Abstract

A hydrofoil vehicle comprises a frame and at least one foil. The vehicle comprises a moveable control surface configured to control a pitch of the vehicle, in use. A locking mechanism is provided for restricting movement of the control surface when the vehicle is not foiling, for example during launching. In examples, the locking mechanism activates automatically when the hydrofoil vehicle is not foiling. In examples, the vehicle is human powered.

IPC Classes  ?

• B63B 1/24 - Hydrodynamic or hydrostatic features of hulls or of hydrofoils deriving additional lift from hydrodynamic forces of hydrofoil type
• B63B 1/26 - Hydrodynamic or hydrostatic features of hulls or of hydrofoils deriving additional lift from hydrodynamic forces of hydrofoil type having more than one hydrofoil
• B63B 1/28 - Hydrodynamic or hydrostatic features of hulls or of hydrofoils deriving additional lift from hydrodynamic forces of hydrofoil type with movable hydrofoils
• B63B 34/40 - Body-supporting structures dynamically supported by foils under water
• B63B 34/50 - Body-supporting buoyant devices, e.g. bathing boats or water cycles
• B63H 1/14 - Propellers
• B63H 16/00 - Marine propulsion by muscle power
• B63H 16/08 - Other apparatus for converting muscle power into propulsive effort
• B63H 16/20 - Other apparatus for converting muscle power into propulsive effort using rotary cranking arm
• B63H 23/34 - Propeller shaftsPaddle-wheel shaftsAttachment of propellers on shafts

Abstract

The human powered hydrofoil bicycle includes multiple subsystems integrated together including a structural frame subsystem with associated steering and tiller module, a hydrofoil subsystem to provide vehicle lift, and a powertrain subsystem. The structural frame subsystem may be fitted with buoyancy modules to provide the overall vehicle with a near neutrally buoyant character. The structural frame subsystem also supports a seat for an operator and provides structural support for the steering and tiller module for the hydrofoil subsystem and the drivetrain subsystem. The hydrofoil subsystem includes multiple hydrofoil elements at lowermost portions of the vehicle. These hydrofoil elements generally include in a preferred embodiment a larger rear foil and a smaller front foil. The powertrain subsystem generally includes pedals rotatably supported on the vehicle at a convenient location for engagement and driving by feet of an operator. Power transmission elements extend from the pedals down to a prime mover such as a propeller.

IPC Classes  ?

• B63H 16/20 - Other apparatus for converting muscle power into propulsive effort using rotary cranking arm
• B63B 34/40 - Body-supporting structures dynamically supported by foils under water