Asymmetric Wake Control via Segmented Trim Tabs

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wakeboat technologies face limitations in generating desirable asymmetric wakes due to the limited dynamic range of trim tabs and the complexities and safety hazards associated with delayed convergence systems, which complicate hull design and pose safety risks.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising pivotably supported trim tabs with main and yaw subtabs, allowing for separate adjustability to control lift and yaw, thereby creating an asymmetric wake without adding complexity or safety hazards, by rotating the hull around its roll and yaw axes to relocate the wake convergence point.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional trim tabs are used to create asymmetric wakes, then wake asymmetry is achieved, but the dynamic range is limited and cannot produce desirable surf wakes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewake formation capabilityVSAvoidtrim tab system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The trim tab system is divided into multiple independently controllable trim tabs (port and starboard tabs) that can be adjusted separately. This segmentation allows each tab to contribute differently to wake formation, enabling asymmetric wake patterns with enhanced dynamic range while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular design

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The trim tabs are made dynamically adjustable during operation, allowing real-time modification of wake characteristics. The system transitions from static trim tab configurations to dynamic, independently controllable surfaces that can adapt wake formation to different surfing conditions and preferences

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If delayed convergence systems are used to generate asymmetric wakes, then wake asymmetry is improved, but safety hazards and design complexities increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewake asymmetryVSAvoidsafety hazards

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts and eliminates the dangerous components of delayed convergence systems while retaining the beneficial wake asymmetry effect. By using traditional trim tab mechanisms positioned away from the wake convergence zone, the system achieves asymmetric wake formation without the safety hazards associated with protruding structures in the water path

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The trim tabs serve as intermediary devices that indirectly influence wake convergence rather than directly interfering with the convergence zone. By positioning the tabs to affect water flow upstream of the convergence point, the system achieves wake manipulation without placing hazardous structures in the high-velocity convergence area

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If delayed convergence systems are implemented, then asymmetric wake formation is enhanced, but hull design complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewake formation controlVSAvoidhull design simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The trim tab system performs multiple functions: it controls hull attitude, manages wake symmetry, and influences convergence patterns. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate delayed convergence structures, simplifying hull design while maintaining enhanced wake formation capabilities through a single integrated system

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The system effectively generates asymmetric surf wakes with enhanced control and safety, allowing for adjustable wake formation without compromising hull design or safety, offering a flexible and safe solution for wakeboats.

Implementation Method 1

trim tabs with main and yaw subtabs, allowing for separate adjustability to control lift and yaw

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHydrodynamic lift:

Implementation Method 2

rotating the hull around its roll and yaw axes to relocate the wake convergence point

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFluid flow deflection:

Data Source

PatentUS10479461B1Surf wake forming systems and methods with primary and secondary subtabs

Publication Date: 2019.11.19 SKIERS CHOICE INC

AI summary

A wakeboat has a hull, the hull forming a wake when moving forward in the water, with a left quiet region and a right quiet region in the wake. The hull may exhibit rotation around its yaw axis which affects the quiet regions in the wake. Yaw rotation may be measured via one or more sensors. Yaw measurement may be used to control the hull and quiet regions. A trim tab is supported by the hull at the stern of the hull. The trim tab comprises a primary subtab and a secondary subtab. One or more actuators may be optionally included to reposition the trim tab more into, or more out of, the water to create a surf left and/or surf right configuration. Other systems and methods are also provided.