Hydrofoil Board Hand Controller Presets for Stable Foiling Transition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operating a hydrofoil board can be challenging due to the complexity of controlling the speed and power required for hydrofoiling, making it difficult for users to ride and control effectively.
Innovation Solution
A method and system using a hand controller with user-selectable operating pre-sets that allow the board to be accelerated to speeds or power levels suitable for hydrofoiling, with features like GPS speed measurement and adjustable acceleration curves, enabling users to transition smoothly from non-hydrofoiling to hydrofoiling modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the board is accelerated to high speed sufficient for hydrofoiling, then the board can hydrofoil and rise above water surface, but the operation becomes challenging and difficult to control
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides multiple pre-set operating modes (first mode with lower maximum speed, second mode with higher maximum speed for hydrofoiling) that allow users to select appropriate speed parameters based on their skill level and conditions, making high-speed hydrofoiling accessible while maintaining control safety
Solution Approach 2:
The operating range is segmented into different pre-set modes with distinct speed characteristics. The first pre-set is for learning and low-speed operation, while the second pre-set is for hydrofoiling. This segmentation allows users to progress gradually from easier to more challenging operations
2Power
If the motor power is limited to low value for safety, then the board cannot reach hydrofoiling speed, but user safety is improved
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts motor power limits based on the selected pre-set mode. The first pre-set limits power for safety during learning, while the second pre-set allows higher power for hydrofoiling. Users can switch between modes to adapt to different operational needs and skill levels
Solution Approach 2:
The control system serves multiple functions by providing different power delivery characteristics through pre-sets. It acts as both a safety limiter for beginners and a high-performance engine for experienced users, making the system universally applicable to users of varying skill levels
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a method for controlling a hydrofoil board powered by a motor driven propeller. The motor is controlled by a hand controller configured with user selectable operating pre-sets including a first operating pre-set, wherein the board is accelerated to a first speed which is less than that required for the board to hydrofoil, and a second operating pre-set, wherein the board is accelerated to a second speed sufficient for the board to hydrofoil. Alternatively, the operating pre-sets may limit the motor power. A system for operating a hydrofoil board is also disclosed, which includes a propulsion control unit comprising a propulsion source, and a hand controller configured to receive a first user input and a second user input and to transmit the user inputs to the propulsion control unit.