Patent Publication Number: US-10780956-B2

Title: Stabilizing water diffuser system for water sports board, water sports board with water diffuser system, and method of using the same

Description:
This application is a continuation of prior application Ser. No. 16/285,034, filed Feb. 25, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates to a system and method to improve stability of a water sport board. Particularly, the present invention is directed to a water diffuser system having one or more water diffusers and a water sports board having such water diffuser system with one or more water diffusers installed thereon. 
     Discussion of the Related Art 
     Water sport board activities have become a ubiquitous means of entertainment and athletics. A common piece of equipment that is used across the various activities is the water sport board, the overall design of which can vary depending on the particular use. Exemplary types of water sport boards include surfboards, paddle boards, kiteboards, wakeboards, wakesurf boards, and windsurfing boards. There are also multiple designs with different sizes and shapes for each type of water sport board. For example, surfboards designs include longboards, funboards, shortboards, and large wave boards also known as guns. Likewise the size and shape of paddle boards can be varied depending on the type of performance that is desired. Each type of board can also include particular design variations such as different nose and tail designs, amount of rocker in each board, the design of the rails, and the fin system used with each board. 
     The design of a water sports board varies depending on the type of water sports board it is. A generic top-down view diagram of an exemplary water sports boards is illustrated in  FIG. 8 . The broken lines illustrate overlapping outlines of different water sports boards, longboard  810 , gun  820 , funboard  830 , shortboard  840 , kiteboard  850 . Wakesurf boards are similar to surfboards and thus are not illustrated separately. A paddle board and a windsurfing board can each have the general outline similar to any of a shortboard, a funboard, and a longboard, and thus they are not illustrated separately. Also, wakeboards have designs similar to that of a kiteboard and thus it is also not separately illustrated. 
     A water sports board typically includes a rigid body with two ends. The rigid body can be made of glass covered foam, wood, composite, laminate or any other known suitable material for water sports boards. 
     The rigid body includes a center axis  801  along its length where the center axis is equidistant from the edges or rails. The end of the water sports board that is typically kept in front when in use is generally referred to as the nose. This is identified as item  812 ,  822 ,  832 ,  842 , and  852 . The end of the water sports board that is typically kept in the back during use is generally referred to as the tail. This is identified as item  811 ,  821 ,  831 ,  841 , and  851 . An exception to the nose and tail references  851  and  852  can be present for kiteboards since a kiteboard can also be designed to be ridden in both directions and thus these ends can be referred as either or both. This is further described in more detail in the description. 
     A generic diagram of an exemplary water sports board design is also illustrated in  FIGS. 9A-9B . The diagrams of side view  FIG. 9A  and top perspective view  FIG. 9B  illustrate a water sports board  900  that includes a rigid body  905  with a bottom surface  906  and a deck or top surface  907 . The board  900  can include sides or rails  908 , nose  901 , and tail  902 . On the bottom surface  906  is one or more fin systems  903  each including one or more fins  904 . During typical use, a surfer would be located on deck  907  while the bottom surface  906  glides over water. The diagram of  FIGS. 9A-9B  is only illustrative and exemplary. 
     Most design variations for each water sport board reflect a particular performance feature that is often associated with the particular intended use for that water sports board. For example, the overall shape including the volume, shape of the nose, tail, and rails, the overall size, the type and number of fins and the fin systems used all can be modified. For purposes of this disclosure, “volume” or “board volume” of a water sports board refers to the amount of space the water sports board occupies. The volume or board volume of a water sports board is equal to the volume of a liquid displaced when the water sports board is submerged in that liquid. Also, additional features can be present such as, for example, padding as typically used in surfboards, wakesurf boards and paddle boards. Also, particular types of water sports boards, such as kiteboards and wakeboards, can include foot straps on the deck of the board. 
     Common across the various designs, however, has remained the interest to achieve improved stability and overall performance. Some exemplary attempts to achieve these characteristics include the implementation of different tail designs as for example described in in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2008/0287018, which is incorporated herein by reference. Exemplary tail designs that are well known include unpointed designs such as the Pintail, Thumbtail, and Squash, pointed tail designs such as the Swallow, Bat Tail, Diamond, and Square tails. 
     Another approach to improve stability and performance has been in the area of fin systems used in various boards, for example as described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,957,020 and WO2013/159860, which are both incorporated herein by reference. Another approach has been to create channels on the bottom of the water sports board either by carving concave portions on the bottom of the board or by implementing a fin system that forms channels as for example described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,585,549, which is incorporated herein by reference. 
     Although prior art designs have provided much improvement in the stability, maneuverability, and overall performance of various water sport boards, there is still a need to improve stability. 
     Accordingly, a need still exists for an implemented design that can further promote stability and improve performance of a water sport board by addressing the above identified turbulence and cavitation problems. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     Accordingly, the present invention is directed to a stabilizing water diffuser system for water sports board, water sports board with water diffuser system, and method of using the same that substantially obviates one or more of the problems due to limitations and disadvantages of the related art. 
     An advantage of the present invention is to reduce turbulence and cavitation in a water sport board, particularly with respect to the turbulence and cavitation caused by a typical fin system. 
     Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a water sports board with increased stability. 
     Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a water sports board that can exhibit improved speed performance. 
     Another advantage of the present invention is to promote smother water flow off the tail of a water sport board, thus resulting in a smoother ride. 
     Another advantage of the present invention is to help provide more lift especially at lower speeds and more stability at higher speeds. 
     Additional features and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. The objectives and other advantages of the invention will be realized and attained by the structure particularly pointed out in the written description and claims hereof as well as the appended drawings. 
     To achieve these and other advantages and in accordance with the purpose of the present invention, as embodied and broadly described, provided is a water diffuser for a water sports board having a base, a vertical member, and a front edge. The base can have a front end and back end. The vertical member can extend from the base to a distal end. The front edge can extend from the front end of the base to the distal end of the vertical member. The front edge can include a first slope between the front end and the vertical member and a second slope along the vertical member, wherein the second slope is steeper than the first slope so as to define a concave contour. 
     The base further can further include a sidewall extending from a perimeter of the base to the vertical member. The sidewall can have an overall concave contour. The front end of the base can have a width that is smaller than the width of the back end of the base. The base can include a teardrop shape. The base can include a shape selected from a triangular shape, a rectangular shape, a polygonal shape, a regular elliptical shape, or an irregular elliptical shape. Opposite the vertical member the base can include an underside surface. The underside surface can be coated with an adhesive. The adhesive can have a thickness of about 0.03 inches. 
     The base can have a longitudinal length extending from the pointed end to a round end that ranges from about 0.7 inches to about 3.0 inches. 
     The vertical member can include an elongated elliptical cross-section defined by a first sidewall and a second sidewall. The vertical member can have a width from about 0.06 inches to about 0.4 inches. The combined height of the base and vertical member can range from about 0.1 inches to about 2.0 inches. 
     The base and vertical member each can include a rigid material. The rigid material can be selected from the group consisting of polymer plastic, carbon fiber, fiberglass, epoxy, metal, foam, and combinations thereof. The base and the vertical member can include the same rigid material. 
     The vertical member can have a truncated profile at the distal end. The vertical member can include a flat surface at the distal end. The vertical member can have a truncated profile and include a flat surface at the distal end. The flat surface can have a teardrop shape. The flat surface can have an elliptical shape. 
     The water diffuser can also include one or more screw holes, one or more lip portions, or a combination of both. 
     In another aspect of the present invention, provided is a water sports board having a rigid body having a tail edge, a fin system located on a bottom surface of the rigid body, and a water diffuser located on the bottom surface of the rigid body between the fin system and the tail edge, wherein the water diffuser is positioned to reduce cavitation caused by the fin system. 
     The water sports board can be one selected from the group consisting of a shortboard, a longboard, a funboard, a windsurfing board, a paddle board, a wakeboard, a wakesurf board, and a kiteboard. 
     The water diffuser can be located at a distance from the tail edge that ranges from about 0.06 inches to about 4 inches. 
     The water sports board can include one or more additional water diffusers located on the bottom surface of a tail of a water sports board. The water sports board can include a total of two or more water diffusers. The water sports board can include a total of four or more water diffusers. At least two or more diffusers can be arranged to be toe-in with respect to a central axis of the water sports board. 
     The fin system can be selected from the group consisting of a single fin system, a two fin system, a three fin system, a four fin system, and a five fin system. 
     A water diffuser can have a longitudinal length ranging from about 0.7 inches to about 3 inches. A water diffuser can have a height ranging from about 0.1 inches to about 2 inches. 
     The water sports board can include a total of two or more water diffusers equally laterally spaced from each other. The water sports board can include a total of two or more water diffusers equally spaced from the tail edge. The distance between the tail edge and each of the two or more water diffusers can range from about 0.06 inches to about 4 inches. 
     A water diffuser can be permanently attached to the water sports board. A water diffuser can be detachably attached to the water sports board. A water diffuser can be attached to the bottom surface of the water sports board with adhesive, tape, one or more screws, one or more snap-joints, or a combination thereof. The adhesive can include an epoxy resin. The water sports board can include a frame attached to the water sports board, wherein the water diffuser is attached to frame or are an integral part of the frame. 
     A water diffuser can be an integral part of the water sports board. The water sports board can include glassing, wherein the water diffuser is located under the glassing. The water sports board can include glassing, wherein the water diffuser is part of the glassing. 
     A water diffuser can include a front edge that faces away from the tail edge, the front edge defining an overall concave contour. 
     In another aspect of the present invention, a method of stabilizing a water sports board including installing a water diffuser system to a bottom surface of a water sports board at a location between a fin system and a tail edge of the water sports board such that the water diffuser system is able to modulate the cavitation and turbulence caused by the fin system. 
     Installing a water diffuser system can include attaching one or more water diffusers to the bottom surface of the water sports board or attaching a frame comprising two or more water diffusers to the bottom surface of the water sports board. Each of the one or more water diffusers can have a longitudinal length in the range of about 0.7 inches to about 3 inches and a height in the range of about 0.1 inches to about 2 inches. 
     The method can include attaching the one or more water diffusers at a location that is no more than about 0.06 inches to about 4 inches from a tail edge of the water sports board. 
     The method can include attaching all of the one or more water diffusers to be equally spaced from the tail edge of the water sports board. 
     The method can include attaching the one or more water diffusers or the frame to the bottom surface of the water sports board with an adhesive. 
     The method can include attaching the one or more water diffusers or the frame to the bottom surface of the water sports board using a means selected from the group consisting of adhesive, tape, one or more screws, one or more snap-joints, and a combination thereof. 
     Each of the one or more water diffusers can include a rigid material. Each of the one or more water diffusers can include a base with a teardrop shape and a vertical member with a hydrofoil design. 
     Modulating the cavitation and turbulence can include contacting turbulent water flow with the one or more water diffusers to slice air bubbles and induce laminar flow. 
     The water diffuser system can also provide lift. 
     It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention as claimed. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the invention. 
       In the drawings: 
         FIGS. 1A-1B  are diagrams illustrating the turbulence and cavitation caused by a typical fin system used at the bottom surface of water sports boards. 
         FIGS. 2A-2J  illustrate an embodiment of the water diffuser in accordance with the present invention and exemplary means to attach the water diffuser to a water sports board. 
         FIG. 3A  is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a water diffuser in accordance with the present invention. 
         FIG. 3B  illustrate exemplary shapes of the underside surface of a water diffuser other than a teardrop shape. 
         FIGS. 4A-4K  illustrate exemplary implementations of a water diffuser system on a bottom surface of a water sports board. 
         FIG. 5A-5C  illustrate exemplary arrangements of water diffusers on the bottom surface of different water sports board tail designs. 
         FIGS. 6A-6B  illustrate exemplary arrangements of water diffuser systems on the bottom surface of different water sports boards. 
         FIG. 7A-7C  are diagrams illustrating the effects of embodiments of the water diffusers and water diffuser systems in accordance with the present invention. 
         FIG. 8  is a general top-down diagrammatic view illustrating overlapping outlines of exemplary types of water sports boards as generally known in the art. 
         FIGS. 9A-9B  illustrate generic diagrams of an exemplary water sports board as generally known in the art. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENTS 
     Reference will now be made in detail to an embodiment of the present invention, example of which is illustrated in the accompanying drawings. 
     Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as is commonly understood by one of skill in the art to which the inventions belong. All patents, patent applications, published applications and publications, websites and other published materials referred to throughout the entire disclosure herein, unless noted otherwise, are incorporated by reference in their entirety. In the event that there are a plurality of definitions for terms herein, those in this section prevail. Where reference is made to a URL or other such identifier or address, it is understood that such identifiers can change and particular information on the internet can come and go, but equivalent information can be found by searching the internet. Reference thereto evidences the availability and public dissemination of such information. 
     As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. 
     As used herein, the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments. 
     As used herein, ranges and quantities can be expressed as “about” a particular value or range. “About” also includes the exact amount. Hence “about 5 percent” means “about 5 percent” and also “5 percent.” “About” means within typical experimental error for the application or purpose intended. 
     As used herein, “optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described event or circumstance does or does not occur, and that the description includes instances where the event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not. For example, an optional component in a system means that the component may be present or may not be present in the system. 
     As used herein, a “combination” refers to any association between two items or among more than two items. The association can be spatial or refer to the use of the two or more items for a common purpose. 
     The term “water sports board” or “board” is broadly used herein to the full extent of its meaning to one of ordinary skill in the art and refers broadly to any right and planar watercrafts typically used for surface aquatic activities. Non limiting examples of water sports boards include all types of surfboards, windsurfing boards, paddle boards, wakeboards, kiteboards, and wakesurf boards. 
     The term “bottom” or “bottom surface” when used to describe a portion of a water sports board broadly refers to the surface of the water sports board that faces the water during typical use and not the surface where the user typically lies, kneels, or stands over the deck during typical use of the water sports board. 
     The term “deck” or “top surface” when used to describe a portion of a water sports board broadly refers to the surface of the water sports board over which a user typically lies, kneels, or stands during typical use of the water sports board. 
     The term “fin” is used herein to reference a hydrofoil affixed to the bottom surface of a water sports board to provide stability and maneuverability of the water sports board. Fins as referenced herein broadly refer to dolphin dorsal fin-like structures with a convex front edge of varying degree of rake or sweep. Fins as used herein include structures that must be sufficiently sized to maintain grip on the water so as to function as intended. Typically, fins as referenced herein have a length of at least 4 inches and a height greater than 2 inches, and typically greater than at least 4 inch. 
     The term “fin system” as used herein broadly refers to a typical fin arrangement in a particular water sports board. A fin arrangement can include one or more fins. Non-limiting examples of fin systems broadly known in the art that fall within the scope of the term “fin system” as used in this description include single fins systems, two-fin set ups known as Twin-fin, three-fin set ups some known as Thrusters and others as 2+1, four-fin set up known as Quad, or even a five-fin set up. In water sports boards such as shortboards, longboards, funboards, guns, paddle boards, and wakesurf boards, fin systems are typically located at the bottom surface that is under the deck area where the surfer&#39;s foot presses down while the surfer is standing and riding a wave. 
     The term “glass” or “glassing” as used herein broadly refers to the protective fiberglass and resin coating applied over a material, such as foam, of a water sports board. “Glassing material” as used herein to broadly refer to the materials used for glassing, which can include one or more of fiberglass cloth, polyester and epoxy resin, or a combination thereof. 
     The term “board blank” as used herein broadly refers to the original block of foam used to shape a surfboard, paddle board, windsurfing board, or wakesurf board. A blank often comes from a pre-shaped mold with a basic outline and rocker depending on the length and type of the board being shaped. A board blank is often made from polyurethane foam. 
     The term “nose” is used herein to broadly refer to the front portion of a water sports board. Particularly, the term “nose” as used herein refers to the front quarter length of a water sports board and the leading edge as used in the water. 
     The term “rail” as used herein is used to broadly reference the edge of a water sports board where the deck wraps around to meet the bottom surface; usually used to describe the lower half of the edge. 
     The term “tail” as used herein refers to the back portion of a water sports board. Particularly, it relates to the area extending between the fin system and the back edge of a water sports board. 
     The term “edge” is used herein to refer to the narrow part adjacent to a border where an object or area begins or ends. 
     The term “surfboard” as used herein broadly refers to any buoyant board used as a longboard, funboard, shortboard, or gun. 
     The term “shortboard” as used herein broadly refers to a smaller, performance surfboard typically in the 5 to 7 foot length range, nose to tail, designed for maximum speed through turns. 
     The term “gun” as used herein broadly refers to a special surfboard designed to ride big waves. They are typically narrow in the nose and tail to allow the rails full contact with the wave. Broadly longer than normal surfboards so the surfer can paddle faster to catch the bigger, faster moving waves, with a pulled-in tail to handle the high speeds. Typical length, nose to tail, of a gun surfboard ranges from about 6 foot 6 inches to about 10 foot. 
     The term “longboard” as used herein broadly refers to a surfboard distinctly longer and broader at the nose and tail than a conventional shortboard; usually over eight feet in length, nose to tail, and 22″ or more in width, with a rounded nose. 
     The term “funboard” as used herein broadly refers to a compromise surfboard design, combining the superior paddling attributes of a longboard, but stripped of some of the length, nose to tail, and bulk of a longboard so that a rider may experience improved maneuverability. 
     The term “paddle board” as used herein broadly refers to a board used for stand up paddle surfing and stand up paddle boarding (SUP). A stand up paddle boarder stands on the board and uses a paddle to propel forward through the water. A stand up paddle board, or paddle board, can have different shapes but typically has a higher board volume than a shortboard so as to exhibit sufficient buoyancy to float when a user stands on it even while not riding a wave. 
     The term “kiteboard” as used herein broadly refers to a board similar to a wakeboard or a small surfboard, with or without footstraps or bindings. A kiteboard broadly is a small composite, wooden, or foam board. There are now several types of kiteboards: directional surf-style boards, wakeboard-style boards, hybrids which can go in either direction but are built to operate better in one of them, and skim-type boards. These boards broadly come with sandal-type footstraps that allow the rider to attach and detach from the board easily; this is required for doing board-off tricks and jumps. Kiteboards come in different shapes and sizes to suit the rider&#39;s skill level, riding style, wind and water conditions. 
     The term “wakeboard” as used herein broadly refers to a short board with or without foot bindings on which a rider is towed by a motorized watercraft such as a motorboat across its wake and especially up off the crest for aerial maneuvers. 
     The term “wakesurf board” as used herein broadly refers to a short board that is similar to a surfboard. The typical length of a wakesurf board is 4-5 feet. Similar to a wakeboard, a wakesurf board is used surf the wake of a motorized watercraft such as a motorboat. However, in wakesurfing the surfer is only towed at the start but then freely surfs the wake without the use of a tow rope. 
     The term “windsurfing board” as used herein broadly refers to a board propelled by wind pushing on a sail extending over the deck of the board. Windsurfing board include a fin systems. Broadly, windsurfing boards have lengths, nose to tail, ranging from about 6 feet and 7 inches to about 8 feet and 2 inches, and have a water displacements typically between 12 and 40 US gallons. 
     The term “water diffuser system” as used herein refers to the set of one or more water diffusers as described herein. Exemplary embodiments that fall within the scope of the present invention include water diffuser systems having one water diffuser, two water diffusers, three water diffusers, four water diffusers, five water diffusers, six water diffusers, seven water diffusers, eight water diffusers, nine water diffusers, ten water diffusers, or more. The number of water diffusers used in accordance with the present invention should not be viewed as limited and can be adjusted based on the size of the tail of the water sports board. It should be recognized, however, that water diffusers can add drag and thus adding a disproportionate amount of water diffusers can negatively affect performance. Also, the term “water diffuser system” should not be construed to be limited to a particular arrangement of water diffusers. 
     The term “water diffuser” as used herein refers to a structure as described in more detailed herein that broadly includes a hydrofoil designed to modulate the cavitation and/or turbulence caused by the fins of the fin system. The water diffuser is smaller in size than any of the fins of a fin system present on the same water sports board. 
     As a water sport board glides on the water, it experiences a lot of turbulence and cavitation that is often caused by the very fin system that is implemented to promote the performance of the water sports board. As illustrated in  FIGS. 1A and 1B , as water  110  flows along the bottom surface  120  of a water sport board  100 , it comes in contact with one of more fins  130  of the fin system  160 . As a result of the water  110  contacting the fins  130  of the fin system  160 , the water flow  110  becomes turbulent flow  140  creating a lot of air bubbles, thus giving rise to cavitation. For illustration purposes the turbulent flow with air bubbles are illustrated in  FIG. 1A  as curving arrows and in  FIG. 1B  as oblique arrows. This turbulence and cavitation occur unevenly, close to the bottom surface  120  of the water sport board  100  behind the fins  130  and at the tail edge  150  of the board  100 . This negatively affects performance of the board because it causes instability, lowers maneuverability, and produces added drag. 
     Because the turbulence and cavitation is caused by the fins and fin-systems themselves, and since known fins system are generally located at a distance from the tail edge of a water sports board since their placement is generally desired under the area where a surfers back foot presses down, known fin systems are not capable of modulating this turbulent flow and cavitation at the tail edge of a water sports board. 
     To resolve this problem and provide improved stability and overall performance of a water sports board, the inventors have developed a water diffuser system that includes one or more water diffusers to be located near the tail edge of the bottom surface of a water sports board, and water sports boards having a water diffuser system with one or more water diffusers installed thereon. In embodiments, when installed on a water sports board at the described locations, i.e. at the bottom surface of the water sports board close to the tail edge of the water sports board between the fin system and the tail edge of the water sports board, the water diffuser system comprised of one or more water diffusers can reduce the cavitation effect by slicing through the bubbles present in the turbulent flow at the tail of the water sports board. The water diffuser system comprised of one or more water diffusers can also provide additional lift at lower speeds as well as improved stability at higher speeds, thereby improving overall performance of the water sports board. Accordingly, the invention also includes improved water sports boards with a water diffuser system comprised of one or more water diffusers installed thereon. 
       FIGS. 2A-2E  illustrate exemplary embodiments of a water diffuser  200  in accordance with the present invention. The water diffuser  200  includes a base  210  and a vertical member  220 . Water diffuser  200  can be made as a rigid structure to better withstand the high water pressure during use. The base  210  and vertical member  220  can both be part of a rigid structure. Base  210  and vertical member  220  can form a sturdy structure so as to be able to withstand the high water pressure impacting it during use. Base  210  and vertical member  220  can each be made of a rigid material. Exemplary suitable rigid materials for a water diffuser, including base  210  and vertical member  220 , include polymer plastic, carbon fiber, fiberglass, epoxy, metal, foam, Kevlar, ABS plastic, PLA, polyamide (nylon), glass filled polyamide, stereolithography materials (epoxy resins), resin, silver, titanium, steel, wax, photopolymers, polycarbonate, and any combination thereof. 
     Any suitable manufacturing method of making the water diffuser can be used. For example, the water diffuser  200  can be casted, 3D printed, sculpted, thermoformed, vacuum formed, or injection molded. 
     The water diffuser  200  can be manufactured as a single integral structure having base  210  and vertical member  220 . Alternatively, water diffuser  200  can be manufactured in parts that when assembled together form water diffuser  200 . For example, base  210  and vertical member  220  can be manufactured separately and then joined as discussed below. 
     Although described separately herein, it should be understood that base  210  and vertical member  220  are not necessarily separate structures and instead can be contiguous portions of an integral structure. In exemplary embodiments, base  210  and vertical member  220  are contiguous sections of a single integral structure. Base  210  and vertical member  220  can also be two separate structures joined together. The means for joining base  210  and vertical member  220  can be the same as the means described to attach the water diffuser  200  to a water sports board. Such means include, adhesive, tape, one or more screws, for example one or two screws, one or more snap-joints, for example one or two snap-joints, and the like. Also, the means can also be a combination of two or more of such means as described with respect to the connection of the water diffuser  200  to the bottom surface of the water sports board. 
     The overall size of a water diffuser can vary as described herein. As long as the water diffusers are selected to be within the described sizes they will have the intended and described benefits. Selecting a particular size of a water diffuser  200  based on the ranges described herein can be based on different factors including, but not limited to, user&#39;s preference, the amount of turbulence and cavitation the water diffuser is meant to modulate, the size of wave the board is meant to ride, the shape of the tail, the size of the tail, the type of fin system, the number of fins, the types of fins, the conditions in which the board is meant to be ridden, or any combination of these factors. For example, the greater the turbulence and cavitation to modulate the larger the size of the water diffusers  200 . Different factors can affect the amount of turbulence and cavitation. For example, it would be expected to have more turbulence and cavitation if the board is used in larger waves. Accordingly, if the board is to be used to ride larger waves, than the water diffusers would have to handle more turbulence and thus should be selected having a larger size than water diffusers to install on board to be used in smaller waves. Also, independent of the amount of turbulence, the size of the water diffusers  200  can be selected based on the fin system. For example, single fin and Twin fins systems can benefit from medium size water diffusers even though these fin systems are typically used on water sports boards meant for smaller waves. This is because in such boards, the water diffusers can double as a pivot point to enhance turning. These are simply illustrative examples of reasons to select the size of the desired water diffuser  200 . 
     Base  210  can have any suitable shape having a front end  219  and a back end  218 . In exemplary embodiments, a top-down view of base  210  can reveal a teardrop or lachrymiform shape  211 . Alternative top-down view shapes for base  210  are also possible. Some exemplary embodiments are illustrated in  FIG. 3B . Front end  219  can be wider than a pointed end. Front end  219  can be narrower than back end  218 . In other words, from a top-down view, front end  219  can have a width that is smaller than the width of back end  218 . The top-down view shape of base  210  can also include shapes were the front end  219  and back end  218  are similar in shape, size, or both. Alternative top-down view shapes for base  210  that include a front end  219  that is narrower than a back end  218  similar to the teardrop shape  211  can also be employed. For example, triangular shapes, polygonal shapes, and irregular elliptical shapes, and combinations thereof can be used. Alternative top-down view shape of base  210  where the front end  219  and back end  218  are similar include circular shapes, oval shapes, elliptical shapes, rectangular shapes, square shapes, polygonal shapes, or any combination thereof. Also, from a top-down view, front end  219 , when wider than a pointed end, and back end  218  can independently be straight, curved, or a combination of both. When curved, they can be concave, convex, or a combination of both. 
     Base  210 , and thus water diffuser  200 , can have a longitudinal length ranging from about 0.7 inches to about 3 inches. If the length is shorter than 0.7 inches, the water diffuser will not be as effective. A length greater than 3 inches, can result in the water diffuser creating too much drag, depending on the water sports board on which it is used. The longitudinal length of base  210  can be defined as the length of a straight line that extends from the forward most edge or point on the front end  219  to the rearward most edge or point of the back end  218  of shape of base  210  when viewed from a top-down view. For example, base  210  can have a longitudinal length of about: 0.7 inches, 0.8 inches, 0.9 inches, 1.0 inches, 1.01 inches, 1.02 inches, 1.03 inches, 1.04 inches, 1.05 inches, 1.06 inches, 1.07 inches, 1.08 inches, 1.09 inches, 1.10 inches, 1.11 inches, 1.12 inches, 1.13 inches, 1.14 inches, 1.15 inches, 1.16 inches, 1.17 inches, 1.18 inches, 1.19 inches, 1.20 inches, 1.21 inches, 1.22 inches, 1.23 inches, 1.24 inches, 1.25 inches, 1.26 inches, 1.27 inches, 1.28 inches, 1.29 inches, 1.30 inches, 1.31 inches, 1.32 inches, 1.33 inches, 1.34 inches, 1.35 inches, 1.36 inches, 1.37 inches, 1.38 inches, 1.39 inches, 1.40 inches, 1.41 inches, 1.42 inches, 1.43 inches, 1.44 inches, 1.45 inches, 1.46 inches, 1.47 inches, 1.48 inches, 1.49 inches, 1.50 inches, 1.51 inches, 1.52 inches, 1.53 inches, 1.54 inches, 1.55 inches, 1.56 inches, 1.57 inches, 1.58 inches, 1.59 inches, 1.60 inches, 1.61 inches, 1.62 inches, 1.63 inches, 1.64 inches, 1.65 inches, 1.66 inches, 1.67 inches, 1.68 inches, 1.69 inches, 1.70 inches, 1.71 inches, 1.72 inches, 1.73 inches, 1.74 inches, 1.75 inches, 1.76 inches, 1.77 inches, 1.78 inches, 1.79 inches, 1.80 inches, 1.81 inches, 1.82 inches, 1.83 inches, 1.84 inches, 1.85 inches, 1.86 inches, 1.87 inches, 1.88 inches, 1.89 inches, 1.90 inches, 1.91 inches, 1.92 inches, 1.93 inches, 1.94 inches, 1.95 inches, 1.96 inches, 1.97 inches, 1.98 inches, 1.99 inches, 2.0 inches, 2.01 inches, 2.02 inches, 2.03 inches, 2.04 inches, 2.05 inches, 2.06 inches, 2.07 inches, 2.08 inches, 2.09 inches, 2.10 inches, 2.11 inches, 2.12 inches, 2.13 inches, 2.14 inches, 2.15 inches, 2.16 inches, 2.17 inches, 2.18 inches, 2.19 inches, 2.20 inches, 2.21 inches, 2.22 inches, 2.23 inches, 2.24 inches, 2.25 inches, 2.26 inches, 2.27 inches, 2.28 inches, 2.29 inches, 2.30 inches, 2.31 inches, 2.32 inches, 2.33 inches, 2.34 inches, 2.35 inches, 2.36 inches, 2.37 inches, 2.38 inches, 2.39 inches, 2.40 inches, 2.41 inches, 2.42 inches, 2.43 inches, 2.44 inches, 2.45 inches, 2.46 inches, 2.47 inches, 2.48 inches, 2.49 inches, 2.50 inches, 2.51 inches, 2.52 inches, 2.53 inches, 2.54 inches, 2.55 inches, 2.56 inches, 2.57 inches, 2.58 inches, 2.59 inches, 2.60 inches, 2.61 inches, 2.62 inches, 2.63 inches, 2.64 inches, 2.65 inches, 2.66 inches, 2.67 inches, 2.68 inches, 2.69 inches, 2.70 inches, 2.71 inches, 2.72 inches, 2.73 inches, 2.74 inches, 2.75 inches, 2.76 inches, 2.77 inches, 2.78 inches, 2.79 inches, 2.80 inches, 2.81 inches, 2.82 inches, 2.83 inches, 2.84 inches, 2.85 inches, 2.86 inches, 2.87 inches, 2.88 inches, 2.89 inches, 2.90 inches, 2.91 inches, 2.92 inches, 2.93 inches, 2.94 inches, 2.95 inches, 2.96 inches, 2.97 inches, 2.98 inches, 2.99 inches, or 3.0 inches. 
     Base  210 , and thus water diffuser  200 , can have a lateral width ranging from about 0.25 inches to about 1.0 inches. The lateral width of base  210  can be defined as its widest lateral dimension of the shape of base  210  when viewed from a top-down view. For example, base  210  can have a lateral width of about: 0.25 inches, 0.26 inches, 0.27 inches, 0.28 inches, 0.29 inches, 0.3 inches, 0.31 inches, 0.32 inches, 0.33 inches, 0.34 inches, 0.35 inches, 0.36 inches, 0.37 inches, 0.38 inches, 0.39 inches, 0.4 inches, 0.41 inches, 0.42 inches, 0.43 inches, 0.44 inches, 0.45 inches, 0.46 inches, 0.47 inches, 0.48 inches, 0.49 inches, 0.5 inches, 0.51 inches, 0.52 inches, 0.53 inches, 0.54 inches, 0.55 inches, 0.56 inches, 0.57 inches, 0.58 inches, 0.59 inches, 0.6 inches, 0.61 inches, 0.62 inches, 0.63 inches, 0.64 inches, 0.65 inches, 0.66 inches, 0.67 inches, 0.68 inches, 0.69 inches, 0.7 inches, 0.71 inches, 0.72 inches, 0.73 inches, 0.74 inches, 0.75 inches, 0.76 inches, 0.77 inches, 0.78 inches, 0.79 inches, 0.8 inches, 0.81 inches, 0.82 inches, 0.83 inches, 0.84 inches, 0.85 inches, 0.86 inches, 0.87 inches, 0.88 inches, 0.89 inches, 0.9 inches, 0.91 inches, 0.92 inches, 0.93 inches, 0.94 inches, 0.95 inches, 0.96 inches, 0.97 inches, 0.98 inches, 0.99 inches, or 1 inch. 
     For example, a teardrop shape  211  can be identified from a top-down view. As illustrated in  FIGS. 2A-2E , a teardrop or lachrymiform shape refers to the shape that is like that of a dropping tear. Particularly, a teardrop shape includes a pointed shape at front end  219 , i.e. pointed end  209 , and a curved shape at back end  218 , i.e. round end  208 . The teardrop shape is referenced throughout this description for illustrative purposes only and for ease of reference. As described earlier, base  210  can have different designs and thus not limited to the teardrop shape. Thus, references to pointed end  209  and round end  208 , should be understood as illustrative of the teardrop shape but indicative of front end  219  and back end  218  respectively in the more generic sense. The round end  208  can be circular or elliptical. In teardrop shape  211 , for example, the length can be defined as the length of a straight line that evenly bisects the vertex of pointed end  209 , and extends from pointed end  209  to round end  208 . In the exemplary teardrop shape  211 , the width can be equivalent to the diameter of the round end  208 . Thus, a teardrop shaped base  210  can have a length extending from pointed end  209  to round end  208  ranging from about 0.7 inches to about 3.0 inches, and a width equivalent to the diameter of round end  208  ranging from about 0.25 inches to about 1.0 inches. In an exemplary embodiment, base  210  can have a teardrop shape having a length of 1.03 inches and a width of 0.3 inches. 
     It should be recognized that the longitudinal length of base  210  is also the overall longitudinal length of the water diffuser  200 . Moreover, the lateral width of base  210  is also the widest point and thus the overall lateral width of water diffuser  200 . As such, the measurements provided for the longitudinal length and lateral width of base  210  are also the measurements for the longitudinal length and widest lateral width of the overall water diffuser  200 . 
     Base  210  can include sidewall  213  that extend from perimeter  212  of base  210  to vertical member  220  at bottom end  221  of vertical member  220 . The vertical length of sidewall  213  is not particularly limited and can be designed depending on the desired size of the overall water diffuser. Sidewall  213  can be tapered. Sidewall  213  can have a convex structure. Sidewall  213  can have a concave structure. Sidewall  213  can also include a flat portion along at least a portion of its perimeter before extending upward. Sidewall  213  can also include any combination of tapered, convex, concave, and flat portions. 
     For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 3A , sidewall  213  can include a flat portion along the tapering of a teardrop shape base  210 . In combination with the flat portion, sidewall  213  can also include a tapering concave contour extending from the flat portion to the vertical member  220 . Also, in combination with the flat portion, sidewall  213  can include a tapering concave contour that extends from the perimeter  212  of the non-tapering portion of the teardrop shape base  210  to the vertical member  220 . 
     The underside of base  210 , i.e. the portion opposite the vertical member  220 , can be underside surface  214  as illustrated in  FIG. 2B . In embodiments, when water diffuser  200  is provided on a water sports board, underside surface  214  faces the surface of the water sports board to which the water diffuser  200  is attached. Underside surface  214  can be flat or contoured. Underside surface  214  can be polished or roughened. Underside surface  214  can be polished or left untreated. Underside surface  214  can be designed to affix the water diffuser to a water sports board. For example, underside surface  214  can be coated with an adhesive  226 . Any suitable adhesive that can withstand the pressure exerted on the water diffuser and keep the water diffuser attached to the water sports board can be used. An exemplary adhesive can include an epoxy adhesive. In one embodiment, the adhesive can be the E6000 Industrial Strength Adhesive made by Eclectic Products, Inc., Manufacturing Facility at 101 Dixie Mae Drive, Pineville, La. The adhesive can be applied as a uniform or non-uniform layer on underside surface  214 . For example, an adhesive layer about 0.03 in thick can be uniformly applied to underside surface  214 . The thickness of the adhesive layer is not particularly limited and can generally range from about 0.02 in to about 0.05 in. An adhesive that is thicker than this range is not preferable because it can lead to too much play in the water diffuser. An adhesive that is thinner than the recited range is also not preferable because it could provide insufficient bonding strength and thus may increase the risk of detaching. 
     Alternative means to attach or install a water diffuser to a water sports board can also be used. The water diffuser can be attached using one or more screws. In exemplary embodiments, a water diffuser can be attached using one screw, two screws, three screws, four screws. The number of screws not limited other than by the size of the water diffuser. Any suitable screw may be used. In an exemplary embodiment, the one or more screws can include one or more grub screws  241 . As for example illustrated in  FIGS. 2F-2I , when using one or more screws  241 , one or more screw holes  240  to accommodate the one or more screws  241  may be provided through base  210  extending from the surface of side wall  213  through underside surface  214 . In exemplary embodiments, one or more screw holes  240  can be provided such that it extends through both vertical member  220  and base  210 . The number of screw holes  240  can be the same or different from the number of screws  241 . In exemplary embodiments, a water diffuser can include one, two, three, four, or five screw holes. The number of screw holes is not limited other than by the size of the water diffuser. Likewise, one or more corresponding screw holes  245  may be provided in the bottom surface of the water sports board. The number of screw holes  245  at the bottom surface of the water sports board is not particularly limited and can be set depending on the desired flexibility of arrangements. In exemplary embodiments, the bottom surface of the water sports board can include one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, twelve, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, eighteen, twenty, twenty one, twenty two, twenty four, twenty five, twenty six, twenty seven, twenty eight, or thirty screw holes  245 . As such, the screw would be able to secure a water diffuser  200  to the bottom surface of the water sports board. 
     The water diffuser can be attached using one or more snap-joints. In exemplary embodiments, a water diffuser can include one, two, three, four, or five snap-joints. The number of snap joints is not limited other than by the size of the water diffuser. Each snap joint can include one or more lip portions  250  protruding from the base  210 , and preferable from underside surface  214 , that snap-fit into one or more slots  255  provided in the bottom surface of the water sports board. In exemplary embodiments, a water diffuser can include one, two, three, four, or five lip portions  250 . The number of lip portions  250  is not limited other than by the size of the water diffuser. The number of slots  255  at the bottom surface of the water sports board is also not particularly limited and can be set depending on the desired flexibility of arrangements. In exemplary embodiments, the bottom surface of the water sports board can include one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, twelve, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, eighteen, twenty, twenty one, twenty two, twenty four, twenty five, twenty six, twenty seven, twenty eight, or thirty slots  255 . 
     The water diffuser can be attached using tape  227 . The tape can be a double sided adhesive tape. The tape can be of any suitable thickness that can provide strong bonding of the water diffuser. In exemplary embodiments, the tape can be a double sided adhesive tape with a thickness ranging from about 0.02 inches to about 0.05 inches, similar to the adhesive layer described earlier. 
     Also, any combination of two or more of the above means to attach the water diffuser to the water sports board can be used in combination. For example, adhesive and one or more screws can be used. For example, adhesive and tape can be used. For example, tape and one or more screws can be used. For example, adhesive and one or more snap-joints can be used. For example, tape and one or more snap-joints can be used. For example, one or more screws and one or more snap-joints can be used. For example, adhesive plus one or more screws and one or more snap-joints can be used. For example, tape plus one or more screws and one or more snap joints can be used. For example, adhesive plus tape and one or more screws can be used. For example, adhesive plus tape and one or more snap-joints can be used. For example, adhesive plus tape, one or more snap-joints, and one or more screws can be used. When tape and adhesive are both used in combination, their combined thickness can be the same as if using only an adhesive or tape. The same considerations regarding thickness apply as discussed above with respect to adhesive and tape individually when the two are used in combination. In an exemplary embodiment, the tape and adhesive have a combined thickness of 0.03 inches. 
     The above attachment means can be used to permanently attach or install one or more water diffusers  200  to a water sports board. The above attachment means can also be used to detachably attach or install one or more water diffusers  200  to a water sports board. Having a detachable or releasable attachment or connection can provide the advantage to install and uninstall one or more water diffusers  200  as desired. The releasable connection are preferably strong enough to withstand the water pressure coming into contact with the one or more water diffusers  200 . Any of the above mentioned attachment means, including adhesive, screws, snap-joints, and tape can be made into a detachable or releasable joint. Likewise, any of the previously listed combination of attachment means can be made as releasable or permanent joints, connections, or attachments. Screws and snap joints are ubiquitous detachable or releasable connections often also used for fins. Likewise, detachable or releasable adhesives and tapes can be implemented without limitations. As illustrated in  FIG. 2J , in embodiments using screws, snap-joints, or a combination of both, the bottom surface of the water sports board can include one or more screw holes  245 , one or more slots  255 , or a combination of both at different locations to accommodate the screws, snap-joints, or a combination of both as exemplified for one or more water diffusers so as to allow for different arrangements and numbers of water diffusers installed on the bottom surface. 
     In exemplary embodiments, instead of attaching one or more water diffuser  200  to a finished water sports board, it is also within the scope of the invention to incorporate one or more water diffusers in the body of the water sports board and thus be an integral part of the water sports board. For example, the water diffusers can be fixed to a board prior to glassing. The same means to attach the water diffusers to the board described above can be used to fix the water diffuser to the pre-glassed board. The glassing can then be applied to coat over the water diffuser and thus make them integral to the water sports board. In some embodiments, the water diffusers can also be formed in the board blank during the shaping of the board and then glassed, instead of forming the water diffusers separately and attaching them to a shaped board prior to glassing. In some embodiments, the water diffusers can be formed with the glassing. For example, when during the glassing stage of a water sports board, glassing material can be deposited at the desired location by dripping additional glassing material, for example polyester or epoxy resin with or without fiberglass cloth mixed in, to form protruding structures reproducing or approximating as close as possible the water diffuser sizes and shapes as generally described herein. Once the glassing material hardens the water diffuser is made. The water diffuser thus is made of glassing material. As such, the water diffuser is made as an integral part water sports board by being part of the glassing of the water sports board. It is recognized that if a dripping method is used, the exact shapes otherwise described herein might not be achieved. These approximate shapes should be viewed falling within the scope of the described invention. 
     Vertical member  220  can extend from base  210 . In exemplary embodiments, vertical member  220  extends from bottom end  221  where it meets side wall  213  to a distal end  222 . Vertical member  220  can have any suitable shape for the intended purpose. Vertical member  220  can include sidewalls  223  and  224 . Sidewalls  223  and  224  can be a single contiguous sidewall. Sidewalls  223  and  224  can be two distinct sidewalls jointed together to define vertical member  220 . Sidewalls  223  and  224  can be straight. Sidewalls  223  and  224  can be convex. Sidewalls  223  and  224  can be concave. Sidewalls  223  and  224  can have similar or different contours. In exemplary embodiments, sidewalls  223  and  224  are similar. Sidewalls  223  and  224  can also be symmetric or asymmetric. Also, sidewalls  223  and  224  can be parallel. Alternatively, sidewalls  223  and  224  can define a tapering profile. For example, sidewalls  223  and  224  can be closer toward distal end  222  of vertical member  220  and farther apart at bottom end  221  where they meet sidewall  213 . In exemplary embodiments the thickness of vertical member  220  can range from about 0.1 inches to about 1 inches. For example, the thickness of vertical member  220  can be about: 0.1 inches, 0.2 inches, 0.3 inches, 0.4 inches, 0.5 inches, 0.6 inches, 0.7 inches, 0.8 inches, 0.9 inches, or 1.0 inches. 
     In exemplary embodiments, sidewalls  223  and  224  have similar shapes and are symmetric to define vertical member  220  that is symmetrical with respect to a vertical plane that dissects vertical member  220  in two parallel, vertical, mirroring halves. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 2A-2E  and  FIG. 3A , exemplary vertical member  220  can have a hydrofoil design with convex tapering sidewalls  223  and  224 . The horizontal cross-section of vertical member  220  can have an elongated elliptical shape that narrows going from bottom end  221  to distal end  222 . The elongated elliptical shape may be wider at one end than the other. In an exemplary embodiment, the vertical member  220  has a hydrofoil design with a horizontal cross-section having an elongated elliptical shape that is wider at one end and narrower at the other. In exemplary embodiments, the horizontal cross-section is a teardrop shape. The horizontal cross-section can also be a combination of an elliptical shape and a teardrop shape. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 3A , vertical member  220  can be arranged such that the wide end section of the vertical member  220  can be closer to the back end  218 , illustrated as round end  208 , of base  210 , and the narrow end section of vertical member  220  can be closer to the front end  219 , in illustrative embodiments pointed end  209 , of base  210 . 
     The width of vertical member  220  at distal end  222  when vertical member  220  includes a truncated profile at distal end  222 , when distal end  222  includes a flat surface, or both, can range from about 0.06 inches to about 0.40 inches. The width of vertical member  220  at distal end  222  is defined as the largest horizontal distance at distal  222  between sidewalls  223  and  224 . For example, the width of the vertical member  220  can be about: 0.06 inches, 0.07 inches, 0.08 inches, 0.09 inches, 0.10 inches, 0.11 inches, 0.12 inches, 0.13 inches, 0.14 inches, 0.15 inches, 0.16 inches, 0.17 inches, 0.18 inches, 0.19 inches, 0.20 inches, 0.21 inches, 0.22 inches, 0.23 inches, 0.24 inches, 0.25 inches, 0.26 inches, 0.27 inches, 0.28 inches, 0.29 inches, 0.30 inches, 0.31 inches, 0.32 inches, 0.33 inches, 0.34 inches, 0.35 inches, 0.36 inches, 0.37 inches, 0.38 inches, 0.39 inches, or 0.40 inches. In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG. 2D , the width of vertical member  220  at the distal end  222  can be 0.06 in. 
     The length of vertical member  220  at distal end  222  when vertical member  220  includes a truncated profile at distal end  222 , when distal end  222  includes a flat surface, or both, can range from about 0.3 inches to about 1.0 inches. The length of vertical member  220  at distal end  222  is defined as the horizontal distance, perpendicular to the width of vertical member  220  at distal end  222 , extending from front edge  230  to the point at distal end  222  that is closest to back end  218 . For example, the length of distal end  222  can be about: 0.3 inches, 0.35 inches, 0.4 inches, 0.45 inches, 0.5 inches, 0.55 inches, 0.6 inches, 0.65 inches, 0.70 inches, 0.71 inches, 0.72 inches, 0.73 inches, 0.74 inches, 0.75 inches, 0.76 inches, 0.77 inches, 0.78 inches, 0.79 inches, 0.8 inches, 0.81 inches, 0.82 inches, 0.83 inches, 0.84 inches, 0.85 inches, 0.86 inches, 0.87 inches, 0.88 inches, 0.89 inches, 0.9 inches, 0.91 inches, 0.92 inches, 0.93 inches, 0.94 inches, 0.95 inches, 0.96 inches, 0.97 inches, 0.98 inches, 0.99 inches, or 1.0 inches. 
     The length of vertical member  220  at bottom end  221  can range from about 0.7 inches to about 1.8 inches. The length of vertical member  220  at bottom end  221  is defined as the horizontal distance at bottom end  221  extending from front edge  230  to a point at bottom end  221  closest to back end  218 . For example, For example, the length of bottom end  221  can be about: 0.70 inches, 0.71 inches, 0.72 inches, 0.73 inches, 0.74 inches, 0.75 inches, 0.76 inches, 0.77 inches, 0.78 inches, 0.79 inches, 0.8 inches, 0.81 inches, 0.82 inches, 0.83 inches, 0.84 inches, 0.85 inches, 0.86 inches, 0.87 inches, 0.88 inches, 0.89 inches, 0.90 inches, 0.91 inches, 0.92 inches, 0.93 inches, 0.94 inches, 0.95 inches, 0.96 inches, 0.97 inches, 0.98 inches, 0.99 inches, 1.0 inches, 1.01 inches, 1.02 inches, 1.03 inches, 1.04 inches, 1.05 inches, 1.06 inches, 1.07 inches, 1.08 inches, 1.09 inches, 1.10 inches, 1.11 inches, 1.12 inches, 1.13 inches, 1.14 inches, 1.15 inches, 1.16 inches, 1.17 inches, 1.18 inches, 1.19 inches, 1.20 inches, 1.21 inches, 1.22 inches, 1.23 inches, 1.24 inches, 1.25 inches, 1.26 inches, 1.27 inches, 1.28 inches, 1.29 inches, 1.30 inches, 1.31 inches, 1.32 inches, 1.33 inches, 1.34 inches, 1.35 inches, 1.36 inches, 1.37 inches, 1.38 inches, 1.39 inches, 1.40 inches, 1.41 inches, 1.42 inches, 1.43 inches, 1.44 inches, 1.45 inches, 1.46 inches, 1.47 inches, 1.48 inches, 1.49 inches, 1.50 inches, 1.51 inches, 1.52 inches, 1.53 inches, 1.54 inches, 1.55 inches, 1.56 inches, 1.57 inches, 1.58 inches, 1.59 inches, 1.60 inches, 1.61 inches, 1.62 inches, 1.63 inches, 1.64 inches, 1.65 inches, 1.66 inches, 1.67 inches, 1.68 inches, 1.69 inches, 1.70 inches, 1.71 inches, 1.72 inches, 1.73 inches, 1.74 inches, 1.75 inches, 1.76 inches, 1.77 inches, 1.78 inches, 1.79 inches, or 1.80 inches. 
     The shape of vertical member  220  at distal end  222 , i.e. the end distal from the base  210 , is not particularly limited. For example, at distal end  222  vertical member  220  can be tapering, end at a point, have a horizontal surface, include a flat or planar portion, have an uneven surface, or any combination of two or more thereof. In embodiments, vertical member  220  may have a truncated profile at distal end  222 . Distal end  222  can include a flat surface  225 . In embodiments, as for example illustrated in  FIGS. 2A-2E  and  FIG. 3A , at distal end  222  vertical member  220  includes a truncated profile and includes a flat surface  225 . The flat surface  225  can be a horizontal surface that is parallel to underside surface  214  of base  210 . Flat surface  225  can extend along the full length of vertical member  220  or along only a portion of the length of vertical member  220 . Having a vertical member  220  with a truncated profile with a flat surface  225  at distal end  222  can be advantageous because it provides vertical member  220  with an overall stronger and more resilient structure without a thin end portion that can be more likely to break. Also, by designing vertical member  220  have a truncated profile and include a flat surface  225  at distal end  222 , the water diffuser  200  can help improve lift. 
     The overall height of the water diffuser  200 , which includes the combined height of base  210 , with or without an adhesive layer on underside surface  214 , and vertical member  220  can range from about 0.1 inches to about 2.0 inches. For example the overall height of water diffuser  200  can be about: 0.10 inches, 0.11 inches, 0.12 inches, 0.13 inches, 0.14 inches, 0.15 inches, 0.16 inches, 0.17 inches, 0.18 inches, 0.19 inches, 0.2 inches, 0.21 inches, 0.22 inches, 0.23 inches, 0.24 inches, 0.25 inches, 0.26 inches, 0.27 inches, 0.28 inches, 0.29 inches, 0.3 inches, 0.31 inches, 0.32 inches, 0.33 inches, 0.34 inches, 0.35 inches, 0.36 inches, 0.37 inches, 0.38 inches, 0.39 inches, 0.4 inches, 0.41 inches, 0.42 inches, 0.43 inches, 0.44 inches, 0.45 inches, 0.46 inches, 0.47 inches, 0.48 inches, 0.49 inches, 0.5 inches, 0.51 inches, 0.52 inches, 0.53 inches, 0.54 inches, 0.55 inches, 0.56 inches, 0.57 inches, 0.58 inches, 0.59 inches, 0.6 inches, 0.61 inches, 0.62 inches, 0.63 inches, 0.64 inches, 0.65 inches, 0.66 inches, 0.67 inches, 0.68 inches, 0.69 inches, 0.7 inches, 0.71 inches, 0.72 inches, 0.73 inches, 0.74 inches, 0.75 inches, 0.76 inches, 0.77 inches, 0.78 inches, 0.79 inches, 0.8 inches, 0.81 inches, 0.82 inches, 0.83 inches, 0.84 inches, 0.85 inches, 0.86 inches, 0.87 inches, 0.88 inches, 0.89 inches, 0.9 inches, 0.91 inches, 0.92 inches, 0.93 inches, 0.94 inches, 0.95 inches, 0.496 inches, 0.97 inches, 0.98 inches, 0.99 inches, 1.0 inches, 1.01 inches, 1.02 inches, 1.03 inches, 1.04 inches, 1.05 inches, 1.06 inches, 1.07 inches, 1.08 inches, 1.09 inches, 1.10 inches, 1.11 inches, 1.12 inches, 1.13 inches, 1.14 inches, 1.15 inches, 1.16 inches, 1.17 inches, 1.18 inches, 1.19 inches, 1.20 inches, 1.21 inches, 1.22 inches, 1.23 inches, 1.24 inches, 1.25 inches, 1.26 inches, 1.27 inches, 1.28 inches, 1.29 inches, 1.30 inches, 1.31 inches, 1.32 inches, 1.33 inches, 1.34 inches, 1.35 inches, 1.36 inches, 1.37 inches, 1.38 inches, 1.39 inches, 1.40 inches, 1.41 inches, 1.42 inches, 1.43 inches, 1.44 inches, 1.45 inches, 1.46 inches, 1.47 inches, 1.48 inches, 1.49 inches, 1.50 inches, 1.51 inches, 1.52 inches, 1.53 inches, 1.54 inches, 1.55 inches, 1.56 inches, 1.57 inches, 1.58 inches, 1.59 inches, 1.60 inches, 1.61 inches, 1.62 inches, 1.63 inches, 1.64 inches, 1.65 inches, 1.66 inches, 1.67 inches, 1.68 inches, 1.69 inches, 1.70 inches, 1.71 inches, 1.72 inches, 1.73 inches, 1.74 inches, 1.75 inches, 1.76 inches, 1.77 inches, 1.78 inches, 1.79 inches, 1.80 inches, 1.81 inches, 1.82 inches, 1.83 inches, 1.84 inches, 1.85 inches, 1.86 inches, 1.87 inches, 1.88 inches, 1.89 inches, 1.90 inches, 1.91 inches, 1.92 inches, 1.93 inches, 1.94 inches, 1.95 inches, 1.96 inches, 1.97 inches, 1.98 inches, 1.99 inches, or 2.0 inches. For example, the height of a water diffuser extending from underside surface  214  to distal end  222  can be 0.38 inches. As illustrated in  FIG. 2E , in an embodiment in which a 0.03 inches thick adhesive layer is provided on bottom underside surface  214  of base  210 , the total height of a water diffuser including from adhesive layer  226  to surface  225  can be 0.41 inches. 
     Water diffuser  200  can also include a front edge  230 . Front edge  230  can extend from front end  219 , or illustrated pointed end  209 , to distal end  222 . Front edge  230  can be a narrow flat portion. The width of front edge  230  can also widen going from front end  219 , or illustrated pointed end  209 , to distal end  222 . At its widest point, the narrow flat portion can range from about 0.01 inches to about 0.25 inches. For example, the widest point can be about: 0.10 inches, 0.11 inches, 0.12 inches, 0.13 inches, 0.14 inches, 0.15 inches, 0.16 inches, 0.17 inches, 0.18 inches, 0.19 inches, 0.2 inches, 0.21 inches, 0.22 inches, 0.23 inches, 0.24 inches, or 0.25 inches. Where front edge  230  meets front end  219 , or illustrated pointed end  209 , the flat portion may be a line. When the water diffuser  200  is installed on a water sports board, front edge  230  faces away from the tail edge of the water sports board. When the water diffuser  200  is installed on a water sports board, the front edge  230  faces toward the nose of the water sports board. Accordingly, the teardrop shaped base  210  of the water diffuser has also the pointed end  209  directed toward the nose of the water sports board, while the round end  208  is closest to the tail edge of the water sports board. Likewise, the vertical member  220  can be arranged to have a narrower horizontal cross-section toward the nose of the water sports board. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 2A-2E  and  FIG. 3A , along sidewall  213  of base  210 , front edge  230  can extend from front end  219 , or illustrated pointed end  209 , to bottom end  221  of vertical member  230 . Particularly, front edge  230  can be arranged to evenly dissect front end  219 , illustrated as pointed end  209 , and evenly split sidewall  213  between front end  219 , illustrated as pointed end  209 , and bottom end  221  into two mirroring halves. Along vertical member  230 , front edge  230  can extend from bottom end  221  to distal end  222  between sidewalls  223  and  224 . For example, front edge  230  can be located so as to evenly separate sidewalls  223  and  224 . Front edge  230  can extend in a straight vertical direction from front end  219 , illustrated as pointed end  209 , to distal end  222 . In embodiments, front edge  230  is the forward-most portion of water diffuser  200  that faces the nose of the water sports board when installed. 
     The slope of front edge  230  along the sidewall  213  of base  210  can be different from the slope of the front edge  230  along the vertical member  230 . The portion of front edge  230  along sidewall  213  can have a first slope, identified in  FIG. 2E  as angle α, and the portion of front edge  230  along the vertical member  220  can have a second slope, identified in  FIG. 2E  as angle β. In exemplary embodiments, the slope of front edge  230  along vertical member  220  is steeper than the slope of front edge  230  along sidewall  213  of base  210 . For example, the α can range from about 10° to about 20°, while the β can range from about 40° to about 60°. These ranges are only exemplary and can be varied. The overall angle of elevation, identified in  FIG. 2E  as θ, between front end  219 , illustrated as pointed end  209 , to the front portion of distal end  222 , can range from about 30° to about 45°. Having the overall angle of elevation θ be less than about 30° or greater than about 45° could negatively impact the water diffuser&#39;s ability to provide lift. Also, as illustrated in  FIGS. 2A-2E , front edge  230  can define an overall concave contour as it extends from front end  219 , illustrated as pointed end  209 , to distal end  222 . Also, the concave contour defined by front edge  230  can be curved. The degree of curvature can be defined to meet the above stated angles α, β, θ, or any combination thereof. 
     It should be appreciated that although the overall contour of front edge  230  is concave, portions of front edge  230  may have different contours. For example, any portion of front edge  230  that extends along sidewall  213  can be convex, concave, straight, or a combination thereof. Likewise, any portion of front edge  230  extending along vertical member  230  can be convex, concave, straight, or a combination thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG. 3A , the portion of front edge  230  along sidewall  213  is concave, while the portion of front edge  230  along vertical member  220  is straight, and still, overall front edge  230  defines a concave contour. 
     Front edge  230  can smoothly transition from base  210  to vertical member  220 . For example, front edge  230  can have a curved concave contour in which the front edge  230  defines a curve as it transitions from a first slope to a second slope. Alternatively, front edge  230  can have an angled contour. For example, front edge  230  can have a first portion having a first slope that is different from a second slope of a second portion, and the first and second portions meet to form an obtuse angle. In an exemplary embodiment, the obtuse angle is provided at bottom end  221  where the sidewall  213  meets vertical member  220 . Having a front edge  230  with a concave contour can promote lift. This is particularly so when a concave front edge  230  is combined with a vertical member  220  that has a truncated profile and includes a flat surface  225  at distal end  222 . However, in embodiments, front edge  230  can have a straight profile or a convex profile. 
     One or more water diffusers  200  can be arranged into a desired configuration to form a water diffuser system  400 . Referencing  FIGS. 4A-4E , the configuration of water diffuser system  400  can vary depending on the type of board. The number of water diffusers  200  included in water diffuser system  400  is not particularly limited. However, it should be recognized that having too great a number of water diffusers  200  could lead to increased drag and thus negatively affect the performance of a water sports board. In exemplary embodiments, water diffuser system  400  can include as few as a single water diffuser  200 , or as many as ten water diffusers  200 . For example, the water diffuser system  400  can include one water diffuser, two water diffusers, three water diffusers, four water diffusers, five water diffusers, six water diffusers, seven water diffusers, eight water diffusers, nine water diffusers, or ten water diffusers. For illustrative purposes,  FIGS. 4A-4E  illustrate water diffuser system  400  that includes two water diffusers, three water diffusers, or four water diffusers. 
     Water diffuser system  400  can include a set of water diffusers  200  arranged on the bottom surface, near the edge of the tail of a water sports board. The water diffusers  200  can be placed in a row. The water diffusers  200  can be placed to be offset from each other. A combination of these arrangements can also be employed. For example, in embodiments, one set of water diffusers  200  can be arranged in parallel on one row, while another set of water diffusers  200  are arranged in parallel on a different row. 
     The water diffuser system  400  can include one or more water diffusers  200  independently installed by means as described earlier. Alternatively, as illustrated in  FIGS. 4F-4J , water diffuser system  400  can include two or more water diffusers  200  can be fixed to a frame  470  that is attached or joined to the board. 
     Frame  470  can be made of the same material as used to form water diffuser  200 . Also, similar manufacturing processes can be used to form frame  470  as described for manufacturing water diffuser  200 . 
     The water diffusers  200  can be attached to frame  470  by any means previously described for attaching water diffusers  200  to a water sports board. The water diffusers  200  can be permanently attached to frame  470  or detachably attached to frame  470 . Alternatively, water diffusers  200  and frame  470  can be formed as an integral structure. Any manufacturing method previously described for manufacturing the water diffuser  200  can be used to form a frame  470  with water diffusers  200  there on. 
     Frame  470  can be permanently attached to a water sports board. Frame  470  can be detachably attached to a water sports board. Frame  470  can be attached or joined to the bottom surface of a water sports board in the same manner described for the individual water diffusers  200 . For example, frame  470  can be attached to a water sports board by adhesive, tape, one or more screws, one or more snap-joints, or a combination thereof. The adhesive, tape, or combination thereof is indicated by item  476  and can be similar to adhesive and tape previously described with respect to water diffuser  200 . One or more screws can be inserted either through the water diffusers  200  as describe previously. Alternatively, frame  470  can include one or more screw holes  475  to insert one or more screws. Also, frame  470  can include one or more lip portions  477  that can fit into one or more slots at the bottom surface of the water sports board as previously described with respect to the water diffusers  200 . The number of screw holes  475  and lip portions  477  is not particularly limited other than by the size of frame  470 . In exemplary embodiments, frame  470  can include one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, fifteen, twenty, twenty five, or thirty screw holes, lip portions, or both. In exemplary embodiments, the number of screw holes, lip portions, or both in frame  470  is one greater than the number of water diffusers on frame  470 . For example, if four water diffusers are located on frame  470 , then frame  470  can include five screw holes, five lip portions, or a combination of both. The screw holes, lip portions, or both can be located only in the water diffusers  200 , only in frame  470 , or a combination of both. The number of respective screw holes, slots, or both at the bottom surface of the water sports board can be as previously described with respect to the water diffuser  200 . In exemplary embodiments, the bottom surface of the water sports board has sufficient number of screw holes, lip portions, or both to accommodate one or more arrangements for connecting the screws, lip portions, or both of frame  470 , water diffuser  200 , or both. 
     As described earlier with respect to water diffusers  200 , a water diffuser system having a frame  470  with one or more water diffusers  200  can also be attached to a board prior to glassing and then forming the glassing over it. Thus, becoming an integral portion of the board. 
     Frame  470  can be any desired shape or design. In embodiments, frame  470  is a strip of material. Frame  470  can have a straight shape as, for example, illustrated in  FIG. 4F . Frame  470  can have a curved shape as, for example, illustrated in  FIG. 4G . Frame  470  can have an irregular shape. Frame  470  can have a zig-zag shape. Frame  470  can have a square-wave or quasi-square wave shape as, for example, illustrated in  FIG. 4H . Frame  470  can also have a combination of any two or more of the above shapes.  FIG. 4I  illustrate an exemplary side view. Also, although  FIGS. 4F-4H  illustrate the water diffusers  200  as extending beyond the borders of frame  470 , they are not required. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 4J , the water diffusers  200  can fully fit on frame  470 . Frame  470  can be of any suitable thickness. Preferably frame  470  has a thickness ranging from about 0.06 inches to about 0.5 inches. 
       FIG. 4K  illustrates an embodiment in which a water diffuser system  400  including a frame  470  is installed on a water sports board. 
     An example is illustrated in  FIG. 4A , showing an exemplary water sports board  410 , including a rigid body  415 , a nose or front  420 , a tail  430 , a fin system  440  with fins  445 , can include a water diffuser system  400  near the tail edge  450  of tail  430 . As used herein, and as referenced by item  450 , the term “tail edge” is used to refer to the back edge of the tail of the water sports board that defines the boundary of the bottom surface of the water sports board that is at the opposite end of the water sports board from the nose and is where the bottom surface and tail of the water sports board end. It should be noted that the water diffuser system  400  includes a number of water diffusers  200  that are positioned closer to the tail edge  450  of tail  430  than the fins  445  of fin system  440 . In fact, the water diffuser system  400  as a whole is located closer to tail edge  450  of tail  430  than fin system  440 . This is because, as explained further below, the water diffuser system  400  is intended to modify the turbulence and cavitation caused by the fin system  440 . As such, the water diffuser system  400  must be located so that during use, the water flowing along the bottom surface  460  of board  410  from nose  420  to tail  430  comes into contact with the fin system  440  before coming into contact with water diffuser system  400 . 
     The individual water diffusers  200  that make up the water diffuser system  400  can be spaced apart. In exemplary embodiments, the water diffusers  200  are evenly spaced so as to be equally laterally spaced from each other. Alternatively, the water diffusers  200  are not evenly spaced. Also, a combination can also be used where some water diffusers  200  may be evenly spaced, while other water diffusers  200  are not evenly spaced. 
     The spacing between water diffusers  200  can depend on the shape and size of the tail of the water sports board. In embodiments, the spacing between water diffusers  200  can range from about 0.75 inches to about 4 inches. For example, the spacing can be about: 0.75 inches, 0.76 inches, 0.77 inches, 0.78 inches, 0.79 inches, 0.8 inches, 0.81 inches, 0.82 inches, 0.83 inches, 0.84 inches, 0.85 inches, 0.86 inches, 0.87 inches, 0.88 inches, 0.89 inches, 0.9 inches, 0.91 inches, 0.92 inches, 0.93 inches, 0.94 inches, 0.95 inches, 0.96 inches, 0.97 inches, 0.98 inches, 0.99 inches, or 1.0 inches 1.0 inches, 1.01 inches, 1.02 inches, 1.03 inches, 1.04 inches, 1.05 inches, 1.06 inches, 1.07 inches, 1.08 inches, 1.09 inches, 1.10 inches, 1.11 inches, 1.12 inches, 1.13 inches, 1.14 inches, 1.15 inches, 1.16 inches, 1.17 inches, 1.18 inches, 1.19 inches, 1.20 inches, 1.21 inches, 1.22 inches, 1.23 inches, 1.24 inches, 1.25 inches, 1.26 inches, 1.27 inches, 1.28 inches, 1.29 inches, 1.30 inches, 1.31 inches, 1.32 inches, 1.33 inches, 1.34 inches, 1.35 inches, 1.36 inches, 1.37 inches, 1.38 inches, 1.39 inches, 1.40 inches, 1.41 inches, 1.42 inches, 1.43 inches, 1.44 inches, 1.45 inches, 1.46 inches, 1.47 inches, 1.48 inches, 1.49 inches, 1.50 inches, 1.51 inches, 1.52 inches, 1.53 inches, 1.54 inches, 1.55 inches, 1.56 inches, 1.57 inches, 1.58 inches, 1.59 inches, 1.60 inches, 1.61 inches, 1.62 inches, 1.63 inches, 1.64 inches, 1.65 inches, 1.66 inches, 1.67 inches, 1.68 inches, 1.69 inches, 1.70 inches, 1.71 inches, 1.72 inches, 1.73 inches, 1.74 inches, 1.75 inches, 1.76 inches, 1.77 inches, 1.78 inches, 1.79 inches, 1.80 inches, 1.81 inches, 1.82 inches, 1.83 inches, 1.84 inches, 1.85 inches, 1.86 inches, 1.87 inches, 1.88 inches, 1.89 inches, 1.90 inches, 1.91 inches, 1.92 inches, 1.93 inches, 1.94 inches, 1.95 inches, 1.96 inches, 1.97 inches, 1.98 inches, 1.99 inches, 2.0 inches, 2.01 inches, 2.02 inches, 2.03 inches, 2.04 inches, 2.05 inches, 2.06 inches, 2.07 inches, 2.08 inches, 2.09 inches, 2.10 inches, 2.11 inches, 2.12 inches, 2.13 inches, 2.14 inches, 2.15 inches, 2.16 inches, 2.17 inches, 2.18 inches, 2.19 inches, 2.20 inches, 2.21 inches, 2.22 inches, 2.23 inches, 2.24 inches, 2.25 inches, 2.26 inches, 2.27 inches, 2.28 inches, 2.29 inches, 2.30 inches, 2.31 inches, 2.32 inches, 2.33 inches, 2.34 inches, 2.35 inches, 2.36 inches, 2.37 inches, 2.38 inches, 2.39 inches, 2.40 inches, 2.41 inches, 2.42 inches, 2.43 inches, 2.44 inches, 2.45 inches, 2.46 inches, 2.47 inches, 2.48 inches, 2.49 inches, 2.50 inches, 2.51 inches, 2.52 inches, 2.53 inches, 2.54 inches, 2.55 inches, 2.56 inches, 2.57 inches, 2.58 inches, 2.59 inches, 2.60 inches, 2.61 inches, 2.62 inches, 2.63 inches, 2.64 inches, 2.65 inches, 2.66 inches, 2.67 inches, 2.68 inches, 2.69 inches, 2.70 inches, 2.71 inches, 2.72 inches, 2.73 inches, 2.74 inches, 2.75 inches, 2.76 inches, 2.77 inches, 2.78 inches, 2.79 inches, 2.80 inches, 2.81 inches, 2.82 inches, 2.83 inches, 2.84 inches, 2.85 inches, 2.86 inches, 2.87 inches, 2.88 inches, 2.89 inches, 2.90 inches, 2.91 inches, 2.92 inches, 2.93 inches, 2.94 inches, 2.95 inches, 2.96 inches, 2.97 inches, 2.98 inches, 2.99 inches, 3.0 inches, 3.01 inches, 3.02 inches, 3.03 inches, 3.04 inches, 3.05 inches, 3.06 inches, 3.07 inches, 3.08 inches, 3.09 inches, 3.10 inches, 3.11 inches, 3.12 inches, 3.13 inches, 3.14 inches, 3.15 inches, 3.16 inches, 3.17 inches, 3.18 inches, 3.19 inches, 3.20 inches, 3.21 inches, 3.22 inches, 3.23 inches, 3.24 inches, 3.25 inches, 3.26 inches, 3.27 inches, 3.28 inches, 3.29 inches, 3.30 inches, 3.31 inches, 3.32 inches, 3.33 inches, 3.34 inches, 3.35 inches, 3.36 inches, 3.37 inches, 3.38 inches, 3.39 inches, 3.40 inches, 3.41 inches, 3.42 inches, 3.43 inches, 3.44 inches, 3.45 inches, 3.46 inches, 3.47 inches, 3.48 inches, 3.49 inches, 3.50 inches, 3.51 inches, 3.52 inches, 3.53 inches, 3.54 inches, 3.55 inches, 3.56 inches, 3.57 inches, 3.58 inches, 3.59 inches, 3.60 inches, 3.61 inches, 3.62 inches, 3.63 inches, 3.64 inches, 3.65 inches, 3.66 inches, 3.67 inches, 3.68 inches, 3.69 inches, 3.70 inches, 3.71 inches, 3.72 inches, 3.73 inches, 3.74 inches, 3.75 inches, 3.76 inches, 3.77 inches, 3.78 inches, 3.79 inches, 3.80 inches, 3.81 inches, 3.82 inches, 3.83 inches, 3.84 inches, 3.85 inches, 3.86 inches, 3.87 inches, 3.88 inches, 3.89 inches, 3.90 inches, 3.91 inches, 3.92 inches, 3.93 inches, 3.94 inches, 3.95 inches, 3.96 inches, 3.97 inches, 3.98 inches, 3.99 inches, or 4.0 inches. 
     The water diffusers  200  can be spaced so that the water diffuser system  400  is are located closer to the tail edge than fin system  440  and in such a way that the water diffuser system  400  comes into contact the turbulence and cavitation that can be caused by the fins  445  of fin system  440 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment of  FIG. 4A , the water diffuser system  400  includes four water diffusers  200 , evenly spaced and located on bottom surface  460  of water sports board  410 , near tail edge  450  of tail  430 , behind a three-fin, a.k.a. thruster, fin system  440 . The water sports board  410  of  FIG. 4A  can be a surfboard. The water sports board  410  of  FIG. 4A  is illustrated as a typical shortboard shape, however, it should be understood that this is only illustrative and that water sports board  410  could also be a longboard, paddle boards, a funboard, a gun, a windsurfing board, a wakeboard, a wakesurf board, or a kiteboard. Illustrative examples of a longboard and kiteboard are illustrated in  FIGS. 6A-6B . The arrangement of  FIG. 4A  is simply illustrative and should not be viewed as limiting. 
     The water diffusers  200  of water diffuser system  400  can be spaced from tail edge  450  such as to be located at a distance from tail edge  450  that ranges from about 0.06 inches to about 4 inches. For purposes of this description, spacing between water diffusers  200  of water diffuser system  400  and tail edge  450  refers to the distance between the tail edge  450  and water diffuser  200  that is defined by the shortest linear distance from a plane  890  that is tangential to the outer point of tail edge  450  to the outer point of back end  218 , for example the midpoint of round end  208 , of the water diffuser  200 . For illustrative purposes the tangential plane  890  is shown in  FIGS. 5A-5C . In the exemplary embodiment of  FIG. 4A , the distance from tail edge  450  to water diffusers  200  is about 0.06 inches to about 0.75 inches. In other exemplary embodiments, the distance from tail edge  450  to each of the water diffusers  200  of water diffuser system  400  can be about: 0.06 inches, 0.07 inches, 0.08 inches, 0.09 inches, 0.10 inches, 0.15 inches, 0.20 inches, 0.25 inches, 0.30 inches, 0.35 inches, 0.40 inches, 0.45 inches, 0.50 inches, 0.55 inches, 0.60 inches, 0.65 inches, 0.70 inches, 0.75 inches, 0.80 inches, 0.85 inches, 0.90 inches, 0.95 inches, 1.10 inches, 1.15 inches, 1.20 inches, 1.25 inches, 1.30 inches, 1.35 inches, 1.40 inches, 1.45 inches, 1.50 inches, 1.55 inches, 1.60 inches, 1.65 inches, 1.70 inches, 1.75 inches, 1.80 inches, 1.85 inches, 1.90 inches, 1.95 inches, 2.10 inches, 2.15 inches, 2.20 inches, 2.25 inches, 2.30 inches, 2.35 inches, 2.40 inches, 2.45 inches, 2.50 inches, 2.55 inches, 2.60 inches, 2.65 inches, 2.70 inches, 2.75 inches, 2.80 inches, 2.85 inches, 2.90 inches, 2.95 inches, 3.10 inches, 3.15 inches, 3.20 inches, 3.25 inches, 3.30 inches, 3.35 inches, 3.40 inches, 3.45 inches, 3.50 inches, 3.55 inches, 3.60 inches, 3.65 inches, 3.70 inches, 3.75 inches, 3.80 inches, 3.85 inches, 3.90 inches, 3.95 inches, or 4.0 inches. 
     The distance between tail edge  450  and each water diffuser  200  of water diffuser system  400  can be the same or different. For example, a water diffuser system  400  can include two or more water diffusers  200  each of which is located at the same distance from tail edge  450 . A water diffuser system  400  can include two or more water diffusers  200  each of which is located a different distance from tail edge  450 . In some embodiments, a water diffuser system  400  can include two or more water diffusers  200  some of which are located at a first distance from tail edge  450 , while others are located a second distance from tail edge  450 , wherein the first distance and second distance are different. Any combination of various arrangements using different distances for one or more water diffusers of a water diffuser set can also be implemented. 
     The distance between the water diffusers  200  of water diffuser system  400  and the fins  445  of fin system  440  is not particularly limited other than by the size of the water sports board. 
     The water diffusers  200  of water diffuser system  400  can be arranged to promote smooth flow at the tail edge  450 . The water diffusers  200  can be installed so as to be oriented parallel to the central axis of the water sports board. In other words, the water diffusers  200  can be arranged such that a horizontal line dissecting front end  219  in equal halves is parallel to the central axis of the water sports board. For purposes of this discussion the “central axis of the water sports board” refers to the longitudinal rectilinear center axis extending from nose to tail of a water sports board, and which axis is equidistant from both rails of the water sports board as described by item  801  in conjunction with  FIG. 8 . Water diffusers  200  can also be arranged to be toe-in with respect to the central axis of the water sports board. Embodiments may include some water diffusers  200  that are parallel to the central axis of the water sports board and some water diffusers  200  that are arranged toe-in. For purposes of this disclosure, “toe-in” means that the water diffuser can be angled with respect to the central axis of the water sports board so that its back end  218  is angled away from the central axis of the water sports board while the front end  219  is angled toward the central axis of the water sports board. The angling of toe-in arranged water diffusers  200  can be set as desired. In an illustrative example,  FIG. 5B  illustrates four water diffusers  200 , the middle two water diffusers being parallel to the central axis, while the outer two water diffusers are arranged toe-in with respect to the central axis of the water sports board. In exemplary embodiments, the toe-in angle is in the range of from about 5° to about 15°, for example about: 5°, 6°, 7°, 8°, 9°, 10° 11, 12, 13, 14, or 15°. 
     Additional, non-limiting exemplary arrangements are illustrated in  FIGS. 4B-4E .  FIG. 4B  illustrates a similar water sports board as shown in  FIG. 4A , but with only two water diffusers  200  installed on the bottom surface  460  of the water sports board.  FIG. 4C  also illustrates a similar water sports board as shown in  FIG. 4A , but with five water diffusers  200  installed on the bottom surface  460  of the water sports board.  FIG. 4D  illustrates a water sports board with a twin-fin, fin system and four water diffusers  200 .  FIG. 4E  illustrates a water sports board with a Quad, or four-fin, fin system, and six water diffusers  200 . The illustrations of  FIGS. 4A-4E  demonstrate that the number of water diffusers  200  in water diffuser  400  can be altered independent of the fin system used in the water sports board. Also,  FIGS. 4A-4E  illustrate that the water diffuser system  400  including water diffusers  200  can be implemented independent of the type of fin system used in the water sports board. These examples are only illustrative and should not be viewed as limiting. 
     Also, illustrative examples of the water diffusers  200  and water diffuser system  400  installed on different types of water sports boards are provided in  FIGS. 6A-6B . For ease of reference, the same reference numerals of  FIGS. 4A-4E  are used.  FIG. 6A  illustrates a water sports board that mimics the shape of a typical longboard, funboard, and paddle board. The water sports board  410  can include a single fin system having one large fin  445 . Different from shortboards, guns, longboards, funboards, and paddle boards typically have much greater overall board volume. Also, longboards and funboards are typically longer and have a more rounded nose  420 . Paddle boards can have a rounded or pointed nose. The water diffusers  200  of water diffuser system  400  can likewise be implemented in these types of boards. In exemplary embodiment of  FIG. 6A , two water diffusers  200  are provided near tail edge  450 . Although not illustrated, longboards, funboards, and paddle boards can also be equipped with different fin systems. Likewise, it is within the scope of this disclosure that water diffuser systems  400  having fewer or more water diffusers  200  can be installed. The number of water diffusers  200  that can be installed in longboards, funboards, or paddle boards is the same as previously discussed with respect to  FIGS. 4A-4E  as well as generally discussed throughout the general description. 
       FIG. 6B  illustrates another exemplary embodiment of the implementation of the water diffuser system  400 .  FIG. 6B  illustrates a water sports board that mimics the shape of a common kiteboard. As illustrated, kiteboards can include more squared ends and can be designed to have two mirroring fin systems. This should not be viewed as limiting, as some kiteboards can include fins only at one end. The use of a dual fin system in a kiteboard can be useful to allow better riding in both directions. This means that the nose  420  and tail  430  of a kiteboard can be designed to have a similar shape and the nomenclature for these two sections depends on the direction of travel during use. Accordingly, for illustrative purposes only, an exemplary kiteboard is shown with both ends including a fin system each of which can be considered a tail  430 , with a tail edge  450 . As illustrated, although two fin systems are used, with fins  445  at each end of the kiteboard, a water diffuser system  400  including two or more water diffusers  200  can also be provided at each end of the kiteboard. The number of water diffusers  200  and their arrangement is the same as previously described earlier. The illustration of  FIG. 6B  showing four water diffusers  200  at each end of kiteboard  410  is only illustrative. Fewer and more water diffusers  200  can equally be installed as discussed earlier with respect to  FIGS. 4A-4E  and as described more generally throughout the description. 
     The water diffuser system  400  with water diffusers  200  can also be implemented independent of the shape of the tail of a water sports board. There are numerous tail designs that are used in water sports boards. The design of the tail of a water sports board does not limit the implementation of the water diffuser system  400  with water diffusers  200 .  FIGS. 5A-5C  illustrate some of the more common tail designs. The illustrated designs are not meant to be an exhaustive list and are only illustrative. 
       FIG. 5A  illustrate what is known as a swallow tail design.  FIG. 5B  illustrates a round or pin tail design.  FIG. 5C  illustrates a squash tail design. Additional tail designs are well known in the art and will not be listed here, still they should be considered to be included within the scope of the invention. 
       FIGS. 5A-5C  illustrate the implementation of water diffuser system  400  with water diffusers  200  on different tail designs. In embodiments, the distance between the water diffusers  200  and the tail edge  450  can be maintained the same across all water diffusers  200  by arranging the water diffusers  200  in accordance with the contour of tail edge  450 . 
     For example,  FIG. 5A  illustrates water diffusers  200  arranged along the tail edge  450  of a swallow tail  500 . To maintain the distance between water diffusers  200  and tail edge  450 , the water diffusers  200  are not arranged in a straight line. Instead, the water diffusers  200  are arranged to follow the contour of the tail edge  450 . As such, the two middle water diffusers  200  are set up inward, i.e. closer to the nose of the water sports board, compared to the outer two water diffusers  200 . 
       FIG. 5B  illustrates an example of how the water diffuser system  400  having water diffusers  200  can be installed on a round tail shaped tail edge  450 . Round tail  510  tapers at the sides, thus, if a consistent distance is desired to be maintained between the water diffusers  200  and tail edge  450 , then the two outer water diffusers  200  must be installed inward, i.e. closer to the nose of the water sports board, than the two inner water diffusers  200 . 
     Finally,  FIG. 5C  illustrates an example of how the water diffuser system  400  having water diffusers  200  can be installed on a squash tail  520 . As illustrated, a squash tail has a generally even tail edge  450 . As such, if the same distance between tail edge  450  and the water diffusers  200  is desired, then the water diffusers  200  can be arranged in parallel following in a straight line. 
     The illustrations of  FIGS. 5A-5C  are simply illustrative examples. Additional arrangements can be implemented as desired. 
     The above described unique shape of water diffuser  200  implemented in a water diffuser system as described provides advantages when installed on a water sports board. The above design and configuration can maximize lift, funneling, and speed. In particular, as illustrated in  FIGS. 7A-7C , the water diffuser as described herein can provide an effective remedy to instability by modulating turbulence and cavitation caused by a fin system discussed in conjunction with  FIGS. 1A-1B .  FIG. 7A  illustrates a side view of a water diffuser  200  positioned near the edge  701  of the tail of a water sports board  700 . As illustrated in  FIG. 7A-7B , the overall concave contour of front edge  230  provides a ramp-like shape. This allows the flow of water, illustrated with arrows  702 , that comes into contact with water diffuser  200  to flow along vertical member  220  and thus provide lift even at low speeds. As the turbulent flow  704  of water comes into contact with the water diffuser  200 , it becomes smoother and more laminar flow. For example, in the illustrated design, the shape of base  210 , that widens from front end  219  to back end  218 , and hydrofoil shape of vertical member  230  induce smoother or more laminar flow  703  of water along the sides of water diffuser  200 . The smoother or more laminar flow  703  continues past the water diffuser  200 . 
     As water diffuser  200  glides through the turbulence  704  induced by the fin system  705 , the water diffuser is able to modulate at least some of the turbulence into a smoother or more laminar flow  703  and to break-up any air bubbles that come in contact with it. As the water comes into contact with the fin system  705  of the water sports board  700 , the fins  706  create a wake of cavitated turbulent liquid  704  full of air pockets and bubbles. Bubbles and air pockets at the tail end of the water sports board are the causes for the feeling of instability and loss of traction which results in loss of speed and potentially cause a surfer to fall off the board. The water diffusers  200  can slice the air bubbles thus eliminating or reducing the air pockets as they exit the tail end of the water sports board during use. In so doing, water diffuser  200  can reduce cavitation. This in turn makes for a more stable and smoother ride. 
     By arranging one or more water diffusers  200  of a water diffuser system  707  as described above, i.e. by locating or positioning the water diffuser system  707  near the tail edge  701  of the bottom surface  709  of a water sports board  700  as illustrated in  FIGS. 7A-7C , the water diffusers  200  can dampen or reduce the turbulence and cavitation caused by the fin system  705  located in front of the water diffuser system  707 . Thus, it is possible to install or locate a one or more water diffusers  200  of a water diffuser system  707  to a bottom surface  709  of a water sports board  700  at a location between a fin system  705  and a tail edge  701  of the water sports board  700  such that the water diffuser system  707  is able to modulate the cavitation and turbulence caused by the fin system  705 . By locating the water diffuser system near the edge  701  of the tail of the water sports board  700  as described above, the water diffuser system allows maximum water flow along the bottom surface of the water sports board without excessive resistance. Also, due to the particular location of the water diffuser system, after the water passes by the water diffuser system, there is insufficient time for any turbulence to further interact with the bottom surface of the water sports board. 
     Accordingly, the water diffuser system as described herein, located at the described position, provides the advantage of reducing or modulating the turbulence and cavitation that is present at the bottom surface of the tail edge  701  of the water sports board  700 . Resulting from these effects, is a smoother water flow  703  at the tail edge of the water sports board  700  which translates in increased stability. Also, because the water diffusers can also provide lift, the water diffuser system as arranged can increase lift at the tail end and thus improve overall speed of the water sports board. Accordingly, a water sports board with a water diffuser system having one or more water diffusers as described can exhibit improved stability and performance. 
     As discussed earlier, the water diffusers  200  can be installed as desired to form a water diffuser system  400  for a particular water sports board. In exemplary embodiments, a user of a water sports board can install one or more water diffusers  200  on an existing water sports board by any attaching means previously described. In so doing, the user can obtain a water sports board having a water diffuser system  400  with one or more water diffusers  200 . Also, a water diffuser system  400  including a frame  470  with two or more water diffusers  200  can be installed on a water sports board as described previously to achieve a water sports board with a water diffuser system  400  and two or more water diffusers  200 . As discussed earlier, the attaching means for each water diffuser  200  or for frame  470  can be permanent attachments or releasable attachments. Alternatively, a user can obtain a water sports board in which one or more water diffusers  200  have already been installed or where one or more water diffusers  200  have been integrally formed as described earlier. In an exemplary embodiment, a user can attach one or more water diffusers  200 , for example four water diffusers  200 , or a water diffuser system  400  having a frame  470  with two or more water diffusers  200 , for example, four water diffusers  200 , using an epoxy adhesive to the bottom surface of a water sports board. The one or more water diffusers  200 , or frame  470 , can be arranged such that the water diffusers  200  are proximate to the tail edge of the water sports board. Once the water diffusers  200  have been installed, either directly or by attaching frame  470 , the user can use the improved water sports board as generally intended. 
     In an exemplary embodiment, the water diffusers can be installed on a surfboard, and the size of the water diffusers  200  can be selected based on the size of the waves for which the surfboard is intended. For example, for riding 1 to 4 foot waves, the water diffusers  200  can be selected to have a base length of about 1.03 inches, a vertical member that is about 0.31 inches in length, and an overall height of about 0.38 inches. For riding 4 to 10 foot waves, the water diffusers  200  can be selected to have a base length of about 1.38 inches, a vertical member that is about 0.43 inches, and an overall height of about 0.5 inches. For riding 10 foot or larger waves, the water diffusers  200  can be selected to have a base length of about 2.17 inches, a vertical member that is about 0.68 inches, and an overall height that is about 0.75 inches. These are just exemplary. As discussed earlier, considerations other than wave size can also be taken into account when selecting the size of the water diffusers. 
     For example, if the water sports board is a surfboard, a user can install one or more water diffusers  200  near the tail edge as described earlier with respect to other types of water sports board. The user can then use the surfboard to surf waves by paddling while kneeling or lying down over the deck and then jumping into a standing position when catching and riding a wave. If the water sports board is a paddle board, a user can install one or more water diffusers  200  near the tail edge as described earlier with respect to other types of water sports board. The user can then stand on the board and use a paddle to propel the board forward. The user can simply ride the paddle board on calm waters or to catch and ride waves. If the water sports board is a windsurfing board, a user can install one or more water diffusers  200  near the tail edge as described earlier with respect to other types of water sports board. The user can then stand on the deck and hold the sail to harness the wind power to propel the board forward. Windsurfing boards can be used to ride waves and over flat water. If the water sports board is a wakesurf board, a user can install one or more water diffusers  200  near the tail edge as described earlier with respect to other types of water sports board. The user can then use the wakesurf board as intended by initially being towed by a watercraft or other vehicle into the watercraft&#39;s wake and then surf the wakesurf board on the wake caused by watercraft or other vehicle without being towed by a rope. If the water sports board is a wakeboard, a user can install one or more water diffusers  200  near the tail edge as described earlier with respect to other types of water sports board. The user can then use the wakeboard as intended while being towed by a watercraft or other vehicle while surfing the wakeboard on the wake caused by the towing watercraft or other vehicle. If the water sports board is a kiteboard, a user can install one or more water diffusers  200  at either or both ends of the board, and then ride the board while standing and being towed by a kite attached to a harness worn by the user. During use, the kiteboard can be used to glide over a water surface, ride waves, and do air jumps. 
     Accordingly, the addition of a water diffuser system having one or more water diffusers would not alter the typical use of a water sports board. The water diffuser system with the one or more water diffusers can be used to improve the performance of the water sports board in its typical use by improving stability and lift through modulation of the turbulence and cavitation cause by the fins of the fin system as discussed earlier. 
     It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus, it is intended that the present invention cover the modifications and variations of this invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.