Convex Wake Control Plates for Rapid Boat Wake Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing boat wake control systems are limited in their ability to quickly adjust wake levels, making it difficult for wake boarders and water skiers to perform tricks that require varying wake levels, and can be dangerous if not used correctly, especially with inboard motor boats.
Innovation Solution
A boat wake control system featuring convexly curved plates mounted on the transom with adjustable pivoting mechanisms and triangular fins, allowing for precise control of wake height by pivoting the plates relative to their mounts, which can be easily accessed and adjusted by the boat operator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If ballast devices are used to change boat trim, then wake level can be adjusted, but the adjustment speed is slow and cannot accommodate quick succession of tricks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing static ballast systems with dynamic hydrofoils that can be quickly deployed and repositioned. The hydrofoils are mounted on adjustable arms that can be rapidly moved between retracted and extended positions, enabling fast wake level changes. The system transitions from slow ballast pumping to quick mechanical deployment of foil structures that actively shape the wake through their hydrodynamic interaction with water.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes hydraulics principle through the use of hydraulic cylinders to actuate the hydrofoil arms. These hydraulic actuators provide rapid, powerful, and controllable movement of the hydrofoils, enabling quick adjustment of wake levels. The hydraulic system allows for fast response times compared to ballast systems, as hydraulic fluid can be quickly pressurized and directed to move the foils into position.
2Stability of the object's composition
If trim tabs are used to position the boat, then stability can be improved, but the wake control capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the wake control function into multiple independent hydrofoil units rather than using a single integrated trim tab system. Each hydrofoil can be independently controlled and positioned, allowing for nuanced adjustment of wake characteristics. This segmented approach provides both stability through balanced configuration and versatility through independent control of each foil element.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the static trim tab system into a dynamic hydrofoil system where the control surfaces can be rapidly repositioned. The hydrofoils mounted on adjustable arms can change their position and angle dynamically, enabling the system to adapt wake characteristics in real-time while maintaining boat stability through proper configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If propeller orientation is changed to adjust wake, then wake level can be modified, but the adjustment options are limited and not applicable to inboard motors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces hydrofoils as intermediary elements between the propulsion system and the water. These foils act as mediators that shape the wake through their hydrodynamic interaction with water, rather than relying on direct propeller orientation changes. This intermediary approach provides multiple adjustment options independent of propulsion system type, as the foils can be controlled separately from the engine and propeller.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves universality by designing a hydrofoil system that can be applied to various boat types including inboard motors, where propeller orientation adjustment is not feasible. The hydrofoil mechanism provides a universal wake control solution that works across different propulsion systems, replacing the need for propeller-based adjustment with a more versatile foil-based system.
4Adaptability or versatility
If ballast is added to the boat, then wake level can be increased, but the boat may sit too low in the water causing safety issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses hydraulics to provide precise, controlled adjustment of wake level through hydrofoil deployment rather than adding ballast weight. The hydraulic system allows for incremental positioning of the foils, enabling fine-tuned wake control without the risk of over-ballasting. This active control mechanism replaces passive weight addition with controllable hydrodynamic force generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control parameter from ballast weight (mass) to hydrofoil position and angle. Instead of adding mass to increase wake level, the system adjusts the position and orientation of the hydrofoils to modify wake characteristics. This parameter change allows for wake level adjustment without affecting the boat's displacement and safety margins.
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
Enables quick and safe adjustments to wake levels, accommodating different tricks and enhancing the maneuverability and safety of boats for water sports, compatible with various hull designs and propulsion systems.
Implementation Method 1
A boat wake control system featuring convexly curved plates mounted on the transom with adjustable pivoting mechanisms
Implementation Method 2
convexly curved plates mounted on the transom with adjustable pivoting mechanisms and triangular fins
Data Source
AI summary
A boat with a controllable wake, including a boat hull with a propulsion system. A wake controlling device includes first and second plates with a bottom surface which is convexly curved between their forward and rear ends, and first and second mounts secured to the port and starboard sides, respectively, of the boat transom and securing the forward ends of the plates for pivoting about axes which are behind the boat transom and generally lie parallel to the plane of the aft boat bottom adjacent the first and second mounts. Plate controls extend between the transom and the plates to adjustably pivot the plates relative to the mounts. A plurality of generally triangular fins extend from the plates at substantially right angles to the plate bottom surfaces and extend at substantially right angles from the axes. Side plates are on the lateral edges of the first and second plates.