WATER SPORTS EQUIPMENT

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a water sports device, in particular a foilboard, comprising a float, preferably in the form of a kickboard, and a propulsion device provided for propelling the water sports device.

[0002] Such a water sports device is considered a foilboard, in particular, if the buoyancy aid is designed as a kickboard and it has at least one hydrofoil with at least one hydrofoil, and in particular with at least two hydrofoils. Such water sports devices are regularly used for the propulsion of persons across bodies of water, who for this purpose are positioned on the side of the buoyancy aid facing away from the hydrofoil. During propulsion, the hydrofoil is typically located below the water's surface.

[0003] US patent 2018 / 0072383 A1 discloses a hydrofoil device which, due to the foil used, requires sufficiently deep water, otherwise the hydrofoil device will touch the bottom and either be damaged or collapse. Therefore, its use requires areas of a body of water regularly located away from a shore or beach.

[0004] WO 2018 / 147386 discloses an underwater propulsion system which, by means of two hydrofoils, can transfer a floating body into a position spaced away from the water.

[0005] US 2014 / 0134900 A1 discloses a surfboard that is trained to autonomously return to a server carrying a smartphone.

[0006] The CN 208760860 U reveals a floating body whose hydrofoil can be moved into a resting position for better storage of the water sports equipment by means of a folding mechanism.

[0007] CN 208714431 reveals a steerable hydrofoil vehicle that travels on the water surface.

[0008] WO 2019 / 063749 A1 discloses a watercraft which can generate control commands for controlling the buoyancy force depending on an input movement of a person transported by the watercraft.

[0009] US patent 2017 / 349246 A1 discloses a hydrofoil board with multiple sensor units, the evaluation of which contributes to the automatic stabilization of the hydrofoil board.

[0010] The object of the present invention is to make such a water sports device easier to use or easier to learn.

[0011] The problem according to the invention is solved by the fact that the propulsion device is designed for automatic self-stabilization of the water sports equipment and the water sports equipment has a control unit provided for this purpose, wherein the propulsion device is designed for automatic thrust vector control. Advantageous embodiments of the invention can be found in the dependent claims and the following description.

[0012] Water sports equipment is relatively unstable when positioned away from the water's surface, especially during acceleration and / or when turning. With conventional water sports equipment, as defined above, the equipment is controlled by shifting the user's body weight. Alternatively, with external control, the user must shift their body weight to remain on the equipment and prevent it from capsizing.

[0013] A self-stabilizing water sports device can assist a user of such a device, or facilitate learning to use it, by initially providing strong support that is gradually reduced. The water sports device according to the invention features active stabilization, in which the control unit provides control signals for actuators of the water sports device, where actuators are active positioning devices. These actuators can be a motor of the propulsion device, adjustable flaps or nozzles, or adjustable fins, rudders, hydrofoils, or individual adjustable sections thereof. The control unit evaluates input variables such as data on the position of the water sports device, the power of the propulsion device, speed, acceleration, and / or user input, and generates control commands for one or more actuators.

[0014] Self-stabilization of a water sports device occurs when the control commands generated by the control unit cause the device to move into a stable position. In this stable position, the user can operate the device without the risk of falling off. However, even a self-stabilizing water sports device can capsize, become submerged, or cause the user to fall off if the transition to an unstable state occurs too quickly or if the device's self-stabilization capabilities are exceeded. This can happen, for example, if the necessary adjustment of an actuator is greater than its available range of motion.

[0015] The stable position of the water sports equipment can refer to a stable equilibrium position of the non-actively stabilized system consisting of the equipment and the user. In this case, active stabilization is only necessary if the threshold for returning to stable equilibrium is exceeded. However, it can also refer to an unstable equilibrium position of the non-actively stabilized system or to an equilibrium position of the actively stabilized system. In both of these cases, continuous intervention by the control unit is necessary to maintain the system of water sports equipment and user in a stable position. The system can also have more than one stable position. The water sports equipment is thus actively stabilized by actuating control elements and / or influencing the signals that determine propulsion.

[0016] The float is, in particular, a flat, elongated body whose density is significantly lower than that of water. The float is designed such that, during operation, it is preferably positioned at least partially above the water's surface, regardless of the speed of travel. During operation, the holding device extends from the float to the hydrofoil assembly located below the float. A buoyant force generated by the hydrofoil assembly is transferred to the float by the holding device.

[0017] The hydrofoil device is preferably equipped, at least in its operating position, with at least one hydrofoil, which is flat and preferably at least partially wing- or fin-shaped. The width of the hydrofoil device, measured transversely to the direction of travel, is in particular at most twice the width of the floating body. The hydrofoil device serves to stabilize the movement of the watercraft and to generate lift. To enhance these effects, the hydrofoil device preferably has lateral hydrofoil tips that are angled relative to the essentially flat water surface. To further enhance these effects, the watercraft device also has, in particular, a plurality of hydrofoils spaced apart from one another in the direction of travel and / or spaced at varying distances from the floating body.The wing device thus comprises at least one wing and its mounting, as well as, if applicable, a propulsion device.

[0018] The at least one linkage is designed, in particular, as a rigid strut. Specifically, the linkage is pivotally mounted relative to the float and / or relative to the wing assembly. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one, first linkage is translationally movable, in particular slidably mounted, relative to the float and / or relative to the wing assembly. The wing assembly is coupled, in particular indirectly, via other components such as linkages, or directly to the first linkage. A linkage is generally defined as a movable and, in particular, pivotally connected, but otherwise rigid, component, such as a solid or hollow rod, by means of which, optionally in combination with one or more other linkages, parts of the watercraft can be moved relative to each other. Preferably, the holding device has components that are pivotable relative to each other and / or slidable within or against each other, and thus, for example,telescopic handlebars.

[0019] According to the invention, automatic self-stabilization is achieved by the propulsion device, which is designed for automatic thrust vector control. With thrust control, the thrust of the propulsion device can be adjusted to the current stability state of the watercraft. In automatic thrust control, the thrust adjustment is made automatically by control commands determined in the control unit. These commands are generated based on sensor data. Thus, if the watercraft is to travel faster, but the user leans backward and the watercraft threatens to become unstable, the propulsion device will automatically reduce the thrust. Similarly, during braking, a thrust reduction can be automatically stopped or reversed if the user has shifted their weight too far forward and instability or capsizing of the watercraft is imminent.Conversely, increased thrust can also compensate for a forward weight shift, and vice versa. Thrust vector control is particularly advantageous. It allows control not only over the magnitude of the thrust but also its direction. This enables the compensation of instabilities caused by external forces, such as laterally acting waves or wind. The additional degree of freedom provided by automatic thrust vector control thus allows for more precise self-stabilization of the watercraft.

[0020] The propulsion device preferably includes a vector nozzle. The vector nozzle is arranged such that the propulsion jet of accelerated fluid generated by the propulsion device flows through it. It is preferably located at the rear end of the propulsion device. Such a vector nozzle allows the direction of the propulsion jet to be freely adjusted, preferably within a cone extending from the end of the propulsion device. Within this cone, the direction of the propulsion jet can be freely adjusted, thus stabilizing the watercraft.

[0021] The control unit for multi-axis stabilization of the float during the transition to the operating position and / or in the operating position is also designed according to the invention. Such stabilization can thus compensate for both forward or backward dipping in the direction of travel, for example as a result of weight shifts by the user or insufficient weight shifts by the user, as well as shifts around a longitudinal axis, which can occur, for example, when cornering or also due to unintentional shifts in the user's body weight or a failure to shift the user's body weight when necessary. In particular, these disturbances of the stable state can be addressed simultaneously.

[0022] Alternatively or additionally to a vector nozzle, the propulsion device has a pivotably arranged propeller. This propeller, preferably pivotable about two spatial axes, makes it possible, similar to the vector nozzle, to adjust the direction in which a propulsive force acts. This allows the self-stabilization of the water sports device according to the invention to be achieved or supported.

[0023] Preferably, the propulsion device has at least one pivotable guide vane. The guide vane is preferably arranged at the end of the propulsion device behind a propeller and / or impeller. The guide vane directs the thrust jet generated by the propeller or impeller of the propulsion device. Preferably, at least two pivotable guide vanes are provided, arranged at a 90° angle to each other and preferably intersecting to allow steering in at least two spatial directions. Particularly preferably, at least four guide vanes are provided, arranged in a cross shape, with the adjacent arms of the cross each forming 90° angles. If the guide vanes arranged in a cross are each individually movable, steering about a longitudinal axis or roll axis running through the propulsion device is possible, thus enabling steering about three spatial axes.This can be particularly helpful in stabilizing the water sports equipment when cornering.

[0024] Preferably, the propulsion device has a plurality of nozzles pointing in different directions. These nozzles can either be movable or rigidly arranged. A propulsion jet generated by a propeller or, preferably, by an impeller is expelled through the nozzles, whereby the proportion of the propulsion jet expelled by individual nozzles can be varied by means of control elements such as flaps or valves. The nozzles can be arranged such that a neutral, forward-directed propulsive force results when the propulsion jet is expelled uniformly through all nozzles. By varying the propulsion jet expelled by the individual nozzles, forces and / or torques can thus be applied to the watercraft in specific directions, which can be used to stabilize the watercraft.

[0025] Preferably, the water sports device has at least one sensor, preferably a plurality of sensors, from a group comprising gyroscopes, speed sensors, position sensors for systems such as GPS, Galileo, Beidou and / or GLONASS, distance sensors, for example in the form of echo sounder or sonar sensors, infrared sensors, and tilt sensors. At least one of these sensors can be used to determine the position of the water sports device relative to a reference point or state, or to detect changes in position or state. Particularly preferably, the signals from the at least one sensor are processed in the control unit, and control signals are generated by the control unit based on these signals. Thus, the control unit can derive the measures necessary to correct the position or changes in position based on these signals and output corresponding control signals to effect automatic self-stabilization.

[0026] Preferably, the control unit contains a number of selectable driving profiles. These profiles can differ, for example, in the extent and / or timing of the automatic self-stabilization intervention. A driving profile designed for beginners might intervene strongly even with minor deviations, while automatic self-stabilization could be completely deactivated for an experienced user. Furthermore, profiles are conceivable in which only brief and slight corrections are initially made to alert the user to the need for correction, or profiles in which the corrections necessary for stabilization are delayed as long as possible, and a maximum correction is only initiated when automatic self-stabilization is still just possible.The stored driving profiles can be selected depending on the wishes or abilities of a user and each enables different driving experiences.

[0027] Preferably, the control unit is designed to allow for adjusting different distances to the water's surface in the operating position. These distances can be selected, for example, depending on the user's experience. Beginners can keep the distance small, while experienced users can operate the watercraft at a greater distance from the water's surface. Furthermore, the distance can be varied depending on the position or orientation of the watercraft or the operating situation. For instance, the distance can be reduced when cornering to improve the stability of the watercraft. Conversely, the distance can be increased when cornering to prevent the pontoon from touching the water's surface when the watercraft is at a steep angle.Similarly, the distance can be increased when crossing a shallow area to avoid damage to the support device, wing attachment, and / or propulsion system. In shallow waters, however, the distance to the water's surface can be reduced as much as possible to minimize the risk of injury to the user of the watercraft in the event of a fall.

[0028] Preferably, the wing device is designed to adjust different angles of attack of one, preferably at least two, wings and / or at least one rudder. The rudder can be designed as an adjustable section of a wing or as a separate component of the wing device. This allows for stabilization of the watercraft, either alternatively or additionally. By adjusting the angle of attack, the lift generated by the wings can be adjusted in direction and / or magnitude. This allows for stabilization and / or control of the watercraft. The angle of attack, and thus the lift, can be reduced at high speeds of the watercraft to prevent the buoyancy from being lifted excessively above the water's surface. Simultaneously, this reduces drag and increases speed.Conversely, at low speeds, the angle of attack can be increased to boost lift. Different angles of attack for two opposing wings can induce movement around an axis extending in the direction of travel or correct unwanted movement from a balanced position, thus stabilizing the watercraft. Turning can be assisted or even initiated. Different angles of attack for two wings arranged one behind the other can counteract pitching of the watercraft, for example, caused by waves or by the user shifting their weight forward or backward on the craft. Overall, this allows for automatic self-stabilization of the watercraft, either alone or in combination with other measures.

[0029] Preferably, the control unit is associated with at least one handheld device, which in particular features thumb control. This allows the speed of the water sports device to be adjusted, for example, by the user or a third party. Thumb control means that the water sports device can be controlled by movements of the thumb relative to the handheld device. Preferably, the handheld device has a control element that can be moved in two directions, from which control signals in two directions, which are particularly related to the speed and turning of the water sports device, can be derived. The handheld device can also have a 2D touchpad, where movements of a finger, preferably the user's thumb, are translated into corresponding control signals in two directions.

[0030] Preferably, the water sports equipment has a dead man's switch. A dead man's switch ensures that the water sports equipment automatically shuts off if the user moves away from it, particularly if they fall off. This can be achieved using a token that the user attaches to their clothing and that is connected to the water sports equipment either by cable or wirelessly. If the token is too far away from the water sports equipment, it shuts off. This happens electronically in the case of wireless tokens. With a wired token, the shutdown can also be mechanical, as pulling the cable breaks a contact. Alternatively, the removal of the cable can be monitored and recorded electronically.

[0031] Preferably, the wing assembly can be moved from a rest and / or launch position to an operating position below the float via the holding device, in particular by being retractable and / or foldable. In the rest and / or launch position, the wing assembly is positioned closer to the float than in the operating position to improve the compactness of the watercraft. Specifically, the holding device is folded and / or retracted to move the wing assembly into the rest and / or launch position. In particular, the at least one, first linkage is pivoted relative to the float by at least 20°, preferably at least 40°, and most preferably at least 80° to move the wing assembly. Preferably, in the rest and / or launch position, the wings are no more than 50 cm apart from the float in a side view.The ability to move the hydrofoil assembly via the mounting bracket allows for compact transport of the watercraft. This is particularly advantageous in a configuration where the hydrofoil assembly, in its rest and / or launch position, is located directly below the float, preferably at least partially within the float. This allows a user to board the watercraft in a shallow shoreline area and move it into deeper water, where the hydrofoil assembly is then moved into its operating position. Furthermore, such a watercraft can be used from its operating position to shallow, near-shore sections of a body of water after moving the mounting bracket into its rest and / or launch position. This type of watercraft is particularly user-friendly.

[0032] Preferably, the water sports equipment, and in particular the holding device, has a drive unit equipped with an energy storage device, by means of which the hydrofoil assembly can be moved from a rest and / or launch position to the operating position and / or from the operating position to the rest and / or launch position. In particular, the hydrofoil assembly is retractable and / or extendable and / or foldable. The water sports equipment can therefore be boarded and launched close to the beach or shore, with the hydrofoil assembly in a rest and / or launch position. When the bottom is sufficiently deep, the hydrofoil assembly is then moved into the operating position. Upon returning to the launch site, the hydrofoil assembly is then moved back into the rest and / or launch position close to the buoyancy chamber when the distance to the bottom decreases.The person on the floating device can return significantly closer to the shore or beach without endangering the integrity of the watercraft. The transition to the resting and / or starting position can also be achieved by assuming intermediate positions in which the hydrofoil assembly is not yet as close to the buoyancy chamber as in the resting and / or starting position. To trigger the operation, the drive is equipped with a control unit that receives a signal from the user and sends a control signal to the drive.

[0033] The energy storage device is specifically designed to store the energy required for moving the wing assembly. Preferably, the storage device comprises a battery for storing electrical energy, a tank for storing a pressurized fluid, or a mechanical energy storage device such as a spring. The drive is preferably designed as an electromechanical or electro-pneumatic drive. In a first embodiment of the invention, the energy storage device is designed to power a motor that initiates the movement of the wing assembly. In a preferred further embodiment of the invention, the energy storage device releases the stored energy directly, without an intermediate motor, as mechanical or kinetic energy for the movement.Preferably, the energy storage device is mechanically coupled to the holding device on the one hand and coupled to a charging device such as a motor on the other hand, which is designed to charge the energy storage device, particularly during the use of the water sports equipment.

[0034] The water sports device according to the invention significantly reduces the physical effort required by the user to move the hydrofoil assembly. Instead, only the drive needs to be activated for the move, which then carries out the movement independently or at least reduces the manual effort required.

[0035] Preferably, the holding device has at least one further link, which is pivotably mounted at one end on or in the float and pivotably arranged at the other end on the wing assembly. In particular, the first link and the further link are arranged one behind the other in the direction of travel, at least in the operating position of the wing assembly. Specifically, at least one of the links is pivotably arranged on a receptacle for the at least one wing assembly or a receptacle of the wing assembly. The pivot axes are oriented transversely to the direction of travel and parallel to the water surface during operation. This allows the holding device to be designed as a parallelogram linkage, which is particularly reliable and ensures that the wing assembly remains below the float, especially in the rest and / or launch position.

[0036] Alternatively or additionally, the holding device preferably comprises further linkages, each coupled to one of the two linkages and, at least in the operating position, connected to each other between the float and the wing assembly, transmitting force to one another. In particular, the first and subsequent linkages are pivotally movable relative to each other, thus enabling the creation of a toggle or folding mechanism as a holding device. For example, two linkages forming a toggle joint are arranged one behind the other in the direction of travel.

[0037] Alternatively or additionally, at least one of the two linkages is movable at least at one end relative to the float or the wing assembly. This allows a scissor mechanism for transferring the wing assembly. Alternatively or additionally, at least one of the linkages is pivotally mounted relative to the float and / or the wing assembly about a pivot axis parallel to the direction of travel. In particular, the holding device comprises at least four linkages in total, which are coupled to each other in the manner of a scissor jack (the opposing linkages are arranged in parallel). The aforementioned mechanical features of the holding device and / or the linkages allow for the provision of particularly reliable transfer mechanisms and thus water sports equipment.

[0038] Alternatively or additionally, the wing device has telescopically movable linkages mounted within or adjacent to each other, by means of which the distance of the wing device to the floating body can be varied.

[0039] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the water sports device has at least one depth and / or proximity sensor connected to a control device designed to control the drive. The control device can also be part of the control unit, i.e., formed by it, wherein the control unit can be modular in design and / or spatially distributed within the water sports device. For example, the part of the control unit representing the drive control device can be spatially located near the drive, while the part of the control unit accessing the propulsion device can be located at a different position within the water sports device.

[0040] The sensor is specifically designed to measure the immersion depth of the water sports equipment or a component thereof and / or to measure the distance of the water sports equipment to the (water) bottom. Alternatively or additionally, the sensor or one of the sensors is designed to measure the distance of the water sports equipment to an obstacle, particularly to any other water sports equipment, preferably in the direction of travel. The drive system is specifically designed such that, depending on the sensor data, particularly during the movement of the water sports equipment, the distance of the hydrofoil assembly from the float is preferably varied during travel, and in particular the hydrofoil assembly is at least partially repositioned. This allows for the prevention of damage to the water sports equipment from grounding, especially on shore or in the water.The system prevents unintended operating situations near the shore, such as those caused by a float being too far from the water's surface, and assists the user in operating the water sports equipment. Ideally, the hydrofoil system extends automatically after a launch near the shore or beach, provided there is sufficient water depth, and retracts again upon return. This is achieved either automatically or after authorization by the user.

[0041] The sensor is arranged, in particular, on the wing assembly, the mount, or the float. Preferably, the sensor includes at least one ultrasonic transducer. This allows for particularly reliable underwater measurement of distances.

[0042] Alternatively or additionally to a depth sensor for detecting the immersion depth of the water sports device, a further development of a water sports device according to the invention comprises at least one driving state sensor for determining the distance of the float from the water surface. The depth and driving state sensors can also be implemented as a single sensor or sensor arrangement. By detecting the distance of the float, valuable information is obtained for stabilizing the movement. This information is processed by the control unit and can, for example, be incorporated into control commands for thrust vector control. In particular, the driving state sensor is preferably a sensor unit integrated into or arranged on a handlebar of the holding device.For example, it could be a capacitive sensor strip extending along the handlebar of the holding device or integrated into it along its length. Alternatively, it could be a sensor unit with multiple sensors, particularly capacitive ones, spaced apart from each other along the holding device, for example, in or on its handlebar. The distance can also be determined by an ultrasonic sensor unit. Given the known position of the holding device, the sensor data can be used to determine the position of the rider.whose steering system uses the control unit to determine the distance of the float from the water's surface and, in particular in combination with other sensor data, such as speed and / or water depth, aims to achieve a desired stable driving condition, for example by raising or lowering the float by adjusting one or more hydrofoils, by actuating the holding device, or by changing the driving speed. It is understood that such a driving condition sensor, which is arranged in or on the holding device as a single sensor or as a sensor unit comprising a plurality of sensors, can also be used with holding devices rigidly attached to the float, where the holding device keeps the hydrofoil assembly in the same position relative to the float in both the operating position and the rest and / or starting position.

[0043] In particular, the driving condition sensor is laminated in, with the handlebar of the mounting device, which incorporates the sensor, preferably being made of a fiber composite material. This ensures both a stable handlebar structure and simplifies the integration of the driving condition sensor. Customized sensor structures can be applied directly to the nonwoven or woven fabric using printing processes such as screen printing, dispensing, or inkjet printing. The driving condition sensor becomes an integral part of the mounting device structure through the integration of the printed nonwoven or woven fabric into the layer structure and subsequent fiber composite production, e.g., by vacuum infusion.

[0044] A water sports device, particularly a hydrofoil board, equipped with a motion sensor, preferably has an optical display unit that extends, in particular, at least half the length of the top surface of the float and is designed to display the distance of the float from the water surface. The display unit comprises one or, preferably, several light sources. Preferably, the distance from the water surface can correlate, for example, with the number and / or arrangement of the light points in the display unit. RGB LEDs can be used for this purpose. For example, when the float is in contact with the water, no or only a few, e.g., red, light sources illuminate. As the distance increases, the number and / or color of the light sources changes along the length of the float until a desired state is reached, with a specific, for example, maximum number of light points activated.For example, a specific, desired, or optimal distance from the water's surface can be indicated by predominantly or exclusively green-emitting light sources, such as RGB LEDs or LED units. Alternatively or additionally, the display unit in the buoyancy chamber can provide an indicator of a stable state, i.e., the stability of the ride. A stable state is defined, in particular, as one in which minor weight shifts or foot movements of less than 15 cm on a water sports device designed as a hydrofoil board do not cause the rider to fall due to the buoyancy chamber, which is positioned at a distance from the water's surface, capsizing.

[0045] Preferably, the energy storage device, which in particular includes a spring, can be pre-tensioned by means of a motor. In particular, the spring is designed as a torsion spring whose axis of torsion coincides with the axis of rotation of a shaft mechanically coupled to the motor. In this configuration, the motor serves to pre-tension or torsion the energy storage device and thereby generates potential energy within it. This potential energy can be accessed for at least partial transfer of the wing assembly without requiring the use of energy directly generated by the motor.

[0046] The drive system includes, in particular, a transmission gearbox through which the motor is connected to the energy storage device. The gearbox is specifically designed such that the ratio of the time required for transferring the energy to the time required for the corresponding pre-tensioning is less than 1. This means that the drive system is designed such that less time is required to deliver the energy required for transferring from the energy storage device than is required for the motor to generate the same amount of energy. As a result, the aforementioned functions can be achieved with a motor of comparatively low rated power and thus size, since the interval between two transfers is generally sufficient for a correspondingly long pre-tensioning time.

[0047] The energy storage device has at least one spring that is directly connected to, or at least mechanically coupled to, at least one link of the support device, such that the force of the spring can be used at least partially for positioning, in particular for aligning, the link. Preferably, the energy storage device can be pre-tensioned in opposite directions by the motor and / or the transmission. This makes it easier for the drive to move the wing device into the operating position as well as back out of the operating position. Preferably, the drive includes a braking device that slows down the movement or the energy release of the energy storage device, thus reducing the risk of injury and excessively abrupt effects on the movement of the watercraft.

[0048] Preferably, the propulsion device comprises at least one shaftless and / or hubless propeller or impeller, wherein, in particular, the impeller is arranged at least partially in a flow channel of a propulsion body connected to the surroundings via at least two openings. This makes the propulsion device particularly suitable for operation close to the shore or beach, since, on the one hand, the arrangement in a flow channel significantly reduces the risk of injury, and on the other hand, any growth of algae or the like is considerably less likely to become lodged in the flow channel and, in particular, on the impeller.

[0049] In particular, the motor has a hollow rotor whose inner surface forms the flow channel and which, especially on its outer surface facing away from the flow channel, is mounted outside the flow channel. The rotor carries blades. An outer stator is arranged in a propulsion body housing. Essential functional parts of the motor are thus arranged around the cooling channel, so that, in contrast to a propeller with a hub or shaft, the excess heat generated can be dissipated more effectively over a larger surface area into the flow channel and, in the case of a particularly cylindrical or torpedo-shaped propulsion body housing, also more efficiently to the outside. In an embodiment according to the invention with a propulsion device that includes an electric motor, particularly one designed as an internal rotor, the motor can therefore be designed with a particularly streamlined shape.In contrast, a propulsion device with an internal combustion engine achieves a particularly high level of efficiency while simultaneously delivering high power.

[0050] A particularly preferred design is the impeller formed by individual blades that are not directly connected to each other and are rotatably mounted. This allows the angle of attack of the impeller blades to be changed during operation and adapted to the speed of the watercraft. This can increase acceleration and / or the achievable top speed compared to using an impeller with a constant angle of attack at the same engine power.

[0051] The propulsion device, and thus the water sports equipment, is preferably operable in both the rest and / or starting position as well as in the operating position, so that different skill levels of potential users can be accommodated. Furthermore, in this case, the propulsion device can also be used in the rest and / or starting position, for example, in shallow, near-shore areas.

[0052] Preferably, the water sports device comprises a propulsion system for its propulsion, the propulsion motor of which is arranged on the float side and is connected to a propulsion element via an angularly movable drive train. This allows for a more streamlined design of the wing-like device. A motor arranged in the float is subject to less stringent space constraints and can therefore, for example, be designed to be easier to maintain.

[0053] Preferably, the water sports equipment, and in particular the propulsion device, has at least one sensor arrangement usable for position determination, wherein the control unit of the water sports equipment is designed to generate control signals based on signals from the sensor arrangement for the purpose of geofencing.

[0054] The control signals are used to operate one or more controllable elements of the water sports equipment. These can include, in particular, a motor drive for the propulsion device, movable means for generating a direction of a water jet (e.g., a wing, motor, rudder blade, fin and / or nozzle), and / or retractable elements (a daggerboard, a support and / or hydrofoil device) that influence the buoyancy characteristics of the water sports equipment.

[0055] In this context, geofencing refers to the automatic creation and triggering of control signals when leaving a predetermined area of ​​the navigable waterway or reaching a predetermined and then, in particular, restricted area of ​​the navigable waterway.

[0056] The sensor arrangement includes sensors known for the respective purpose. For example, according to a further development of the invention, position determination according to the invention, encompassing the distance above ground, is carried out in particular by means of sound-based methods and associated transmitting and receiving sensors, the signals of which are evaluated by the control unit.

[0057] The control unit comprises means customary for controlling the water sports equipment and, in particular, the propulsion system, such as a human-machine interface, electrical and / or electronic data processing equipment, and interfaces to any existing functional systems, such as sensors. Preferably, the control unit also has an interface to a communication unit, or this unit is directly integrated into the control unit. The control unit is preferably housed in a casing, but it can also be distributed across various areas of the water sports equipment. A bus system is preferably used for communication between individual components of the water sports equipment.

[0058] In particular, position determination includes determining the geographic position, especially latitude and longitude. Given the availability of position sensors, such as those used to acquire signals from GPS, GLONASS, or BeiDou systems, automated control signals, such as a reduction in the motor power of a propulsion device, can be generated when a predefined area is left.

[0059] Preferably, the sensor arrangement and / or the control unit is designed to determine the distance to an incident location, such that, for example, corresponding control signals are generated when a maximum distance is reached. Determining the distance to an incident location can be done purely locally on the watercraft side, for example, via position determination and definition of the incident location. Alternatively, it can be done via bidirectional communication with communication devices present on both the watercraft side and the incident location, so that the distance can be determined, for example, via the propagation times of the communication signals or their signal strength.

[0060] According to a further embodiment of the invention, an external control device is provided, which is designed to transmit control signals generated based on the position of the water sports equipment to the control unit. Such a computer-aided control device includes the necessary communication means on the part of the water sports equipment and the external control device, e.g., located on the shore. The control device can, for example, also be located on a vessel from which the water sports equipment is launched. Preferably, the no-entry zone can be dynamically generated based on the position of the vessel, e.g., as a circle around the vessel along the water's surface with a diameter of 300 m.

[0061] Advantageously, the control unit is designed to communicate with the control unit of another propulsion device of the same or a different water sports device. This results in a multitude of interaction possibilities between the two water sports devices and their users. For example, an instructor / student mode or a tandem mode for synchronized rides can be implemented. Tracking modes can also be implemented, where, for example, reaching a minimum, especially predefined, distance is considered a success and the speed of the water sports devices is slowed down. The speeds of the two or more water sports devices can also be synchronized or predefined within certain ranges. In particular, the control unit is designed to generate control signals for one or both propulsion devices based on the position, control, and / or travel signals / data transmitted by the other water sports device.

[0062] The possible uses of a water sports device according to the invention are expanded if, according to a further embodiment of the invention, the water sports device has two propulsion devices, wherein a passenger area is provided between the two propulsion devices in a top view. The passenger area is understood to be the area available for people to be present during the operation of the water sports device and in which one or more people can, for example, stand, kneel, lie down and / or sit. Due to the arrangement of the propulsion devices according to the invention...

[0063] Further advantages and details of the invention can be found in the following description of the figures. The figures show a schematic representation of: Fig. 1 shows an object according to the invention in a side view, Fig. 2 shows the object after Fig. 1 in a rear view, Figs. 3a to 3c a propulsion device of an object according to the invention; Figs. 4a to 4c an alternative propulsion device of an object according to the invention; Figs. 5a to 5c a further alternative propulsion device of an object according to the invention; Fig. 6 two objects according to the invention in a further application situation, Figs. 7a to 7c a further object according to the invention in a perspective view, Figs. 8a and 8 a further object according to the invention in a perspective view; Fig. 9 the object after Fig. 1 in an operational situation, Fig. 10a to Fig. 10c shows part of an embodiment according to the invention, Fig. 11 and 12 shows another embodiment according to the invention.

[0064] Individual technical features of the embodiments described below can also lead to further developments according to the invention in combination with the features of the independent claim. Where appropriate, functionally equivalent parts are provided with identical reference numerals.

[0065] The water sports device 2 according to the invention is designed for self-stabilization. This is achieved via a control unit 70 provided for this purpose. This unit generates control signals for actuating means. These actuating means can be pivotably arranged wings 16 of the wing device 6 ( Fig. 7 ) or pivotably arranged sections of the wings 16 ( Fig. 8 ) act.

[0066] Alternatively or additionally, a vector nozzle 92 ( Fig. 1 , Fig. 4 ), a pivotably arranged propeller 64, preferably pivotable guide vanes 94 arranged at an outlet opening 60 of a propulsion device 50 ( Fig. 3 ), and / or nozzles 96, which may be arranged in a fixed or pivotable manner ( Fig. 5 ) are planned.

[0067] By adjusting the wings 16 and / or the vector control devices arranged on the propulsion device 50, the water sports equipment or a system consisting of water sports equipment and its user can be subjected to forces that repeatedly move it towards a stable position.

[0068] The in Fig. 1 The illustrated embodiment of the water sports device 2 according to the invention comprises a float 4, which is connected to a holding device 8 via a wing device 6. The holding device 8 comprises two linkages 10, which are pivotally attached at one end to the float 4 and pivotally attached at the other end to the wing device 8. The front linkages 10 (in the direction of travel F), which are arranged on a common shaft, are moved by an internal drive 12 (shown with dashed lines). The rear linkages 10 (in the direction of travel F) are positively guided by means of the coupling via the propulsion device 50 of the wing device 6. Therefore, only a single, sufficiently dimensioned drive 12 is necessary.

[0069] The propulsion device 50 is in this case designed with a hubless impeller 52 ( Fig. 2 The associated motor has a rotor whose inner surface forms part of the flow channel and is therefore hollow, with the blades 54 attached to the inner surface of the rotor. The rotor is mounted on its outer surface, facing away from the flow channel, outside the flow channel and runs in a stator which is arranged in a drive body housing 56.

[0070] A vector nozzle 92 is arranged at the outlet 60 of the propulsion device 50. A control unit 70 generates control commands for the vector nozzle 92, which can be used to change the thrust vector of the propulsion device 50. This enables self-stabilization of the water sports equipment or of a system comprising the water sports equipment and its user. For this purpose, the control unit 70 can evaluate signals from a sensor arrangement 74.

[0071] The guides 10 are designed to be aerodynamically optimized, with a smaller extent in the direction of travel F than laterally to it ( Fig. 1 and 2 Furthermore, the airflow surfaces are rounded and the guides are shaped in cross-section, particularly in a teardrop or wing-like manner.

[0072] Two laterally projecting housing walls 58 (cf. Fig. 1 ) define two openings designed as inlet openings and located on opposite surfaces, through which the water ultimately expelled and accelerated through the outlet opening 60 first enters the internal flow channel. The propulsion device comprises the propulsion body housing 56, fixed in two receptacles 62, with an internal propulsion energy storage unit, the motor designed as an internal rotor including a hubless impeller, and a control unit 70, which is equipped with a human-machine interface for operating the propulsion device. Corresponding lines lead, for example, through the guides 10 into the float 4 and are transmitted from there, for example, wirelessly to a handheld device 90 of the user 86 operating the water sports device 2 ( Fig. 6 ).

[0073] For example, such a handheld device can be used to release or trigger the transfer of the wing assembly 6 with its wings 16 from the operating position shown to a starting and / or resting position of the wing assembly 6 closer to the float body 4.

[0074] According to the invention, the transfer can be effected automatically, for example, by control signals from a control unit 70 arranged in the float 4 and therefore only shown in dashed lines, based on its evaluation within the framework of geofencing ( Fig. 1 The control unit 70 receives signals from a sensor arrangement 74 via a signal line 72 (shown with dotted lines). Control signals are generated based on these signals when an internally or externally defined area, in which the water sports equipment 2 may be used, is left. A control signal is automatically generated in the control unit 70 only when a predefined boundary 83 of an operating area 82 of the water sports equipment 2 is left behind (see figure). Fig. 9 This can be caused, for example, by the transition of the wing assembly 6 to its rest and / or start position and, for example, by a reduction in the drive power of the propulsion device 50. The sensor arrangement is designed, for example, to receive GPS signals or other localization signals and / or the distance above ground by means of a sound signal. For the latter, the underside of the float 4 has corresponding transmitting and receiving units 76. These are also coupled to the control unit 70 via a corresponding signal line 72.

[0075] The in the Fig. 1 and 2 The foilboard shown can then be controlled by weight shifting and returned to its starting point. Alternatively or additionally, the foilboard can also be... Fig. 9 to determine the distance to an operational location 78. For this purpose, for example, the transmission duration of a time-coded signal between a central control device 80 assigned to the operational location 78 and the water sports equipment 2 is determined. Further control options can also be exercised via such a control device 80 by a user with corresponding access rights, in particular if the water sports equipment leaves an operational area 82 beyond its boundary 83.

[0076] The sensor arrangement 74 can also be supplemented by a communication unit through which the control units 70 of two water sports devices 2 operating in a synchronous mode can communicate with each other, indicated by the signals 84 represented by several curved lines. In such a mode, for example, a person qualified as an instructor 86 can issue driving signals to a learner 88 using the handheld device 90 wirelessly connected to the control unit 70. These signals could, for example, initiate a turn by folding down the movable wings 16 of the wing device 6. Furthermore, the operating area of ​​the water sports devices 2 is limited to a geofenced area 82 by the correspondingly programmable control unit 70 (not shown here) (see Figure 8). Fig. 9 ).

[0077] Fig. 3 Figure 1 shows a propulsion device 50 of a water sports device 2 according to the invention in one embodiment. The propulsion device 50 has an impeller 52. Guide vanes 94 are arranged at the end of the propulsion device 50. The guide vanes 94 form a cross, the arms of which are arranged rotated 90 degrees relative to each other. The guide vanes 94 are pivotable about pivot axes, with two guide vanes arranged on each pivot axis. The guide vanes can be pivoted about the pivot axis; the horizontally arranged guide vanes 94 from left to right and vice versa, and the horizontally arranged guide vanes 94 from top to bottom and vice versa. Fig. 3a The guide vanes 94 are shown in a neutral position. Fig. 3b The vertically arranged guide vanes 94 are pivoted to the right and the horizontally arranged guide vanes 94 downwards and in Fig. 3 The horizontally arranged guide vanes are pivoted upwards. It is also conceivable to design each of the four guide vanes 94 to be individually pivotable. This allows, for example, the generation of a torque about a longitudinal axis of the drive device 50.

[0078] Fig. 4 Figure 1 shows an alternative embodiment of a corresponding propulsion device 50 with an impeller 52, which is equipped with a vector nozzle 92. The thrust jet of the propulsion device 50, the quantity of water expelled to the rear, can be directed via the vector nozzle 92. Fig. 4a The vector nozzle 92 is shown in a neutral position. Fig. 4b The vector nozzle 92 is pivoted to the left and in Fig. 4c The vector nozzle 92 is shown pivoted downwards. By aligning it accordingly, a directed force can be exerted on the propulsion device 50 and thus on the water sports equipment 2.

[0079] Fig. 5 Figure 1 shows another alternative embodiment of the propulsion device 50 with a plurality of nozzles 96. These nozzles 96 can either be designed as vector nozzles 92 and thus be positionally adjustable. Alternatively, the propulsion device can also have a plurality of nozzles 96 that are fixed and oriented in different directions. Control of the water sports device can be achieved by regulating the propulsion jet emitted through specific nozzles 96, for example, by means of valves. The propulsion jet is then emitted, for example, only through certain nozzles 96, or the proportion of the propulsion jet exiting through specific nozzles 96 can be varied accordingly.

[0080] Fig. 5a shows a propulsion device 50 with five nozzles 96 as vector nozzles 92. In Fig. 5b These nozzles 96 are shown in a position swivelled downwards to the left. Fig. 5c The figure shows nozzles 96 pointing in different directions. These can either be vector nozzles 92 that are controlled independently, or nozzles 96 that are not adjustable and where only the proportion of the propulsion jet exiting through each nozzle can be changed.

[0081] Fig. 6 Figure 1 shows two water sports devices in which self-stabilization can be achieved alternatively or additionally by means of the wing device 6 with pivotally arranged wings 16. Signals for adjusting the adjustable wings 16 can thus be transmitted via the control unit 70, and the wings 16 can be adjusted accordingly.

[0082] Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 Figure 2 shows two water sports devices with alternative configurations of the hydrofoil assembly 6 and the hydrofoils 16, respectively. The hydrofoil assembly 6 is arranged on the propulsion unit 50. In the variant according to... Fig. 7 The individual support surfaces are arranged to pivot directly on the propulsion device 7. Fig. 7a shows the wing 16 in a neutral position. Fig. 7b The wings 16 are pivoted downwards and at the same time the wings 16 on the right in the direction of travel of the water sports device 2 are pivoted against the propulsion device. Fig. 7c The figure shows the wings in a transport or resting position. The control unit 70 of the water sports device 2 can control the individual wings 16 in such a way that automatic self-stabilization of the water sports device 2 takes place in the water.

[0083] Fig. 8 Figure 1 shows an alternative embodiment of the airfoil device 6. Here, a front and a rear airfoil are arranged on the propulsion device 50, which at least partially form the airfoils. At the ends of these rigid airfoils, pivotable tips of the airfoils 16 are arranged, which can be pivoted into different positions. This also allows for stabilization of the watercraft 2 by adjusting the airfoils 16. Fig. 8 only the pivoting tips of the wings 16 can be reached.

[0084] Fig. 10 a bis c Figure 1 shows an advantageous embodiment of an impeller 52 in which the blades 54 are rotatable and thus adjustable in their angle of attack. The individual blades 54 are only indirectly connected to one another. For this purpose, the propulsion device 50 has a motor 200 designed as an internal rotor with a stator 202 and a rotor 204. On its outer side facing away from the flow channel, the rotor 204 is supported by two radial bearings 206, which are designed as magnetic bearings in this case, and an axial bearing 208, which is also designed as a magnetic bearing in this case. An impeller ring 210 is arranged on the rotor, which has pivotable blade mounts 211. A blade 54 is arranged on each of the blade mounts 211. The propulsion device 50 has an adjusting ring 212 arranged coaxially with the rotor 204 or the impeller ring 210.The adjusting ring 212 is also hollow and is mounted on its outer surface facing away from the flow channel. The axial distance between the adjusting ring 212 and the impeller ring 210 is adjustable. This is achieved by active magnetic axial positioning in a magnetic bearing 214 of the adjusting ring 212. The adjusting ring 212 engages with cylindrical outer sections of the blade mounts 211 via individual adjusting pins 216. When the axial distance between the adjusting ring 212 and the impeller ring 210 is changed via the magnetic bearing 214, this translational movement is converted into a rotational movement of the blades 54 by the interaction of the adjusting pins 216 and the blade mounts 211, allowing the blades 54 to be pivoted. This allows the pitch angle of the blades 54 to be adjusted.

[0085] According to a further embodiment of the invention, a plurality of capacitive sensors 36 are arranged along a handlebar 10 of the holding device 8 to form a driving condition sensor 32 ( Fig. 11 und 12 These extend uniformly over a large part of the handlebar 10 along its longitudinal extent and, depending on whether they are arranged above or below a water surface 34 indicated by dashed lines, transmit corresponding data to a control unit preferably located in the float 4. This allows the control unit to determine the distance of the float 4 to the water surface 34, whereupon, in the event of undesired conditions, it can, for example, adjust the thrust of the propulsion device 50 integrated into the handlebar 10 or the angular position of a wing 16 in order to achieve a more stable driving condition and stabilize the watercraft, in addition to thrust vector control.

[0086] The exemplary embodiment of the Figuren 11 und 12 The float 4 also features an integrated optical display unit 31, which displays the distance of the float 4 from the water surface. The display unit 31 comprises a plurality of laminated multicolored LED units 33, so that the distance from the water surface 34 can be displayed via the number and / or wavelength of the illuminated LED units 33.

Claims

1. A water sports device (2), in particular a foilboard, with a float (4), preferably in the form of a swimming board, and with a hydrofoil apparatus (6) which is fastened by means of a holding apparatus (8) to the float (4), and with a propulsion apparatus (50) which is provided for the propulsion of the water sports device (2), the hydrofoil apparatus (6) which is arranged on a link (10) of the holding apparatus (8) having at least one, preferably at least two hydrofoils (16), it being possible for the float (4) to be transferred into a position which is spaced apart from the water surface in the operating position and during a forward movement on account of a buoyancy brought about by way of the hydrofoil apparatus (6), whereby the propulsion apparatus (50) is configured for automatic self-stabilization of the water sports device (2) via the thrust vector control, the water sports device (2) has a control unit (70) provided for this purpose, and the propulsion apparatus (50) is configured for automatic thrust vector control, characterized in that the control unit (70) is configured for multiple-axis stabilization of the float (4), in particular during the transition into the operating position and / or in the operating position.

2. The water sports device as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the propulsion apparatus (50) has a vector nozzle (92).

3. The water sports device as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the propulsion apparatus (50) has a pivotable propeller (64).

4. The water sports device as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the propulsion apparatus (50) has at least one pivotable guide vane (94).

5. The water sports device as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the propulsion apparatus has a plurality of nozzles (96) which point in different directions.

6. The water sports device as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the water sports device, in particular the propulsion apparatus (50), has at least one sensor, preferably a plurality of sensors, from a group comprising gyro sensors, speed sensors, position sensors (GPS, Glonass, Beidou, etc.), distance sensors (echo sounders, sonar), infrared sensors and inclinometers.

7. The water sports device as claimed in claim 6, characterized in that the control unit (70) is configured for processing the signals of the at least one sensor and for forming control signals on the basis of said signals.

8. The water sports device as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a plurality of selectable movement profiles are stored in the control unit (70).

9. The water sports device as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (70) is configured for setting different spacings from the water surface in the operating position.

10. The water sports device as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (70) is configured for speed-dependent setting of the hydrofoil apparatus (6) and / or the holding apparatus (10).

11. The water sports device as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (70) is assigned at least one handheld unit (90) which has, in particular, a thumb control means.

12. The water sports device as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the hydrofoil apparatus (6) can be transferred, in particular can be retracted and extended and / or folded, via the holding apparatus (8) out of the rest and / or starting position into an operating position below the float (4).

13. The water sports device as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the propulsion apparatus (50) is configured at least partially as part of the hydrofoil apparatus (6) and comprises, in particular, at least one impeller (52) which is, in particular, hubless.

14. The water sports device as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the propulsion apparatus (50) comprises an electric motor, configured in particular as an internal rotor motor, or an internal combustion engine.

15. The water sports device as claimed in one of the preceding claims with incorporation of claim 12, characterized in that the propulsion apparatus (50) can be operated both in the rest and / or starting position and in the operating position.

16. The water sports device as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized by a motor of the propulsion apparatus (50), which motor is arranged on the float side and is driveconnected to a propulsion element via a propulsion train which can be moved in an angular and / or longitudinal manner.

17. The water sports device as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the water sports device, in particular the propulsion apparatus (50), has a sensor arrangement (74) which can be used for positional determination, and the control unit (70) is configured, for the purpose of geofencing, for generating control signals on the basis of signals of the sensor arrangement (74).

18. The water sports device as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one movement state sensor (32) for determining the spacing of the float (4) and / or the hydrofoil apparatus (6) from the water surface (34), the movement state sensor being laminated in, in particular.