Electric Hydrofoil Watercraft for Quiet Modular Propulsion
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing watercraft devices lack efficient and environmentally friendly propulsion systems that provide a smooth transition between non-foiling and foiling modes, are easy to operate, and offer safe and portable hydrofoil sports experiences.
Innovation Solution
A watercraft device incorporating a hydrofoil and an electric propeller system with modular components, allowing for weight-shift control, wireless throttle control, and adjustable hydrofoil configurations, along with safety features and easy transportability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a gas-powered engine is used for propulsion, then power and speed are achieved, but environmental friendliness and operational quietness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional gas-powered engine with an electric motor system that draws power from a battery pack. This substitution eliminates exhaust emissions and significantly reduces operational noise, transforming the watercraft from a polluting mechanical system to an environmentally friendly electric system while maintaining propulsion capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the energy source parameter from chemical energy (gasoline) to electrical energy (battery). This parameter change fundamentally alters the propulsion system's characteristics, enabling quiet operation and environmental friendliness while providing sufficient power for the watercraft's intended use.
2Device complexity
If the hydrofoil and board are integrated as a single unit, then structural simplicity is achieved, but adaptability and ease of repair deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the watercraft into separable modules: a board component and a hydrofoil component that can be detached from each other. This segmentation allows users to replace or repair individual components independently, enhancing adaptability and ease of maintenance while keeping the overall structure relatively simple through standardized connection interfaces.
3Ease of operation
If the electric motor and battery are integrated into the hydrofoil, then portability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electric motor and battery pack into an integrated propulsion unit that attaches to the board via the hydrofoil structure. This merging consolidates multiple components into a single portable assembly, enhancing ease of transport and storage while managing complexity through unified design and standardized attachment mechanisms.
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 device provides a quiet, efficient, and safe hydrofoil experience with a smooth transition between modes, enhanced operator control, and ease of transportation, making hydrofoil sports accessible to a wider audience.
Implementation Method 1
a hydrofoil coupled to a bottom surface of the board... a center of buoyancy in a non-foiling mode and a center of lift in a foiling mode are aligned
Implementation Method 2
an electric propeller system coupled to the hydrofoil, wherein the electric propeller system powers the watercraft device
Implementation Method 3
the power supply system including a housing, the housing including a first battery
Data Source
AI summary
A hydrofoiling watercraft is disclosed that includes a board having a top surface for supporting a user and a bottom surface. Extending from the top surface of the board is a handlebar. Extending from the bottom surface of the board is a hydrofoil including a strut and a hydrofoil wing. A propulsion system is attached to the hydrofoil.