Patent ID: 12252222

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

As used herein, directional terms forward (fore), aft, inboard, and outboard have their commonly understood meaning in the art. Relative to the boat, forward is a direction toward the bow, and aft is a direction toward the stern. Likewise, inboard is a direction toward the center of the boat and outboard is a direction away from it.

Unless otherwise indicated, a component that is attached to another component may be either directly attached to each other or indirectly attached to each other with one or more intervening components therebetween.

Some features and components of the embodiments discussed herein are the same or similar between the different embodiments. A common reference character will be used to refer to such features and components, and a detailed description of such features and components may be made in one embodiment and omitted from others.

Various different devices will be discussed herein to generate wakes suitable for surfing behind a boat. These different surf devices, although described as separate embodiments, may be used in conjunction with each other. For example, some embodiments discussed herein may be used to supplement or replace ballast and increase the displacement or angle of attack of the boat (e.g., the fourth, fifth, and ninth embodiments). These embodiments may be suitable for use in conjunction with embodiments that help refine, clean up, and/or otherwise shape the wake for wakesurfing, such as the downturned-surface surf devices shown inFIG.1, the surf devices of the first through third embodiments, and the surf devices of the sixth through tenth embodiments. In addition, a boat and specific features and variations thereof will be described with reference toFIGS.1-7. This description of the boat (including the specific features and variations) applies to each of the embodiments discussed herein.

FIGS.1and2show a boat100that may be suitably used with the various surf devices discussed herein. The boat100includes a hull110with a bow111, a transom113, a hull bottom115(seeFIG.3), a port side117, a starboard side119. The hull bottom115includes the portions of the hull110between the chines. The port and starboard sides117,119have port and starboard gunwales122,124, respectively. The boat100has a centerline102running down the middle of the boat100, halfway between the port and starboard sides117,119. Collectively, the bow111, the transom113, and the port and starboard sides117,119define an interior130of the boat100. In some embodiments, the hull110may be a planing hull. When planing hull boats reach a certain speed, the resistance of the hull dramatically drops as the boat is supported by hydrodynamic forces instead of hydrostatic (buoyant) forces. This is referred to as planing. To achieve planing, the boat must overcome the drag produced by the hull and any appendages, such as the propeller and rudders. Appendages increase the drag of the hull. In general, the more appendages there are, the greater the drag. Some characteristics of the hull110that are typical of planing hull boats include lifting strakes, a chine that is a hard chine, and a deadrise from 0 degrees to 30 degrees.

In the embodiment shown inFIGS.1and2, the boat100is a bowrider having both a bow seating area132positioned in the bow111of the boat100and a primary seating area134(sometimes also referred to as the cockpit) positioned aft of a windshield104. The boat100shown inFIGS.1and2also has a pair of aft-facing seats136, such as those described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,650,117, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. Although described in reference to a bowrider this invention may be used with any suitable boat including cuddies, center consoles, and cruisers, for example. Various embodiments discussed herein may also be suitable for use with other boats such as pontoon boats.

The boat100may include a horizontal swim platform106attached to the transom113to make it easier for people to get into the water from the boat100or into the boat100from the water. A top view of the swim platform106is shown inFIG.2, but the swim platform is omitted fromFIG.1for clarity. The swim platform106should be capable of supporting a human and is preferably capable of supporting at least 500 lbs., and even more preferably 1250 lbs. The swim platform106may be constructed from any suitable material that may be used in a marine environment including, for example, fiberglass or teak. In this embodiment, the swim platform106is attached to the transom113of the boat100using two brackets screwed to the transom113; however, the swim platform106may be attached to the transom113by any suitable means. While the swim platform106is described as an attachable/detachable platform, it is not so limited. For example, the swim platform106may be integrally formed with the stern of the boat100(seeFIGS.5A,5B, and7).

The boat100may include the capability to add ballast. Ballast may be used to increase the weight and displacement of the boat100and increase the size of the wake for water sports such as wakeboarding or wakesurfing. Any suitable means to add ballast may be used including ballast bags (sacks) or ballast tanks. The boat100shown inFIG.1includes three ballast tanks. Preferably, at least two ballast tanks are positioned in the stern of the boat near the bottom of the hull110, one on each side of the boat (a port ballast tank142and a starboard ballast tank144), and a third ballast tank146is positioned along the boat's centerline102near the bottom of the hull110, forward of the two stern ballast tanks142,144. Ballast bags may be used in addition to the ballast tanks142,144,146and may be plumbed into the ballast system of the boat100. Preferably, the ballast bags are positioned above the stern ballast tanks142,144in a compartment underneath the aft-facing seats136. Both the ballast tanks142,144,146and the ballast bags operate similarly in that water may be pumped into the tank or bag by ballast pumps to add weight. As will be discussed further below, in some embodiments, the surf devices discussed herein may be used to supplement ballast or even replace the ballast. As such, the ballast tanks142,144,146may be omitted in some embodiments. In some embodiments where the tanks ballast tanks142,144,146are omitted, the boat100does not include ballast.

As noted above, the various embodiments discussed herein, and particularly those that are intended to supplement or replace ballast, may be used with additional surf devices (including both other embodiments discussed herein and other surf devices), and the boat100may be equipped with these additional surf devices. One such surf device may be, for example, the port and starboard wake-modifying devices disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,833,286, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety, and these surf devices152,154are shown inFIG.1. To distinguish them from the other surf devices discussed herein, the surf devices152,154shown inFIG.1are referred to as downturned-surface surf devices152,154. A pair of downturned-surface surf devices152,154is shown inFIG.1. One is a port downturned-surface surf device152on the port side of the centerline102, and the other is a starboard downturned-surface surf device154on the starboard side of the centerline102. Other examples of suitable alternative surf devices are shown and described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 9,802,684 and 10,358,189, the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

Each of the port and starboard downturned-surface surf device152,154includes a plate-like member that is pivotably attached to the transom113of the boat100. The plate-like members pivot about pivot axes to move between a non-deployed position and a deployed position. In their respective deployed position, each of the downturned-surface surf devices152,154is pivoted downwardly relative to their position in the non-deployed position, and preferably such that at least the downturned surface, if not the plate-like member, interacts with the water flowing under the hull bottom115. In this embodiment, the pivot axes are hinges. Here, the hinges are piano hinges that are welded to a leading portion of each plate-like member and attached to the transom113of the boat100using screws. However, any suitable pivotable connection may be used and may be affixed to the transom113of the boat100and the port and starboard downturned-surface surf devices152,154using any suitable means, including, but not limited to, bolts, screws, rivets, welding, and epoxy. Each of the port and starboard downturned-surface surf devices152,154also may include one or more downturned and/or upturned surfaces, such as downturned surfaces at the trailing edge of the plate-like members that are angled at a downward angle relative to the plate-like member.

As shown inFIG.1, the boat100is also equipped with a central trim device (center tab156) positioned to span the centerline102of the boat. Any suitable trim device may be used, but in this embodiment, the center tab156is a generally rectangular trim tab that is pivotably attached to the transom113of the boat100. The center tab156includes a plate-like member and pivots about a pivot axis to move between a non-deployed position and a deployed position. Like the pivot axes of the surf devices152,154, the pivot axis of the center tab156may be any suitable pivotable connection affixed to the transom113of the boat100.

Each of the surf devices152,154and the center tab156is movable between the deployed position and the non-deployed position by a drive mechanism158. In the embodiment shown, one drive mechanism158is used for each surf device152,154and the center tab156, allowing them to be independently operated. Each of the drive mechanisms158shown in this embodiment is a linear actuator. The linear actuator preferably is an electric linear actuator, such as one available from Lenco Marine. One end of the linear actuator is connected to the transom113of the boat100and the other end is connected to the surf device152,154or center tab156. Any suitable means may be used to move the surf devices152,154and the center tab156between the deployed and non-deployed positions, including, but not limited to, hydraulic linear actuators, gas assist pneumatic actuators, and electrical motors.

The boat100is also equipped with an apparatus for towing a water sports participant. As shown inFIGS.1and2, the towing apparatus is a tower160that is particularly used for towing a wakeboarder. Any suitable tower160may be used including, for example, those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 9,580,155 and 10,150,540, which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties. The tower160includes two legs: a port leg162and a starboard leg164. The port leg162is attached on the port side of the centerline102of the boat100, and the starboard leg164is attached on the starboard side of the centerline102of the boat100. Preferably, the port and starboard legs162,164are attached to the port gunwale122and to the starboard gunwale124, respectively. The tower160also includes a header166. The header166is connected to an upper portion of each of the two legs162,164and spans the interior130of the boat100at a height suitable for passengers to pass underneath while standing. In addition, the tower160has a tow-line-attachment structure168at an upper portion of the tower160(the header166in this embodiment). This tow-line-attachment structure168may be used to connect a tow-line suitable for towing a water sports participant, such as a wakeboarder. Any suitable tow-line-attachment structure may be used, including, but not limited to, the integrated light and tow-line-attachment assembly disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,539,886, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

The boat100has a deck170which includes a floor172. Passenger seating, such as port and starboard bench seating182,184,186,188in both the bow seating area132and primary seating area134, may be constructed on elevated portions (seat support structures174) of the deck170. As used herein, these portions are elevated with respect to the level of the floor172. Other seating locations within the boat's interior130include a captain's chair192at the control console30and a reversible bench seat194. Although the invention is described with reference to a particular seating arrangement, different seating arrangements are contemplated to be within the scope of the invention.

Within the boat's interior130is a control console30for operating the boat100. Here, the control console30is positioned on the starboard side of the boat100proximate to and aft of the windshield104. A passenger side console32is located on the port side of the boat100, opposite the control console30. Together, the control console30and the passenger side console32separate the bow seating area132from the primary seating area134, as seen inFIG.2. A walkway138connects the bow seating area132with the primary seating area134and separates the control console30and the passenger side console32. The windshield104is mounted, in part, on forward portions of the control console30and the passenger side console32. In this embodiment, the windshield104is mounted directly to a forward portion of the control console30and the passenger side console32and to the gunwales122,124.

The boat100may be placed in a body of water, and the boat100may be propelled through the body of water by a propulsion device10. The boat100shown inFIGS.1and2is an inboard boat.FIG.3is a cross-sectional view of the boat100taken along section line3-3inFIG.2. As shown inFIG.3, the propulsion device10includes a propeller12positioned forward of the transom113and beneath the hull bottom115. The propeller12is driven by an engine20positioned inside the boat100. Any suitable engine20may be used, including the MV8 5.7 L engine manufactured by Ilmor Marine of Mooresville, NC.

The propeller12is connected to the engine20by a drive shaft14. A strut16extends from the hull bottom115to support the drive shaft14and thus the propeller12. The drive shaft14extends through a bushing in the strut16. In this embodiment, the propeller12and the drive shaft14, when viewed from below the boat100or above the boat100, is aligned with the centerline102of the boat100. The engine20is also preferably positioned along the centerline102of the boat. In this embodiment, the engine20and the drive shaft14are arranged in a V-drive arrangement and the engine20is positioned in the stern of the boat, proximate to the transom113, to increase the displacement of the stern of the hull110for water sports such as wakeboarding and surfing. Other suitable arrangements, however, may be used, including, for example, a direct drive arrangement.

In this embodiment, the engine20and the propeller12may be operated by a user at an operator station located at the control console30. A detailed view of the control console30is shown inFIG.4. A control lever22is used to operate a throttle24(seeFIG.3) of the engine20and engage the engine20with the drive shaft14. The control lever22has a neutral position, and the user may move the control lever22forward from the neutral position to engage a running gear26(seeFIG.3) with the drive shaft14, to accelerate the engine20using the throttle24, and to rotate the propeller12counterclockwise to drive the boat100forward. To move the boat100in reverse, the user may move the control lever22back from the neutral position to engage a reverse gear28(seeFIG.3) with the drive shaft14, to accelerate the engine20using the throttle24, and rotate the propeller12clockwise. Other suitable means may be used to operate the engine20and engage it with the drive shaft14.

As shown inFIG.3, a rudder38is used to turn the inboard boat100. The rudder38includes a rudder post that extends through the hull bottom115and is used to rotate the rudder38. The rudder38rotates about a rotation axis, which extends through the center of the rudder post. The rudder38is positioned behind (aft of) the propeller12and preferably is positioned laterally within the diameter of the drive shaft14. The rudder38(and rudder post) may be positioned on the centerline102of the boat100, when viewed from above, but in some instances, it may be preferable to offset the control console30to one side of the centerline of the boat100to facilitate removal of the drive shaft14without removing the rudder38. Preferably, the rudder38is positioned forward of the transom, but other suitable locations, including on the transom, are contemplated to be within the scope of the invention. Other suitable rudder arrangements may also be used, such as, for example, the rudder system shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,611,009, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

The neutral position of a rudder38is its position when the boat100is moving straight and not turning. In this embodiment, when the rudder38is in its neutral position, the chord of the rudder38is parallel to the centerline102of the boat100when viewed from above or below the boat100. In embodiments where the rudder38is positioned on the centerline102of the boat100, the chord of the rudder38is preferably aligned with the centerline102.

As shown inFIG.4, a steering wheel34is located at the control console30. A user may turn the boat100by rotating the steering wheel34, which in turn, rotates a steering column36. Hydraulic steering is used in this embodiment, although any suitable steering mechanism may be used, including rack-and-pinion cable steering or electric steering, for example. A hydraulic pump is located on the steering column36and pumps hydraulic fluid into or out of a hydraulic cylinder to extend or retract the ram of the hydraulic cylinder. The hydraulic cylinder is connected to a tiller arm of the rudder38and when the ram of the hydraulic cylinder is extended, the rudder38rotates in one direction and when the ram is retracted, the rudder38rotates in the opposite direction.

Inboard boats are often preferred for water sports because the propeller12is positioned underneath the boat100and away from water sports performers and swimmers. However, the surf devices discussed herein may also be suitably used with boats having other propulsion devices10. Other suitable propulsion devices10include, for example, the stern drive40(also referred to as an inboard/outboard) shown inFIGS.5A and5B, the outboard motor50shown inFIG.6, and the jet drive60shown inFIG.7. When a single propulsion device10is used, these propulsion devices10are preferably located along the centerline102of the boat100. When multiple propulsion devices10are used, they are preferably located symmetrically about the centerline102of the boat100and closer to the centerline102than either the port side117of the hull110and the starboard side119of the hull110.

As shown inFIGS.5A and5B, the stern drive40includes an engine20positioned inside the hull110of the boat100. Instead of being coupled to the propeller12beneath the hull bottom115, the engine20of the stern drive40is coupled to an outdrive42(also referred to as a drive unit). The outdrive42includes a propeller12and, more specifically in the outdrives42depicted inFIGS.5A and5B, two counter rotating propellers12. The outdrive42is attached to the transom113of the boat and extends aft of the transom113. The boat100is steered by pivoting the outdrive42in port and starboard directions, thus controlling the direction of thrust produced by the propeller12. Any suitable mechanism may be used, such as hydraulic cylinders, to pivot the outdrive42and the hydraulic cylinders on the outdrive42may be operated by turning the steering wheel34in the manner discussed above. The propeller12of a stern drive40may be positioned aft of the transom113, as shown inFIG.5A, but the stern drive40may also be a forward drive as shown inFIG.5B, with the propeller12positioned forward of the transom113and underneath the hull bottom115.

As shown inFIG.6, the outboard motor50is attached to the stern of the boat100, and more specifically, the transom113. The engine20of the outboard motor50is positioned above the drive unit52. The drive unit52includes the propeller12. The outboard motor50, and, more specifically, the engine20, the drive unit52, and the propeller12are positioned aft of the transom113. Like the stern drive40, the boat100is steered by pivoting the outboard motor50in port and starboard directions, thus controlling the direction of thrust produced by the propeller12, and any suitable mechanism, like hydraulic cylinders, may be used to steer the boat100using the steering wheel34.

FIG.7shows a jet drive60. The jet unit62is mounted forward of the transom113. Water enters an intake64of the jet unit62on the hull bottom115, is accelerated through the jet unit62, and is discharged through the transom113at a high velocity. The pumping portion (unit) of the jet unit62includes an impeller66and a stator (not shown) to increase the pressure of the flow. This high-pressure flow is discharged at a nozzle68as a high-velocity jet stream. The drive shaft14connects the engine20with the impeller66, and the engine20thus drives the impeller66in a manner similar to a propeller. Steering is achieved by changing the direction of the stream of water as it leaves the jet unit62, such as by rotating the nozzle68, using a suitable mechanism, such as hydraulic cylinders and the hydraulic steering, discussed above. Directing the jet stream one way forces the stern of the boat100in the opposite direction, turning the boat100. An astern deflector69may be lowered into the jet stream after it leaves the nozzle68, reversing the direction of the force generated by the jet stream, forward and down, to keep the boat stationary or propel it in the astern direction.

As shown schematically inFIG.4, the boat100also includes a controller70. The controller70may be housed within the control console30and used to control various features of the boat100and surf devices discussed herein. In this embodiment, the controller70is a microprocessor-based controller that includes a processor72for performing various functions, discussed further below, and a memory74for storing various data. The controller70may also be referred to as a CPU. In one embodiment, the various methods discussed below may be implemented by way of a series of instructions stored in the memory74and executed by the processor72.

The controller70may be communicatively coupled to at least one display screen76,78, and in this embodiment, the controller70is communicatively coupled to two display screens, a center display76and a side display78. As can be seen inFIG.4, the center display76is located at the top of a dash in the control console30and above and forward of the steering wheel34. In this embodiment, the center display76is a 12-inch display having a generally rectangular shape in a landscape orientation and rounded inboard and outboard edges. Although the center display76may be a touchscreen, the center display76in this particular embodiment is not a touchscreen because of the positioning of the center display76and the type of information displayed on it. The positioning of the center display76makes it difficult or awkward for a user to reach with his or her hand, so to the extent user-selectable options are displayed on the center display76, they may be selected by using a switch pad82or another suitable input device.

Many of the input devices (operator controls) on the boat100are located on the control console30to the side of the steering wheel34. In this embodiment, the input devices are located on the outboard side of the steering wheel34and can be conveniently operated by the operator's right hand. One of the main input devices is the side display78. In this embodiment, the side display78is a 10-inch, rectangular, touchscreen display that has a portrait orientation. A plurality of user-selectable controls (options) may be displayed on the side display78that enable a user to operate the surf devices in the manner discussed herein. Information regarding the position and/or condition of the surf devices may also be displayed (presented) on the side display78and/or displayed (presented) on the center display76. The plurality of user-selectable options are icons displayed on the side display78may be selected by a user pressing the icon. The terms icon, virtual button, and button may be used interchangeably herein. Such user-selectable options may include, for example, options to fill or empty the ballast (e.g., ballast tanks142,144,146) and to deploy or retract the various surf devices discussed herein.

The memory74may store preprogrammed or user-defined wakesurf configurations, also referred to as profiles. Such profiles may include settings for the ballast, position of the surf devices, and speed of the boat100. The speed of the boat100for such a setting may be operated by cruise control. When activated, such as by a profile or when a user selects the cruise control, the controller70activates cruise control at the set speed stored in the memory74of the controller70. Any suitable cruise control may be used, including, for example, GPS-based Zero Off® cruise control by Enovation Controls of Tulsa, OK, in which the controller70operates the throttle24of the engine20to maintain the boat100at the set speed based on the speed of the boat received by a GPS system. For the embodiments discussed herein, the set speed for the cruise control is a speed suitable for surfing, preferably between 9 mph to 12 mph.

Other input devices (controls) include the switch pad82, an ignition button84, and other static buttons and switches that are part of a switch pack86. The buttons and switches of the switch pack86may be used to control various aspects of the boat100. For example, the switch pack86may include buttons or switches that may be used to fill or empty the ballast (e.g., ballast tanks142,144,146) and to deploy or retract the various surf devices discussed herein. Located near the control console30on the starboard side wall is a keyed switch88. A key89unique to the boat can be inserted in the switch88and then rotated to turn on (or off) the electrical system of the boat. With the key89in the on position, an operator can press the ignition button84to turn on (or off) the engine20.

First Embodiment

FIG.8shows a boat, such as the boat100, equipped with a surf device200in accordance with a first preferred embodiment of the invention.FIG.8is a starboard side view of the boat100. To distinguish it from the other surf devices discussed herein, the surf device200of this embodiment is referred to as a deployable hull side200. The deployable hull side200is movable between a stowed position and a deployed position. The stowed position may also be referred to herein as a non-deployed position.FIG.9is a perspective view of the boat100in a body of water with the deployable hull side200in the deployed position.FIGS.10and11also show the deployable hull side200in the deployed position.FIG.10is a perspective view of the starboard-side, aft corner taken from above the deployable hull side200, looking down, andFIG.11is an aft view of the starboard-side, aft corner, looking forward.

The deployable hull side200shown inFIGS.8-11is on the starboard side of the boat100(a starboard-side deployable hull side200). The boat100is also equipped with a deployable hull side200on the port side of the boat100(a port-side deployable hull side200). The deployable hull side200on the port side of the boat100is a mirror image of the deployable hull side200on the starboard side of the boat100, and thus a description and depiction of the deployable hull side200on the port side of the boat100is omitted here.FIG.15, which shows a variation of the deployable hull side200of this embodiment, shows a port-side deployable hull side200.

As shown inFIGS.8-12, the deployable hull side200includes a flap202that is pivotably attached to the starboard side119of the hull110. The flap202may be attached to the starboard side119of the hull110by any suitable pivot mechanism, including a hinge204. The flap202rotates about a pivot axis206of the pivot mechanism (hinge204) to move between the stowed position and the deployed position. In the stowed position, the flap202is positioned against the starboard side119of the hull110. The starboard side119of the hull110may also include a recess or a cutout209(seeFIG.13) such that the outboard surface208of the flap202is coplanar or flush with adjacent sections of the starboard side119of the hull110in the stowed position, allowing the water to flow smoothly along the starboard side119of the hull110. With the flap202being located in the aft section of the boat100in this embodiment, the leading edge of the outboard surface208is coplanar or flush with a forward section of the starboard side119of the hull110. In this embodiment, the outboard surface208of the flap202is a generally planar surface having various style lines and contours that correspond to adjacent portions of the starboard side119of the hull110.

InFIGS.9-11, the pivot axis206is aligned to be parallel to or coplanar with the starboard side119of the hull110. In this embodiment, the starboard side119of the hull110has an inclination such that the lower portion of the starboard side119of the hull110(the portion proximate the chine) is inboard of an upper portion of the starboard side119of the hull110, and the pivot axis206is aligned with this inclination. In this embodiment, the boat100includes a rub rail126(seeFIG.9) on each of the port side117and starboard side119of the hull110, and the inclination of the hull side may be taken as a line from the chine to a portion of the side of the hull abutting the rub rail126. The pivot axis206is not limited to this inclination; instead, the pivot axis206may be vertical or have another inclination such that the flap202swings outboard.FIG.12is a schematic of the aft section of the boat100at the transom. In this embodiment, the pivot axis206is perpendicular to the deadrise or chine angle of the boat100, allowing the outboard surface208of the flap202to track out evenly. InFIG.12, the solid lines indicate the location of the flap202in the stowed position and the broken lines indicate the location of the flap202in the deployed position. A separate flange or hinge point may be used to facilitate the movement illustrated inFIG.12. The hinge204orientation can be that such the flap202can be deployed with its lowest point above the chine (as shown inFIG.12), below the chine, or anywhere in between. In this embodiment, the hinge204is located proximate to a forward edge of the flap202such that an aft edge205of the flap202rotates outboard and the outboard surface208of the flap202forms an obtuse angle with the starboard side119of the hull, and in this embodiment, the hinge204is attached to the forward edge of the flap202.

FIGS.9-11show the deployable hull side200of this embodiment in its deployed position. In its deployed position, the flap202pivots outboard from the starboard side119of the hull110. In the deployed position, the flap202may be pivoted outboard from the starboard side119of the hull110at the transom113by 9 degrees to 14 degrees, for example, and the outboard surface208of the flap202in this embodiment forms an obtuse angle with the portion of the hull side forward of the flap202. The flap202may have a plurality of deployed positions where the flap is deployed outward from the hull side (e.g., starboard side119of the hull110) at different angles. The flap202is pivotably attached to the starboard side119of the hull110by the hinge204forward of the transom113, and in this embodiment, the flap202is sized such that the entirety of the flap202is forward of the transom113. Alternatively, the flap202may extend aft past the transom113.

As noted above, the boat100is operable in a body of water, and the body of water has a water surface. As shown inFIG.9, the hull110includes a waterline112where the water surface contacts the hull110of the boat100. The flap202is preferably sized such that the flap202extends out of the water, and more specifically such that a top edge203of the flap202is higher than the waterline112. In some embodiments, the waterline112may be determined when the boat100is in a static-flotation condition. As the flap202is preferably used for a water sport, the waterline112is preferably determined when the boat100is configured for the water sport, such as surfing. If the waterline is determined when the boat100is configured for surfing, for example, the boat100may be loaded with the appropriate ballast, and, preferably, the waterline may be determined when the boat100is moved through the body of water at a speed suitable for surfing. When a hydrofoil is used for surfing (such as the hydrofoil device400, discussed below), the waterline112may be determined when the hydrofoil is in its deployed position and the boat100is moved through the water, again, preferably at a speed suitable for surfing.

In some embodiments, the height of the flap202may preferably be at least half the height of the starboard side119of the hull110(hull side), and more preferably, at least two-thirds the height of the hull side. In this embodiment, the height of the hull side may be taken as the distance from the chine to the sheer line. In this embodiment, the sheer line is located near the rub rail126, and the height of the hull side may also be the distance from the chine to the rub rail126. In the embodiment shown inFIG.11, the hull includes a style line128where a portion of the hull side beneath the style line128is inboard of the portion of the hull side above the style line128. Put another way, the portion of the hull side above the style line128protrudes outboard of the portion of the hull side beneath the style line128. In this embodiment, the flap202is configured to be positioned under the style line128in the non-deployed position, and the top edge203of the flap202is proximate the style line128. In some embodiments, the top edge203of the flap202will be located below the gunwales122,124by, for example, a distance from 6-12 inches.

The flap202has a length, preferably, the flap has a length that is at least 12.5 percent of the length of the boat100and more preferably at least 15 percent of the length of the boat100. The flap202preferably is positioned aft of the longitudinal center of gravity (LCG) of the boat100. Preferably, the LCG is determined when the boat is configured for a water sport, such as surfing. The flap202preferably has a length less that is than the distance from the LCG to the transom113of the boat100, and may, for example, have a length that is less than 33 percent of the length of the boat100. The flap202shown inFIGS.8-11is 50 inches long and 36 inches tall.

As noted above, the flap202may be sized such that the entirety of the flap202is forward of the transom113. In this embodiment, the aft edge205of the flap202is located proximate the transom113and may be located where the hull side (e.g., starboard side119of the hull110) begins to transition to the transom113. As can be seen inFIG.9, the flap202has a length that extends from the rear of the primary seating area134(cockpit) to the transom113. The flap202thus has a length that is the size of the motor box which houses the engine20.

In this embodiment, the flap202is formed from fiberglass, but other suitable materials may be used instead, such as wood, plastic including a plastic membrane, fiber reinforced composites, or metals including aluminum and stainless steel.

InFIGS.9-11, the movement mechanism210used to move the flap202to its deployed position and hold it in the deployed position is manual. As shown, the movement mechanism210is a bar with a plurality of holes used to engage with a pin and a bracket mounted to the transom113, but any suitable movement mechanism210may be used, including, but not limited to, electric linear actuators, hydraulic linear actuators, gas assist pneumatic actuators, and electrical motors. A suitable actuator may include the electric linear actuator available from Lenco Marine. Another suitable linear actuator is an electro-hydraulic actuator, such as one available from Parker Hannifin Corp, of Marysville, OH. In addition, the movement mechanism210may be attached to the boat at other locations other than the transom113, such as the starboard side119of the hull110and even located within the hull110. For example,FIG.13is a schematic cross-sectional view of the port side117of the hull110, with the flap202removed for clarity. A linear actuator is shown as the movement mechanism210located within the hull110. The cutout209is also schematically illustrated inFIG.13. With movement mechanisms210discussed herein that are not manually operated, the controller70is configured to operate the movement mechanisms210in response to input from the various input devices discussed above including the selection of programs stored in the memory74.

The flap202is moved to its deployed position as the boat100is moved through the water to modify the wake of the boat100for water sports. In particular, the deployable hull side200of this embodiment may be particularly suited to improve the wake of the boat100for wakesurfing. When the inboard boat100is moved through the water using the propulsion device10, as discussed above, the inboard boat100generates a wake90, as shown, for example, inFIG.14. The wake90may include a port-side wave92and a starboard-side wave94. The port-side wave92and the starboard-side wave94may also be referred to as a port-side wake and a starboard-side wake. By operating the surf devices discussed herein, the wake90may be made suitable for wakesurfing, generating a surfable wake. In some embodiments, the surfable wake will include both the port-side wave92and the starboard-side wave94being suitable for wakesurfing, but in other embodiments, one side of the wake (one of the port-side wave92and the starboard-side wave94) may be suitable for wakesurfing while the other side is less suitable or not suitable for wakesurfing. As can be seen inFIG.14, the starboard-side wave94is suitable for wakesurfing and is pushing a surfer96and, more specifically, a surfboard98of the surfer96forward with the starboard-side wave94of the surfable wake. The side or sides of the boat100with the desirable wave for wakesurfing is referred to as a surf side. InFIG.14, for example, the starboard side is the surf side.

When the boat100is moved through the water as speeds suitable for surfing (approximately 9 mph to 12 mph) with the flap202in its deployed position, the flap202improves the wake90of the boat100for wakesurfing. In some embodiments, the flap202on the side of the boat opposite the surf side of the boat (non-surf side) may be moved to its deployed position to improve the wake90for wakesurfing, but in other embodiments, the flap202on the surf side of the boat may be moved to its deployed position to improve the wake90for wakesurfing. The flap202of this embodiment may be suitably used with other devices for wakesurfing, such as, for example, the downturned-surface surf devices152,154. When used with such surf devices, the flap202on the surf side of the boat100may be moved to its deployed position, and the downturned-surface surf devices152,154on the side of the boat opposite the surf side is moved to its deployed position. To generate a surfable wave on the starboard side of the boat100, for example, the starboard flap202is deployed and the port downturned-surface surf device152is deployed. To generate a surfable wave on the port side of the boat100, for example, the port flap202is deployed and the starboard downturned-surface surf device152is deployed. Even further, it may be possible to deploy both the flap202on the port side of the boat100and the flap202on the starboard side of the boat100simultaneously to improve the wake90for surfing on both sides of the boat.

As shown inFIGS.10and11, the deployable hull side200of this embodiment also includes a panel212used to fill the gap (space) between the flap202and the starboard side119of the hull110. Such a panel212fills in this gap and prevents water from entering the space as the boat100moves through the water, such as from under the flap202. Although shown with only one panel212on the bottom side of the flap202, similar panels may also be located on the top side of the flap202and the aft side of the flap202. When completely enclosed, using, for example, a flexible material, the enclosure may be filled with water or other ballast, further increasing the displacement of the boat100at that location. InFIGS.10and11, the panel212is flat (generally planar), but the panel212may have any suitable shape. For example, as shown inFIG.15, the bottom surface214of the panel212is convex and extends down into the water below the bottom of the flap202. The shape of the bottom surface214inFIG.15is semi-circular, but other suitable shapes may be used, including concave shapes, for example. The panel212is optional and the deployable hull side200of this embodiment may be used without the panel212.

As discussed above, the flap202is mounted with the hinge204forward of the transom113by at least a couple of feet. The flap202creates a water flow separation point from the hull side forward of the transom113. In addition, the bottom surface214of the panel212extends the hull bottom115(running surface). This effectively widens the boat and creates a farther trailing edge width from hull side (e.g., port side117or starboard side119) to the deployed flap202, and changes the shape of the boat100to improve the surf wave rather than just divert water.

Second Embodiment

A boat, such as boat100, with a surf device300according to a second preferred embodiment of the invention is shown inFIGS.16-18. To distinguish it from the other surf devices discussed herein, the surf device300of this embodiment is referred to as a deployable hull bottom300.FIG.16is a starboard side view of a stern section of a boat100with the deployable hull bottom300.FIG.17is a perspective view of the starboard-side, aft corner of the boat100.FIG.18is an aft view of the boat100.FIG.19is an underside view of the boat100. The starboard-side deployable hull bottom300is shown inFIGS.16and17in its deployed position.FIGS.18and19show both a port-side deployable hull bottom300and the starboard-side deployable hull bottom300. InFIG.18, both the port-side deployable hull bottom300and the starboard-side deployable hull bottom300are in their deployed position. The port-side deployable hull bottom300is a mirror image of the starboard-side deployable hull bottom300, and thus a description and depiction of the deployable hull bottom300on the port side of the boat100is omitted here.

The deployable hull bottom300of this embodiment includes a panel302pivotably attached to the hull bottom115. The surf device300of this embodiment is configured similarly to the deployable hull side200, except the panel302pivots downward from the hull bottom115in the deployed position. In the stowed position, the panel302is positioned against the hull bottom115, but the panel302may also be inset into a recess or a cutout such that the bottom surface of the panel302is coplanar with adjacent sections of the hull bottom115in the stowed position, allowing the water to flow smoothly along the hull bottom115. The panel302is pivotably attached to the hull bottom115using a hinge204forward of the transom113such that the entirety of the panel302is forward of the transom113. Alternatively, the panel302may extend aft past the transom113. In this embodiment, the pivot axis206of the hinge204is transverse to the centerline102of the boat100. In this embodiment, the pivot axis206is perpendicular to the centerline102, but in other embodiments, the pivot axis206may be oriented obliquely to the centerline102.

When the boat100is moved through the water for water sports, such as for wakesurfing, the panel302is moved to its deployed position using a movement mechanism210to improve the wake90for wakesurfing. The movement mechanism210shown in this embodiment is an electrical linear actuator, but any suitable movement mechanism210may be used, as discussed above. In this embodiment, the panel302on the side opposite the surf side of the boat100(non-surf side) is deployed as the boat100moves through the water to generate a surfable wake. The panel302is moved downward in its deployed position and, as with the flap202discussed above, may include a plurality of deployed positions, each having a different downward angle relative to the hull bottom115.

The panel302may be made of any suitable material, including those discussed above for the flap202of the deployable hull side200. The panel302may be of various sizes and lengths. For example, the panel302may be 1 foot, 2 feet, or 4 feet as shown inFIG.19. Where the boat100is 22 feet in length, the panel302may have a length that is preferably from 4-20 percent of the length of the boat100. The panel302of this embodiment could be used as a planing device, and preferably, the panel302is sized such that it is in the water when the boat100is on plane. Preferably, the panel302does not extend forward of the LCG, and the length of the panel302is less than one third of the length of boat100.

The panel302of this embodiment preferably has a width of approximately 30 inches, and in some embodiments the width is constant over the length of the panel302, as can be seen inFIG.18. Although other suitable widths may be used, such as 1 inch or greater and widths that extend from the chine to just outside of the propeller12diameter. As can be seen inFIG.18, the panel302is preferably located outboard of the propulsion device10. Preferably, each panel302can be located between the propeller12and the chine, and may, for example, be located on the outer third of the hull bottom115outboard of either side of the propulsion device10.

In this embodiment, the bottom surface of the panel302is curved with a convex shape that corresponds to the shape of the hull bottom115. But other suitable shapes may be used, such as, for example, a flat, planar surface.

In this embodiment, the deployable hull bottom300also includes a side panel304. The side extends in an upward direction from the bottom panel302. The side panel304has an outer surface, which corresponds to the bottom portion of the side (the port side117or starboard side119) of the hull110. The height of the side panel304is preferably at least the height of the maximum deployment of the bottom panel302from the hull bottom. In this way, the side panel304may prevent water flowing along the side (the port side117or starboard side119) of the hull110from flowing between the bottom panel302and the hull bottom115.

As discussed above, the various embodiments discussed herein may be used together and with other surf devices.FIG.20is an aft view of a boat100having the deployable hull side200and the deployable hull bottom300.

Third Embodiment

FIGS.21-23show a surf device310according to a third preferred embodiment of the invention. In the second embodiment, the deployable hull bottom300is attached to the hull bottom115and pivots down from the hull bottom115to move to the deployed position. In this embodiment, the surf device310is slidably attached to the hull bottom115using, for example, tracks, but other suitable means could be used. To distinguish it from the other surf devices discussed herein, the surf device310of this embodiment is referred to as a slidable hull bottom310. In the non-deployed (or stowed) position, the slidable hull bottom310is positioned similarly to the surf device200of the second embodiment, except that to move to the deployed position, the slidable hull bottom310of the third embodiment slides aft past the transom113, and more specifically, at least a portion of the panel302extends aft past the transom113in the deployed position.

FIG.21is a starboard side view of a boat, such as boat100, with the surf device310in the deployed position.FIG.22is an underside view of the boat100, showing both a port-side slidable hull bottom310and a starboard-side slidable hull bottom310. InFIG.22, the starboard-side slidable hull bottom310is shown in the non-deployed (stowed) position, and the port-side slidable hull bottom310is shown in the deployed position.

FIG.23is a perspective view of the port-side, aft corner of the boat100, showing the port slidable hull bottom310in the deployed position. The slidable hull bottom310shown inFIG.23is 4 feet long and, when fully extended in the deployed position, is 2 feet aft of the transom113. In this embodiment, the slidable hull bottom310is sized such that it does not extend past the aft end of the swim platform106in its fully extended position. Any suitable movement mechanism210may be used to move the surf device310between its deployed and non-deployed positions, including those discussed in the embodiments above.

When used for water sports such as wakesurfing, the surf device310of this embodiment is operated similarly to the deployable hull bottom300discussed above. The slidable hull bottom310of this embodiment on the opposite side of the boat from the surf side (non-surf side) is moved to its deployed position. In some embodiments, both slidable hull bottoms310may be moved to a deployed position when used for water sports, such as wakesurfing. In such embodiments, the slidable hull bottom310on the non-surf side may be deployed to a greater extent than the slidable hull bottom310on the surf side. In other words, the slidable hull bottom310on the surf side may be deployed aft of the transom113to a deployed position where the aft end of the slidable hull bottom310on the surf side is forward of the aft end of the slidable hull bottom310on the non-surf side.

Fourth Embodiment

As noted above, ballast (such as water in ballast tanks142,144,146) may be used to increase the displacement of the boat100and thus increase the size of the wake90for water sports such as wakesurfing or wakeboarding. Instead of ballast or in addition to ballast, a hydrofoil device400may be used to further increase the displacement of the boat100. Various hydrofoil devices400of this embodiment are shown inFIGS.24-43. In this embodiment, the hydrofoil device400is installed on the bottom of the boat100near the longitudinal center of gravity (LCG), as shown inFIG.24.FIG.24is a port side view of the boat100with the hydrofoil devices400. When traveling at a speed used for wakesurfing, the boat100has an angle of attack (such as 12 degrees). By being located near the LCG, the hydrofoil device400pulls the entire boat100down, keeping a similar angle of attack but creating more displacement. In contrast, foils at the stern or transom113of the boat100pull the stern down, pivoting the boat100about the LCG and increasing the angle of attack.

In the boat100described herein, the LCG is in the aft half of the boat100, and more specifically in the aft third of the boat100, forward of the transom113. Here the LCG and thus the hydrofoil device400are located forward of the rudder38, the propeller12, and the strut16. In some embodiments, the LCG and thus the hydrofoil device400are located forward of the engine20, but aft of the windshield104and the control console30. The hydrofoil device400of this embodiment is preferably located near the center of gravity such that it is within 10 percent, relative to the length of the boat, in the forward or aft direction of the LCG.

Although only one hydrofoil device400is shown in this embodiment, multiple hydrofoil devices could be used. The hydrofoil devices400could be placed on either side of the centerline102of the boat100, such as one on the port side and one on the starboard side, symmetrically with each other about the centerline102. The hydrofoil devices400also could be positioned forward and aft of the LCG and positioned about the LCG such that the downward forces balance each other in a manner similar to that described below for the aft pair of foils812,814and the forward pair of foils822,824. Where two hydrofoil devices400are used with one positioned forward of the LCG and the other positioned aft of the LCG, each hydrofoil device400is preferably centered on the centerline102of the boat100.

The hydrofoil device400is movable between a non-deployed (or retracted) position and a deployed position. In the deployed position, the hydrofoil device400is lowered below the hull bottom115.FIG.25is a forward view of the boat100with the hydrofoil device400in the deployed position.FIGS.26and27show the hydrofoil device400in greater detail. InFIG.26the hydrofoil device400is in the retracted position, and inFIG.27the hydrofoil device400is in the deployed position. The hydrofoil device400has a foil402. The foil402has a suitable shape and orientation that is configured to pull the boat100downward as the boat100moves through the water at speeds suitable for water sports, such as wakesurfing and wakeboarding. The foil may be a flat plate, but other suitable hydrodynamic shapes to create upward or downward lift may be used, such as, for example, a tear drop shape having a rounded leading edge and a tapered trailing edge.

The foil402is moved between the deployed position and the non-deployed position by any suitable means. In this embodiment, risers404connect the foil402to the hull bottom115.FIGS.26and27show the risers being driven up and down by motors406, but other mechanisms may be used, including, for example, a hydraulic cylinder and the other movement mechanisms discussed above. The riser404may be any suitable shape, but it may preferably have a foil shape, as shown inFIGS.28and29.FIG.28is a partial view of the hydrofoil device400in the deployed position, andFIG.29is a cross-sectional view of a riser404taken along line29-29inFIG.28. As can be seen inFIG.29, the riser404may have an elliptical or teardrop shape.

FIG.30is a forward view of the boat100with the hydrofoil device400in the retracted position. The hydrofoil device400, including the foil402, may be retracted into a pocket or cavity408formed in the hull. The cavity408is shown by broken lines inFIG.30. In such a configuration, the bottom of the foil402is flush with the hull bottom115in the retracted position, providing a smooth running surface. Alternatively, the foil402may be positioned against the hull bottom115.

As can be seen inFIG.25, the foil402preferably extends over the majority of the width of the hull bottom115nearly from chine to chine, but other suitable widths may be used. For example, the foil may be at least as wide as the diameter of the propeller12(such as from 12-16 inches). More preferably, the foil has a width that is at least two-thirds the width of the hull bottom115. With such a large surface the foil402is able to generate large and stable downward forces on the boat100. Preferably, the foil402is large enough to create displacement that approximates at least an additional 1,500 lbs. of ballast. The foil402shown inFIGS.39-44, discussed further below, was able to generate around 4,500 lbs. of a combination of downward force and drag upon the foil402. This measurement was at the maximum deflection and maximum pitch angle of the hydrofoil device400. When used for surfing, the hydrofoil device400may be suitably configured to produce about 3,800 lbs. When implemented on boats with V-shaped hulls, the foil402is preferably V-shaped to match the hull shape, as can be seen inFIGS.25-30. In some embodiments, each of a port-side portion of the foil402and a starboard-side portion of the foil402are angled upward from horizontal at an angle that matches the deadrise of the boat, such as, an upward angle that is 30 degrees or less, for example.

The foil402shown inFIGS.25-30may be a flat plate from front to back with a planar top surface412, as shown inFIG.28. The foil402has a leading edge414and a trailing edge416with the foil402angled upward from the leading edge414to the trailing edge416. This upward angle creates a downward force on the top surface412as the boat100moves forward through the water.

As noted above, other suitable shapes may be used. One such shape is the wedge shape shown inFIGS.31-33, for example.FIGS.31-33are detail views of the foil402having a wedge shape.FIG.31shows the foil402in the deployed position, andFIGS.32and33show the foil402in the retracted position. The foil402shown has a top plate422inclined at a fixed angle. Preferably, the angle of the top plate422is such that it creates a downward force even when the bow111of the boat100is pitched upward. The top plate422preferably is inclined at an angle that is less than an angle that would create stall for the hydrofoil device400. In some embodiments, the top plate422may be inclined at an angle from 12-30 degrees.

The top plate422includes the top surface412, the leading edge414, and the trailing edge416, as discussed above. Water impinges on this plate422and forces the plate422down, which in turn forces the boat100down. The plate, however, may also be adjustable so that the foil402creates different levels of drag and downward force. To adjust the angle of the plate, the plate of the foil402itself could be raised and lowered or the foil402pivoted, for example. The hydrofoil device400described herein could also be adjustable such that it produces an upward force on the boat100. The foil402of this embodiment includes a fill material424. The fill material424is used to form a flat (horizontal surface) when the foil402is in the retracted position, as can be seen inFIGS.32and33, to provide the smooth running surface, as discussed above. The fill material424may thus be triangular with the top plate422forming an acute angle with a bottom surface428of the fill material424. The fill material424may be formed from any suitable material used in the marine environment such as metal or fiberglass (FRP).

In the embodiment shown inFIG.31, the hydrofoil device400includes a protrusion429that extends aft from the fill material424and spans the width of the bottom surface428. This protrusion429may help integrate the hydrofoil device400into the hull in the non-deployed position by contacting a seating surface formed on the hull bottom115. In addition, the protrusion429extends the bottom surface428, lengthening the distance from the trailing edge416of the top plate422where water flowing over the top plate422and the bottom surface428meet, thereby leading to less turbulence and less drag.

For further support of the hydrofoil device400, the hydrofoil device400may also include a support bar432that acts like a truss to support the forces on the foil402. Such a support bar is shown inFIGS.34-36.FIG.34is a bottom view showing the hull bottom115with the hydrofoil device400having the support bar432.FIGS.35and36show the hydrofoil device400with the support bar432.FIGS.35and36are cross-sectional views of the hydrofoil device400taken along line35-35inFIG.34. The hydrofoil device400is in the retracted position inFIG.35and the hydrofoil device400is in the deployed position inFIG.36. The support bar432is pivotably attached to each of the foil402and the hull bottom115. The support bar432extends aft of the foil402to brace the foil402against the hull bottom115.FIG.37shows the hull bottom115with the hydrofoil device400removed for clarity. When the support bar432is used and the hydrofoil device400is recessed into the hull bottom115, a trench434may be formed in the hull bottom115to accommodate the support bar432when the hydrofoil device400is in the non-deployed position such that a smooth running surface is provided. The cavity408for the foil402is also shown inFIG.37.FIG.38shows the configuration of the hydrofoil device400previously described with reference toFIGS.25-30having a support bar432. In this configuration, the support bar432is attached to the riser404at the end of the riser404where the riser404connects to the foil402.

FIGS.39-43show another configuration of the hydrofoil device400.FIGS.39and40are port side views of the boat100with the hydrofoil device400in its non-deployed position. The hull bottom115can be seen inFIG.40.FIG.41is a perspective view of the boat100with the hydrofoil device400in a deployed position.FIG.42is a bow view of the transom113of the boat100with the hydrofoil device in the non-deployed position, andFIG.43shows the propeller12of the boat100with the hydrofoil device400in the deployed position.

In this configuration the foil402extends the entire width of the hull bottom115and has a length preferably between 6 inches and 4 feet. The foil402of this hydrofoil device400extends forward of the position where the drive shaft14penetrates the hull bottom115. When retracted, the foil402may be positioned against the hull bottom115, as shown inFIGS.39,40, and42. When deployed, the foil402extends downward from the hull bottom115. In this embodiment, the risers404are not located in the hull bottom115but rather are positioned along the sides (port side117and starboard side119) of the hull110. Although shown as outside the hull110in the non-deployed position, the foil402and risers404may be located in a cavity408, in the manner discussed above, such that the bottom surface of the foil402is flush with the hull bottom115and the outboard surfaces of the risers are flush with the sides (port side117and starboard side119) of the hull110. As with the configurations of the hydrofoil device400discussed above, the pitch or angle of the foil402can be rotated to adjust the downward force (and drag) produced by the foil402. A steeper angle of inclination results in additional downward force. The hydrofoil device400may be configured to have a plurality of angles of inclination to produce different levels of downward force. As noted above with respect to the angle of the top plate422, the angle of the top plate422is such that it creates a downward force even when the bow111of the boat100is pitched upward, and preferably is inclined at an angle that is less than an angle that would create stall for the hydrofoil device400. In some embodiments, the top plate422of the foil402may be inclined at an angle from 12-30 degrees.

Fifth Embodiment

In the previous embodiment, the hydrofoil devices400are used to increase the displacement of the boat100. Instead of using the hydrofoil devices400, the hull bottom115could be shaped to decrease the effective dynamic lift of the hull bottom115and increase the effective dynamic displacement of the hull bottom115.FIG.44is a starboard side view of a boat having a surf feature510formed in the hull bottom of a boat, such as the boat100, according to a fifth preferred embodiment of the invention. The surf feature510of this embodiment is shown with a broken line and is a curved section of the hull bottom115located in the stern of the boat. This surf feature510may be referred to herein as a pocket510.FIG.45is a view of the stern of the boat100showing the pocket510with a broken line.

The pocket510is within the hull bottom115and may be used to slow the speed of the water flowing along the hull bottom115. The slower water flow results in a lower overall pressure distribution, which in turn results in a lack of lift. The overall amount of hydrodynamic lift may decrease, resulting in an overall balance as if more weight had been added to the boat. Further, the pocket510may be shaped to change the waterflow angle at the transom113, instead of the water flowing along the conventional keel (or hull bottom115). The change in waterflow angle also creates a resultant force or other effects on the wake90of the boat. The pocket510thus includes a trailing surface512, which is preferably located in the aft half of the hull bottom115. The pocket510may also include a leading surface514. In the embodiment shown, the pocket510has curvature both longitudinally (parallel to the centerline102) and transversely (transverse to the centerline102), like a dome, and may be dome shaped. In this embodiment, the pocket510is a concave portion of the hull bottom115.

Preferably, the pocket510is adjustable to move between the position shown by the broken line and the position shown by the solid line to enable the negative lift to be turned on and off, respectively. By varying the size and location of the pocket510, the resultant lift on the hull will increase or decrease. The angle that the pocket510creates affects the amount of lift and affects the wake90at the transom113and can therefore be varied from 0 degrees to a steeper angle to create more lift in either direction. To change the angle of the pocket510, either the trailing surface512or the leading surface514may be varied, for example. A portion of the hull bottom115may be movable (a movable portion of the hull bottom115) to form the pocket510by a movement mechanism502. The movable portion of the hull bottom is movable between a position creating the dome shape and a position Any suitable movement mechanism502may be used, including, but not limited to, electric linear actuators, hydraulic linear actuators, gas assist pneumatic actuators, and electrical motors, as discussed above. In another variation, the pocket510may be formed by creating an opening in the hull bottom115. A flexible membrane may be stretched over the opening of the pocket. Suction can be applied (using a pump located within the boat100, for example) to create the concave shape or pressure can be applied to create a convex shape. A convex shape of the surf feature510may be used to increase the dynamic lift.

A single pocket510can be used (seeFIG.45) or, as illustrated inFIG.46, two or more independent pockets510can be used in tandem in varying states.FIG.46is a view of the stern of the boat100showing two pockets510with a broken line. One pocket is located on the starboard side of the centerline102and the other is located on the port side of the centerline102. Both pockets510, a port pocket and a starboard pocket, may be used such that they both decrease dynamic lift or both increase dynamic lift. The pockets510may also, however, be configured to create roll or asymmetrical flow. By varying the pocket on one or both sides of the hull about the centerline of the boat100, a wave can be formed by the shift in lifting forces.

Sixth Embodiment

Another modification to the hull bottom115that could be used to create surf wakes is shown inFIGS.47-49. The hull110in this embodiment (the sixth embodiment of the invention) is a planing hull, as discussed above. The hull110includes a bulbous bow, having a bulb520located in the forward (bow111) portion of the hull bottom115.FIG.47is a starboard side view of a boat having bulb520formed in the hull bottom of the boat100.FIG.48is a bottom view of the boat100with the bulb520formed in the hull bottom115of the boat100, andFIG.49is a forward view of the boat100.

The hull bottom115includes a keel530. The keel530of this embodiment has a rocker and a forward portion532of the keel530curves upward. The bulb520protrudes forward of the forward portion532of the keel530. The bulb520of this embodiment is cylindrical having a tear-drop-shaped cross section as can be seen inFIG.49. The tear-drop shape of this embodiment includes a rounded upper surface and a tapered lower surface. Other suitable cross sections include elliptical shapes and circular shapes. Where an elliptical shape is used the major axis may be oriented in a vertical (up and down) direction with the minor axis oriented in an inboard and outboard direction transverse to the centerline102of the boat100. The bulb520has a longitudinal axis522, which, in this embodiment, is parallel to the centerline102. The cross section is taken orthogonal to the longitudinal axis522. The bulb520also includes a leading surface524. As can be seen inFIG.47, the leading surface524is rounded in an up-and-down direction in this embodiment, but the leading surface524may have other suitable shapes.

Here, the bulb520pushes water out at the front of the boat100to create a secondary wave. When the secondary wave is in phase with the primary wave (creating wake90behind the boat) a constructive interference pattern occurs, further enhancing the wake90for surfing, with the resultant wave being the added amplitude of both waves. Such constructive interference may be a function of the speed of the boat100and thus the bulb520may be preferably configured to create the constructive interference at speeds suitable for surfing. Conversely, the secondary wave and primary wave could be aligned out of phase where the resulting wave would subtract the amplitude of the two waves, resulting in a decrease in the wave size, which would be desirable for water skiing where flat water is preferred.

The bulb520may be adjustable and may even be retracted into the hull110. The bulb520may be movable in the longitudinal axis522, which in this embodiment is a forward-and-aft direction as indicated by the arrow inFIG.47, by a movement mechanism502, such as those discussed herein. The bulb520may be retracted into the entire boat100(non-deployed position) such that the hull110has the shape indicated by the forward portion532of the keel530. The bulb520may be positioned in one of a plurality of deployed positions based on the speed of the boat100. The deployed positions are forward of the non-deployed positions. The constructive interference may be turned on and off by positioning the bulb520in the deployed and non-deployed positions, respectively.

Seventh Embodiment

A surf device600according to a seventh preferred embodiment of the invention is shown inFIGS.50-57. The surf device600of this embodiment includes one or more channels610,620. To distinguish it from the other surf devices discussed herein, the surf device600of this embodiment is referred to herein as a channel surf device600.FIG.50is a perspective view of the starboard-side, aft corner of a boat, such as the boat100, having the channel surf device600of the seventh embodiment. The channel surf device600shown inFIG.50includes one channel, an underside channel610, having an inlet612and an outlet614.FIGS.51and52are aft views of the port-side, aft corner of the boat100, showing the outlet614of the underside channel610, andFIG.53is a perspective view of the starboard-side, aft corner of the boat100, looking in an aft direction to show the inlet612of the underside channel610. The boat100includes a plurality of channel surf devices600, one on each of the port side and the starboard side of the boat100. The port-side channel surf device600is a mirror image of the starboard-side channel surf device600, and thus a description and depiction of the channel surf device600on the port side of the boat100are omitted here.

As the boat100is moved through the water at speeds suitable for water sports, such as wakesurfing, water enters the inlet612of the underside channel610. Water then flows through the underside channel610and out the outlet614. The water flowing through the underside channel610is then directed by the outlet614and used to improve the wake90for water sports, such as wakesurfing. In this embodiment, the inlet612has a larger surface area than the outlet614. The underside channel610is thus used to speed up and increase the pressure of the water flowing through the underside channel610. In this embodiment, the flow area of the underside channel610is progressively and continuously reduced along the entire length of the channel, but other configurations may be used.

The inlet612should be positioned in the water when the boat is configured and operated for water sports such as wakesurfing. Preferably, the inlet612is be located aft of the flow separation point for planing, and more preferably may be located aft of the LCG. The underside channel610may be located in the aft third of the boat100.

The underside channel610shown in this embodiment has a rectangular cross section. The underside channel610is elongated in an inboard and outboard direction, and in this embodiment is parallel to the deadrise of the hull bottom115. Other suitable shapes may be used, such as channels having a circular cross section. The outlet614may have a nozzle to direct the water. In this embodiment, the outlet discharges the accelerated water in an aft direction and preferably into at least one of the port-side wave92and the starboard-side wave94. The nozzle may be variable for different surfing or water sport configurations. Suitable nozzle configurations may be similar to those discussed below in the eighth embodiment and a detailed description of these nozzles and other devices used to direct the flow of water from the outlet614is omitted here. Also like in the eighth embodiment discussed below, the outlet614, may be located on the hull bottom115instead of the transom113to direct the accelerated water at least downward if not both downward and aft.

The channel surf device600may include a plurality of channels. The surf device600shown inFIGS.54-57includes a second, hullside channel620. Although shown in combination with the underside channel610, the hullside channel620may also be used alone. Like the underside channel610, the hullside channel620includes an inlet622and an outlet624.FIG.54is a perspective view of the starboard-side, aft corner of the boat100having the channel surf device600with two channels610,620.FIGS.55and56are aft views of the port-side, aft corner of the boat100, showing the outlet624of the hullside channel620, andFIG.57is a perspective view of the starboard-side, aft corner of the boat100, looking in an aft direction to show the inlet622of the hullside channel620.

The hullside channel620is configured like the underside channel610and has differing areas to speed up the water flowing through the hullside channel620. In this embodiment, the hullside channel620is oriented along the starboard side119of the hull110to have a more vertical orientation. In this embodiment, the hullside channel620also has a rectangular cross section and is elongated in a direction that is parallel with the inclination of the starboard side119of the hull110. The outlet624of the hullside channel620is shown directing the accelerated water discharged from the outlet624in an aft direction, but as with the underside channel610, the accelerated water discharged from the outlet624may be directed in an outboard direction (e.g., a starboard direction or a port direction) in addition to or instead of being directed aft.

Although the underside channel610and the hullside channel620are shown attached to the outside of the hull110, they may also be incorporated (imbedded) inside of the hull110. The underside channel610and hullside channel620may also include features to turn off or otherwise open and close the underside channel610and hullside channel620. Such features may include a gate located in the respective inlet612,622or a valve.

The channel surf device600is preferably located outboard of the propulsion device10, as can be seen, for example, inFIG.55. Preferably, the outlet614,624of each channel610,620is located on the outer third of boat100at the transom113, outboard on either side of the propulsion device10, and more preferably on the outer quarter of the boat100. In the embodiments shown herein, the underside channel610has an outer end proximate the side (port side117and starboard side119) of the hull110and extends inboard from the side (port side117and starboard side119) of the hull110.

Eighth Embodiment

In the seventh embodiment, the speed of the water was increased, and the direction of the water changed to improve the wake90for wakesurfing by, among other things, progressively decreasing the cross-sectional area of the underside channel610and the hullside channel620through which the water flows. The speed of the water could also be increased by mechanical means, such as for example an impeller and stator vanes of a jet pump similar to those used with personal watercraft. The surf device700of the eighth embodiment uses two jet pumps, one on the port side of a boat, such as the boat100, and one on the starboard side of the boat100to accelerate water and produce a surfable wake. To distinguish it from the other surf devices discussed herein, the surf device700of this embodiment is referred to herein as a jet surf device700.FIG.58is a port side view of the boat100having the jet surf device700of the eighth embodiment, andFIG.59is an aft view showing the transom113of the boat100with the jet surf device700.

The boat100is equipped with at least one jet surf device700on the port side of the boat100(a port jet surf device700) and at least on a jet surf device700on the starboard side of the boat100(a starboard jet surf device700). The starboard jet surf device700is a mirror image of the port jet surf device700, and thus a description and depiction of the starboard jet surf device700is omitted here. The jet surf devices700are used to create a suitable wake for wakesurfing and are not used as the principal propulsion means. Instead, the boat100includes a separate propulsion device10, as discussed above, to move the boat100through the water at speeds suitable for wakesurfing. The boat depicted inFIGS.58and59is an inboard boat with a propeller12and rudder38forward of the transom113. The jet surf device700may also be used with other propulsion devices discussed above.

The jet surf device700includes a jet pump710. The jet pump710includes an inlet712, an impeller714, and an outlet716. The jet pump710draws water through the inlet712and into the jet pump710from the body of water in which the boat100sits. The impeller714is rotated by a drive source to accelerate the water drawn into the jet pump710through the inlet712. The rotation of the impeller714may also draw the water into the jet pump710through the inlet712. The impeller714is coupled to the drive source by a shaft718. The drive source for the impeller714may be any suitable drive source, but in this embodiment, the drive source may be the engine20of the inboard boat100. For example, a power-take-off (PTO) device coupled to the shaft718may be driven by the engine20to drive the impeller714. Suitable PTO devices include, for example, a belt or a gear connected to the engine. In other embodiments, a drive source separate from the engine20used to drive the propeller12may be used to operate the impeller714. Such sources may include, for example electrical motors or even a separate internal combustion engine.

The water accelerated by the impeller714is then discharged through an outlet716. In some embodiments, such as the embodiment shown inFIG.58, the outlet716includes a nozzle702. In other embodiments, as will be discussed further below, the nozzle702may be located downstream of the outlet716. The nozzle702may be used to direct the sped-up and pressurized water to improve the wake90for wakesurfing. Although shown with a single nozzle702for each of the jet surf devices700. The jet surf device700may include a plurality of nozzles702. As shown inFIG.59, the outlets716and the nozzles702are located on the outboard corners of the transom113. Preferably, the outlet716and the nozzle702are located outboard of the propulsion device10, such as the propeller12. More preferably, the outlet716and the nozzle702are located on the outboard third of the boat100, and even more preferably, the outlet716and the nozzle702are located on the outboard quarter of the boat100. In this embodiment, the engine20is located on the centerline and the outlet716and the nozzle702are located outboard of the engine20.

As noted above, the outlet716and the nozzle702are located on the transom113. The transom113is an aft-facing surface and the accelerated water is thus directed in an aft direction. As shown inFIG.60, for example, the nozzle702(or the outlet716alone) also may direct the water in a downward direction.FIG.60is a schematic of the starboard side of the boat100conceptually illustrating a possible theory in which the jet surf device700produces a surfable wake. By using accelerated water to stagger flow convergence on the center of the wash produced by the propeller12, a wave can be formed. The amplitude of the wave can be increased by displacing the water behind the boat and by accelerating the water downward. This causes an equal and opposite reaction of the water resulting in a higher (surfable) wave. InFIG.60, the wake90without the accelerated water of the jet surf device700is shown with the broken line and the wake90with the accelerated water of the jet surf device700is shown with the solid line. The nozzle702may also be configured to direct the accelerated water in other directions, such as inboard or outboard depending on the desired shape of the wake90.

The nozzle702and the outlet716are not limited to being located on the transom113(an aft facing surface) instead, the nozzle702and the outlet716may be located on other parts of the hull110including the sides (port side117and starboard side119) of the hull110and the hull bottom115. When the nozzle702and the outlet716are located in these positions, they are located proximate the stern most portion of the boat100, such as the transom113.FIG.61is a port side view of the boat100having the nozzle702located on the port side117of the hull110. With the nozzle702located as shown inFIG.61, the accelerated water may be directed outward in a direction transverse to the centerline102of the boat100. The accelerated water may be directed in a port or starboard direction and in some embodiments, the accelerated water may be directed in a direction perpendicular to the centerline102of the boat100. The nozzle702in this position also may be configured to direct the accelerated water in a downward direction, in an upward direction, and/or in an aft direction.FIG.62is a bottom view of the boat100having the nozzle702located on the hull bottom115. With the nozzle702located as shown inFIG.62, the accelerated water may be directed downward. The nozzle702in this position also may be configured to direct the accelerated water in an outboard direction, in an inboard direction, and/or in an aft direction.

As depicted inFIG.59-62, the nozzle702has a circular shape, however, the nozzle702is not so limited.FIG.63Ais a perspective view of the port-side, aft corner of the boat100equipped with an alternate configuration of the nozzle702. The nozzle702shown inFIG.61is a linear, elongated slot (more specifically rectilinear) that extends parallel to the deadrise of the boat100at the transom113. The slot may also be rectangular. Although in this embodiment the outlet of the nozzle702is static and the water propelled by the impeller714is directed by deflector plates732,734,736, discussed further below, the outlet of the nozzle702may also be movable.

Locating the nozzle702(outlet716) along the edges of the transom113, hull bottom115, and/or side (port side117and starboard side119) of the hull110where these components intersect using the elongated slot geometry of the nozzle702allows the water to be directed in such a way that the water promotes a smooth laminar flow of the water flowing around the hull110and producing the wake90. The water accelerated by the jet surf device700and discharged from the nozzle702in such a manner further increases the speed of the water flowing adjacent to the nozzle702. In this embodiment, the nozzle702is preferably positioned and oriented to produce this laminar (smooth) flow and avoid producing additional turbulence in the water.

The nozzle702(outlet716) may be located in any one of the transom113, hull bottom115, and/or side (port side117and starboard side119) of the hull110.FIG.63Bis a perspective view of the starboard-side, aft corner of the boat100having the linear, elongated nozzle702located on the transom113, similar to the nozzle702, shown inFIG.63A. As noted and shown above, nozzle702and the outlet716are not limited to being located on the transom113(an aft facing surface) instead, the nozzle702and the outlet716may be located on other parts of the hull110including the sides (port side117and starboard side119) of the hull110and the hull bottom115.FIG.63Cshows the nozzle702with the elongated slot geometry located on the hull bottom115.FIG.63Cis a perspective view of the starboard-side, aft corner of the boat100. The nozzle702is preferably located proximate the edge of the hull bottom115with the transom113. Likewise, to speed up the water flowing along the sides (port side117and starboard side119) of the hull110, the nozzle702having the elongated slot geometry may have an upright orientation as shown inFIG.63D.FIG.63Cis a perspective view of the starboard-side, aft corner of the boat100. In this embodiment, the nozzle702is elongated in a direction that is parallel with the inclination of the starboard side119of the hull110.

As noted above, the elongated nozzles702are preferably located proximate the edges where the transom113, the hull bottom115, and the sides (port side117and starboard side119) intersect. The elongated nozzles702are preferably positioned to promote the laminar flow of water past these edges and to accelerate this water while avoiding (or minimizing) the production of turbulent flow. In some embodiments, the nozzles702may be positioned less than 6 inches from the corresponding edge, more preferably less than 3 inches from the corresponding edge, and even more preferably less than 1 inch from the corresponding edge.

In this embodiment, the impeller714discharges into a flow cavity722formed by a box720inside of the hull110.FIGS.64and65are top views of the inside of the hull110showing the box720used to create the flow cavity722. InFIG.65the top panel of the box720is removed to show the inside of the box720. Although formed on the interior of the hull110, the box720may also be formed exterior to the hull110including on the hull bottom115or side of the boat100(port side117or starboard side119) or extending aft of the transom113.

In this embodiment, the water accelerated by the impeller714is directed and shaped by the nozzle702and three deflector plates: an inboard deflector plate732, an outboard deflector plate734, and a vertical deflector plate736. The inboard deflector plate732and the outboard deflector plate734are located within the box720and pivot about pivot points (hinges) on the inboard side and outboard side, respectively, of the inlet724from the impeller714to the box720. The outlet716of the jet pump710discharges into the inlet724of the box720. The inboard deflector plate732and the outboard deflector plate734are oriented such that they are generally perpendicular to the bottom of the box720, which in this embodiment is also parallel to the deadrise of the boat100. The inboard deflector plate732and outboard deflector plate734are configured to direct the water propelled by the impeller714in various directions and widths. For example, the inboard deflector plate732and the outboard deflector plate734are oriented to direct the water accelerated by the impeller714inboard.FIGS.66A-66Care schematics showing other orientations of the inboard deflector plate732and the outboard deflector plate734. InFIG.66Athe inboard deflector plate732and the outboard deflector plate734are oriented to direct the water accelerated by the impeller714outboard. The inboard deflector plate732and the outboard deflector plate734may also be moved to change the width over which the water accelerated by the impeller714exits the nozzle702. InFIG.66B, the inboard deflector plate732and the outboard deflector plate734are oriented to direct the water accelerated by the impeller714over the full width of the nozzle702, and inFIG.66C, the inboard deflector plate732and outboard deflector plate734are oriented to direct the water accelerated by the impeller714over only a portion of the nozzle702and, in this example, less than the width of the inlet724.

As shown inFIG.63, the vertical deflector plate736is configured to direct the flow of water exiting the nozzle702in a vertical direction, and more specifically in this embodiment, in a downward direction. The vertical deflector plate736may be located proximate the nozzle702either upstream of the nozzle702or downstream of the nozzle702. The vertical deflector plate736of this embodiment is a plate that is pivotably attached to the transom113of the boat100by a hinge just above the top of the nozzle702. The pivot axis of the vertical deflector plate736in this embodiment is oriented parallel to the deadrise of the boat100at the transom113, and parallel with the top of the nozzle702. The vertical deflector plate736is located downstream of the nozzle702in this embodiment and can be pivoted downward about its pivot axis to direct the water accelerated by the impeller714and exiting the nozzle702in a downward direction. The vertical deflector plate736of this embodiment may be oriented at various different downward angles.

The inboard deflector plate732, the outboard deflector plate734, and the vertical deflector plate736may be moved by any suitable movement mechanism738including, but not limited to, electric linear actuators, hydraulic linear actuators, gas assist pneumatic actuators, and electrical motors, as discussed above.

The port jet surf device700may be operated to produce a surfable wake on the port-side wave92, and the starboard jet surf device700may be operated to produce a surfable wake on the starboard-side wave94. Although each of the port jet surf device700and the starboard jet surf device700may be operated alone to generate the surfable wake, in some embodiments in may be preferable to operate both jet surf devices700at the same time. Doing so helps balance any force not in the forward direction, particularly in the embodiments where water is directed in an outboard or inboard direction, to counteract any yaw moment generated by operating only one of the jet surf devices700. In addition, operating both jet surf devices700may allow both the port-side wave92and the starboard-side wave94to be a surfable wake with a surfer being pushed by each wave of the wake90.

Ninth Embodiment

FIGS.67-69show a boat, such as the boat100, using surf devices according to a ninth embodiment of the invention.FIG.67is a port side view of a boat100having a surf device of this embodiment andFIG.68is a starboard side view of the boat100of this embodiment. This embodiment uses at least one foil812,814,822,824that extends outward from the side of the boat100. In this embodiment, multiple foils are used including an aft pair of foils812,814and a forward pair of foils822,824. The boat100of this embodiment thus includes a port-side aft foil812, a starboard-side aft foil814, a port-side forward foil822, and a starboard-side forward foil824. The foils on the port side of the boat100(the port-side aft foil812and the port-side forward foil822) extend outward from the port side117of the boat100, and the foils on the starboard side of the boat100(the starboard-side aft foil814and the starboard-side forward foil824) extend outward from the starboard side119of the hull110.

In this embodiment, each foil is positioned on the side of the hull110above the chine. Preferably each foil is positioned low enough on the side of the hull110such that it interacts with the water as the boat100moves through the water at speeds less than planing speed and particularly at speeds suitable for wakesurfing (approximately 9 mph to 12 mph). In this embodiment, the foils are placed as close as possible to the chine as the movement mechanism840(discussed below) allows. For example, each foil may be preferably positioned in the lower quarter of the hull side, and more preferably in the lower eighth of the hull side.

Each of the foils is rotatable about a rotation axis832and includes a leading edge834and a trailing edge836. The leading edge834of each foil can be rotated upward or downward as indicated by the arrows shown inFIG.67. By rotating the leading edge834of a foil upward, the foil creates an upward force on the part of the boat100to which the foil is connected when water flows past and/or contacts the foil. Conversely, by rotating the leading edge834of the foil downward, the foil creates a downward force on the part of the boat100to which the foil is connected when water flows past and/or contacts the foil. In this embodiment, the rotation axis832is located between the leading edge834and the trailing edge836, and the trailing edge836moves in the opposite direction of the leading edge834. Although the foils shown inFIGS.67and68are flat, the structure of the foils are not so limited and they may have other shapes, such as curved surfaces, to assist with the lift (positive or negative) that the foil preferably produces. The foils may also have, for example, a wedge shape. Although shown as symmetric foils, foils on the port side of the boat100(port-side aft foil812and port-side forward foil822) may be asymmetrical with the foils on the starboard side of the boat100(starboard-side aft foil814and starboard-side forward foil824).

FIG.69shows an example of a movement mechanism840that can be used with each of the foils. Each foil includes a post842that extends through the side (port side117or starboard side119) of the hull110and is used to rotate the foil. The rotation axis832of the foil extends through the center of the post842. One end of a lever arm844is attached to the post842, and to the other end of the lever arm844the ram of an actuator846is attached. In this embodiment, the actuator846is electric linear actuators manufactured by Lenco Marine. Any suitable actuator846may be used including, but not limited, to electric linear actuators, hydraulic linear actuators, gas assist pneumatic actuators, and electrical motors, as discussed above. Other suitable devices to move the lever arm844may also be used in place of the actuator846. Such devices include, for example, a cable-driven device similar to those used with steering mechanisms. In this embodiment, the lever arm844extends upward when the foil does not have an angle of attack. Moving the lever arm844forward rotates the post842such that the leading edge of the foil angles downward, and moving the lever arm844aft rotates the post842such that the leading edge of the foil angles upward.

The foils could be used to produce a surf wake in at least one of two ways. The foils could be used to create downward force on one side and an upward force on the other side. In this approach, for example, a surf wake could be produced on the port side by adjusting the angle of attack of the port-side aft foil812and port-side forward foil822downward to pull the port side of the boat100down and adjust the angle of attack on the starboard-side aft foil814and starboard-side forward foil824to create an upward force to roll (or create a list) in the boat100. Alternatively, one set could be used to create either a downward force or an upward force. Another way the foils could be used is to create downward forces on both sides, basically to replace or supplement a ballast system. Another surf device, such as those discussed herein could then be used to shape the wake90for wakesurfing.

Positioning the foils on the side of the hull110maximizes the moment arm of each foil. For example, a foil on the side of the hull110can be used to produce a greater roll moment about the center of gravity of the boat100than the same sized foil positioned farther inboard. Further, positioning the foils on the side of the hull110allows each foil to be positioned orthogonal to the side of the hull110and thus have a generally horizontal orientation in the static flotation condition. With each foil having such an orientation, most of the forces generated by the foil are either positive or negative lift (in the vertical direction) as opposed to yaw forces turning the boat. Although shown as being on the side of the hull110, the foils may be positioned on the hull bottom115instead. When positioned on the hull bottom115the foils are preferably located on the outboard third of the hull bottom115to create a larger moment arm.

The foils shown inFIGS.67and68are generally linear extending outboard from the side of the hull110. But they are not so limited and may have other suitable shapes, such as a J-shape or an L-shape, for example, as shown inFIG.70.FIG.70is an aft view showing the transom113of the boat100with foils located on the hull bottom. An L-shaped foil816is shown on the starboard side, and a J-shaped foil818is shown on the port side. When the foils are located on the hull bottom115, for example, the foils may have a J-shape where a portion of the foil is orthogonal to the hull bottom115and another portion is generally horizontal when the boat is in its static flotation condition. This J-shape foil may have a curved section to transition between the orthogonal portion and the horizontal portion.

Positioning the foils to have larger moment arms is preferable as it allows the foils to be reduced in size for an equivalent amount of roll compared to larger foils positioned closer to the center of gravity of the boat100. Reducing the size is preferable on a planing hull boat, such as the boat100used in the embodiments herein, as larger foils create larger drag forces, particularly if they interact with the water at planing speeds. Likewise, the number of foils also impacts the drag forces on the100with a higher number of foils creating more drag.

As with the outboard position of the foils, the port-side aft foil812and the starboard-side aft foil814are preferably located farther aft in the boat100to increase the moment arm of the port-side aft foil812and the starboard-side aft foil814. Preferably, the port-side aft foil812and the starboard-side aft foil814are each located in the aft third of the boat100. Positioning the port-side aft foil812and the starboard-side aft foil814near the transom113would maximize the moment arm, but foils have the potential to affect the shape of the wake90formed behind the boat100. If such impacts are to be avoided, the port-side aft foil812and the starboard-side aft foil814are preferably positioned forward of the transom113by, for example, twice the length of the respective foil.

It may be desirable to avoid a pitch (or attack angle) change of the boat100when the port-side aft foil812and the starboard-side aft foil814are generating lift (either positive or negative). Thus, the port-side forward foil822and the starboard-side aft foil824may be positioned forward of the center of gravity of the boat100to produce a force that balances the force produced by the port-side aft foil812and the starboard-side aft foil814, respectively, when they are generating lift. Where the size of each of the foils812,814,822,824is the same, the port-side forward foil822and the starboard-side forward foil824may be positioned the same distance forward of the center of gravity of the boat100as the port-side aft foil812and the starboard-side aft foil814are positioned aft of the center of gravity of the boat100.

The foils may be movable between a deployed position in which they extend outboard from the side of the hull110to a retracted position in which they are contained within the hull110or flush with the side of the hull110(or hull bottom115).FIG.67shows slots838formed in the port side117of the hull110to accommodate the foils in the non-deployed position. In this embodiment, the foils pivot (are rotatable) between the deployed position and the non-deployed position and pivot in a forward/aft direction and an inboard/outboard direction. Other types of configurations for the foils to move between the deployed position and non-deployed position may be used, such as a telescoping foil assembly, for example. In addition, the foils could be configured such that they are not stowable, and instead, extend outward from the side of the hull110or hull bottom115. When the foil is not stowable, positioning the foils on the hull bottom115may be preferred so that the foil does not extend outside of the beam of the boat100(or minimize the distance which it extends outside the beam of the boat100).

The foils may be used for other operations on the boat100besides wakesurfing. Positioning both of the aft pair of foils (port-side aft foil812and port-side forward foil822) so that their leading edges are angled upward can be used to help get the boat on plane, for example.

Tenth Embodiment

FIGS.71and72show a surf device according to a tenth embodiment of the invention.FIGS.71and72are perspective views of the port-side, aft corner of a boat having a surf device according to this embodiment. The swim platform106is in a neutral position inFIG.71and is in a deployed position inFIG.72. In this embodiment, a panel900is formed on each of the outboard sides of a swim platform106.FIGS.71and72show the port-side edge of the swim platform with the panel900. The starboard-side edge of the swim platform106also includes a panel900. The starboard-side edge of the swim platform106is a mirror image of the port-side edge thus a description and depiction of starboard-side edge is omitted here. The swim platform106of this embodiment slides in a port and starboard direction as indicated by the arrow inFIG.71. The panel900has a shape that mimics the hull side (port side117inFIGS.71and72), similar to the flap202discussed above. The swim platform106slides from the neutral position to the deployed position such that the panel900becomes a continuation of the hull side (port side117), as shown inFIG.72. More specifically, the panel900has an outboard surface901and in the deployed position the outboard surface901is flush with the port side117of the hull110. The panel900also includes a leading edge902adjacent to the transom113, and a trailing edge904. Preferably, when the swim platform106is in the deployed position, the leading edge902is adjacent to the aft corner of the boat were the port side117of the hull110transitions to the transom113. The panel further includes an upper edge906and a lower edge908. Preferably, the upper edge906is at the top surface of the swim platform or lower and extends downward such that the lower edge908does not extend below the hull bottom115. In some embodiments, the lower edge908may be an extension of the chine when the swim platform106is in the deployed position.

The swim platform106has a width that is less than the width of the boat100at the transom113. Preferably, the swim platform106has a width that is from 70-95 percent of the width of the boat100at the transom113. In the neutral position, the panel900(and thus outboard edge of the swim platform106) is spaced inboard from the port side117of the hull110. The swim platform106may have a centerline that is coincident with the centerline102of the boat100when the swim platform is in the neural portion.

To create a surf wake, the swim platform106and the panel is moved to toward the non-surf side of the boat100. InFIG.72, the swim platform106is moved (shifted) from its neutral position to the port side of the boat100to create a surfable starboard-side wave94. Any suitable mechanism may be used to move the swim platform including those discussed in other embodiments above. The swim platform106may use a track or other suitable mechanism to allow the swim platform106to connect to the transom113and also slide.

Other Embodiments

Although this invention has been described with respect to certain specific exemplary embodiments, many additional modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of this disclosure. It is, therefore, to be understood that this invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described. Thus, the exemplary embodiments of the invention should be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive, and the scope of the invention to be determined by any claims supportable by this application and the equivalents thereof, rather than by the foregoing description.