A device for walking and running on water

Abstract

Device for walking and running on water, comprising: 1.1. A floating board (A.1) with a structure similar to a paddleboard or surfboard, equipped with adjustable air chambers or cavities to adjust buoyancy according to the user's weight. 1.2. Two pedals (B.1 and B.2) mounted centrally on the board at a certain distance from each other and capable of vertically independent movement, so that when one pedal is pressed down, the other automatically moves up. 1.3. A dolphin fin (H) mounted below the board, mounted in a hinge or swivel joint (E) with an adjustable swivel range (e.g. ±30 degrees), which creates the propulsion or the "walking effect" on the water through its up and down movement. 1.4. A power transmission system from the pedals to the dolphin fin, which may include, in addition to belts / strap (R.1, L.1), lever mechanisms, gear or chain drives or other mechanical systems to move the fin in response to the pedal movement. 1.5. A spring system or a magnet-coil arrangement (G) at the connection between pedals and board, so that the pedal movement is smooth and elastic and additional energy (e.g. electrical energy using the generator principle) can be generated and stored in batteries.

Description

1. Title of the invention: A device for walking and running on water. 2. Abstract

[0001] The idea of ​​walking on water as if it were a solid surface has always captured the human imagination. This device was developed with the aim of simulating walking on water and encouraging people to carry out their daily walks and sporting activities on the water, providing a novel experience. At the same time, it enables the introduction of new water sports such as water rugby, water volleyball and other activities that are usually carried out on land but can now be practiced on water. Since water is considered a 'soft' environment, walking on water can be beneficial for people with knee problems, limited mobility, or at an increased risk of falls. Overall, the device is intended to provide a novel experience for everyone and also reduce some of the difficulties of walking on hard surfaces, as the user is walking on water. 3. Comprehensive description of the invention 3.1. General structure and operation

[0002] In page 1 (according to Fig. 1, side view from the right side of the floating board) shows a floating board in Section A.1 specifically designed to stay on the water's surface. The material composition of this board is similar to that used in the manufacture of paddleboards or surfboards. Furthermore, hidden air cushions are installed inside, whose air pressure is adjustable. This allows the buoyancy or immersion of the board in the water to be adjusted depending on the weight of the person standing on it.

[0003] Section B features two pressure pedals mounted centrally on the board, each designed for the right and left foot. Fig. 2 (rear view) both pedals are mounted individually at a specific distance from each other, with B.1 marking the left pedal and B.2 the right pedal. When a person stands on the pedals, one of them is pushed down by their body weight. The mechanism is designed so that, for example, when the right pedal is pressed down, the left pedal automatically goes up - and vice versa. By alternately pressing both pedals, a smooth movement is created, reminiscent of pedaling on a bicycle. The vertical range of motion of the pedals is adjustable. Furthermore, each time a pedal is pressed underwater, a horizontal fin swings (approximately at a 30-degree angle up or down) - similar to the flippers of a dolphin.

[0004] In Fig. 1, Section C shows a fin (rudder) underwater, which controls the turning (left and right) of the board. This rudder can be installed in a simple version so that the angle underwater can be adjusted by the slightest change in foot position or weight shift, thus controlling the direction of travel. In a more advanced version, fin C is equipped with a small motor that wirelessly receives user commands and thus regulates the direction. (These wireless commands can be transmitted in a variety of ways, for example, via a special app on a smartphone, a smartwatch, or a special wristband. Using defined wrist movement patterns, which are recognized by a smartwatch or smart bracelet, the internal rudder motor receives the command to change course.) 3.2. Waterproof, smart sports shoes

[0005] Another option for those who want to operate the board without direct intervention is to simply walk or run on the board to control the direction. These shoes feature a fully waterproof layer and include all of the following smart components: • A "smart insole" or sensor module that continuously collects gait analysis and foot posture data. This data is then analyzed using signal processing and machine learning algorithms to identify the user's movement patterns, predict behavioral changes, and send control commands to another device. Additionally, the shoes can be worn on land for a while to practice various running and walking habits. This allows the shoes to "learn" all repetitive movements and create a personalized movement profile. 3.2.1. Proposed hardware components 1. Pressure sensors (pressure sensors / force sensors)

[0006] There are various types of pressure or force sensors that can be placed in a soft intermediate layer (e.g., EVA foam) or in a thin insole. An array of these sensors allows the measurement of pressure distribution and changes at different points on the sole of the foot. 2. Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU)

[0007] A module consisting of an accelerometer, gyroscope, and occasionally a magnetometer. This unit is used to record movement acceleration, foot angle, changes in direction, step frequency, and other movement parameters. 3. Microcontroller or small processing system

[0008] A control unit for data preprocessing, analog-to-digital conversion (ADC), and noise filtering is essential. Depending on the data volume and analysis complexity, boards such as Arduino Nano, ESP32, STM32, or more powerful variants can be used. 4. Communication module

[0009] Bluetooth (BLE) is generally suitable for data transmission over short distances with low energy consumption. 5. Battery and power supply

[0010] Small, rechargeable batteries (e.g., Li-Po or Li-Ion) supply this system with energy inside the shoe. Solar panels can also be attached to the main board. 6. Intermediate layer or housing

[0011] The sensors must be integrated into the insole or a separate layer in the shoe to be practical in everyday use and to be protected from damage or water ingress. 3.2.2 Data Acquisition and Processing 1. Initial Calibration

[0012] Before gait analysis and learning the running patterns, the pressure sensors and IMU must be calibrated. 2. Sampling rate

[0013] A sampling rate of about 50 to 200 Hz is usually sufficient. 3. Signal Preprocessing

[0014] Bandpass or low-pass filters are used to reduce noise effects. Subsequently, basic features (e.g., step frequency, pressure distribution, foot rotation) are extracted. 4. Machine learning algorithms and modeling ◯ Detection and classification of walking and running patterns (e.g. using HMM, LSTM or 1D-CNN). ◯ Detection of changes in direction (analysis of gyroscope data). ◯ Prediction of future movements (model can predict upcoming actions). 5. Training methods ◯ Online learning: Continuous data updates in real time. ◯ Offline training: data collection and model training on the computer. 3.2.3. Data transmission and synchronization 1. Communication protocol

[0015] Typically Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) for data transmission. 2. Transmission of commands

[0016] Compact data packets such as “walking,” “running,” “increasing speed,” “changing direction,” etc. 3. Synchronization

[0017] The target components (smart rudder, on-board motors, etc.) must activate or stop simultaneously with the user movements. 3.2.4. Central aspects of design • Energy consumption: Energy-saving operating modes for sensors, microcontroller and radio module. • Ergonomic design: Protection against moisture and shock without compromising comfort. • Mechanical stability and durability of the sensors. • Data quality and noise: adaptation to variable environmental conditions (waves, different substrates). • Security and data protection: Protection of sensitive movement data. 3.2.5. Prototypical implementation (Prototype) 1. Concept phase (Proof of Concept)

[0018] Simple insole with a few pressure sensors and IMU (e.g. ESP32). 2. Signal processing and machine learning

[0019] Data collection, analysis and optimization (e.g. in Python). 3. Model deployment on the hardware (edge ​​deployment)

[0020] Compact model version (e.g. TensorFlow Lite) on microcontroller or execution on the board / smartphone. 4. Integration with the receiver of the commands

[0021] Definition of a communication protocol.

[0022] Checking synchronization and latency. 5. Optimization and miniaturization

[0023] Reduction of module thickness and improvement of battery life. 3.3. Detailed description of the components and figures

[0024] In Fig. 1, Section F, brackets are installed under the floating board A.1, connecting the pressure pedals B.1 and B.2 to the board A.1 (in Fig. 2 you can see this from behind). In Fig. 2, section G, shows springs mounted between the brackets F and the two lower sides of the pedals B.1 and B.2. • These springs ensure that the pedal movements are smooth and that when you step on the pedal you get the feeling of walking on water. • For example, when the right pedal is pressed down, the left pedal moves up. The springs support this movement and create a smooth, flowing feel when pedaling. • Electricity can be generated using the generator principle: Cylindrical elements with a magnet and coil induce electrical current, which is stored in an auxiliary battery or in the board's main battery.

[0025] In Fig. 1, Section D, shows a vertical support mounted beneath the board, which supports a pulley for the ropes R.1 and L.1. This support is used to calibrate the tension (loose or tight) in R.1 and L.1.

[0026] In Fig. 1, Section E, shows a vertical holder under the board A.1, the lower end of which has a bearing and a hinge with a specific pivoting range (e.g., ±30 degrees). A dolphin fin is attached to this hinge ( Fig. 3, H). 3.3.1. Rope mechanism and fin control • Fig. 1.1 (right side view) Components R: two narrow rods, connected to the right pedal B.2, at the end of which is a cylinder axis (in Fig. 2.1 (visible from behind). The rope R.1 runs over the pulley on the holder D and is attached to the upper part of the hinge E. If the right pedal B.2 is pressed down, R.1 pulls the dolphin fin E upwards by, for example, +30 degrees. • Fig. 1.2 / Fig. 2.2 Analogous system for the left pedal B.1 and the cable L.1, which is fixed to the lower part of the hinge E after passing the holder D. This causes the fin E to move downward by -30 degrees when the left pedal B.1 is pressed down. • Fig. 1.3 / Fig. 2.3 Shows the interaction of these components. The pedals are positioned side by side, slightly offset longitudinally to prevent cables R.1 and L.1 from crossing. • Fig. 3 (right side view) Fully assembled board with dolphin fin H on hinge E (swivel range +30 to -30 degrees). 3.3.2. Additional buoyancy devices and stabilization • Page 2, Fig. 4 (left side view), section L.3 Three attachment points on the left edge of the board A.1 for attaching an additional fin ( Fig. 9, L.2) or for coupling two boards ( Fig. 11, M). In addition, a rope trio can be stretched under the right pedal R ( Fig. 5, rear view) to distribute the force more evenly when the right pedal is heavily loaded. • Fig. 4.1 (right side view) Similar mechanism for the right side. • Fig. 5.1 (rear view) Cable route from R.3 to the left pedal L. • Fig. 4.2 / Fig. 5.2 Final board shape. From the left edge L.3, three ropes to pedal R, and vice versa, from the right edge R.3, three ropes to pedal L. 3.3.3. Energy supply and solar modules • Page 3 ( Fig. 6, right side view) Section S.1: Solar cell behind the pedals, with a battery underneath. Section S.2: Smaller solar module at the front (in front of the pedals), small battery to power the electric control C. A cable runs between the front and rear batteries in the board so that energy can be transferred and the energy generated by the pedal springs G is stored in both batteries. • Section D.1: Automatic telescopic support with motor for loosening / tightening the L.1 and R.1 cables. "Hybrid mode" in electric versions of the board: The motor supports or completely takes over the propulsion system. 3.3.4. Inflatable containers and cavities • Fig. 7 (right side view) Hollow spaces in the board between the front and rear batteries that can accommodate inflatable containers K for buoyancy regulation. • Page 4 ( Fig. 8) Attachment points L.3 and R.3 for accessories (details in Fig. 9). 3.3.5. Additional floats and motors • Page 5 ( Fig. 9, rear view) Additional floats were attached to the left and right of the main board A.1 (L.2 left, R.2 right). In it: ◯ Pages 3 and 4: Solar panels with internal battery. ◯ K.1, K.2, K.3, K.4: Inflatable chambers for buoyancy control. ◯ L.5, L.6, R.5, R.6: Motors for vertical / horizontal thrust or alternative propulsion concepts (e.g. dolphin fins, wind power). 3.3.6. Version for rehabilitation, safety and beginners • Page 6 ( Fig. 10, rear view) Special grab bars or safety bars in L.9 and R.9, attached to L.3 and R.3. ◯ Suitable for people with physical limitations, at risk of falls or undergoing rehabilitation. ◯ Controls / sensors can be attached to the top of the brackets. ◯ L.7, L.8, R.7, R.8: possible positions for additional chambers or batteries. 3.3.7. Coupling multiple boards • Page 7 ( Fig. 11, rear view, section M) An air cushion connects L.3 and R.3 of two boards, allowing two people to walk on the water at the same time. 4. Additional information 1. Automatic return of the board to the user in case of a fall The board detects the fall via GPS (e.g. in shoes, wristband, smartwatch) and returns to the user automatically using a motor. 2. Navigation and emergency signals Using digital maps and GPS, the board can automatically calculate a return route or transmit position data to rescue teams in an emergency. Additional explanation of power transmission

[0027] According to the main idea of ​​this invention, instead of belts or ropes, a purely mechanical system such as a lever construction, a gear system, or a chain transmission can be used to control the dolphin fin. This allows the interaction of pedal movement and fin propulsion to be adapted to specific requirements. Note on energy supply

[0028] In addition to generating energy through pedaling and solar cells, the batteries can be charged via an AC power connection. This allows the board to be used even during longer rides or in adverse weather conditions when solar charging alone isn't sufficient.

Claims

[1] Device for walking and running on water, comprising: 1.

1. A floating board (A.1) with a structure similar to a paddleboard or surfboard, equipped with adjustable air chambers or cavities to adjust the buoyancy according to the user's weight. 1.

2. Two pedals (B.1 and B.2) that are mounted at a certain distance from each other in the center of the board and can move vertically independently, so that when one pedal is pressed down, the other automatically goes up. 1.

3. A dolphin fin (H) mounted below the board, supported by a hinge or swivel joint (E) with an adjustable swivel range (for example ±30 degrees), which generates propulsion or the “walking effect” on the water through its up and down movement. 1.

4. A power transmission system from the pedals to the dolphin fin, which may include not only belts / straps (R.1, L.1) but also lever mechanisms, gear or chain drives or other mechanical systems to move the fin depending on the pedal movement. 1.

5. A spring system or a magnetic coil arrangement (G) at the connection between pedals and board, so that the pedal movement is smooth and elastic and additional energy (e.g. electrical energy by means of a generator principle) can be generated and stored in batteries. [2] Device for walking and running on water according to claim 1, characterized by , that a control element (C) is provided below the board which: ◯ can change the direction of travel via minimal shifts in user weight or small foot movements, or ◯ in a motorized version, controlled wirelessly (Bluetooth, app, smartwatch, etc.) to automatically adjust the angle of the rudder to the desired direction. [3] Device for walking and running on water according to claim 1, wherein 3.

1. waterproof, smart shoes or smart insoles equipped with pressure sensors and an inertial measurement unit (IMU) to capture gait and movement patterns, and 3.

2. a microcontroller or processor processes the data using machine learning algorithms to transmit direction and speed commands to the rudder (C) or other mechanical components of the board. [4] Device for walking and running on water according to claim 1, characterized by an energy generation and storage system that includes the following: ◯ Pedals that generate electricity via magnetic coil units with each up and down movement, ◯ Solar cells (S.1, S.2) on the board or on optional side floats (L.2, R.2), ◯ at least one integrated battery (or several batteries) which can be charged both by the energy generated from pedal movements and solar modules as well as via the mains power supply (power connection / AC). [5] Device for walking and running on water according to claim 1, wherein additional inflatable chambers (K) are provided in the board or in laterally attached floats (L.2, R.2) to vary the buoyancy and stability depending on the conditions of use and user weight. [6] Device for walking and running on water according to claim 1, which can be further adapted for persons with special needs or for rehabilitation purposes by: ◯ Safety or hand grips or bars (L.9, R.9) are fitted, ◯ Additional buoyancy aids or widened side surfaces may be attached, ◯ Health and vital function sensors are integrated. [7] Device for walking and running on water according to claim 1, comprising a device (D.1) for adjusting and locking the rope or lever tension or for switching between purely mechanical pedal drive and motor-assisted drive (hybrid or fully automatic mode). [8] Device for walking and running on water according to claim 1, in which several boards can be coupled together to: ◯ To conduct group sports such as “water football” or “water volleyball”, ◯ to wirelessly synchronize the control of multiple users or boards, ◯ to create additional stability through connecting air chambers (M). [9] Device for walking and running on water according to claim 1, comprising a safety and navigation system comprising: ◯ In the event of a fall by the user (e.g. detected by sensors / GPS in the shoe, wristband or smartwatch), the board can automatically navigate back to the user via motor control, ◯ In an emergency, it can make emergency calls and transmit its GPS position to rescue services. [10] Device for walking and running on water according to claim 1, which, depending on the application in leisure, sport, rehabilitation or therapy, allows • to individually regulate the pedal travel, the angle of the dolphin fin, the spring tension and the tension of the belts / levers / toothed belts (as part of the power transmission system), • so that different age groups and target groups (e.g. seniors, rehabilitation patients, competitive athletes) can benefit safely and comfortably from the device.

Images