Variable-Sweep Hydrofoil Wings for Dynamic Lift-Drag Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydrofoil boards have statically mounted foil structures that require physical replacement for different lift/drag profiles, increasing cost and assembly time and limiting operator enjoyment by not allowing dynamic adjustment during operation.
Innovation Solution
A movable foil structure with a pair of wings that can adjust through multiple sweep angles between fully extended and fully retracted positions, controlled by a foil adjustment mechanism, allowing dynamic lift/drag profile adjustment based on speed and user input or automatic systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a statically mounted foil structure is used, then the structure is simple and reliable, but it requires physical replacement for different lift/drag profiles, increasing cost and assembly time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the static foil structure into a dynamic one with movable wings that can adjust their sweep angle. The wings are connected to a control system that enables them to move between different positions (fully extended, partially retracted, fully retracted), allowing the hydrofoil board to adapt its lift and drag characteristics during operation without physical replacement of components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a movable foil structure with multiple sweep angles is implemented, then dynamic adjustment during operation is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the foil structure into separate movable wing components that can be independently controlled. Each wing can be adjusted to different sweep angles, and the segmentation allows the system to achieve multiple lift/drag profiles through combinations of wing positions rather than requiring a completely different foil structure for each profile.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by designing a single foil structure that can perform multiple functions through the movable wings. The same wing assembly can provide different lift and drag characteristics by adjusting the sweep angle, making one structure serve the role of multiple static foil configurations would otherwise be needed.
3Force
If the wings are in a fully extended position, then maximum lift is generated for low speed stability, but drag increases reducing efficiency at higher speeds
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the wings to transition from a static extended position to a dynamic configuration where they can be retracted. This allows the system to optimize the balance between lift and drag based on operating conditions - maintaining maximum lift at low speeds when wings are extended, and reducing drag at high speeds when wings are retracted, rather than being fixed in one configuration.
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 dynamic lift/drag profile adjustment without physical replacement, enhancing stability at low speeds and maneuverability at high speeds, reducing cavitation risk, and maintaining operator comfort by adjusting lift without position changes.
Implementation Method 1
a hydrofoil system connected to the board by the mast. The hydrofoil system includes a propulsion system configured to provide a propulsive force to the hydrofoil board and a foil structure configured to provide a lifting force for the hydrofoil board
Implementation Method 2
a propulsion system configured to provide a propulsive force to the hydrofoil board
Data Source
AI summary
A hydrofoil board is provided including a board having an upper surface and a lower surface. The upper surface is configured to support a user. The hydrofoil board further includes a mast extending from the lower surface and a hydrofoil system connected to the board by the mast. A propulsion system is configured to provide a propulsive force to the hydrofoil board and a foil structure is configured to provide a lifting force and comprises a pair of wings. Each of the pair of wings is movable through multiple sweep angles from a fully extended position wherein the pair of wings are each at a minimum sweep angle to a fully retracted position wherein the pair of wings are each at a maximum sweep angle. One or more controllers are configured to modify the sweep angles of the pair of wings to thereby modify the lifting force.