Watercraft and fleet of watercraft

Abstract

The invention relates to a watercraft, in particular a board, and a fleet of watercraft, wherein a central on-board computer of the watercraft is designed to have an IoT circuit board which is designed to transmit sensor signals of a sensor system to a central platform by means of a communication network.

Description

[0001] Vessel and fleet of vessels

[0002] Description

[0003] The invention relates to a watercraft, in particular a board, with an electric drive and a fleet of such watercraft.

[0004] Such boards, also called jetboards or powerboards, can be used like a surfboard, allowing the user to achieve planing with minimal effort. Alternatively, the boards can be designed so that the user controls propulsion via a propulsion tool, particularly a paddle, oar, or scull, with this muscle-powered propulsion being supported by the board / watercraft's drive, similar to a padelec.

[0005] JP 2003 026085 A discloses a watercraft with a waterjet propulsion system using an internal combustion engine. This propulsion system is housed in a solid support frame, which is inserted into a buoyancy vessel designed like an inflatable boat. Such a watercraft is considerably heavy and can, in principle, only be launched with the aid of a trailer or launching trolley.

[0006] To overcome this disadvantage, known solutions exist in which the actual board is made of several different modules that are relatively easy to assemble, using an electric jet drive instead of an internal combustion engine. One such concept is disclosed, for example, in WO 2021 / 190 941 A1. The jet drive is housed in a rear module, to which different bow modules for different applications can be attached, thus creating a modular hardboard concept. WO 2019 / 122 225 A1 proposes a surfboard in which a jet drive mounted on a carrier is interchangeably inserted into a one-piece hull.

[0007] The publications WO 2019 / 122 321 A1 and EP 3 277 574 B1 disclose jetboards in which the jet propulsion is incorporated into an inflatable hull component. While such jetboards are characterized by minimal weight, the disadvantage is that the inflatable structure, which is designed, for example, as a drop-stitch component, is less torsionally rigid than a hardboard, thus making precise steering by shifting weight more difficult.

[0008] US 2019 168,851 A1 describes a surfboard in which a battery unit and a jet drive are arranged one above the other in a board body.

[0009] Patent application WO 2023 / 077 187 A1 relates to a foilboard with a jet propulsion system featuring an impeller, which is controlled by a controller based on sensor signals so that the propulsion is effective within a specified time window. Also disclosed is a data connection between the controller and a computer, via which a user using the board can be supplied with information.

[0010] Publication WO 2023 / 094 668 A1 discloses a watercraft with an interchangeable drive unit, embodied, for example, as a jet drive, with power supplied by a battery module. The electric drive is equipped with an identification device through which data from the watercraft housing the drive can be read, thus ensuring data compatibility between the drive and the watercraft.

[0011] Such watercraft / boards are used in the manner of a surfboard, with the drive usually being controlled via a remote control held by the user and connected via radio or cable to a control unit of the drive.

[0012] As explained above, propulsion can also be achieved by means of a propulsion tool, in particular a paddle or the like, and can optionally be supported by the drive of the board, in particular the water jet drive.

[0013] Such a concept is described, for example, in US 2011 / 212 691 A1. A remote control is attached to the paddle of an eSUP, which can be used to control the board's propulsion. The remote control can be designed to provide thrust assistance, so that the board is moved once by the paddle and additionally by the thrust assistance of the board's integrated propulsion system. Alternatively or additionally, a change in direction or stabilization of the direction of travel can also be achieved by operating the remote control. Accordingly, the remote control is in data communication with the control unit of the board's propulsion system.

[0014] US 2012 / 0126972 A1 discloses a similar solution in which the remote control is integrated into a glove.

[0015] In an eSUP described in US 2018 0170502A1, the on-board drive is controlled via a type of smartwatch that is attached to the user's wrist.

[0016] The publication DE 10 2021 131 067 A1 relates to an eSUP designed with an adjustable rudder blade (fin) that can be adjusted depending on the signal from a sensor unit. According to the technical teaching of DE 10 2021 131 067 A1, this sensor unit can be designed such that a rotation, in particular a tilting and / or rolling movement of the board about an axis, is detected and then, depending on this movement, the rudder blade is adjusted in such a way that the driving stability of the board is improved. In one embodiment, the sensor system is designed with an acceleration sensor integrated into a blade of a paddle of the eSUP, via which the force exerted during paddling can be detected.

[0017] A similar solution is described in WO 2020 / 048 566 A1, in which an acceleration sensor or a pressure force sensor is installed in a blade of a paddle or oar, which indirectly detects the muscle force exerted on the paddle. Depending on the signal from this sensor, a drive unit integrated into the board is then controlled, so that the drive power depends on the acceleration of the paddle and / or the detected pressure force on the paddle.

[0018] WO 2020 / 043 958 A1 relates to a method for renting vehicles, whereby, after the expiration of the rental period, an extension of the usage period is possible by the renter entering a code. This code is provided by the lessor upon request. The code can be entered via a terminal, an app, or the like.

[0019] EP 3 905 183 A2 describes a system for renting watercraft in which the actual rental process takes place via owner terminals and user terminals connected to a cloud server via the internet. The respective watercraft are equipped with sensors that record their position and propulsion function. The respective signals are connected to the cloud server via a communication module, allowing this information to be retrieved via the owner terminal.

[0020] As explained, in all these systems, the adjustment of the thrust assistance or propulsion of the electric drive unit is essentially done manually by the user, so that incorrect operation cannot be ruled out under unfavorable conditions. In contrast, the invention is based on the object of creating a watercraft, in particular a board, and a fleet of such watercraft, in which safe operation is guaranteed even in the event of improper use by the user, and in which the user also receives optimized information about the driving status.

[0021] This problem is solved with regard to the watercraft by the features of claim 1 and with regard to the fleet of watercraft by the features of the independent claim 15.

[0022] Advantageous further developments of the invention are the subject of the subclaims.

[0023] The watercraft according to the invention is designed in particular as a board, for example a jetboard, eSUP, underwater scooter, eFoil, eWaterbike (electric water bike), or eBodyboard, with an electric drive that can be controlled by a user via an actuating device. This actuating device is connected to an on-board computer (processing unit) of the watercraft, which is designed with an IoT board (also called an IoT box) that is configured to send sensor signals from a sensor system to a central server (central platform) via a communications network, for example a GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) or a network protocol, and to receive control signals for the drive via the communications network. This makes it possible to control the watercraft via the central server independently of user input.The sensor system preferably has at least one position detection sensor, in particular a GPS sensor and / or an IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) for detecting in particular the driving speed, acceleration, position and orientation of the vehicle, so that the driving status and driving range can be reliably detected via this sensor system and thus intervention can be made via the central server if the recorded data exceeds predetermined limit values. Identification of the watercraft is made easier if an identifier is sent to the central platform via the communications network. In environments with poor network reception or in the event of frequent disruptions to the radio network, the components of the board or the components assigned to it that are in communication with one another can also be designed with NFC chips, via which the boards can be activated and, if necessary, during handover, for example.Pairing with a remote control or the like is possible. The applicant reserves the right to file its own independent patent claims on this design.

[0024] To inform the user, a display is provided for showing sensor signals, control signals, messages, weather data, etc., which is connected to the IoT board so that the user is always informed about the current status of the watercraft. The display can be permanently mounted on the board, integrated into it, or provided as an external component. In one variant, the display is designed as augmented reality glasses. The display can also be built into a remote control (handle) or another element held by the user. In principle, it is also possible to provide both a display integrated into the board and an additional external display, such as the augmented reality glasses mentioned above, the display integrated into the remote control, or similar.

[0025] The integration of IoT technology into the vessel significantly improves operational safety, as corrective action is possible via the central server if limits are exceeded. Furthermore, the user experience is significantly improved compared to conventional solutions, as usage data is provided to the user in real time and personalized to their individual needs, allowing interactive access both by the user and via the central server.

[0026] The preferred display is an ePaper display. Such displays are characterized by their very low power consumption and their excellent readability even in direct sunlight. Furthermore, the waterproof design of such displays is less expensive than conventional displays used in laptops and similar devices.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the sensor system implemented by the IoT board is designed with a temperature sensor, via which the watercraft, water and / or ambient temperature can be detected.

[0028] Additionally or alternatively, the sensor system can be implemented with a humidity sensor, hereinafter referred to as a humidity sensor, so that the sensor system can detect whether the board is in the water or whether another component, such as a paddle of a padel electric scooter, is submerged in the water. Such a humidity sensor can also detect humidity, for example, in the areas of the board that house the battery unit or the EMS of the drive unit.

[0029] Advantageously, the sensor system is alternatively or additionally designed with a pressure sensor for detecting the water pressure, so that, for example, the immersion depth of the board can be detected when surfing.

[0030] The user-operated actuator for controlling the electric drive can be designed as a handle held by the user or, for example, attached to the bow of the watercraft via a rope or cable. Pairing of the actuator with the on-board control system, particularly the IoT board, can also be done wirelessly via radio or NFC, with NFC chips being built into the communicating components in the latter case.

[0031] Alternatively, the actuating device can also be implemented on a propulsion tool, in particular a paddle, so that the watercraft can be used either as an eSUP or as a surfboard, using either the handle or the propulsion tool. As explained in a parallel application by the applicant, additional sensors can be provided on the blade or shaft of the propulsion tool to record a parameter representing the blade movement. These sensors are also connected to the on-board computer, so that thrust assistance is provided depending on the signals from these sensors.

[0032] These signals can also be reported to the central server via the IoT board and the communication network.

[0033] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the watercraft is designed as a board with an electric water jet drive, to which at least one transverse thruster, preferably two x-shaped transverse thrusters, are assigned to improve maneuverability, which can be controlled both via the actuating device and via the communication network in order to hold the board in a predetermined position or to move it to a desired position.

[0034] The board can be designed as an inflatable drop stitch structure, as a hardboard or as a hybrid board.

[0035] The operational reliability of the vessel is further optimized when a BMS (Battery Management System) of a replaceable battery unit is connected to the IoT board, allowing the state of charge to be easily monitored and, if necessary, centralized intervention via the server to prevent the battery unit from becoming completely drained during use. The BMS can also be designed to monitor additional parameters. Suitable sensors or analysis units can record the battery temperature, the humidity in the battery module, the charging cycles, the discharge behavior, and other parameters relevant to the power supply.

[0036] All of this data is preferably transmitted to the IoT board via a CAN protocol and stored in the cloud. The engine management system (EMS) can also communicate with the IoT board and the battery unit using such protocols.

[0037] In a variant of the invention, the watercraft is designed with a life jacket for the user, which is designed, for example, with trackers that can be detected by the communication network, GPS or radio, in particular mobile radio.

[0038] Operational safety is further improved if limit values ​​or ranges for the geographical position (geo-fencing), the driving status, such as speed, acceleration, angular velocity, battery charge level, etc., are stored in the memory of the on-board computer and / or the central server. If such a limit is exceeded, the drive unit is controlled in such a way that the limit range / limit value is again complied with or the watercraft remains within the access range of a rental station or similar. With geo-fencing, the fleet base or central office can, for example, enter the navigable area on a map, which is displayed, for example, on the display and / or augmented reality glasses or similar.If the vessel then approaches a limit of its operating range, the vessel's speed can be initially reduced via the communication network with the central platform and the control center. This external intervention alerts the user that they are approaching a limit of their operating range and must turn away. If the user does not react, the vessel can be stopped or turned around. This is important for safety reasons (rocks, shallows, currents) and regulatory reasons (swimmer zone, vessel zone) to improve the acceptance of the system according to the invention among users and also among the authorities.

[0039] It is preferred if the sensor technology is integrated into the watercraft. In principle, however, it is also possible to equip suitable conventional watercraft (especially jetboards, powerboards) with an external unit in which the sensor technology and also the IoT board or a corresponding hardware component are integrated. This makes it possible, for example, to integrate existing conventional watercraft into the inventive concept at a fleet base.

[0040] The fleet of watercraft according to the invention has a plurality of boards of the type described above, which are connected to the server / central platform via the shared communications network in the manner of an IoT system, enabling centralized fleet management and monitoring, as well as centrally controlling watercraft servicing, such as remote maintenance or software updates (predictive maintenance). Remote maintenance is preferably performed via over-the-air updates (OTA updates) from the central office. This remote maintenance can also include firmware updates of the BMS and / or the EMS for updating the batteries or the drive unit, respectively, whereby these firmware updates are preferably also performed via OTA.

[0041] With this type of fleet monitoring and management, it is possible, for example, to adjust the maximum speed of each board individually, for all boards within a fleet base, or depending on the respective location (country) via the central platform, without requiring individual intervention by the fleet base. This allows for very short-term responses to changes in legal regulations limiting maximum speed.

[0042] Furthermore, this intervention makes it possible to optimise the driving characteristics or the efficiency of the propulsion of the watercraft, since, for example, the power curve of the propulsion can be adapted centrally via the communication network to the respective use and any possible wear and tear of the propulsion or a reduction in battery capacity.

[0043] In one embodiment of the invention, the communication network and the central platform are designed such that the board's electronics must be centrally activated to enable use by a user. Activation can be part of an end-to-end handover process in which the user books a board via a customer interface, for example, a B2C app, and a ticket is generated, which is then used in a B2B interface, for example, a B2B app, for the user's check-in and the board's handover.

[0044] The customer interface and / or the B2B interface can also be implemented through a desktop app or a website.

[0045] Conversely, to prevent unauthorized use, the board's electronics can be centrally locked, preventing the platform from being started. This prevents misuse by the fleet base or in the event of the board being stolen.

[0046] Advantageous developments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to schematic drawings. They show:

[0047] Figure 1 a is a highly schematic view of a board according to the invention, implemented with IoT technology and designed as an eSUP, or of a fleet of different boards;

[0048] Figure 1 b is a schematic diagram of a board intended for surfing of the fleet according to Figure 1;

[0049] Figure 2 shows an individual representation of an IoT board and a display of a board according to Figure 1;

[0050] Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating the function of the IoT board according to Figure 2; Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the IoT technology implemented in a board according to the invention;

[0051] Figure 5 shows a handle for alternatively controlling the electric drive of a board according to the invention according to Figure 1 b and

[0052] Figure 6 shows a variant in which a display is designed as augmented reality glasses.

[0053] Figure 1a shows a schematic diagram of a fleet 1 of watercraft 2, 2a, 2b, 2c, which, in the manner of an IoT system 4, are connected to a central platform 8 via a communications network 6. This central platform 8 can be hosted either locally, as a server network, or in a cloud (cloud computing platform). This central platform 8 provides a scalable and flexible infrastructure for storing and processing the data explained in more detail below. The network protocols can be wired or wireless, such as Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ZigBee, or LoRaWAN, with data transmission being able to occur continuously or periodically depending on demand and bandwidth.

[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, the central platform 8 is also in data communication via the communications network 6 with at least one fleet base 10, which issues, in particular leases, boards 2 of the fleet 1 to users 12. In the illustrated embodiment, only one fleet base 10 is shown—in principle, of course, several fleet bases 10 can also be in data communication with each other via the central platform 8 and the communications network 6.

[0055] In the illustrated embodiment, a central administration of the fleet 1 is provided via a control center 14, which is also part of the IoT system 4 via the communication network 6 and the central platform 8.

[0056] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1a, the board 2 is designed as an eSUP board 2, in which the user 12 uses a propulsion tool, for example, a paddle 16, to propel themselves through the water 7. The basic structure of such a board 2 is described in another subsequently published application by the applicant, so that only the board elements essential for understanding the invention are explained here.

[0057] Accordingly, the embodiment of a board 2 shown in Figure 1 is designed with a board body 18 constructed in the manner of a hardboard, which is at least partially surrounded by a shock absorber 20 made of an inflatable drop-stitch material. The shock absorber 20 is connected to the board body 18 made of sandwich material in a force-fitting and / or form-fitting manner and, to improve operational reliability, can be designed with two air chambers 22, 24 (indicated by dashed lines) that can be inflated independently of one another, thus ensuring buoyancy even if one air chamber 22 or 24 leaks.

[0058] An electric drive unit 26 is arranged in the board body 18, which can be designed as a water jet drive with a radial pump and an output-side compressor screw, via which a water jet 28 is ejected through an output Z pressure channel 30, so that the board 2 is moved in the direction of its longitudinal axis (direction of travel) with the aid of this water jet drive.

[0059] The drive unit 28 is designed with an EMS (Engine Management System) which is in data communication connection with the IoT system 4 and also with a BMS of a battery unit 36 ​​described below, for example via CAN protocols, so that both components can be controlled centrally and software and firmware updates can also be carried out.

[0060] In order to corner the board 2 solely with the aid of the electric drive unit 26, particularly during slow travel, for example, at 2 km / h, two transverse thrusters 32, 34 (indicated by dashed lines) are preferably provided. These thrusters are configured in an approximately X-shaped manner on the underside (underwater hull) of the board 2 on a transverse thruster console. These two transverse thrusters 32, 34 are arranged, for example, so that they push forward and backward in directions of 45°, 225°, and 315°, 135°. Both transverse thrusters 32, 34 can be configured, for example, with an impeller. Such a system is capable of rotating the board 2 approximately on its central axis, moving it forward and backward, or even pushing it sideways parallel to the direction of travel.The thrust required by the drive unit 26 is low when traveling slowly, so that the maneuvers can be performed with little energy expenditure without the need for assistance from the user 12.

[0061] The power supply to the electric drive unit 26 is provided by the battery / accumulator unit 36, also integrated into the board body 18 and indicated by dashed lines. This battery unit is positioned beneath a cover so that it can be replaced with little effort. In the illustrated embodiment, this battery unit 36 ​​is positioned approximately in the same area as the user 12, ensuring balanced weight distribution. As explained above, the battery unit 36 ​​has a BMS that is in data and communication connection with the EMS of the drive unit 26 and / or the IoT system 4. This allows parameters such as charge level, discharge behavior, number of charging cycles, humidity, etc. to be centrally recorded and, if necessary, measures to prevent damage or malfunctions to be initiated centrally.

[0062] In the field of vision of the user 12, a display 38 is formed in the board body 18, on which essential data, such as the local position, the driving speed, the remaining battery capacity, etc. can be read.

[0063] The display 38 is controlled via an IoT board 40 of an on-board computer 42, on which the IoT devices / sensors, etc., explained in more detail below, are implemented. This IoT board 40 is in data communication with the central platform 8 via the communications network 6, and thus also with the control center 14 and the fleet base 10. The drive unit 26 and the battery unit 36 ​​are controlled in a conventional manner via the on-board computer 42, which is also integrated into the IoT network. Such on-board computers 42 are also used in boards 2 / fleets 1 that are not designed as an IoT system 4. The paddle 16 is designed in a conventional manner with a shaft 44, to the board-side end section of which a blade 46 is attached, which—as is usual with SUP paddles—is angled relative to the shaft 44 toward the bow of the board 2. The shaft 44 can be designed to be adjustable in length to adapt to the body size of the user 12.At the end portion of the shaft 44 remote from the blade 46, a handle knob 50 is provided, which is grasped by a hand 52 of the user 12. In the area of ​​this handle knob 50, an adjusting device 54 is arranged on the shaft 44, via which a direction of travel and thrust assistance can be adjusted by means of the electric drive unit 26. This adjusting device 54 is positioned such that it can be operated by the hand 52, in particular by the thumb 56 of the user 12, without releasing the handle knob 50. As explained in the applicant's parallel application, the blade 46 accommodates a sensor system (not shown in Figure 1), which can be implemented, for example, with a bending sensor, a temperature sensor, and / or a humidity sensor.

[0064] The paddle 16 is further provided with a communication module 58 which is in data connection / radio connection 60 with the on-board computer 42 of the electric drive unit 26, so that the control signals generated by the actuating device 54 and the sensor system of the blade 46 are detected via the on-board computer 42, so that the electric drive unit 26 is controlled in dependence on these control signals.

[0065] As explained in the parallel application, the bending sensor is integrated into the blade 46 or the shaft 44 in such a way that, after the blade 46 is immersed in the water, the changes in shape caused by paddling on the push-off surface and inside the blade 46 are registered and reported to the on-board computer 42. Depending on the intensity and direction of the paddling movement, this converts the degree of deformation into a forward or reverse thrust of the drive unit 26. This makes it possible to receive only slight thrust assistance during light paddling, while during more intensive paddling, the on-board computer 42 specifies greater thrust assistance from the drive unit 26. Immersion of the blade 46 into the water 7 can be reliably detected via the humidity sensor and the temperature sensor, with both sensors operating redundantly.Only when both sensors reach a certain signal value at the same time is this considered confirmation that the paddle is in the water - only in this case is the evaluation of the signals from the bending sensor and thus the thrust support activated.

[0066] In principle, the signals detected by the sensors of the paddle 16 can also be reported directly to the central platform 8 via the communication network 6, so that the drive unit 26 or the battery unit 36 ​​is then controlled via the IoT system 4. In principle, however, this control can also be implemented as a support or backup to the usual control via the on-board computer 42.

[0067] As explained, the board 2 shown in Figure 1a is designed with the paddle 16 for use as an eSUP. If the board 2 according to Figure 1b is to be used like a surfboard, an eFoil, or an underwater scooter, no paddle 16 is required. The drive unit 26 and / or the battery unit 36 ​​are then controlled in a manner known per se (see the prior art described above) via handheld devices worn by the user 12, for example a smartwatch or the like. Alternatively, a handle 62, explained in more detail below, can be used. This handle can be designed with a communication module 58' and an actuating device 54' to control the drive unit 26 by appropriate actuation and thus select the propulsion and direction of travel.It is particularly preferred if the handle 62 is attached to the bow 48 of the board 2 via a rope 64 or a cable, so that the user 12 can support himself on the board 2 via the handle 62 while surfing and thus the driving stability is improved compared to a solution in which the control of the drive unit 26 is carried out via a smartwatch or the like.

[0068] The conversion from an eSUP to a surfboard is then carried out simply by exchanging the paddle 16 for the handle 62, whereby a corresponding input is made on the on-board computer 42 or this conversion is automatically recorded via the IoT system 4.

[0069] In principle, it is also possible to carry such a paddle 16 for emergency use, so that the user 12 can return to the fleet base 10 under his own power in the event of a drive failure.

[0070] The handle 62 and the paddle 16 are each provided with a power supply, for example a small battery or the like, which can be charged via the drive unit 26 or the battery unit 36.

[0071] Figure 2 shows a detailed view of the display 38 with the IoT board 40, which in this embodiment is directly connected to the display 38. In a preferred embodiment, this display 38 is designed as an ePaper display, which operates very energy-efficiently and only consumes power when the image shown on the display 38 changes. Good readability is guaranteed even in bright sunlight, since these ePaper displays essentially do not emit light to display images but rather reflect the light - similar to real paper. In the illustrated embodiment, the display 38 is designed to display, for example, the charge level of the battery unit 36, the remaining travel time, the date, the time, the GPS position, weather data, or other sensor signals, so that the user 12 receives a real-time overview of the current driving situation.In principle, it is also possible to display a conversation with other users or the fleet base 10 via the display 38. As explained below, the position of other users and / or a virtual regatta course can also be displayed, which the user can then follow.

[0072] In the illustrated embodiment, the display 38 is mounted directly on the IoT board 40 - in principle, however, a structural separation can also be provided, whereby the two elements are contacted with each other via suitable signal and power supply lines. Figure 3 shows the basic structure of the IoT board 40 of the on-board computer 42, which - as shown in Figure 2 - communicates with the display 38. In the illustrated embodiment, the IoT board 40 is further designed with a sensor system 66, which in the specific embodiment has a GPS sensor 68, an IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) 70, a temperature sensor 72, a humidity sensor (not shown), and a pressure sensor 74, the signals of which are in data connection with the central platform 8 via the communication network 6. As stated at the beginning, the communication network 6, i.e.The actual connection to the central platform 8 (server) is established via a mobile communications standard, such as GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication). Alternatively, the data connection can also be established via various network protocols, either wired or wireless (see above).

[0073] Such a communication network 6 (in particular GSM) enables real-time transmission of the acquired data to the central platform 8, which receives this data from the sensor system 66 (IoT devices) and stores it in a database or the like. Various operations can then be performed via the central platform 8 to analyze, filter, aggregate, transform, or clean this stored data. This data processing can be carried out in real time or with a delay, with the central platform 8 then presenting the processed data in a suitable form to make it usable for the user 12 or the sensor system 66. Depending on the result of this evaluation, the central platform 8 or the user 12 can then react to the preferably visualized data by triggering or adapting actions centrally or by the user 12 that affect the board 2 or other systems.This allows for remote diagnosis of the respective Boards 2 and also makes installing software updates, etc., extremely easy, thus ensuring optimized performance of the Boards 2.

[0074] The GPS sensor 68 enables the movement of the board 2 and its geographical position to be tracked in real time. This allows users 12 to map their routes and, for example, record speed and acceleration. In an emergency, a simple localization of the board 2 is also possible if the user 12 is separated from the board 2. As explained above, the IoT system 4 also enables the definition of virtual boundary areas (geo-fencing), which, upon crossing, alert the user 12 that they have strayed too far from a predetermined area.

[0075] The IMU 70 can record the board's speed, orientation, and gravitational forces acting on the board 2 with high accuracy. This can be achieved, for example, using a combination of acceleration sensors, gyroscopes, and magnetometers. Performance metrics for the user 12 can also be derived from this data, allowing the appropriate evaluation of this data to improve or train the user's maneuvering skills and balance. All of these measures contribute to increased safety when using the board 2, with unusual movements that could lead to a collision or fall being detected in a timely manner using the IMU 70.

[0076] The temperature sensor 72, controlled via the IoT board 40, is positioned so that it can measure both the ambient temperature and the temperature of the board 2 itself. Accordingly, useful information about the water condition can be read from the signals of the sensor 72. Furthermore, overheating of the electronic board components can be reliably detected and thus prevented using the temperature sensor 72. The aforementioned humidity sensor can, for example, detect whether the board 2 is in contact with water, so that cracks, for example, can be detected. In principle, the humidity sensor can also be used to measure the humidity in the area of ​​the battery unit 36 ​​or the drive unit 26 and thus be part of the BMS or EMS.

[0077] The pressure sensor 74 is preferably designed to detect the water pressure so that the immersion depth of the board 2 can be detected, particularly when surfing or performing moves. From this data, the wave size and power can then be detected, allowing the users 12 (surfers) to better anticipate their moves. The basic structure of the IoT system 4 implemented in the previously described board 2 or in the fleet 1 is explained again with reference to Figure 4. As explained above, in the described embodiments, each board 2 has a temperature sensor 72, a pressure sensor 74, and an IMU 70, each of which is designed in the manner of an IoT device.The parameters detected by this sensor system 66, for example, the temperature, the pressure, and the movement parameters, can be displayed directly on the display 38 or transmitted via the communication network 6, for example, a GSM (represented in Figure 4 by a cell phone tower 76), to the central platform 8, for example, a server. This central platform 8 receives—as explained above—the data from the sensor system 66 and the other IoT devices and stores it in a database or data lake. As explained, this data can then be processed in real time by the central platform 8 so that, depending on this data, corresponding information is shown on the display 38 or an intervention in the control of the drive unit 26 takes place, whereby this correspondingly corrects or overlays the control data specified by the user 12 on the actuating device 54, 54'.

[0078] The position of the board 2 is detected via the GPS sensor 68 and the GPS system or a corresponding satellite navigation system.

[0079] Figure 5 shows an embodiment of a handle 62 that can be used on a surfboard 2. In the illustrated embodiment, this handle 62 has a handle base 78 on which buttons 80, 82 are designed as actuating devices 54', via which the drive power of the drive unit 26 and the direction of travel (via the transverse thrusters 32, 34) can be preselected or controlled. Of course, other control elements can also be provided instead of these buttons 80, 82. The hand 52 of the user 12 grasps the handle base 78 so that the buttons 80, 82 can be actuated with the thumb 56 and one of the fingers. The handle base 78 merges laterally into two side legs 84, 86, the clear width of which corresponds to a hand's width.Approximately parallel to the handle base 78, a cross leg 88 is arranged on the two side legs 84, 86, on which a fastening flange 90 is provided for securing the handle 62 to a cable 64 (Figure 1) or the like. A power supply in the form of a rechargeable battery or the like is also integrated into this handle 62. In the illustrated embodiment of the handle 62, an emergency stop switch 92 is provided on the side leg 84, via which the drive can be switched off in the event of a fall or the like. The transmission of the specifications set using the buttons 80, 82, 92 takes place via the communication module indicated by the reference numeral 58, which transmits the data both to the on-board computer 42 and to the communication network 6, so that these specifications of the user 12 are taken into account when controlling the drive unit 26.

[0080] Figure 6 shows one possible way in which the information displayed on the display 38 (e.g., remaining battery capacity, quality of the radio / communication network, remaining or expired rental time, usage mode (surfing, eSUP), driving speed, or weather data such as temperature, cloud cover, and wind direction) can be presented in a different way. In principle, this can be done via a smartwatch; it is preferred if this data is displayed using a pair of, preferably binocular, augmented reality (AR) glasses 94, which can supplement or even replace the display on the display 38, so that the display integrated into the board 2 could be dispensed with.

[0081] The user 12 then receives a pair of AR (sunglasses) 94 from the fleet base 10 upon receipt of the board 2, which they can use to read all relevant information about the trip, projected directly into the user's 12 field of vision. To enable this, the AR glasses 94 are connected to the communications network 6 and the onboard computer or IoT board 40, via which all relevant data can be provided for display using the AR glasses 94. In principle, it is also intended to use the AR glasses 94 to display virtual regatta courses, which the user 12 can then navigate. In this way, it is possible to conduct virtual regattas with multiple users 12 located at different locations.It is also possible to have the same user 12 or different users 12 drive a virtual course at a predetermined location multiple times to determine a best time, so that a ranking of lap times can then be created within a period of time, for example, 24 hours. This motivates users 12 to make intensive use of the rented boards 2 and then share their results and experiences online. Users 12 can also be motivated by the fleet base 10 offering virtual tasks, such as driving through an obstacle course or collecting points for meeting requirements, similar to a video game.

[0082] The rental station / fleet base 10 can also send messages / notifications to the user 12 during the rental period. These can, for example, be displayed on the display 38 or the AR glasses 94 or output as a voice message via a loudspeaker integrated into the board 2 or the AR glasses 94.

[0083] Disclosed are a watercraft, in particular a board, and a fleet of watercraft, wherein a central on-board computer of the watercraft is designed with an IoT board that is configured to send sensor signals from a sensor system to a central platform by means of a communication network.

[0084] List of reference symbols:

[0085] 1 fleet

[0086] 2 Board

[0087] 4 IoT system

[0088] 6 Communication network

[0089] 7 Water

[0090] 8 central platform

[0091] 10 Fleet Base

[0092] 12 users

[0093] 14 Headquarters

[0094] 16 paddles

[0095] 18 board body

[0096] 20 shock protection

[0097] 22 air chamber

[0098] 24 air chambers

[0099] 26 Drive unit

[0100] 28 water jet

[0101] 30 output channels

[0102] 32 transverse thrusters

[0103] 34 transverse thrusters

[0104] 36 Battery unit

[0105] 38 Display

[0106] 40 IoT boards / IoT boxes

[0107] 42 on-board computers

[0108] 44 shaft

[0109] 46 sheets

[0110] 48 Bug

[0111] 50 handle knobs

[0112] 52 hands

[0113] 54 Adjusting device

[0114] 56 thumbs

[0115] 58 Communication module

[0116] 60 radio connection

[0117] 62 Handle rope

[0118] Sensor technology

[0119] GPS sensor

[0120] IMU

[0121] Temperature sensor

[0122] pressure sensor

[0123] cell phone tower

[0124] Handle base

[0125] button

[0126] button

[0127] side legs

[0128] side legs

[0129] Cross leg

[0130] Mounting flange

[0131] Emergency stop switch

[0132] Augmented reality glasses (AR glasses)

Claims

AMENDED CLAIMS received by the International Bureau on 21 July 2025 (21.07.2025) 1. Watercraft, in particular a board (2), the preferably electric drive of which can be controlled by a user (12) by means of an actuating device (54) which is in data connection with an on-board computer (42) of the watercraft, which is designed with an IoT board (40) or to which an IoT board (40) is assigned, which is designed to send sensor signals from a sensor system (66) or other data to a central platform (8) by means of a communication network (6), for example a GSM or a network protocol, and to receive control signals for the drive and other data / signals via the communication network (6), for example for enabling / disabling the drive control, a software or firmware update, or data for remote maintenance (over-the-air updates), so that the watercraft can be controlled via the central platform independently of the user's input, wherein the sensor system (66) comprises at least one position detection sensor,in particular a GPS sensor and / or a sensor, in particular an IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) (70) for detecting, for example, the speed, acceleration, position and orientation of the watercraft, and wherein a display (38) for displaying sensor signals, control signals, messages, weather data or the like is provided in the field of vision of the user (12), which is in data connection with the IoT board (40).

2. Watercraft according to claim 1, wherein the sensor system (66) has a temperature sensor (72) for detecting the watercraft, water or ambient temperature and / or a humidity sensor.

3. Watercraft according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor system (66) has a pressure sensor (74) for detecting the water pressure.

4. Watercraft according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the adjusting device (54) is formed on a handle (62) held or carried by the user (12). AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19) 5. Watercraft according to one of the preceding claims, with a propulsion tool, in particular a paddle (16), which is designed with a shaft (44) and at least one blade (46), wherein the actuating device (54) is arranged on the shaft (44), wherein preferably on the blade (46) or on the shaft (44) further sensors are provided for detecting a characteristic variable representing the blade movement, which sensors are in data connection with the on-board computer (42) and optionally also with the IoT board (40).

6. Watercraft according to one of the preceding claims, wherein it is designed as a board (2) with an electric water jet drive, to which preferably two X-shaped transverse thrusters (32, 34) are assigned, which can be controlled both via the actuating device (54) and via the communication network (6) in order to hold the board (2) in a predetermined position or to bring it into a predetermined position.

7. Watercraft according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the board (2) is designed as an inflatable drop stitch structure, as a hardboard or as a hybrid board.

8. Watercraft according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a battery management system (BMS) of a replaceable battery unit (36) and / or an engine control (EMS (Engine Management System)), preferably via a CAN protocol, is / are in data communication with each other and / or with the IoT board (40).

9. Watercraft according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the communication network (6) and the central platform (8) are designed to enable the watercraft for use or to lock it after use and / or to carry out remote maintenance of the watercraft, in particular of the drive or the sensor system (66) or a firmware update. AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19) 10. Watercraft according to one of the preceding claims, with a life jacket which is designed with trackers which can be detected by the communication network (6), GPS or radio, in particular mobile radio.

11. Watercraft according to one of the preceding claims, wherein limit values ​​or limit ranges for the geographical position, the driving state, such as the speed, the acceleration, the angular velocity and / or the battery charge or discharge state, are stored in a memory of the on-board computer (42) or the central platform (8), and if a limit value / limit range is not complied with, the drive unit (26) is controlled via the communication network (6) in such a way that the limit value / limit range is complied with and / or the user (12) is made aware of the exceedance.

12. Watercraft according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor system (66) is integrated into the watercraft or is attached as an optional unit to a watercraft or a component of the watercraft.

13. Watercraft according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the display (38) is integrated into the watercraft and / or is designed as an external display, preferably as augmented reality glasses (AR glasses) (94), or integrated into a handle (62) or a paddle (16).

14. Watercraft according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the IoT board (40) and components of the watercraft that are in communication connection therewith are designed with NFC chips that are in data connection via a protocol optimized for the NFC technology.

15. Fleet of watercraft, in particular boards (2), according to one of the preceding claims, wherein all watercraft are in data connection with the central platform (8) via the common communication network (6). AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19)

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