Abstract:
A harmonic apparatus designed to affect the performance of waterborne vessels. The vibratory generator is tuned with respect to the fundamental frequency of the vessel at the onset of planning, the various wave patterns generated by the moving vessel and the kinematics of the vortex sheet. As the vessel moves through water, vibrational reactions occur that assist the performance of the vessel. The harmonic apparatus can be reconfigured to operate on several different modalities.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    1. Field of Invention 
         [0002]    This invention relates primarily to the reactions between the hull of a watercraft and the fluid flow. 
         [0003]    2. Prior Art 
         [0004]    A prior art search did not find any pertinent reference involving this invention. This invention deals with the fluid flow resulting from a moving watercraft. Generally, watercrafts are a type of waterborne vessels that have a hull and a deck; the hull interacts with the water as the waterborne vessel moves; and the operator, or passengers, occupies the deck. As the watercraft moves through the water, a fluid flow is generated proximate to the hull. The fluid flow characteristics around the hull are normally related to the morphology of the hull. The morphology is described by parametric constraints and some of these constraints include: the precise geometry of the hull, the beam to length ratio, the prismatic coefficient, the beam of waterline, and other factors describing the hull&#39;s form. 
         [0005]    Marine engineering is a broad subject and all the variables, factors, circumstances and exceptions cannot be fully discussed in this disclosure. Generally, the operating conditions of the hull dictate the morphology of the hull. For example, hulls designed for hydroplaning have larger beam to length ratio than non-hydroplaning hulls. Most hulls are static structures, namely their parametric properties are fixed, and the geometry of the hull is designed for a particular operating condition, such as hydroplaning or low speed cruising. The specific operating conditions influence the design of the hull (i.e. Froude number, drag characteristics, displacement requirements, etc), and the resulting fluid flow characteristics. 
         [0006]    Succinctly, the fluid flow characteristics are generally related to the morphology of the hull. This is a limitation of the current art where the fluid flow characteristics are generally rigidly related to the parametric properties of the hull. That is, properties such as beam to length ratio and hull geometry, which dictate the performance of the vessel. The apparatus of this invention addresses this limitation by interacting between the hull and the fluid flow in a dynamic manner. 
         [0007]    As demonstrated in the primary embodiment, this invention is implemented using vented hull technology. The vented hull embodiment is chosen to demonstrate this invention because it has many benefits such as: a lack of added drag components, lower cost componentry, and it can easily be incorporated into hulls that use vented hull technology. Vented hull technology has a long history in modern navel architecture. As early as 1865 John Scott Russell developed the concept of “Air Lubrication”. He formed this concept by pumping air around the hull to reduce skin friction (viscous drag). This concept has been further refined over the years, and steps were later developed to assist in sucking air into the bottom of the hull (such as in the 1912 vessel “The Maple Leaf”). Some of the greatest research and development in this field was done during World War Two, and later these inventions where incorporated into seaplane hulls. These are published in the American National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics reports of that time (the NACA is the precursor to NASA). 
         [0008]    There are many inventive refinements to the vented hull as illustrated in NACA reports and more recently in Canadian Patent No. CA 1119895 dated Mar. 16, 1982, granted to LANTZ, HARLAN G., for “MULTIPLE STEP VENTED HULL”. These refinements deal primarily with skin friction (viscous drag); aeration is used to reduce the surface area of the hull with respect to water flow. As a consequence of aeration, the fluid flow is manipulated as a secondary effect, and in this example, the fluid flow characteristics are still passively related and directed by the morphology of the hull. 
         [0009]    The primary modality of this invention is with respect to viscous drag and as a consequence of using this invention the fluid flow characteristics can be manipulated. This invention also relates to the wave drag. There are two major components of hydrodynamic drag on the surface of a watercraft: wave drag, and viscous drag. There are many theories that explain the various aspects of the fluid flow characteristics, however, this invention is based on three fluid mechanic theories: wave theory, vortex sheet theory and the law of wall. The invention has at least three modalities based on the above theories, as mentioned wave theory, vortex sheet theory and the law of wall. The apparatus of this invention can be reconfigured to operate based on these modalities. The third modality (law of wall) is implemented using a method based on Walsh and Weinstein (1978-refer to information disclosure statement). 
         [0010]    The major deficiencies with the prior art addressed by this invention are: the manipulation of the fluid flow characteristics over a wide Froude number range (this apparatus can be reconfigured to operate with a variety of modalities), the dynamic interaction between the hull and the fluid flow, the flexibility to be implemented in a variety of ways that do not require vented hull technology, and a wide variety of tuning methods that effect the performance (i.e. drag, efficiency and the handling of the vessel). There are many secondary effects that depend upon the actual implementation method; some of these will be elaborated in the alternative embodiment section of this disclosure, especially the auxiliary benefits of this apparatus with respect to viscous drag. 
       OBJECTS AND ADVANTAGES 
       [0011]    One of the Innovative aspects of this invention is the dynamic interaction between the hull of a vessel and the fluid flow. This allows for a wider variety of performance tuning such as, drag, stability, and efficiency tuning. A significant feature of this invention is the ability to operate using various modalities. This apparatus can be reconfigured to operate or interact with the fluid flow using a multitude of methods and techniques. The dynamic interactions are not limited to one form, as this apparatus has the ability to respond to changes in speed of the vessel, fluid flow conditions and many other tuning considerations that the hull designer may have (such as handling). This apparatus can use a variety of different forms to manipulate the fluid flow, such as the use of sonic transmissions or various forms of direct\indirect mechanical manipulation. 
     
    
     
       DRAWINGS 
       Figures of Primary Embodiment 
         [0012]    The invention, as exemplified by a preferred embodiment, is described with reference to the drawings in which: 
           [0013]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a boat with an air duct showing—the rest of the apparatus is concealed; 
           [0014]      FIG. 2  is a wireframe left side view of the boat, with the apparatus of the invention included into the boat and illustrated with a heavier line weight; 
           [0015]      FIG. 3  is a top wireframe view of the boat with the apparatus of the invention included into the boat using a heavier line weight; 
           [0016]      FIG. 4  is a top view of the apparatus only as illustrated in  FIG. 3 ; 
           [0017]      FIG. 5  is a front sectional view of the apparatus as indicated in  FIG. 4 . 
         Figures of Alternative Embodiments 
         [0018]      FIG. 6  is a front sectional view of the invention similar to that of  FIG. 5  whereby the apparatus utilizes electronics. 
           [0019]      FIG. 7  is a perspective view of a boat hull with an electromechanical vibratory generator. 
           [0020]      FIG. 7A  is an enlarged view of the electromechanical vibratory generator as shown in  FIG. 7 . 
           [0021]      FIG. 8  is a perspective view of a boat hull with a rotational electromechanical vibratory generator. 
           [0022]      FIG. 8A  is an enlarged view of the rotational mechanical vibrator as shown in  FIG. 8 . 
           [0023]      FIG. 9  is a perspective view of the hull of a boat with an experimental double skin. 
           [0024]      FIG. 9A  is an enlarged view of the vibratory generator incorporated into the double hull as shown in  FIG. 9 . 
           [0000]    
         
           
                 
               
                 
                 
               
             
                 
                     
                 
                 
                   DRAWINGS--Primary Embodiment Reference Numerals 
                 
                 
                     
                 
               
               
                 
                     
                 
               
            
             
                 
                    2 
                   vessel 
                 
                 
                    4 
                   top surface (deck) 
                 
                 
                    6 
                   bottom surface (hull) 
                 
                 
                    8 
                   bow 
                 
                 
                   10 
                   stern 
                 
                 
                   12 
                   step 
                 
                 
                   14 
                   air intake baffle 
                 
                 
                   14s 
                   air intake baffle on the starboard side of the boat 
                 
                 
                   14 p 
                   air intake baffle on the port side of the boat 
                 
                 
                   16 
                   air duct 
                 
                 
                   16s 
                   air duct on the starboard sie of the vessel 
                 
                 
                   16p 
                   air duct on the port side of the vessel 
                 
                 
                   18 
                   plenum 
                 
                 
                   20 
                   waveguide/tuned exhaust-runner(s) port(s) 
                 
                 
                   20s 
                   tuned exhaust-runner ports located on the starboard side of the 
                 
                 
                     
                   vessel 
                 
                 
                   20p 
                   tuned exhaust-runner ports located on the port side of the vessel 
                 
                 
                   21 
                   middle waveguide 
                 
                 
                   21s 
                   middle waveguide located on the starboard side 
                 
                 
                   21p 
                   middle waveguide located on the port side 
                 
                 
                   22 
                   Helmholtz resonators 
                 
                 
                   22s 
                   Helmholtz resonators located on the starboard side of the vessel 
                 
                 
                   22p 
                   Helmholtz resonators that are located on the port side of the 
                 
                 
                     
                   vessel 
                 
                 
                   24 
                   vibratory generators 
                 
                 
                   24s 
                   vibratory generator located on the starboard side 
                 
                 
                   24p 
                   vibratory generator located on the port side of the vessel 
                 
                 
                   28 
                   hemispheric ends 
                 
                 
                   28s 
                   starboard hemispheric end 
                 
                 
                   28p 
                   port hemispheric end 
                 
                 
                   30 
                   longitudinal skirt 
                 
                 
                   30s 
                   longitudinal skirt along the starboard side 
                 
                 
                   30p 
                   longitudinal skirt along the port side 
                 
                 
                     
                 
               
            
           
         
       
           [0000]    
         
           
                 
               
                 
                 
                 
               
             
                 
                     
                 
                 
                   DRAWINGS--Alternative Embodiment Reference Numerals 
                 
                 
                     
                 
               
               
                 
                     
                 
               
            
             
                 
                     
                   618 
                   power source 
                 
                 
                     
                   620 
                   Computer controlled signal generator 
                 
                 
                     
                   622p 
                   port amplifier 
                 
                 
                     
                   622s 
                   starboard amplifier 
                 
                 
                     
                   624 
                   electro acoustic transducer 
                 
                 
                     
                   624p 
                   port side electro acoustic transducer 
                 
                 
                     
                   624s 
                   starboard side electro acoustic transducer 
                 
                 
                     
                   626 
                   sensor 
                 
                 
                     
                   626p 
                   port sensor 
                 
                 
                     
                   626s 
                   starboard sensor 
                 
                 
                     
                   724 
                   mechanical vibratory generator 
                 
                 
                     
                   726 
                   flexible member\ribbon 
                 
                 
                     
                   824 
                   rotational vibratory generators 
                 
                 
                     
                   826 
                   rotating member 
                 
                 
                     
                   924 
                   magneto-rheological fluids 
                 
                 
                     
                   926u 
                   upper membrane 
                 
                 
                     
                   926l 
                   lower membrane 
                 
                 
                     
                   928u 
                   upper polar actuator 
                 
                 
                     
                   928l 
                   lower polar actuator 
                 
                 
                     
                     
                 
               
            
           
         
       
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     FIG.  1 -FIG.  5   
       [0025]    Each number (in these drawings) refers to an operable element. Due to the symmetry of this invention, the use of the subscript p is used to refer to the port (left side) and s to indicate the starboard (right side) placement of the elements on the vessel. 
         [0026]      FIG. 1  (of the drawings) shows a perspective view of a boat\vessel; the vessel  2  has a top surface  4 , a bottom surface  6 , a bow  8 , a stern  10  and showing a port longitudinal skirt  30   p . The only visible element of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 1  is an air intake baffle  14   p  that is located on the port side. The air intake baffle  14   p  has an upward slope with respect to the waterline that minimizing the possibility of water entering into the baffle. The longitudinal skirt  30   p  is located length wise on the hull and extends slightly below a step  12  (not shown—see  FIG. 2 ). 
         [0027]      FIG. 2  shows a wireframe side view of the boat and the location of the inventive apparatus within the wireframe.  FIG. 2  shows the general form of the apparatus where an air intake system, comprised of an intake baffle  14 , is connected to an air duct  16 . The air duct  16  connects to a plenum  18 . An exhaust-runner port(s)  20  connects on the posterior side of the plenum  18  and terminates at step  12 . The longitudinal skirt(s)  30  is located length wise on the hull and extends slightly below the step  12 . The exhaust-runner port(s)  20  operate as waveguides and are operationally connected to a plurality of Helmholtz resonators  22 . 
         [0028]      FIG. 3  shows a wireframe top view of the vessel with the apparatus in position.  FIG. 4  shows an enlarged top view of the apparatus only as shown in  FIG. 3 . These Figures show the symmetry of the invention, where the port and starboard sides of the elements described in  FIG. 2  become visible. 
         [0029]      FIG. 4  shows that the plenum  18  has a hemispheric end  28   p  on the port side; likewise on the starboard side there is a hemispheric end  28   s . On the port side of the vessel there is a middle exhaust-runner port  21   p  that is part of a triplet of exhaust-runner ports  20   p , a plurality of Helmholtz resonators  22   p  are operationally connected to the exhaust-runner ports  20   p . Likewise on the starboard side there is a plurality of Helmholtz resonators  22   s  that are operably connected to a triplet of exhaust-runner ports  20   s  that contain a middle port  21   s . There is a longitudinal skirt  30   p  on the port side that extends slightly pass the stern  10 , likewise on the starboard side the skirt  30   s  extends slightly pass the stern  10 . 
         [0030]      FIG. 3  shows the exhaust-runner ports ( 20   p  and  20   s  as shown in  FIG. 4 ) terminate at the step  12 . 
         [0031]      FIG. 5  is a sectional view as indicated in  FIG. 4 , this shows the internals of the apparatus where the port intake baffle  14   p  connects to the port air duct  16   p  and mounts on the port side of the plenum  18 . The port side the plenum  18  has the hemispheric end  28   p . A port vibratory generator  24   p  is mounted inside the plenum  18  and is operationally connected to the middle exhaust-runner port  21   p . Similarly on the starboard side of the apparatus the baffle  14   s  connects to an air duct  16   s  and mounts to the starboard side of the plenum  18  proximate to a hemispheric end  28   s . A starboard vibratory generator  24   s  mounts to the middle exhaust-runner port  21   s . In this embodiment the vibratory generator  24   p  and  24   s  is an idealized variable frequency whistle. 
       Theory of Operation 
       [0032]    At this point a discussion regarding the theory of operation is required so that each element and the operation of this invention will become clearer. This disclosure will illustrate the principles of the invention without defining every aspect of the fluid mechanic theories, jargon and the particularities used. The fundamental theories in the operation of this invention are explained to my understanding; however I do not wish to be bound by this. 
         [0033]    There are several embodiments of this invention, but some of the fundamental elements include a variable vibratory generator (or some form of adjustable oscillator), a control apparatus that applies a transfer function to the vibratory generator, and some method of transmitting the vibratory information from the vibratory generator to the fluid flow (proximate to the hull). When a surface watercraft moves through water there are two main forms of hydrodynamic drag: wave drag and viscous drag. This invention primarily uses fluid wave mechanics (the associated drag), and the ratio of boat speed to boat length (which is called the Froude number), to enhance the performance of a water vessel. This non-dimensional Froude number is usually used when discussing wave drag (see  FIG. 12A ). 
         [0034]    The first step is to determine the precise characteristics of the fluid flow for the particular hull in which the invention is going to be used. This is a critical step in the development of the transfer function. The precise characteristics of the fluid flow must be resolved for the entire operating conditions of the hull in question. This can be accomplished by analytical techniques such as using computational fluid dynamic programs (CFD), and/or model testing techniques. Some of the characteristics of the fluid flow that must be determined are: vortex sheet characteristics (e.g. vortex lines\filaments, circulation\vortices, velocity potential, stream function, etc), wave patterns, wake flow, and general fluid flow kinematics. Reiterating, the fluid flow characteristics must be resolved for the entire Froude number and operating range of the particular hull, as this information is used in the development of the transfer function. The transfer function is used to control the output of the vibratory generator(s). 
         [0035]    In this embodiment the vibratory generator will use acoustic technology; a variable frequency whistle is used as the vibratory generator. The acoustic information is transferred to the airflow generated by the vented hull and this will provide means for transmitting vibratory information to the fluid flow under the hull. Other implementations of this invention can use different vibratory generators, control systems, and application methods. This will be elaborated in the later section of alternative embodiments. 
         [0036]    The development of the transfer function uses wave and vibration mechanics in the tuning process. The following discussion will explain some of the techniques used in the development of the transfer function. The information of the analysis of the fluid flow is used to develop the transfer function. The designer can adjust the output of the vibratory generators based on these mechanics. A skilled designer can use a multitude of techniques to develop the transfer function for this apparatus. 
         [0037]    Some parameters that are used in the development of the transfer function include frequency factors, acoustic power factors, wave kinematics, group and phase speed factors, interference, phase, harmonic output, intensity outputs, modulation, dampening, and the vortex line interferometric interactions. Techniques illustrated in the development of the transfer function for this discussion, include, signal theory, harmonic excitation and the damping with facets of perturbation theory. The fluid flow analysis is used to determine which techniques are most effective for the particular modality and Froude number. 
         [0038]    As already mentioned the hulls of any vessel are generally rigid structures, where the nature of the fluid flow is generally affected by the hull morphology. Previously, the fluid flow was determined by the hull morphology and this apparatus dynamically interacts with the fluid flow affecting the fluid flow (that previously was primarily determined by the hull form). As the vessel moves through the water, various wave systems result (see  FIG. 12B  and  FIG. 12C ). These various wave patterns form interactions that can be shown in  FIG. 12A , where humps and hollows show the resulting drag undulations from these interactions. These undulations are a result of the interaction of the hull and the various wave systems as the vessel moves through the water. 
         [0039]    There are three primary modalities\configurations of this invention. In one configuration, this invention operates based on the wave system and focuses particularly on the wave patterns generated by the hull (including the bow wave), the transverse wave pattern, and the fundamental frequency of the boat with respect to the trans-planing speed. In the second configuration, the apparatus changes its modality and transitions its output with respect to the Kelvin wave system and the vortex sheet. The Kelvin wave system consists of several interactions such as the diverging wave crests from the bow, stern, and transverse wave crests (see  FIG. 12C ). These wave systems are a physical illustration of the vortex sheet theory. The third modality of this invention is based on the law of the wall coordinate (Walsh and Weinstein, 1978). 
         [0040]    The first modality relates to wave kinematics, particularly with the Froude number, transverse wave pattern, bow wave and the trans-planing region. The auxiliary benefits of this embodiment with respect to viscous drag will be discussed later on. Wave drag can be plotted with respect to boat speed (see  FIG. 12A ). There are humps and hollows in wave drag until about Froude 0.5. The trans-planing region is approximately Froude 0.4 to 0.5. Generally after Froude 0.5 the vessel is hydroplaning. 
         [0041]    The bow wave makes it more difficult for the vessel to begin hydroplaning. In this modality the fundamental frequency of the boat is determined at the onset of planing. Referring to Figure A, the semi-planing region is approximately from 0.4 to 0.5 Froude. The hump at the onset of planing is approximately Froude 0.3; the natural frequency of the boat is then calculated at this Froude number. The various wavelengths shown in  FIG. 12B  are used to develop the transfer function. The transfer function is used to control the output of the vibratory generator. Two tuning methods are illustrated in this modality using sympathetic and cancellation techniques. 
         [0042]    The vibratory generator is tuned to a sympathetic frequency (as determined by the natural frequency of the hull) at the onset of hydroplaning and the bow wavelength. As the boat accelerates to semi-planing region (approximately Froude 0.3), a sympathetic vibration occurs between the hull and the fluid flow. This causes resonance between the hull and the fluid flow at the onset of hydroplaning, thereby helping to compensate for the bow wave. Also the transfer function can incorporate a cancellation technique, where the vibratory generator outputs an inverse resonance frequency. The designer can use a combination of these techniques in the development of the transfer function whereby the output can cycle between different techniques, or use a technique that is most effective for the particular hull. 
         [0043]    In this example, at approximately Froude 0.3 the natural (fundamental) frequency of a vessel is calculated to be three Hertz (Hz). Thus an overtone frequency is calculated to be 3000 Hz (the 999 overtone or an overtone that is most efficacious for the particular hull, flow characteristics, or embodiment type). As the vessel accelerates to planing speed, a sympathetic vibration occurs between the hull and the fluid flow, causing resonance. The output of the apparatus is controlled by the transfer function, whereby the vibratory output is a function of the hull at the onset of planing (thereby minimizing the bow wave effect). 
         [0044]    The transfer function can incorporate a cancellation technique in controlling the output of the vibratory generator. In this example when the Froude number is 0.3 a wave pattern is illustrated in  FIG. 12B . The transfer function can incorporate cancellation techniques where the vibratory generator outputs an inverse function F −1 (t) of the wave pattern at Fn=0.3 (as shown in  FIG. 12B ). The transfer function is used in the control apparatus to control the output of the vibratory generator, so that the output can be changed rapidly between techniques, wave patterns and operating conditions of the vessel. The vibratory generator can use a feedback loop so that the output can quickly change techniques from instance to instance. Two techniques have been illustrated that show how the transfer function can change the output of the vibratory generator from one regime to another. The development of the transfer function is based on the analyses of the reactions between the vibratory generator(s), the hull, and the fluid flow (as illustrated in the electronic implementation of the alternative embodiment). 
         [0045]    The apparatus transitions modalities between the first and second modality based on the Kelvin wave system and the vortex sheet theory. The transfer function is developed based on the results of the analysis of the fluid flow with respect to the particular hull the apparatus is going to be incorporated into. The second modality of this invention relates to the reaction between the vortex sheet and the hull of the vessel. Once the fluid flow is fully analyzed the designer can begin to configure the vibratory generator to interact with the parameters of the vortex sheet and the hull. These configurations are incorporated into a transfer function that controls the output of the vibratory generator. The output from the vibratory generator is changed depending on the performance objectives of the designer. 
         [0046]    Some of the characteristics of the vortex sheet that should be determined include, the stream function (ψ), velocity potential (φ) (—that satisfy the Cauchy-Riemann condition), coordinate system such as Cartesian (x, y, z), polar (r,θ) or law of wall (h+, s+ . . . this coordinate system is important in the third modality of the invention) and vortex lines/filaments. 
         [0047]    In this modality two techniques are discussed in the development of the transfer function; they include signal theory and perturbation theory.  FIG. 12C  shows the divergent wave pattern as the boat moves through the water (this forms a sort of ‘envelope’). Modulation techniques are used in this modality. The designer uses this information with analytical techniques such as Fourier or phasor analysis in the development of the transfer function. The function F(t) is developed based on the divergent wave pattern (i.e. the envelope). The inverses function F −1 (t) is used to change the divergent wave&#39;s motion (amount δ—the illustration of  FIG. 12C  is exaggerated for demonstrative purposes). This attenuation results in a different wake flow. Thereby affecting drag characteristics and some of the undulations illustrated in  FIG. 12A . 
         [0048]      FIG. 12D  shows how the transfer function can use harmonic excitation and\or perturbation theory in the tuning process; the placement of the oscillator or apparatus is critical to this technique. Harmonic excitation can be added to the vortex filament that can manifest into a larger perturbation of the trailing vortices, (see  FIG. 12D ) thereby affecting the wake shape. The divergent wave patterns form an envelope where analytical techniques as described above can be used. A vibratory function can be constructed bound by this envelope. The transfer function can be configured so that vibratory generator can transmit various harmonic outputs that affect vortex lines kinematics, wake flow, and phase velocity. 
         [0049]    Very complicated transfer functions can use a combination of techniques to control the output of the vibratory generator, whereby the output can cycle through a series of functions that can have a cumulative effect. The technique can cycle from perturbations of the trail vortices to the use of modulation techniques (as described above), interferometric and phase and group speed to adjust the various fluid flow characteristics. A skilled designer can use this information to adjust the invention so that the output of the vibratory generator can shape the wake flow and the resulting performance. 
         [0050]    The third modality to this invention relates to the law of wall coordinates [Walsh and Weiwinstein (1978), Walsh and Lindemann (1984)]. When the boundary layer is at full turbulent, this modality can be utilised. When the boundary layer is fully turbulent, eddy viscosity can develop that contributes to higher levels of skin drag. By developing the transfer function to correlating with the s, h, or S+, h+, dimensions, the output of the vibratory generator can help reduce the turbulent skin friction drag (resulting from the eddy viscosity). 
         [0051]    The above principles are quickly illustrated in this particular embodiment. This apparatus uses an air intake system that employs ducts to channel air from the deck to the bottom of the hull. As the vessel moves through water, suction occurs under the hull at step  12  and this suction is used to draw air into the apparatus. The amount of suction is related to the displacement of the vessel and to boat speed (i.e. Froude number). The airflow is directed into an air intake system into the plenum  18  and directed to a vibratory generator ( 24   s  and  24   p ; see  FIG. 5 ). 
         [0052]    In the primary embodiment of this invention the vibratory generator is an idealized spring-loaded variable output whistle whereby the whistle frequency (i.e. whistle length) is controlled by the spring rate. In this simplified embodiment the transfer function is incorporated into the spring rate and control mechanism, which is related to the vacuum pressure at the step. At different speeds there are different pressures at the step. The frequency of the whistle is changed with respect to the pressure. The detail operation of this device is not fully illustrated since it is part of the current art. The airflow is discharged under the hull through tuned exhaust-runner ports  20  that operate as waveguides (see  FIG. 2 ). 
         [0053]    The whistle is used to sonicate the airflow and the waveguides transmit the vibratory information in an efficient manner to the desired location. The Helmholtz resonators  22  are tuned to augment the vibratory information within the fluid flow under the hull. In other implementations the vibratory generators  24   p  and  24   s  may include mechanical sonic devices such as the use of a variable frequency siren, a multi-cavity pea-less whistle, a mechanical siren or some type of transducer. This embodiment uses vented hull technology to add vibratory information to the fluid flow; the vibratory information can be produced using other methods. 
         [0054]    There are many secondary effects to this embodiment that are not the primary focus of the invention, such as the sonic properties of the vibratory generator add acoustic power to the airflow, thereby assisting in the aeration of the hull thereby effecting viscous drag. The vibratory generator can augment the handling of the vessel; instabilities such as ‘chine walk’ can be tuned out or instabilities can be added to quicken responsiveness in handling. An entire subsection of handling tuning considerations can be incorporated into this apparatus. 
         [0055]    Alternative implementation of this invention can be, mechanical, electro-mechanical (as shown in  FIG. 7 to 9A ) and electronic (as shown in  FIG. 6 ) vibratory generators. Each of these implementations of the invention has their own specific characteristics that effect that particular implementation. For example in alternative embodiments such as shown in  FIG. 8  and  FIG. 8A , the rotating element adds the Magnus effect (which is particular to that embodiment). Other embodiments do not have those particular characteristics. Several of the most likely embodiments are disclosed in this application, this is done to illustrate how this innovation can be applied in various other formats. There are particularities with each alternative embodiment and some of these particularities will be discussed with each embodiment type. 
         [0056]    As previously stated there is a wide variety of tuning considerations in the development of the transfer function. The particularities of the transfer function are highly dependent on the actual implementation and physical structure of the boat and apparatus. Only some of the techniques have been briefly explained and some more complicated implementations include complex algorithms that can use other techniques not illustrated here, such as the use of complex adaptive systems, holographic interferogram, and other Interferometric techniques. 
       Detailed Operation of Primary Embodiment 
     FIG.  1 -FIG.  5   
       [0057]    Referring to  FIG. 2 , as the vessel moves through the water, a fluid flow occurs around the bottom of the vessel  6 . This fluid flow generates suction at a step  12 . The air intake is a closed system so that the vacuum at the end of the exhaust runner(s)  20  is transmitted up the system. The suction at the step  12  generates a vacuum in plenum  18 ; since the apparatus is a closed system this vacuum causes airflow to enter the air intake baffle  14 . At different speeds there are different pressures at the step  12 . The airflow is directed into an air duct  16  and is channeled into a plenum  18 . The airflow is then directed from the plenum into a tuned exhaust-runner port(s)  20  and exits at the step  12 . A plurality of Helmholtz resonators  22  is operationally connected to the airflow discharged from the exhaust port runner(s)  20 . 
         [0058]    The port operation of this apparatus will be explained and the starboard operation is similar.  FIG. 5  shows air entering the air intake baffle  14   p  on the port side of the vessel. The airflow enters into the air duct  16   p . The air duct  16   p  directs the airflow to the connected plenum  18 . In this example the whistle  24   p  is connected to the plenum  18  at the exhaust-runner port  21   p . Displacement and speed variations of the vessel change the suction at step  12  (shown in  FIG. 2 ) thus the pressure in the plenum is changed accordingly. Therefore the spring extends or contracts the whistle length  24   p  depending on the plenum and/or exhaust port  21   p  and  21   s  pressure, thereby the frequency is varied. The transfer function is incorporated within the whistle design and spring rate. The airflow enters whistle  24   p  from the plenum  18  and continues into an exhaust-runners  20   p  and discharges at the step  14  (as shown in  FIG. 2 ). Due to symmetry of this apparatus the starboard side operates in a like manner. The plenum has a duel function, primarily to stabilize pressure variations and to act as a resonator. The plenum helps to sonicate the airflow. 
         [0059]    The geometry of the plenum allows for suitable air pressure to develop within the plenum chamber.  FIG. 2  shows the profile of the plenum  18  is designed to direct acoustic waves into the exhaust-runners  20 ,  20   p , and  20   s .  FIG. 4  and  FIG. 5  show the hemispheric ends  28   p  and  28   s  and these are designed to augment the sonic emissions from the whistle ( 24   s  and  24   p  as shown in  FIG. 5 ).  FIG. 4  shows the port and starboard Helmholtz resonators  22   p  and  22   s  that are placed based on the acoustic emissions from the port and starboard exhaust-runners ports  20   p  and  20   s . The spectra of the sound radiation emitted from the middle runner  21   p  results in the resonators to be laid out in a pattern  22   p . Similarly, on the starboard side the middle exhaust-runner  21   s  discharges, resulting in the pattern  22   s . Due to the symmetry of this invention the starboard side operates in a similar manner as the port side.  FIG. 5  shows the starboard side and the whistle  24   s  which connects to the middle exhaust-runner  21   s.    
       Concluding Discussion on the Operation of the Primary Embodiment 
     FIG.  1  and FIG.  3   
       [0060]    The designer has many parameters that can be adjusted in this embodiment such as, the acoustic properties (i.e. whistle design, waveguide design, plenum design), properties of the sounding elements, materials, stream lining, and related aerodynamic factors in the design of the air intake, the plenum, and tuned exhaust-runner(s) ports. 
         [0061]    For example some of the acoustical parameters that can be changed include the step  12  which can have a concave shape, forming an acoustic lens that would accentuate the acoustic properties of the vibratory generator. The longitudinal skirts  30   p  on the port side and  30   s  on the starboard side, incorporate ground effect technology to help maintain the airflow under the hull. Some aspects of ground effect technology include the profile of the skirt that affects the fluid jets (air and water) around the periphery of the vessel, also the skirt depth that affects the airflow under the hull. 
         [0062]    This section briefly illustrates some of the various different theories that this apparatus uses and some of the types of tuning techniques. This disclosure did not include a full discussion on the algorithms used in the transfer function, all the tuning possibilities, and the related theories\mathematics associated with the implementation of the apparatus. The transfer function is particular to the hull morphology and embodiment type of the invention. This has been a broad disclosure on the implementation of this invention; someone skilled in the art of fluid and vibration mechanics will understand the associated theories and relevant variations that appear in the final apparatus. 
       Description and Explanation 
     Of Alternative Embodiments 
       [0063]    In other embodiments of this invention, other types of vibratory generators, transmission mediums and control systems can be used. Not all the general componentry such as the circuit layouts, power sources, power transmissions, control systems are illustrated in this section. Included is a brief discussion of how the apparatus can operate using different forms and some of the particularities accompanying each embodiment. 
       Alternative Embodiments 
     FIG.  6  Embodiment Using Electronics 
       [0064]      FIG. 6  shows an electronic implementation of the primary embodiment (similarly configured to the primary embodiment shown in  FIG. 5 ). The port vibratory generator is an electro acoustic transducer  624   p  and the starboard vibratory generator is another electro acoustic transducer  624   s . A computer controlled signal generator  720  outputs to a port amplifier  622   p ; this powers the port transducer  624   p . Likewise for the starboard side the amplifier  622   s  powers the starboard transducer  624   p ; the amplifiers receive their signal from a computer controlled signal generator  720 . The computer controlled signal generator varies its output to each transducer  622   p  and  622   s  depending on the inputs of each sensor  626   p  and  626   s . This system requires a separate electrical power source  618  to operate. The designer can choose the best sensor that determines the nature of the fluid flow (for example he/she may choose a pressure, acoustic, or an optical sensor). 
         [0065]    In this embodiment the designer has significantly greater control than in the simplified mechanical acoustic of the primary embodiment. The transfer function is programmed into the computer control signal generator. A sensor is used to determine the characteristic of the fluid flow; the computer controlled signal generator is more dynamic and will output the proper vibratory information depending on the input of the sensors. This is a more sophisticated system and this system incorporates feedback loops (that further refines the implementation of this invention). 
       Alternative Embodiments 
     FIG.  7  and FIG.  7   a —Embodiment Using Transverse Oscillating Electromechanics 
       [0066]    The following explanation will refer to  FIG. 7  and  FIG. 7A , which shows an electromechanical implementation of this invention, where the vibratory generator is a mechanical device, like a tuning fork structure  724 . This structure oscillates back and forth at various frequencies. In this embodiment the vibratory generator can be powered by electrical or mechanical energy. A flexible film  726  or membrane is mated to the mechanical vibratory generator  724 . The film can be constructed of a material, with sufficient degrees of freedom that is conducive to the transmission of vibrations (such as thin wires, metallic sheeting, filaments, ribbons, or elastometric material). The vibratory generator oscillations transmit vibratory information to the film and by extension to the fluid flow. Depending on the waveform generated, a form of peristaltic motion can develop as a secondary effect in this type of embodiment. 
       Alternative Embodiments 
     FIG.  8  and FIG.  8   a —Embodiment Using Rotational Electromechanics 
       [0067]      FIG. 8  and  FIG. 8A  show another electromechanical implementation. In this embodiment a rotational vibratory generator  824  is used to apply the vibratory information to the vortex sheet. The rotating member  826  is a cylinder where the vibratory information can be changed by adjusting such factors as the rotational shape (i.e. cylinder, sphere, etc), placement (i.e. location and orientation), rotation speed and rotation direction (i.e. clockwise, counterclockwise). The vortex sheet can be manipulated by varying the above parameters in combination with the secondary effects such as the Magnus effect and the placement of the vibratory generators. 
       Alternative Embodiments 
     FIG.  9  and FIG.  9   a —Theoretical Embodiment Using a Double Hull 
       [0068]      FIGS. 9 and 9A  shows a theoretical implementation of this invention that addresses the static nature of hulls. Where the vortex sheet characteristics are a function of hull geometry, the hull geometry could be changed. In this embodiment the hulls parametric properties can be changed with respect to the Froude number. There are many means to accomplish this such as using an articulation hull, the use of Electrostrictive Polymer Film (EPF technology is used in loudspeaker designs), or other membranes that can cover the hull. To illustrate how this applies to this invention, the apparatus uses a magneto-rheological fluid  924  sandwiched between an upper membrane  926   u  and a lower membrane  926   l . These membranes are operationally connected to the hull  6 . Embedded in the membranes are upper polar actuators  928   u  and lower polar actuators  928   l . Energizing and de-energizing the actuators can set up a waveform pattern(s) within the membranes. Also the actuator can remain energized thereby the parametric properties of the hull is fixed as a function of the Froude number. 
       CONCLUSION, RAMIFICATIONS AND SCOPE 
       [0069]    This description shows a wide variety of tuning techniques for this apparatus. The apparatus can be optimized for a particular performance objective of the hull. The description also shows that the transfer function (i.e. the controlling algorithm) can be incorporated into a mechanical or electronic control apparatus. Finally the means of applying the vibratory information to the fluid flow can take a wide variety of forms. 
         [0070]    The embodiments presented in  FIG. 6  and  FIG. 8  incorporates various types of mechanisms that are readily available. There is a new class of micro-electro-mechanical (MEMS) devices that if cost-effective the hull may be laid with these types of servomechanisms. These MEMS could be configured to operate similarly to a cellular organism such as a Paramecium; these organisms have their body covered with cilia (a type of flagellum) to interact with the fluid around them and produce cillary motion. An example of this type of implementation could include incorporating MEMS devices such as Texas Instruments DLP™ chips in the hull so that the operative elements of the chip can manipulate the vortex sheet. 
         [0071]    The alternative embodiments described above demonstrated the scope of this invention, while only a single embodiment of the present invention has been wholly described and illustrated. The present invention is not limited to the features of this description, but includes all variation and modifications within the scope of the claims.