, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian, at least when the amphibian is operated on land; and A cargo area or truck-like bed, preferably open.

5. An amphibious vehicle capable of operating on land and in / on water, comprising: a planing hull; at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water; at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and / or in / on water; at least one steerable wheel, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian, at least when the amphibian is operated on land; as well as Two seat belts and three seat belt buckles or buckle positions, or two seat belt buckles or buckle positions and three seat belts.

6. An amphibious vehicle capable of operating on land and in / on water, comprising: a planing hull; at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water; at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and / or in / on water; at least one steerable wheel, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian, at least when the amphibian is operated on land; as well as A footwell area that is free of a transmission tunnel.

7. An amphibious vehicle capable of operating on land and in / on water, comprising: a planing hull; at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water; at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and / or in / on water; at least one steerable wheel, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian, at least when the amphibian is operated on land; as well as A footwell and seating area configured so as not to obstruct or restrict movement of a driver and / or passenger ingress via one side of the amphibian, egress from another side of the amphibian, and passage therebetween.

8. An amphibious vehicle capable of operating on land and in / on water, comprising: a planing hull; at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water; at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and in / on water; at least one steerable wheel, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian, at least when the amphibian is operated on land; as well as A positive buoyancy system and / or deployable righting system.

9. An amphibious vehicle capable of operating on land and in / on water, comprising: a planing hull; at least one retractable wheel retractable from an extended land-engaging position when the amphibian is operating on land to a retracted position when the amphibian is operating in / on water; at least one prime mover for providing power to drive the amphibian directly or indirectly on land and in / on water; at least one steerable wheel, the at least one steerable wheel being connected directly or indirectly to a steering control device operable by a driver to steer the amphibian, at least when the amphibian is operated on land; as well as An interlock or safety system that prevents operation / activation of at least one operator or automatically controlled parameter of the amphibian unless a first condition is sensed / determined to have been met.

10. An amphibian according to claim 9, wherein the interlock or safety system prevents operation / activation of at least one driver or automatically controlled parameter of the amphibian unless at least two different conditions are sensed / determined to have been met.

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