WATERCRAFT

FIELD The invention relates to an interface for mounting a propulsion mechanism to a watercraft, and to a watercraft that includes such an interface.

BACKGROUND

Various pedal operated propulsion mechanisms exist for propelling watercrafts such as kayaks. Such pedal operated propulsion mechanisms are becoming increasingly popular in fishing kayaks since users can propel their watercraft using only their feet while their hands remain available for holding fishing rods and the like.

One type of pedal operated propulsion mechanism comprises a pedals that operatively connect to a pair of flappers adapted to oscillate through arcuate paths in a generally transverse direction with respect to the central longitudinal dimension of the watercraft. Such pedal operated propulsion mechanisms are typically mounted to a receptacle in the hull or body of the kayak. In these designs, the pedal operated propulsion mechanism is directly supported by and coupled to the hull of the kayak. While this configuration may be suitable in many instances, the reciprocating movement induced on the pedals tends to urge slight movement of the foot propulsion mechanism relative to the hull of the kayak, which causes damages to the hull over time. Since the hull itself defines the support for the foot propulsion mechanism, the entire hull must be replaced when such damage occurs. Furthermore, the manufacturing of such a hull by thermoforming may prove onerous since the crafting of the receptacle for the propulsion mechanism typically requires a worker to carefully cut out the opening for receiving the foot propulsion mechanism, which tends to slow down the manufacturing process.

Therefore, it would be desirable to be provided with an interface for a watercraft that alleviates at least some of the above-identified drawbacks.

SUMMARY

According to a broad aspect, there is provided a kayak extending longitudinally between rear and front ends and transversely between left and right sides, the kayak comprising: a foot-driven propulsion mechanism comprising first and second shafts with first and second pedals, first and second flappers, and a core body between the first and second shafts and first and second flappers, the core body comprising first and second projections comprising first and second ends; a body comprising a deck portion with a top side and a hull portion with a bottom side adapted to contact water, wherein the top side comprises a top peripheral wall section defining a top opening and wherein the bottom side comprises a bottom peripheral wall section defining a bottom opening; and an interface comprising top and bottom plates and a channel portion extending between the top and bottom plates, the top plate comprising atop peripheral wall section defining atop opening adapted to at least partially receive the foot-driven propulsion mechanism and the bottom plate comprising a bottom peripheral wall section defining a bottom opening adapted to at least partially receive the foot-driven propulsion mechanism, wherein the channel portion comprises an internal peripheral wall defining a hollow space to at least partially receive the foot-driven propulsion mechanism, wherein the internal peripheral wall of the interface comprises first and second projections or recesses; wherein the first and second ends of the first and second projections are mounted to the first and second projections or recesses.

According to a further broad aspect, there is provided a kayak extending longitudinally between rear and front ends and transversely between left and right sides, the kayak comprising: a foot-driven propulsion mechanism comprising first and second shafts with first and second pedals, first and second flappers, and a core body between the first and second shafts and first and second flappers, the core body comprising left and right projections comprising left and right ends; a body comprising a deck portion with a top side and a hull portion with a bottom side adapted to contact water, wherein the top side comprises a top peripheral wall section defining a top opening and wherein the bottom side comprises a bottom peripheral wall section defining a bottom opening; and an interface comprising top and bottom plates and a channel portion extending between the top and bottom plates, the top plate comprising a top peripheral wall section defining a top opening adapted to at least partially receive the foot-driven propulsion mechanism and the bottom plate comprising a bottom peripheral wall section defining a bottom opening adapted to at least partially receive the foot-driven propulsion mechanism, wherein the channel portion comprises an internal peripheral wall defining a hollow space to at least partially receive the foot-driven propulsion mechanism, wherein the internal peripheral wall of the interface comprises left and right side walls, wherein the left side wall comprises a left projection or recesses, and wherein the right side wall comprises a right projection or recesses; wherein the left and right ends of the left and right projections are mounted to the left and right projections or recesses and abut at least partially against the left and right projections or against left and right bottom portions of the left and right recesses.

According to another broad aspect, there is provided a kayak extending longitudinally between rear and front ends and transversely between left and right sides, the kayak comprising: a body comprising a deck portion with a top side and a hull portion with a bottom side adapted to contact water, wherein the top side comprises a top peripheral wall section defining a top opening and wherein the bottom side comprises a bottom peripheral wall section defining a bottom opening; and an interface comprising top and bottom plates and a channel portion extending between the top and bottom plates, the top plate comprising a top peripheral wall section defining a top opening adapted to at least partially receive a foot-driven propulsion mechanism and the bottom plate comprising a bottom peripheral wall section defining a bottom opening adapted to at least partially receive the foot-driven propulsion mechanism, wherein the channel portion comprises an internal peripheral wall defining a hollow space to at least partially receive the foot-driven propulsion mechanism, wherein the top peripheral wall section of the deck portion comprises a top peripheral recess, wherein the bottom peripheral wall section of the deck portion comprises a bottom peripheral recess, wherein the top peripheral wall of the interface is received in the top peripheral recess, and wherein the bottom peripheral wall of the interface is received in the bottom peripheral recess.

According to a further broad aspect, there is provided a kayak extending longitudinally between rear and front ends and transversely between left and right sides, the kayak comprising: a foot-driven propulsion mechanism comprising first and second shafts with first and second pedals, first and second flappers, and a core body between the first and second shafts and first and second flappers, the core body comprising left and right mounting shafts; a body comprising a deck portion with a top side and a hull portion with a bottom side adapted to contact water, wherein the top side comprises a top peripheral wall section defining a top opening and wherein the bottom side comprises a bottom peripheral wall section defining a bottom opening; and an interface comprising top and bottom plates and a channel portion extending between the top and bottom plates, the top plate comprising a top peripheral wall section defining a top opening adapted to at least partially receive the foot-driven propulsion mechanism and the bottom plate comprising a bottom peripheral wall section defining a bottom opening adapted to at least partially receive the foot-driven propulsion mechanism, wherein the channel portion comprises an internal peripheral wall defining a hollow space to at least partially receive the foot-driven propulsion mechanism, wherein the internal peripheral wall of the interface comprises left and right side walls defining left and right vertical slots with left and right bottom walls, the left and right slots being adapted to receive the left and right mounting shafts; wherein, in a first position, the left and right mounting shafts are movable in the left and right slots, and wherein, in a second position, the left and right mounting shafts abut against the left and right bottom walls of the left and right slots. In some aspects, there is provided a watercraft comprising a body having a deck portion, a hull portion and a well extending between the deck portion and the hull portion, an interface for mounting a propulsion mechanism to the body of the watercraft, the interface including: a top plate, a first bottom plate spaced-apart from the first top plate and extending generally parallel thereto, and a first channel portion extending between the first top plate and the first bottom, generally transverse thereto, the first top plate abutting a first peripheral segment of the deck portion, the first bottom plate abutting a first peripheral segment of the hull portion and the first channel portion extending in the well when the first section is mounted to the body. The watercraft includes a second interface section comprising a second top plate, a second bottom plate spaced-apart from the second top plate and extending generally parallel thereto, and a second channel portion extending between the second top plate and the second bottom, generally transverse thereto, the second top plate abutting a second peripheral segment of the deck portion, the second bottom plate abutting a second peripheral segment of the hull portion and the second channel portion extending in the well when the second interface section is mounted to the body. The watercraft includes a fastening assembly for fastening the first and second interface sections either to one another or to the body of the watercraft.

In some implementations, the first interface section is a left interface section and the second interface section is a right interface section. The first interface section is a rear interface section and the second interface section is a front interface section.

In some aspects, a watercraft includes a body having a deck portion, a hull portion and a well extending between the deck portion and the hull portion, an interface for mounting a propulsion mechanism to the body of the watercraft, the interface including: a first plate positionable adjacent to one of the hull portion and the deck portion of the watercraft, about a periphery of the well, the first plate including a first hole, a channel receivable in the first hole and securable to the first plate, the channel being positionable in the well, the channel being sized and shaped for receiving therein a portion of the propulsion mechanism and for mounting the propulsion mechanism to the interface; a securing assembly for securing the channel to the first plate; and at least one fastening assembly for removably fastening the interface to the body of the watercraft.

In some implementations, the interface further includes a second plate positionable adjacent to the other of the hull portion and the deck portion of the watercraft, about the periphery of the well, the second plate comprising a second hole sized and shaped for receiving therethrough a portion of the propulsion mechanism, the hole being positionable in registry with well and with the channel. The securing assembly is further configured for securing the channel to the second plate. The at least one fastening assembly is configured for removably fastening the first plate to the second plate of the interface. The at least one fastening assembly includes a first segment engaging the first plate of the interface and a second segment engaging the second plate of the interface, the first and second segments of the at least one fastening assembly collaborating to force the first and second plates of the interface toward one another to sandwich the body of the watercraft therebetween.

In some aspects, a watercraft includes a body having a deck portion, a hull portion and a well extending between the deck portion and the hull portion, an interface for mounting a propulsion mechanism to the body of the watercraft, the interface including: a first plate positionable adjacent to one of the hull portion and the deck portion of the watercraft, about a periphery of the well, the first plate including a first hole, a second plate positionable adjacent to the other of the hull portion and the deck portion of the watercraft, about the periphery of the well, the second plate including a second hole, a channel receivable in the first hole and securable to the first plate, the channel being positionable in the well, the channel being sized and shaped for receiving therein a portion of the propulsion mechanism and for mounting the propulsion mechanism to the interface, the channel being further positionable in registry with the second hole of the second plate; a securing assembly for securing the channel to the first plate; and at least one fastening assembly for removably fastening the interface to the body of the watercraft.

In some implementations, the securing assembly is further configured for securing the channel to the second plate. The at least one fastening assembly is configured for removably fastening the first plate to the second plate of the interface. The at least one fastening assembly includes a first segment engaging the first plate of the interface and a second segment engaging the second plate of the interface, the first and second segments of the at least one fastening assembly collaborating to force the first and second plates of the interface toward one another to sandwich the body of the watercraft therebetween.

In some aspects, a propulsion mechanism for a watercraft including a body having a deck portion, a hull portion and a well extending between the deck portion and the hull portion, the propulsion mechanism includes a core support; an interface comprising a channel secured to the core support and a securing assembly for removably mounting the channel to the body of the watercraft, the channel being positionable in the well; and a propeller mounted to the core support, the propeller being configured to extend below the hull portion of the watercraft when the propulsion mechanism is mounted to the body of the watercraft.

In some implementations, the channel includes a top end and a bottom end, and wherein the interface further comprises a first plate mounted to one of the top end and the bottom end of the channel, the first plate abutting against the body when the propulsion mechanism is mounted to the body of the watercraft. The first plate of the interface is mounted to the top end the channel, the first plate abutting the deck portion of the body watercraft when the propulsion mechanism is mounted to the body of the watercraft. The first plate is mounted to the bottom end the channel, to first plate abutting the hull portion of the body watercraft when the propulsion mechanism is mounted to the body of the watercraft.

In some implementations, the propulsion mechanism further includes a set of left and right pedals operatively coupled to the propeller, the left and right pedals extending above the deck portion of the watercraft when the propulsion mechanism is mounted to the body of the watercraft. In some implementations, the propeller includes a pair of oscillating, flexible flappers. In some implementations, the set of left and right pedals the pair of is operatively coupled to the flexible flappers via one a cable transmission and a chain transmission.

In some aspects, a method for manufacturing a watercraft including a body having a deck portion, a hull portion and an embedded propeller interface extending between the deck portion and the hull portion by thermoforming, the method includes providing a mold including a deck shell and a hull shell, the deck shell and hull shell being movable relative to one another between an open position and a closed position; providing a propeller interface including a deck end and a hull end, the propeller interface being made of a first plastic material; providing first and second sheets of a second, thermoformable plastic material; moving the deck shell and the hull shell in the open position; positioning the first sheet of the second, thermoformable plastic material adjacent to one of the deck portion and the hull portion; positioning the second sheet of the second thermoformable plastic material adjacent to the other of the deck portion and the hull portion; positioning the propeller interface between the first and second sheets of the second, thermoformable material; moving the deck shell and the hull shell of the mold in the closed position; simultaneously thermoforming the deck portion and the hull portion to obtain the body; moving the deck shell and the hull shell of the mold in the open position. A watercraft manufactured according to the above-described method.

In some aspects, a watercraft includes a body having a deck portion, a hull portion and a well extending between the deck portion and the hull portion, an interface for mounting a propulsion mechanism to the body of the watercraft, the interface including: positionable in the well, the channel being sized and shaped for receiving therein a portion of the propulsion mechanism and for mounting the propulsion mechanism to the interface; a securing assembly for securing the channel to at least one of the deck portion and the hull portion.

In some aspects, a watercraft having a body that includes a deck portion, a hull portion with a keel portion, and a well extending between the deck portion and the keel portion, the watercraft includes an interface for mounting a pedal operated propulsion mechanism to the body of the watercraft, the interface includes a channel portion configured to fit within the well, and configured to removably receive the pedal operated propulsion mechanism.

In some implementations, the interface further includes a top plate having a hole therein, the top plate abutting the deck portion at least partially around the well. The interface further includes a bottom plate having a hole therein, the bottom plate abutting the keel portion at least partially around the well. The watercraft further includes a fastening assembly for fastening the interface sections to the body of the watercraft. The fastening assembly includes one or more screws for fastening the top plate to the interface or the bottom plate to the interface. The pedal operated propulsion mechanism includes two pins, each extending from one side thereof, and the channel portion comprises recesses for receiving and supporting the pins and a lock that locks at least one of the pins in place. The channel portion is integrally formed with the top plate. The channel portion is integrally formed with the bottom plate. The channel portion extends only partially through the well. The channel portion extends only partially through the well at a middle portion of the well between the deck portion and the keel portion. The channel portion is force fit into the well. The channel portion is snap fit into the well. The top or bottom plate is force- or snap- fit to the hull. The hull is a thermo-molded material and the interface is an injection molded material.

In some aspects, a watercraft, includes a body that includes a deck, a hull with a keel, and a well extending between the deck and the keel; an interface for mounting a pedal operated propulsion mechanism to the body of the watercraft, the interface including at least two brackets configured to at least partially fit within the well, the at least two brackets configured to removably mount a pedal operated propulsion mechanism to the body of the watercraft.

In some implementations, the at least two brackets comprise three brackets evenly spaced around the well. The at least two brackets comprise four brackets evenly spaced around the well. The four brackets include a forward bracket a rear bracket, and two side brackets. The forward bracket is configured to support a front of the pedal operated propulsion mechanism, the rear bracket is configured to support the rear of the pedal operated propulsion system, and the two side brackets are configured to support the sides of the pedal operated propulsion system. The pedal operated propulsion mechanism includes two pins, each extending from one side thereof, and each of the side brackets comprises a recess for receiving and supporting a respective pin of the two pins, and a lock that locks at least one of the pins in place. The brackets are affixed to the well. The brackets are affixed to a lip formed in the well.

In some implementations, the watercraft further includes a top plate with a hole therein through which at least a portion of the pedal powered propulsion system can pass, where the top plate abuts the deck. The top plate is affixed to the deck using screws, rivets, glue, or plastic-welding. The watercraft further includes a bottom plate with a hole therein through which at least a portion of the pedal powered propulsion system can pass, where the bottom plate abuts the hull at or near the keel. The bottom plate is affixed to the deck using screws, rivets, glue, or plastic-welding. The bottom plate is affixed to the deck using screws, rivets, glue, or plastic-welding. The hull is made from a thermo-molded material and the interface is made from an injection molded material. In some aspects, a method of making a rigid watercraft, including injection molding an interface configured to removably receive and mount a pedal operated propulsion mechanism to the rigid watercraft; thermo-molding a body that includes a deck, a hull with a keel, and the well extending between the deck and the keel; affixing the interface to the body.

In some implementations, the method further includes, after the thermo-molding, and while the body is still warm, inserting the interface at least partially into the well, and allowing the body to shrink about the interface. The injection molding forms the interface including: (i) a channel configured to fit within the well formed in the hull of the watercraft, (ii) the channel and a top plate that is configured to abut the deck, (iii) the channel and a bottom plate configured to abut the keel, or (iv) the channel the top plate and the bottom plate. The injection molding integrally forms the channel with either or both of the top and bottom plates.

All features of embodiments which are described in this disclosure and are not mutually exclusive can be combined with one another. Elements of one embodiment can be utilized in the other embodiments without further mention.

These and other aspects of the invention will now become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon review of the following description of embodiments of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Having thus generally described the nature of the invention, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, showing by way of illustration example embodiments thereof and in which:

FIG. 1 is a top, rear right perspective view of a kayak in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 2 is a bottom -up, rear right perspective view of the kayak shown in FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 3 is a top, front right perspective view of the kayak shown in FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the kayak shown in FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 5 is a left side elevation view of the kayak shown in FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 6 is a rear elevation view of the kayak shown in FIG. 1 ; FIG. 7 is a bottom plan view of the kayak shown in FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 8 is an enlarged, top front right perspective view of a body of the kayak shown in FIG. 1, comprising an interface, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 9 is an enlarged, bottom front right perspective view of the body shown in FIG. 8, comprising an interface, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 10 is a cross-section view of the body and the interface shown in FIG. 8, taken along line X-X;

FIG. 11 is a schematic top perspective representation of an interface, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 12 is a top view of the interface shown in FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of a left portion of the interface shown in FIG. 11;

FIG. 13A is a top perspective view of a left portion of an interface, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 14 is a schematic representation of an interface according to another embodiment;

FIG. 15A is a top perspective view of the interface represented in FIG. 14, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 15B is a bottom-up perspective view of the interface represented in FIG. 14, in accordance with an alternate embodiment;

FIG. 16 is a schematic representation of an interface in accordance to an embodiment;

FIG. 17 is atop perspective view of the interface represented in FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a schematic representation of an interface, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 19 is a schematic representation of an interface and propulsion mechanism, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the interface and propulsion mechanism represented in FIG. 19, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of an interface and propulsion mechanism, in accordance with some embodiments; FIG. 22 is a cross-section view of an interface and propulsion mechanism, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 23 is a cross-section view of an interface and propulsion mechanism, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 24 is a cross-section view of an interface and propulsion mechanism, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 25 is a cross-section view of an interface and propulsion mechanism, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 26 is a cross-section view of an interface and propulsion mechanism, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 27 is a cross-section view of an interface and propulsion mechanism, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 28 is a cross-section view of an interface and propulsion mechanism, in accordance with some embodiments.

In the drawings, embodiments of the invention are illustrated by way of examples. It is to be expressly understood that the description and drawings are only for the purpose of illustration and are an aid for understanding. They are not intended to be a definition of the limits of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Variants, examples, and preferred embodiments of the invention are described hereinbelow. The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numbers in different drawings may identify the same or similar elements. The following detailed description does not limit the invention.

In the following description, the same numerical references refer to similar elements. Furthermore, for the sake of simplicity and clarity, namely so as to not unduly burden the figures with several reference numbers, not all figures contain references to all the components and features, and references to some components and features may be found in only one figure, and components and features of the present disclosure which are illustrated in other figures can be easily inferred therefrom. The embodiments, geometrical configurations, materials mentioned and/or dimensions shown in the figures are optional and are given for exemplification purposes only. Moreover, it will be appreciated that positional descriptions such as "above", "below", "forward", "rearward", "left", "right" and the like should, unless otherwise indicated, be taken in the context of the figures only and should not be considered limiting. The use of "including," "comprising," or "having" and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional suitable items. Unless specified or limited otherwise, the terms "mounted," "connected," "supported," and "coupled" and variations thereof are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect mountings, connections, supports, and couplings and are thus intended to include direct connections between two members without any other members interposed therebetween and indirect connections between members in which one or more other members are interposed therebetween. Further, "connected" and "coupled" are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings. Additionally, the words "lower", "upper", "upward", "down" and "downward" designate directions in the drawings to which reference is made.

Furthermore, it is to be understood that where the claims or specification refer to "a" or "an" element, such reference is not be construed that there is only one of that element. It is to be understood that where the specification states that a component, feature, structure, or characteristic "may", "might", "can" or "could" be included, that particular component, feature, structure, or characteristic is not required to be included.

When used herein, the term “oblong well” and “well” are meant be used interchangeably and in a non-imitative manner. These terms are meant to refer to a structure created in the body of a Kayak that traverses the body of said kayak from the top end to the bottom end. It would be understood that the oblong well has generally an elongated form from the square, triangular, circular or rectangular form, one of the dimensions being greater than the other.

When used herein, the term “kayak” and “watercraft” are meant be used interchangeably and in a non-imitative manner. These terms are meant to refer to a fishing kayak, sit-on kayak, crossover kayak, inflatable kayak, touring kayak, sailing kayak, sea kayak, folding kayak, diving kayak, tandem kayak, stand-up-paddleboarding (SUP) hybrid kayak and to any other watercraft that may be used for similar purposes.

According to a broad aspect, in one embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 7, 13, 20 and 22, there is provided a kayak 10 extending longitudinally between rear 16 and front 14 ends and transversely between left and right sides, the kayak comprising: a foot-driven propulsion mechanism 500 comprising first and second shafts (506a, 506b) with first and second pedals (502a, 502b), first and second flappers (542a, 542b), and a core body 514 between the first and second shafts (506a, 506b) and first and second flappers (542a, 542b), the core body 514 comprising first and second projections comprising first and second ends (548a, 548b); a body 12 comprising a deck portion 20 with a top side 22 and a hull portion 24 with a bottom side 26 adapted to contact water, wherein the top side 22 comprises atop peripheral wall section defining atop opening 100 and wherein the bottom side comprises a bottom peripheral wall section defining a bottom opening 100; and an interface (300, 3300) comprising top and bottom plates (304, 302) and a channel portion 305 extending between the top and bottom plates, the top plate 304 comprising a top peripheral wall section defining a top opening adapted to at least partially receive the foot-driven propulsion mechanism 500 and the bottom plate comprising a bottom peripheral wall section defining a bottom opening adapted to at least partially receive the foot-driven propulsion mechanism 500, wherein the channel portion 305 comprises an internal peripheral wall defining a hollow space to at least partially receive the foot-driven propulsion mechanism 500, wherein the internal peripheral wall of the interface comprises first and second projections or recesses (440, 442); wherein the first and second ends (548a, 548b) of the first and second projections are mounted to the first and second projections or recesses (440, 442).

According to a further broad aspect, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 7, 13, 20 and 22, there is provided a kayak 10 extending longitudinally between rear 16 and front 14 ends and transversely between left and right sides, the kayak comprising: a foot-driven propulsion mechanism 500 comprising first and second shafts (506a, 506b) with first and second pedals (502a, 502b), first and second flappers (542a, 542b), and a core body 514 between the first and second shafts (506a, 506b) and first and second flappers (542a, 542b), the core body 514 comprising left and right projections comprising left and right ends; a body 12 comprising a deck portion 20 with a top side 24 and a hull portion 24 with a bottom side 26 adapted to contact water, wherein the top side 24 comprises a top peripheral wall section defining a top opening 100 and wherein the bottom side comprises a bottom peripheral wall section defining a bottom opening 100; and an interface (300, 3300) comprising top and bottom plates (304, 302) and a channel portion 305 extending between the top and bottom plates (304, 302), the top plate 304 comprising a top peripheral wall section defining a top opening 100 adapted to at least partially receive the foot-driven propulsion mechanism 500 and the bottom plate 302 comprising a bottom peripheral wall section defining a bottom opening 100 adapted to at least partially receive the foot-driven propulsion mechanism 500, wherein the channel portion 305 comprises an internal peripheral wall defining a hollow space to at least partially receive the foot-driven propulsion mechanism 500, wherein the internal peripheral wall of the interface comprises left and right side walls, wherein the left side wall comprises a left projection or recesses, and wherein the right side wall comprises a right projection or recesses; wherein the left and right ends of the left and right projections are mounted to the left and right projections or recesses and abut at least partially against the left and right projections or against left and right bottom portions of the left and right recesses.

According to a further broad aspect, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 7, 13, 20 and 22, there is provided a kayak 10 extending longitudinally between rear 16 and front 14 ends and transversely between left and right sides, the kayak 10 comprising: a body 12 comprising a deck portion 20 with a top side 22 and a hull portion 24 with a bottom side 26 adapted to contact water, wherein the top side 22 comprises a top peripheral wall section defining a top opening 100 and wherein the bottom side comprises a bottom peripheral wall section defining a bottom opening 100; and an interface (300, 3300) comprising top and bottom plates (304, 302) and a channel portion 305 extending between the top and bottom plates (304, 302), the top plate 304 comprising a top peripheral wall section defining a top opening adapted to at least partially receive a foot-driven propulsion mechanism 500 and the bottom plate comprising a bottom peripheral wall section defining a bottom opening adapted to at least partially receive the foot-driven propulsion mechanism 500, wherein the channel portion 305 comprises an internal peripheral wall defining a hollow space to at least partially receive the foot-driven propulsion mechanism 500, wherein the top peripheral wall section of the deck portion comprises a top peripheral recess 442, wherein the bottom peripheral wall section of the deck portion comprises a bottom peripheral recess 440, wherein the top peripheral wall of the interface is received in the top peripheral recess 442, and wherein the bottom peripheral wall of the interface is received in the bottom peripheral recess 440.

According to a further broad aspect, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 7, 13, 20 and 22, there is provided a kayak 10 extending longitudinally between rear 16 and front 14 ends and transversely between left and right sides, the kayak 10 comprising: a foot-driven propulsion mechanism 500 comprising first and second shafts with first and second pedals, first and second flappers, and a core body between the first and second shafts (506a, 506b) and first and second flappers (542a, 542b), the core body 514 comprising left and right mounting shafts; a body 12 comprising a deck portion 20 with a top side 22 and a hull portion 24 with a bottom side 26 adapted to contact water, wherein the top side 22 comprises a top peripheral wall section defining a top opening 100 and wherein the bottom side comprises a bottom peripheral wall section defining a bottom opening 100; and an interface (300, 3300) comprising top and bottom plates (304, 302) and a channel 305 portion extending between the top and bottom plates (304, 302), the top plate 304 comprising a top peripheral wall section defining a top opening 100 adapted to at least partially receive the foot-driven propulsion mechanism 500 and the bottom plate comprising a bottom peripheral wall section defining a bottom opening 100 adapted to at least partially receive the foot-driven propulsion mechanism, wherein the channel portion 305 comprises an internal peripheral wall defining a hollow space to at least partially receive the foot-driven propulsion mechanism 500, wherein the internal peripheral wall of the interface comprises left and right side walls defining left and right vertical slots with left and right bottom walls, the left and right slots being adapted to receive the left and right mounting shafts; wherein, in a first position, the left and right mounting shafts are movable in the left and right slots, and wherein, in a second position, the left and right mounting shafts abut against the left and right bottom walls of the left and right slots.

In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 7, 13, 20 and 22, the top peripheral wall section of the deck portion 20 comprises a top peripheral recess 442, wherein the bottom peripheral wall section of the deck portion 20 comprises a bottom peripheral recess 440, wherein the top peripheral wall of the interface is received in the top peripheral recess 442, and wherein the bottom peripheral wall of the interface (300, 3300) is received in the bottom peripheral recess 440. Moreover, the top peripheral wall of the interface (300, 3300) may be snap-fit or friction fit into the top peripheral recess 442 and the bottom peripheral wall of the interface may be snap-fit or friction fit into the bottom peripheral recess 440. Furthermore, the top peripheral wall of the interface (300, 3300) may be secured to the top peripheral recess with treaded fasteners or rivets (not shown) and the bottom peripheral wall of the interface (300, 3300) may be secured to the bottom peripheral recess 440 with treaded fasteners or rivets (not shown). Alternatively, the top peripheral wall of the interface (300, 3300) may be glued or plastic welded to the top peripheral recess 442 and the bottom peripheral wall of the interface (300, 3300) may be glued or plastic welded to the bottom peripheral recess 440.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 to 7, there is provided an example of a watercraft in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, the watercraft is a fishing kayak 10 comprising a body 12 having a bow end 14 and a stem end 16 opposite the bow end 14. The body 12 extends along a longitudinal axis Li-Li from the bow end 14 to the stem end 16. The kayak 10 has a length L defined by the longitudinal axis Li-Li, a width W transversal to the longitudinal axis Li-Li and defined by the lateral axis Wi-Wi, and a height H transversal to the widthwise and longitudinal directions defined by a vertical axis Hi-Hi (best shown in FIG. 5).

In embodiments, the kayak 10 may be primarily designed for fishing and the body 12 of the kayak 10 may be made relatively wide to assist in providing an increased stability to the watercraft. For instance, as shown in Figure 1, the body 12 of the kayak 10 has a maximal width W that may be significant relative to an overall length L of the kayak 10. For example, in some cases, the maximal width W of the body 12 may be about 63 cm, in some cases about 76 cm, in some cases about 82 cm, in some cases about 86.5 cm, and in some cases even more. The maximal width W of the body 12 may be significant relative to a length L of the body 12. For instance, in some cases, a ratio of the maximal width W of the body 12 over the length L of the body 12 may be at least 0.15, in some cases at least 0.20, and in some cases at least 0.25 or more.

The body 12 of the kayak 10 comprises a deck 20 defining a top side 22 of the body 12 and a hull 24 defining a bottom side 26 of the body 12 (best shown in FIG. 5). The deck 20 is configured for accommodating a user of the kayak 10 while the hull 24 is configured to engage water onto which the kayak 10 floats and travels.

In the illustrated embodiment, the deck 20 is provided with various features that can be useful to the user. For example, in the embodiment depicted, a seat 28 is disposed atop the deck 20 for allowing a user of the kayak 10 to sit in a generally upright position. The seat 28 comprises a seat bottom 30 and a backrest 32. The deck 20 also comprises a leg area 34 located forwardly of the seat 28 and bottom 30 for supporting the user’s legs and feet (not shown). In this embodiment, the leg area 34 comprises a generally oblong well 100 (best shown in FIGS. 9 to 10) defined in the body 12, an interface 300 mounted in the well 100 and a foot propulsion mechanism 500 mounted to the interface 300, for allowing a user seating on the seat 28 to propel the kayak 10, as it will be described in greater details below. The leg area 34 may also be used for the user to stand while fishing. It will be understood that such features may not necessarily be found in conventional (i.e., recreational/non-fishing) kayaks, or that such features may be configured differently without departing from the scope of this embodiment.

In this embodiment, the deck 20 also comprises a covered storage compartment 36 adjacent the bow end 14 of the body 12 and an open storage compartment 38 located between the covered storage compartment 36 and the leg area 34.

The deck 20 also comprises covered storage compartment 40 adjacent the stem end 16 of the body 12, as well as an open compartment 42 located between the covered storage compartment 40 and the seat 28. As it will be appreciated, storage compartments 36, 38, 40 and 42 may be useful to store equipment and, in the case of the covered storage compartments 36 and 40, to protect such equipment from exposure to water. The open storage compartments 38, 42 may comprise securing cords 44, 46 (such as for example bungee cords) to secure equipment in the open storage compartments 38, 42. As an example, a cooler or other equipment and/or provisions useful for fishing, camping, traveling and going on kayak excursions may be secured in the open storage compartments 38, 42.

At the stem end 16 of the deck 20, the kayak 10 is provided with a rudder assembly 50. The rudder assembly 50 is operatively coupled to a steering mechanism 52 located beside the seat 28 (in the illustrated embodiment, on the left side of the seat 28, best seen in FIGS. 1, 3 and 5) via a cable transmission (not shown), for steering the kayak 10. Furthermore, in the embodiment depicted, the deck 20 comprises a plurality of pole holders 56, 58 and 60 for holding fishing poles (not shown). The deck 20 also comprises a pair of paddle parks 62, 64 on each side of the seat 28 to securely hold paddles (not shown) generally parallel to the longitudinal axis Li-Li of the kayak 10.

Referring now to FIGS. 1, 2 and 7, the body 12 of the kayak 10 is also shown as comprising a pair of drainage holes 66, 68 through which water from the deck 20 may travel to the bottom side 26 of the body 12 and into a body of water on which the kayak 10 travels.

Referring now to FIGS. 8, 9 and 10, defined in the leg portion 34 of the body 12 and extending between the deck 20 and the hull 24, is the generally oblong well 100 configured for receiving therein an interface 300 (best seen in FIGS. 1 to 7, 11 to 13) for mounting a foot operated propulsion mechanism 500 (best seen in FIGS. 1 to 3).

Still referring to FIGS 8, 9 and 10 in accordance with one embodiment, the oblong well 100 may comprise a first, second, third, fourth and fifth portions 102, 104, 106, 108 and 110, respectively (best seen in FIG 10) which sequentially extend from the deck 20 to the hull 24. The first portion 102 comprises a peripheral wall 112 and a first abutment wall 114 extending perpendicular thereto. Together, the peripheral wall 112 and the first abutment wall 114 define a recess 116 sized and shaped for receiving therein a portion of the interface 300, such as a first and second interface sections 300a, 300b ( best seen in FIGS 11 and 12), and as it will become apparent below. Defined in the first abutment wall 114 are a plurality of holes 118a-l 18d for receiving therein fasteners or the like (not shown), for securing a portion of the interface 300 to the body 12 of the kayak 10, as it will become apparent below. The second portion 104 of the oblong well 100 is located below the first portion 102. The second portion 104 comprises a peripheral wall 122 having a top end 124 connected to the abutment wall 114 of the first portion 102, the top end 124 being curved to transition toward a lower end 126 which, extends at an angle of approximately 80 degrees relative to the horizontal. The lower end 126 of the peripheral wall 122 is connected to a second abutment wall 128. The second abutment wall 128 extends generally horizontal, and comprises a plurality of holes 130a-130d for receiving therethrough a corresponding plurality of fasteners for securing portion of the interface 300 to the body 12 of the kayak 10, as it will become apparent below. Together, the peripheral wall 122 and the second abutment wall define 128 a second recess 134 for receiving a portion of the interface 300, as it will become apparent below.

The third portion 106 of the oblong well 100 also includes a peripheral wall 136 extending downwardly, as well as a lip 138 extending generally transverse to the peripheral wall 136. The peripheral wall 136 and the lip 138 correspond to the junction between the deck portion 20 of the body 12 and the hull 24, where they are welded, fused, glued, secured, or fastened together during the manufacturing or assembly process.

Likewise, and referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the fourth portion 108 of the oblong well 100 comprises a peripheral wall 140, as well as an abutment wall 142 extending generally horizontal. Defined on the abutment wall 142 is an oblong channel 144 adjacent to the lip 138, and a plurality of recesses 146a-146b in equal number to the plurality of holes 130a- 130d for receiving therethrough a corresponding plurality of fasteners for securing a portion of the interface 300, as it will become apparent below.

Lastly, and referring to FIG. 9, the fifth portion 110 comprises a peripheral wall 148 and an abutment wall 150. Together, the peripheral wall 148 and the abutment wall 150 define a recess 152 for receiving therein a portion of the interface 300, as it will become apparent below. Tuning now to FIGS. 11 and 12, the interface 300 will now be described, in accordance with some embodiments. In embodiments, the interface 300 comprises a first (left) interface section 300a, and a second (right) interface section 300b. The first and second interface sections (300a, 300b) being essentially mirror images of one another. Only the first interface section 300a will be described. It will however be appreciated that a similar description also applies to second interface section 300b, with proper adaptation.

The first interface section 300a comprises a top plate 302, a bottom plate 304, a V-shaped recess 442, and a first channel section 305 extending between the top plate 302 and the bottom plate 304. In the illustrated embodiment, the top plate 302 and the bottom plate 304 are spaced-apart and extend generally parallel to one another. The distance separating the top plate 302 and the bottom plate 304 generally corresponds to the distance between the deck 20 and the hull 24, such that the top plate 302 abuts against the deck 20 while the bottom plate 304 abuts against the hull 24 when the first interface section 300a is mounted to the body 12 of the kayak 10. As such, the first channel portion 305 comprises a top end adj acent to the top plate 302 and a bottom end adj acent to the bottom plate 304, the distance between the top end and the bottom end of the first channel portion 305 being adapted to permit such abutment of the top plate 302 and bottom plate 304 against the deck 20 and hull 24, respectively, thereby reducing possible slack between the structures, which could eventually contribute to increased wear and tear.

To mount the first and second interface sections 300a, 300b to the body 12 of the kayak 10, the first interface section 300a is first positioned, by sequentially engaging the bottom plate 304 and the first channel portion 305 in the oblong well 100, until the top plate 302 and the bottom plate 304 are in general alignment with the deck 20 and hull 24 surfaces. At that point, the first interface section 300a can be pushed laterally such that a segment of the body 12 of the kayak 10 surrounding the oblong well 100 is sandwiched between the top plate 302 and the bottom plate 304. The second interface section 300b can then be positioned, again by sequentially engaging the bottom plate 304 and the channel section 305. As it will be appreciated, the first and second interface sections 300a, 300b can be moved in the oblong well 100 and/or relative to one another so as to facilitate the passage of the bottom plate 304 of the second interface section 300b in the oblong well 100, until the top plate 302 and the bottom plate 304 are in general alignment with the deck 20 and hull 24 surface, respectively. At that point, the second interface section 300b can be pushed laterally, in a direction opposite to the first interface section 300a such that another segment of the body 12 of the kayak 10 surrounding the well is sandwiched between the top plate 302 and the bottom plate 304 of the second interface section 300b.

In other embodiments either one or both of the top plate 302 or the bottom plate 304 are removably attached to the respective channel portion 305, so that they can be removed in order to slide the channel portion 3005 into the oblong well 100. The removed top and/or bottom plate (302, 304) is then reattached once the channel portion 305 is in the oblong well 100. At that point, the first and second interface sections 300a, 300b can be secured to the body 12 of the kayak 10 by way of a securing assembly (not shown). In some embodiments, the securing assembly (not shown) is configured to secure the first and second interface sections 300a, 300b to the body by attaching the first and second interface section 300a, 300b to one another, to thereby prevent movement of the interface 300 relative to the body 12 of the kayak 10.

In embodiments, the securing assembly of the first and second interface 300a, 300b comprises welding, fusing, gluing, or securing together by securing means during the manufacturing or assembly process. The interface 300 can also be secured to the deck 20 of the kayak 10 using fasteners (e.g. threaded fasteners, rivets and the like), adhesive (e.g. glue, double-sided tape), plastic welded to the deck 20 or can simply rest atop the deck 20, without any particular fastener or securing means. The interface 300, the channel 305 and/or the top plate 308 can also be snapped-on or friction-fitted to the body 12.

In an alternate embodiment, the securing assembly comprises a plurality of fasteners (not shown) engaging each of the first and second interface sections 300a, 300b and the body 12 of the kayak 10. In a further alternate embodiment, the fastening assembly is configured to secure the first and second interface sections 300a, 300b to the body 12 by attaching the first and second interface sections 300a, 300b to one another, and comprises a plurality of fasteners engaging each of the first and second interface sections 300a, 300b and the body 12 of the kayak 10. Together, the first and second interfaces 300a, 300b define a channel portion 305. With reference to FIG. 13, which is presented to illustrate some principles of the of the channel portion 305 rather that all of the structures thereof, the channel 305 may also comprise a first V-shaped recess 440, the second V-shaped recess 442, which may terminate into a lower funnel-shape slot 444, as well as a top funnel slot 446 and a lock receiving recess 448. At the bottom end 403 of the channel 305, the first V-shaped recess 440 and the remainder of the channel 305 are sized and shaped to generally conform to the periphery of the core support body 514 of the foot propulsion mechanism 500 (best seen in FIG. 20), while the top funnel slot 446 is configured to receive left and right transverse projections 548a, 548b of a mounting shaft 562 (better seen in FIG. 22) of the core support body 514.

Still referring to FIG. 13, there is provided atop funnel slot 446 is configured for receiving therein a mounting shaft 562 of the foot propulsion mechanism 500. Mounted in each of the lock receiving recesses 448 is a lock 450. In the illustrated embodiment, the lock 450 comprises a generally elongated flat member 452 including a convex lower end 454 and a concave upper end 456, the concave upper end 456 being provided with grip elements 458 for enhancing contact between a finger of a user and the lock 450 for releasing the foot propulsion mechanism 500 from the channel portion 305. Provided in an intermediate location between the upper end 456 and the lower end 454 is a hole (not shown) for receiving a fastener 460 for pivotably mounting the lock 450 in the lock receiving recess 448 of the channel portion 305. When properly assembled, the lock 450 is pivotable between an unlock position (shown in dotted line in FIG. 13) for allowing the passage of the mounting shaft and a lock position (shown in continuous line in FIG. 13) for preventing the passage of the mounting shaft 562 of the foot propulsion mechanism to thereby prevent unwanted removal of the foot propulsion mechanism 500 from the interface 300. In some embodiments, the lock 450 is provided with a bias mechanism (not shown), for instance a coil spring or a torsion spring, to bias the lock 450 toward the lock position.

It is understood that the mounting shaft 562 may comprise left and right mounting shafts and that the top funnel slot 446 may comprise left and right vertical slots with left and right bottom walls. The left and right slots are adapted to receive the left and right mounting shafts. In use, in a first position, the left and right mounting shafts are movable in the left and right slots, and, in a second position, the left and right mounting shafts abut against the left and right bottom walls of the left and right slots. The lock 450 of the kayak may comprise left and right locks that are pivotable with respect to the left and right mounting shafts between an unlock position and a lock position, wherein in the lock position, movement of the foot propulsion mechanism 500 is prevented.

In different configuration, other locking mechanism may comprise a spring latch, toggle clamp latch, toggle hook latch, or a tailgate locking mechanism (not shown).

FIGS. 13 and 13A is also representative of a cross-section of the interface for any of the other embodiments described herein.

With reference to FIGS. 14, 15A, and 15B, an alternate embodiment of an interface 1300 will now be described. The interface 1300 can be used instead of interface 300 and comprises a channel portion 1305 configured to receive and support the foot propulsion mechanism 500. An optional top portion 1304 can be used to cover/ and or conceal the well oblong 100 of the body 12, regardless of any manufacturing variations which may affect the thickness of the body 12 in this location.

More specifically, the top portion 1304 comprises a somewhat annular plate 1308 into which defines a hole 1310 sized and shaped for allowing the passage of the propulsion mechanism 500 therethrough. The optional annular plate 1308 is configured for resting on top of the deck 20, and for concealing the oblong well 100 while allowing the passage of the propulsion mechanism 500, to be received in the channel portion 1305. The annular plate 1308 can be secured to the deck 20 of the kayak 10 using fasteners (e.g., threaded fasteners, rivets and the like), adhesive (e.g., glue, double-sided tape), plastic welded to the deck 20 or can simply rest atop the deck 20, without any particular fastener or securing means. The channel 1305 and/or the top plate 1308 can also be snapped-on or friction- fitted to the body 12. In some embodiments, the annular plate 1308 may be integrally formed with the channel 1305.

With reference to FIG. 13 A, which is presented to illustrate some principles of the of the channel portion 1305 rather that all structures thereof, and using the same reference numerals that interface 300 but in the “1000” range, the channel 1305 also comprises a first V-shaped recess 1440, a second V-shaped recess 1442 terminating into a lower funnel-shape slot 1444, as well as atop funnel slot 1446 and a lock receiving recess 1448. At the bottom end 1403 of the channel 1305, the first V-shaped recess 1440 and the remainder of the channel 1305 are sized and shaped to generally conform to the periphery of the core support body 514 of the foot propulsion mechanism 500 (best seen in FIG. 20), while the lower funnel-shaped slot 1444 is configured to receive left and right transverse projections 548a, 548b of amounting shaft 562 (better seen in FIG. 22) of the core support body 514.

The top funnel slot 1446 is configured for receiving therein a mounting shaft 562 of the foot propulsion mechanism 500. Mounted in each of the lock receiving recesses 1448 is a lock 1450. In the illustrated embodiment, the lock 1450 comprises a generally elongated flat member 1452 including a convex lower end 1454 and a concave upper end 1456, the concave upper end 1456 being provided with grip elements 1458 for enhancing contact between a finger of a user and the lock 1450 for releasing the foot propulsion mechanism 500 from the channel portion 1305. Provided in an intermediate location between the upper end 1456 and the lower end 1454 is a hole (not shown) for receiving a fastener 1460 for pivotably mounting the lock 1450 in the lock receiving recess 1448 of the channel portion 1305. When properly assembled, the lock 1450 is pivotable between an unlock position for allowing the passage of the shaft (shown in dotted line in FIG. 13 A) and a lock position for preventing the passage of the mounting shaft 562 of the foot propulsion mechanism (shown in continuous line in FIG. 13 A) to thereby prevent unwanted removal of the foot propulsion mechanism 500 from the interface 1300. In some embodiments, the lock 1450 is provided with a bias mechanism (not shown), for instance a coil spring or a torsion spring, to bias the lock 1450 toward the lock position.

Still referring to FIG. 13 A, it is understood that the mounting shaft 562 may comprise left and right mounting shafts and that the top funnel slot 1446 may comprise left and right vertical slots with left and right bottom walls. The left and right slots are adapted to receive the left and right mounting shafts. In use, in a first position, the left and right mounting shafts are movable in the left and right slots, and, in a second position, the left and right mounting shafts abut against the left and right bottom walls of the left and right slots. The kayak may comprise left and right locks 1450 that are pivotable with respect to the left and right mounting shafts between an unlock position and a lock position, wherein in the lock position, movement of the foot propulsion mechanism 500 is prevented.

In this embodiment, the top portion 1304 (which include the annular plate 1308) and the channel portion 1305 are separate components. As it will be appreciated, they can be assembled to the body 12 of the kayak 10 either separately (e.g. the channel portion 1305 is mounted to the body 12 of the kayak 10, and then the top portion 1304 is mounted to the body 12 of the kayak 10, the channel portion 1305 and the top portion 1304 have little or no physical interactions with one another) or can be assembled together and then mounted to the body 12 of the kayak as an assembly (for instance, where, as shown in FIG 15B the top portion 1304 comprises a recess 1312 surrounding the hole 1310 and the channel portion 1305 comprises a corresponding lip 1314, and the channel portion 1305 is engaged in the hole 1310 of the top portion 1304 and slid until the lip 1314 engages the recess 1312, with or without adhesive, sealing material fasteners and/or press fit engagement a between them).

In an alternate embodiment, in addition to the top portion 1304 and the channel portion 1305, the interface 1300 could be provided with a bottom portion 1302 (better seen in FIG. 13A, but not shown in FIG. 14 to 15B), to conceal the oblong well 100 of the kayak’s body 12 at the keel or hull 24. The bottom portion can include its own bottom annular plate with a hole therein for receiving the propulsion mechanism therethrough. In some embodiments the bottom annular plate can be integrally formed with the channel.

In a further alternate embodiment, instead of being made from two discrete components (e.g., top portion 1304 and channel portion 1305 of interface 1300), the interface could include the same features integrally formed. For instance, with reference to FIGS 16 and 17, there could be provided an interface 1350 including atop portion 1354 and a channel portion 1355 integrated to the top portion 1354.

While the interfaces 300 and 1300 have been described in connection with top portions 304, 1304 and 1354, and optionally bottom portions 302, 1302, it will be appreciated that such top and/or bottom portions could be omitted. For instance, and referring to FIG. 18, and interface 2300 devoid of top portion and bottom portion could be provided. In this embodiment, the interface 2300 would correspond essentially to the channel portion 1305 of the interface 1300, with some adaptation. For instance, and still referring to FIG. 18, the interface 2300 comprises a generally vertical lower portion 2302 and a generally vertical upper portion 2304 wider than the lower portion 2302, the lower and upper portions 2302, 2304 being joined together by a transverse resting portion 2306. In this embodiment, the body 12 of the kayak can be configured to include a seat portion 2308 onto which the transverse resting portion 2306 of the interface 2300 rests.

Much like the channel portion 1305 ofthe interface 1300, the interface 2300 may comprise channels and/or retaining mechanism for mounting the prolusion mechanism to the interface 2300. In other words, depending on the embodiment, the interface can have only a channel, the channel and a top plate, the channel and a bottom plate, or the channel with both the top and bottom plates, all of which can be separate components or integrally formed with one another.

While in the above embodiments, the interfaces 300, 1300, 1350 and 2300 were configured to be mounted to the body of the kayak 10, an interface could instead be permanently or semi -permanently mounted to the propulsion mechanism (e.g. propulsion mechanism 500), and be configured to be removably mountable to the body of the watercraft (i.e. the propulsion mechanism and the interface are jointly positioned to and/or removed from the body of the watercraft).

For instance, and referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, the foot propulsion mechanism 500 secured to an alternate embodiment of an interface 3300 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the foot propulsion mechanism 500 is an oscillating flapper propulsion system and comprises a set of left and right pedals 502a and 502b extending upwardly from the top portion 304 of the interface 3300 when the foot propulsion mechanism 500 is properly mounted thereto. The pedals 502a, 502b are operatively mounted to a pair of oscillating, flexible flappers 542a, 542b via a cable and chain transmission supported on a core support body 514.

Still referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, there is provided more specifically, the pedals 502a, 502b are adapted to be alternatively pushed by the user’s feet to actuate the foot propulsion mechanism 500. Each of the left and right pedals 502a, 502b comprises a shaft 506a, 506b including a lower end and an upper end 510a, 510b, as well as a footrest 512a, 512b for receiving one corresponding foot of the user. The lower ends 508a, 508b of the shafts 506a, 506b are mounted to the core support body 514, which is configured to extend longitudinally (i.e. along the longitudinal axis Li-Li of the kayak 10 when the propulsion mechanism 500 is mounted to the interface 300), via a pair of mounting brackets 518a, 518b. Each mounting bracket 518a, 518b allow adjustment of the distance between the footrests 512a, 512b and the seat 28 by way of an adjustment bolt engaging the lower ends of the shafts 506a, 506b and a plurality of adjustment holes disposed on the mounting brackets 518a, 518b. The mounting brackets 518a, 518b are also configured for receiving a mounting shaft extending transverse to the longitudinal axis Li-Li and engaging the core support body 514. The foot propulsion mechanism 500 also comprises the flexible flappers 542a, 542b each adapted to oscillate through an arcuate path in a generally transverse direction with respect to the longitudinal axis Li-Li, about a rotation axis R2-R2 which is at or below the bottom of the hull 24 of the kayak 10 when the propulsion mechanism 500 is mounted to the interface 3300. More specifically, the flexible flappers 542a, 542b are carried by a mounting shaft 562 extending generally longitudinally and rotatably mounted to the core support body 514 via the three flapper mounting brackets (not shown). The flappers 542a, 542b are operatively coupled to the mounting brackets 518a, 518b of the pedals 502a, 502b via the cable and chain transmission, which include a pulley mounted to the pulley mounting brackets, chains engaging sprockets (not shown) mounted to the shaft 562 and cables connecting the chains to the mounting brackets 518a, 518b. While in the illustrated embodiment the propulsion system 500 is a foot propulsion system, it will be understood that it could also be operated by hand.

In this embodiment, the interface 3300 is mounted to the core support body 514 of the propulsion mechanism, and allow movement of the pedals 502a, 502b and of the flappers 542a, 542b, as well as the positioning of the propulsion mechanism 500 in the well. To prevent unwanted movement relative to the body of the watercraft, or unwanted removal of the interface 3300 from the body of the watercraft, the interface 3300 can be provided with manually operable fasteners (e.g. knobs, clamps) or snap mechanisms coupled to pull out tabs (not shown).

In addition to interfaces 300, 1300, 1350, 2300, and 3300 that substantially surround or circumscribe an opening of the channel 402 in the body 12 of the kayak 10 when mounted to the kayak 10. FIG. 21 shows embodiments in which an interface 4300 is formed by separate mounting components that engage only portions of the channel 402. The interface 4300 engages directed with the body 12 of the kayak 10, as shown in FIG. 21. In some embodiments, the interface 4300 engages with a second interface similar to the interface 1350 shown in FIG. 17 and connects to the body 12 of the kayak 10 via the interface 1350.

Still referring to FIG. 21, in embodiments, there is provided the propulsion mechanism 500 secured via the interface 4300 to the channel 402 of the kayak 10. The interface 4300 includes a first group of mounting brackets 4302 and a second group of mounting brackets 4304. In some embodiments, the mounting brackets 4302 are larger than the mounting brackets 4304. The larger mounting brackets 4302 are positioned to extend substantially parallel to a longer dimension (e.g., a major axis) of the oval-shaped opening 4354. The smaller mounting brackets 4304 are positioned to extend substantially perpendicular to the longer dimension (e.g., a major axis) of the oval-shaped opening. The mounting bracket 4304 on the right side of the FIG. 21 shows a cross-sectional view of the mounting bracket 4304 on the left side of the FIG. 21, and both mounting brackets 4304 have the same size. The mounting bracket 4302 on the left side of the FIG. 21 shows a cross-sectional view of the mounting bracket 4302 on the right side of the FIG. 21, and both mounting brackets 4302 have the same size.

In some embodiments, the same mounting brackets may be used (i.e., all four mounting brackets are the same, either all small mounting brackets 4304, or all larger mounting brackets 4302). In some embodiments, different mounting brackets may be used (e.g., four mounting brackets of different sizes and/or designs). In some embodiments, different numbers of mounting brackets may be used (e.g., two, three, five, six, seven, or eight, etc.). In some embodiments, the mounting brackets 4302 and 4304 allow adjustment in the placement of the propulsion mechanism 500 within the opening 4354. In embodiments, the brackets may allow to change the placement of the propulsion mechanism 500 by allowing said propulsion mechanism to be moved forward or backwards along the longitudinal axis Li-Li of the kayak 10, or up or down to adjust the height at which the propulsion mechanism is positioned along the vertical axis Hi-Hi.

Still referring to FIG. 21, the mounting brackets 4302 may comprise two portions 4306a and 4306b arranged perpendicularly in an L-shape configuration. The mounting bracket 4304 has two portions 4308a and 4308b arranged perpendicularly in an L-shape configuration. The portion 4306a (and 4308a) is mechanically engaged to a top recessed portion 4350 of the opening of the channel 402. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 21, the recessed portion 4350 is defined in the deck 20. Similarly, a corresponding rim 4356 is also defined in the hull 24. The rim 4356 is connected to the channel 402, which is formed by a wall that extends from an edge of the recessed portion 4350 to the rim 4356. A lip extension 4352 of the recessed portion 4350 provides frictional and tensional engagement for the mounting brackets 4302 and 4304 to snap on. For example, tension from the lip extension 4352 pushes on the second portion 4306b of the mounting bracket 4302 to retain the mounting bracket 4304 in the opening 4354. Additional fasteners (e.g., threaded screws, knobs, clamps, snap fasteners etc.) can be provided via a plurality of openings 4310a, 4310b, 4310c, 4310d, 4310e (e.g., threaded openings) to further secure the mounting bracket to the opening 4354. Still referring to FIG. 21, in some embodiments, the second portion 4306b of the mounting bracket 4302 may be secured to the propulsion mechanism 500 via a fastener 4312. The portion 4308b of the mounting bracket 4304 includes a protrusion 4314 on which a portion of the propulsion mechanism 500 rests. In some embodiments, the protrusion 4314 is a bottom wall connected to side walls 4316 of the portion 4308b. A portion of the propulsion mechanism 500 slides into a channel formed by the side walls 4316 and rests on the protrusion 4314 that forms the bottom wall of the channel 402.

Now referring to FIG. 22, in embodiments, there is provided an interface 4400 for a well, such as an oblong well 100 of the kayak’s body 12 previously described, the interface 4400 comprising two mounting brackets 4402. Each of the mounting brackets 4402 is fastened by a fastener 4404 or other fastening means to a joined portion 4450. One end of the joined portion 4450 connects a top sidewall 4452 and a bottom sidewall 4454. The top sidewall 4452 extends from a top plane of the deck 20 and the bottom sidewall 4454 extends from the hull 24, and the sidewalls 4452 and 4454 meet to form the joined portion 4450.

Still referring to FIG. 22, there is provided sidewalls 4452 and 4454 jointly forming a well 4490 between the deck 20 and the hull 24. A (top) cover 4464 is positioned over an opening of the well 4490 and secured to a step 4458 of the deck 20 via a fastener 4460 or other fastening means. A (bottom) cover 4466 is also positioned over an opening of the well 4490 and secured to a step of the hull 24 via a fastener or other fastening means. The mounting bracket 4402 includes a lower protrusion 4406 that supports a portion of the propulsion mechanism 500. For example, the mounting shaft 562 of the propulsion mechanism 500 can rest of on the lower protrusion 4406. The mounting shaft 562 of the propulsion mechanism 500 can partially rest of on the lower protrusion 4406 via the left and right transverse projections 548a, 548b of the mounting shaft 562. A top portion 4408 of the mounting bracket 4402 rests on the joined portion 4450 and allows the fastener 4404 to connect to the body 12 of the kayak 10.

Referring now to FIGS. 23 and 24, in embodiments, there is provided an interface 4500 (FIG. 23) and an interface 4600 (FIG. 24) for a well, such as an oblong well 100 of the kayak’s body 12 previously described, the interface 4500 comprising two mounting brackets 4502 (as seen in FIG. 23). In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 24, instead of two (or more) mounting brackets 4502, the interface 4600 is formed by a single mounting bracket 4602 that surrounds substantially the entire opening of the well 4490, similar to embodiments described in patent US 10,829,189, issued on November 10, 2020, entitled “Interface for Mounting a Propulsion Mechanism to a Watercraft,” which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. FIG. 15 of US 10,829,189, incorporated herein in its entirety by reference, shows an interface 300 formed of atop portion 304 and a bottom section 302 that surround substantially the entire perimeter of an opening that defines a well in the body of the kayak, similar to an interface 4800 shown in FIG. 26 of the instant disclosure.

In some embodiments shown in FIG. 23, the mounting bracket 4502 includes a portion 4504 along a top plane of the deck 20, and a wall portion 4506 that includes a protrusion 4508. The protrusion 4508 supports a portion of the propulsion mechanism 500. For greater clarity, according to one embodiment and still referring to FIG. 23, each mounting bracket. For example, the shaft 562 rests on the protrusion 4508. Each of the mounting bracket 4602 is fastened by a fastener 4510 or other securing means to a step 4558 extending form the deck 20.

Still referring to FIG. 23, in embodiments, there is provided a bottom mounting bracket 4512 includes a protrusion 4514 having a channel that allows a fastener 4516 to secure the bottom mounting bracket 4512 to the mounting bracket 4502. Instead of individual mounting brackets 4512 as shown in FIG. 23, an integral bottom portion 302 shown in FIG. 15 of US 10,829,189 may be used.

Now referring to FIG. 24, in embodiments, there is provided an interface 4600 for a well, such as an oblong well 100 of the kayak’s body 12 previously described, the interface 4600 formed by a single mounting bracket 4602 that surrounds substantially the entire opening of the well 4490, similar to the top portion 304 shown in FIG. 15 of US 10,829,189. The interface 4600 does not include a bottom mounting bracket or an integral bottom portion 302. The mounting bracket 4602 includes a portion 4604 in a surface plane of the deck 20, and a wall portion 4606 perpendicular to the portion 4604 that includes a protrusion 4608. The protrusion 4608 supports a portion of the propulsion mechanism 500. For example, the shaft 562 rests on the protrusion 4608. The mounting bracket 4602 is fastened by at least one fastener 4610 or other securing means to a step 4558 extending form the deck 20

Still referring to FIG. 24, in embodiments, the mounting bracket 4602 may also include additional protrusions that fit a profile of the upper sidewall 4452 and joined portion 4450. The additional protrusions provide more frictional contact between the single mounting bracket 4602 and the deck 20. Such additional protrusions may also be used for securing the interface 4600 to the deck 20 of the kayak 10 using securing means such as fasteners (e.g. threaded fasteners, rivets and the like), adhesive (e.g. glue, double-sided tape), plastic welded to the deck 20 or can simply rest atop the deck 20, without any particular fastener or securing means.

Referring now to FIG. 25, in embodiments, there is provided an interface 4700 for a well, such as an oblong well 100 of the kayak’s body 12 previously described, the interface 4700 formed by a single mounting bracket 4702 that surrounds substantially the entire bottom opening of the well 4490, similar to the bottom portion 302 shown in FIG. 15 of US 10,829, 189. The interface 4700 does not include a top mounting bracket or an integral top portion 304. The mounting bracket 4702 includes a portion 4704 along a bottom plane of the hull 24, and two side walls 4706 that includes a ledge 4708. The ledge 4708 supports a portion of the propulsion mechanism 500. For example, the mounting shaft 562 rests on the ledge 4708. The mounting bracket 4702 is fastened by at least one fastener 4710 to a portion 4752 extending from the hull 24 to secure the interface 4700 to the body 12 of the kayak 10.

Referring now to FIG. 26, in embodiments, there is provided an interface 4800 for a well, such as an oblong well 100 of the kayak’s body 12 previously described, the interface 4800 formed by a top mounting portion 4802 that surrounds substantially the entire top opening of the well 4490, similar to the top portion 304 shown in FIG. 15 of US 10,829,189. The top mounting portion 4802 includes a portion 4806 in a top plane of the deck 20, and a wall portion 4808 that includes a hook-shaped protrusion 4810 that allows the top mounting portion 4802 to be frictionally engaged (e.g., by snap mechanisms or snap fasteners) to the joined portion 4450. The top mounting portion 4802 includes a second sidewall 4812, and a second protrusion 4814. The second protrusion 4814 supports a portion of the propulsion mechanism 500. For example, the mounting shaft 562 rests on the second protrusion 4814. The top mounting portion 4802 is fastened by a fastener 4816 to a bottom mounting portion 4804 of the interface 4800.

Still referring to FIG. 26, in one embodiment, there is provided a bottom mounting portion 4804 includes a portion 4818 and a raised portion 4820 that lines up with the second sidewall 4812 of the top mounting portion 4802. The raised portion 4820 is configured to receive the fastener 4816. The interface 4800 is fastened to the body 12 of the kayak 10 through the hook-shaped protrusion 4810. Referring now to FIG. 27, in embodiments, there is provided an interface 4900 for a well, such as an oblong well 100 of the kayak’s body 12 previously described. However, the interface 4900 has a different cross-sectional profde compared to the wells shown in FIGS. 22 to 26. Instead of atop sidewall 4452, a sidewall 4952 comprising a first notch 4954a, a first receptacle 4954b, and a second notch 4954c. The interface 4900 does not use any external fasteners, relying on snap-on mechanisms or snap fasteners integrated in the top mounting portion 4902. The top mounting portion 4902 comprises a protrusion 4904 extending along atop surface of the top mounting portion 4902. The top surface of the top mounting portion 4902 is offset from a plane of the deck 20. The top surface is closer, along a height dimension, to the shaft 562 of the propulsion mechanism 500 than a plane of the deck 20. The protrusion 4904 fits snugly into the first receptacle 4954b to provide mechanical (e.g., frictional) engagement between the interface 4900 and the body 12 of the kayak 10. A second edge 4906 of the top mounting portion 4902 rests on a joined portion 4450 of the well 4990. A ledge 4908 of the top mounting portion 4902 extends below the joined portion 4450 and supports a portion of the propulsion mechanism 500. For example, the shaft 562 rests on the ledge 4908.

Still referring to FIG. 27, in embodiments, there is provided a bottom plate 4910 is positioned over a bottom opening of the well 4990 and secured to a step of the hull 24 via a fastener 4912, or a plurality of fasteners 4912a, 4912b. A top cover 4914 is positioned over a top opening of the well 4990 and secured to a step 4458 of the deck 20 via a fastener 4918. Instead of a flat plate like the bottom plate 4910, the top cover 4914 includes a protrusion 4916 having a tapering width along a height dimension. Other profiles of the top cover may be adopted. The top cover 4914 can enhance the aesthetics of the interface 4900 by providing a flat/covered portion to the well 4990 that conceals a portion of the propulsion mechanism 500.

Referring now to FIG. 28, in embodiments, there is provided an interface 5000 for a well 5090, such as an oblong well 100 of the kayak’s body 12 previously described. However, the interface 5000 has a different profile compared to the well shown in FIGS. 22 to 27. Similar to the interface 4900, the interface 5000 also does not use any external fasteners, and relies on snap-on mechanisms or snap fasteners integrated in a top mounting portion 5002. However, instead of atop sidewall 4452, an elongated top sidewall 5052 is provided, which extends along a substantial portion (e.g., more than 50%, more than 60%, more than 70%, more than 80%, more than 90%, less than 99%) of a height h between the deck 20 and the hull 24. A tapering profile of channel 5090 formed by the sloping sidewalls 5052 may increase the ease for placing the interface 5000 into the channel 5090. A shortened bottom sidewall 5054 includes an arched portion 5056 that joins together with the elongated top sidewall 5052 to form a joined portion 5058.

Still referring to FIG. 28, there is provided a top mounting portion 5002 comprising a portion 5004 along a top surface of the deck 20, and that rest on the step 4458 of the deck 20. The top mounting portion 5002 comprises a first sidewall 5006 and a second sidewall 5008. The second sidewall 5008 comprises a ledge 5010 that supports a portion of the propulsion mechanism 500. For example, the mounting shaft 562 rests on the ledge 5010. The first sidewall 5006 includes a hook-shaped protrusion 5012 that allows the top mounting portion 5002 to be frictionally engaged (e.g., by snap mechanisms or snap fasteners) to the joined portion 5058. The hook-shaped protrusion 5012 fits snugly under the joined portion 5058 to provide mechanical (e.g., frictional) engagement between the interface 5000 and the body 12 of the kayak 10. The arched portion 5056 may enhance a mechanical strength of the channel and better secure the interface 5000 to the body 12 of the kayak 10.

Still referring to FIG. 28, in embodiments, there is provided bottom plate 4910 is positioned over a bottom opening of the well 5090 and secured to a step of the hull 24 via a fastener 4912, or a plurality of fasteners 4912a, 4912b.

Having described the general components of the kayak 10 and of the interfaces 300, 1300, 1350, 2300, 3300, 4300, 4400, 4500, 4600, 4700, 4800, 4900, and 5000 their assembly will now be described.

According to one embodiment, the body 12 of the kayak 10 may be manufactured using any suitable process, including without being limited to, thermoforming processes, blowmolding processes and rotomolding process.

In a specific practical implementation, the body 12 of the kayak 10 may be manufactured by molding two sheets of extrudable material using a thermoforming process to shape the two manufactured sheets into a kayak shape of the type described in the present document, one sheet being used for the top side (i.e. the deck 20) and the other for the bottom side (i.e. the hull 24) of the kayak 10. Examples of the different types of thermoplastics that can be extruded include: LDPE, HDPE, ABS, polystyrene, polypropylene, acetates, butyrates, nylons, polyphenylene sulfides, acetals, polycarbonates and thermoplastic rubbers and polyesters, among other possibilities. As it will be appreciated, the well 100 of the kayak 10 may be closed when the deck 20 and hull 24 emerged from the mold after welding. As such, the manufacturing of the kayak 10 may require an opening to be defined in the well post-molding. Typically, such an opening will be carried out by a worker using a cutting tool such as a rotary saw. As it will be understood, the shape of the well (i.e. a generally oblong shape) greatly simplify the cutting of the opening as compared to a more complex hole shape, thereby facilitating the manufacturing of the kayak 10.

Any one of the interfaces 300, 1300, 1350, 2300, 4300, 4400, 4500, 4600, 4700, 4800, 4900, and 5000 is then mounted to the body 12 of the kayak 10. Once any one of the interfaces 300, 1300, 1350, 2300, 4300, 4400, 4500, 4600, 4700, 4800, 4900, and 5000 is properly mounted to the body 12, the user has the possibility to removably mount the foot propulsion mechanism 500 to any of the interfaces, for instance when the kayak 10 is floating on a water surface. To do so, the user engages the lower part of the flappers 542a, 542b into the channel 402 of the top portion 304, and gradually lowers down the foot propulsion mechanism 500. When the core support body 514 of the foot propulsion mechanism gradually engages the channel 402, the left and right transverse projections 548a, 548b engage lower funnel-shape slots 444 while the shaft 562 engages the top funnel slot 446. As the foot propulsion mechanism 500 is further lowered down, the mounting shaft 562 forces the lock 450 pivotably mounted in the lock receiving recess 448 toward their unlock position, until the mounting shaft 562 reaches its position in the top funnel slot 446. In such position, the lock 450 are allowed to pivot back to their lock position, where the convex lower end 454 of the lock 450 engage the mounting shaft 562 to prevent unwanted removal of the foot propulsion mechanism 500. Furthermore, when the foot propulsion mechanism 500 is properly positioned in any one of the interfaces, the resting surfaces 554, 556 provided at the front and rear ends 550, 552 of the upright mounting support 544 of the core support body 514 lie on the abutments 432, 434 of the front and rear slots 428, 430 defined in the channel 402, while the mounting shaft 562 and the flappers 542a, 542b extend below the hull 24. As it will be appreciated, the left and right transverse projections 548a, 548b, the mounting shaft 562 and the front and rear ends 550, 552 of the upright mounting support 544, as well as the shape of the horizontal base 526 of the core support body 514 (which substantially correspond to the shape of the channel 402), collaborated with the various portions of any one of the interfaces to prevent movement of foot propulsion mechanism 500 relative to any one of the interfaces during the operation.

When the user wants to remove the foot propulsion mechanism 500 from the interface 300, for instance to facilitate transport of the kayak 10, the user forces the locks 450 toward their unlock position by engaging the grip elements 458 at the concave upper ends 456, thereby allowing the mounting shaft 562 to travel upwardly in the channel 402. The user then pulls on the foot propulsion mechanism 500 to disengage the same from any one of the interfaces 300, 1300, 1350, 2300, 4300, 4400, 4500, 4600, 4700, 4800, 4900, and 5000.

With respect to interface 3300, the process is essentially similar, except that the interface 3300 is removably secured to and removed from the body of the kayak with the propulsion mechanism attached thereto.

In an alternate embodiment, any one of the interfaces 300, 1300, 1350, 2300, 3300, 4300, 4400, 4500, 4600, 4700, 4800, 4900, and 5000, or similar interfaces or components thereof, could be manufactured such that they be integrated to the body of the watercraft at the time of the manufacture . For instance, in some embodiments, there could be provided a method or process for manufacturing a watercraft including a rigid body having a deck portion, a hull portion and an embedded propeller interface extending between the deck portion and the hull portion by thermoforming, the method or process comprising:

Providing a mold including a deck shell and a hull shell, the deck shell and hull shell being movable relative to one another between an open position and a closed position;

Providing a propeller interface (e.g. any one of the interfaces 300, 1300, 1350, 2300, 3300, 4300, 4400, 4500, 4600, 4700, 4800, 4900, and 5000) including deck end and a hull end, the propeller interface being made of a first plastic material (e.g. by plastic injection);

Providing first and second sheets of a second, thermoformable plastic material;

Moving the deck shell and the hull shell in the open position;

Positioning the first sheet of the second, thermoformable plastic material adjacent to one of the deck portion and the hull portion;

Positioning the second sheet of the second thermoformable plastic material adjacent to the other of the deck portion and the hull portion; - Positioning the propeller interface between the first and second sheets of the second, thermoformable material;

- Moving the deck shell and the hull shell of the mold in the closed position;

- Simultaneously thermoforming the deck portion and the hull portion to obtain the rigid body;

- Moving the deck shell and the hull shell of the mold in the open position; and

- Removing the rigid body of the watercraft including the interface from the mold.

While the kayak 10 has been described in connection with the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 28, it will be understood that variations are possible without departing from the scope of the invention. For instance, while any one of the interfaces 300, 1300, 1350, 2300, 3300, 4300, 4400, 4500, 4600, 4700, 4800, 4900, and 5000 and foot propulsion mechanism 500 are described in connection with a kayak 10 provided with a single seat 28, they could also be used in connection with a tandem kayak, or with any other type of watercraft, including small boats, a paddleboards and pedal boats. Likewise, while the foot propulsion mechanism 500 described in the illustrated embodiment is an oscillating flapper propulsion system, it will be understood that any one of the interfaces 300, 1300, 1350, 2300, 3300, 4300, 4400, 4500, 4600, 4700, 4800, 4900, and 5000 could be used in conjunction with other types of propulsion mechanisms, such as hand operated propulsion mechanisms, motorised propulsion mechanisms such as electric motors and gas motors, whether they are of the flapper oscillating type, propeller type or blade type. Furthermore, any one of the interfaces 300, 1300, 1350, 2300, 3300, 4300, 4400, 4500, 4600, 4700, 4800, 4900, and 5000 could be used in conjunction with plugs configured to be received in the channel and concealing the same when no propulsion mechanism is used, for instance when the user propels the kayak 10 with paddles.

The above description is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Since numerous modifications and changes will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the present description, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact examples and embodiments shown and described, and accordingly, suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to.

The above description of the embodiments should not be interpreted in a limiting manner since other variations, modifications and refinements are possible within the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another to form varying modes of the disclosed invention. The scope of the invention is defined in the appended claims and their equivalents.