Hydrofoil Board Preset Speed Control for Easier Takeoff
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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, which may deter users, especially beginners, from enjoying the experience.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing a hand controller with user-selectable operating pre-sets that allow users to gradually increase speed or power to a level sufficient for hydrofoiling, providing distinct steps for easier operation and control, including GPS speed measurement and customizable acceleration curves.
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 patent segments the continuous speed control into discrete operating pre-sets (first pre-set for lower speed, second pre-set for hydrofoiling speed). This segmentation allows users to transition between defined speed ranges rather than managing continuous throttle control, reducing operational complexity while achieving the necessary speed for hydrofoiling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the speed parameter through pre-configured pre-sets that automatically adjust the motor power and board speed. Instead of requiring users to manually control throttle position and speed, the system provides pre-defined speed parameters that simplify the control process while maintaining the capability to reach hydrofoiling speeds.
2Power
If the motor power is increased to enable hydrofoiling, then the board can rise from water surface, but the control complexity increases for users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring operating pre-sets that contain predetermined motor power levels and acceleration curves. The first pre-set prepares the board for lower-speed operation, while the second pre-set pre-configures the motor power and acceleration parameters needed for hydrofoiling, eliminating the need for users to manually adjust multiple control parameters in real-time.
Solution Approach 2:
The hand controller is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a simple speed selector (through pre-sets) and as a full-throttle controller when needed. The same device provides different levels of control complexity, allowing beginners to use simplified pre-sets while advanced users can access direct throttle control, thus reducing perceived device complexity for the target user group.
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.