TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to devices for allowing a person to walk on water in general. More specifically, to a pair of buoyant hulls with propuls¬ ion flaps permitting the user to simulate a walking stride for propulsion.

BACKGROUND ART

The desirability to utilize a device that allows one to walk on the water by his own power has been exist- ant for well over a century as exhibited by an issued patent as early as 1'879. While this apparatus did not reach popularity, the search has not ended. The problem has existed in the prior art to make swinging flaps of such a combination as to create the proper water resist¬ ance at the right time, also sufficient stability in the buoyant hulls to allow the user to stand erect while operating the device.

A search of the prior art did not disclose any patents that read directly on the claims of the instant

invention, however, the following U. S. patents were con¬ sidered related:

Patent No. Inventor Issue Date 3,952,353 Word Apr. 27, 1976 3,541,623 Duda Nov. 24, 1970

1,719,059 Krupka et al Jul. 2 , 1929 216,234 Soule Jun. 3, 1879

Word discloses a one-piece flexible inflatable de¬ vice for converting a water ski to a water walking apparatus. Word's approach is to utilize an inflatable tube that, when pressurized, engages the entire periphery of the water ski. A number of flexible cups are attached to the tube and are shaped so as to catch water, there¬ by resisting backward movement and collapsing when forward motion is exerted by the user. The water ski supplies the foot attaching means and the structural support.

Duda uses a floatable solid substance formed into a pair of long narrow shoes, each having instep and heel straps to hold the wearers feet. The front of the shoe is upturned in a ski-like manner and a series of equi-spaced transversely-arranged pockets or recesses extend upwardly into the shoe in tear drop fashion. The pockets offer no resistance in forward movement, as the entire shoe is lifted forwardly above the water and the pockets cause the shoes to firmly engage the water on the rearward move¬ ment. When moving forward, as in walking, one shoe is emptied of water while the other is filling providing the driving resistance required for propulsion.

Krupka et al employ a skeleton of structural members povered with a watertight envelope or coat. An opening in the frame allows the wearers foot to enter the shoe

and a tubular extension covers the leg and is closed at the top around the calf. A number of pocket shaped ex¬ tensions are formed into the envelope creating swinging flaps. Wire insertions in the pliable material of the flap maintain the pocket shape so that the flaps fold in the forward direction and create resistance rearwardly.

Soule discloses a pair of boat shaped skates fas¬ tened to each foot with hinged stops on the underside, so as to prevent one skate from slipping backward in the water as the other skate is moved forward. The apparatus has a rod with a crank on one end allowing the stops to be reversed in their travel allowing the skate to move in either direction.

While all of the above prior art employs some type of resistance flap or pocket, it is clear that the pro¬ blem was not completely solved in the combination of both stability and propulsion.

DISCLOSURE OP THE INVENTION

Since the principle of walking on the water with some type of buoyant device has been known for such a long time the practicality in obtaining speeds that are desirable had to be overcome in order for the concept to be useful. It is, therefore, a primary object of the invention to obtain speeds of up to 5 miles per hour (8 KM per hour) by simple walking movement of the user. This ability is achieved by the use of a large number of propulsion flaps having a raised leg on each side creat- ing a scoop that acts to allow sufficient resistance on the back step while completely folding away for an

effortless glide in the forward step. The difference in the approach of the prior art is in a combination of the proper number and the size of flaps which are wide enough to almost cover the entire bottom and, yet, of a length (as measured from a fixed axis of rotation) that permits a full stroke to be taken while folding without interferring with the adjacent flap. It has been found that a minimum ratio of 1.5:1 width to length, has proven optimum and achieved the goal. It should also be noted that this optimum flap width/length ratio provides suf¬ ficient resistance for forward propulsion but does not allow the buoyant device too much back movement before the propulsion flap reaches its fixed position.

An important object of the invention is directed to the stability in the water which is due to not only the flat bottom, but the use of a fin disposed directly beneath the user's feet which provides both linear and lateral stability. Further, the user's feet are below the water line and very near the bottom of the hull, actually right on top of the fin. A novel footwell also allows one's ankles to stabilize the device as the top of the footwell is only narrow enough to get one's foot in, allowing the ankle to touch the resilient sides when the device begins to tip from one side to the other. Another object of the invention is the ability to disengage the device if the user falls into the water. The foot is placed in a resilient shoe much like a wet- suit boot which is attached to the bottom of the footwell and holds the foot tightly in place. In the event of overturning, the user simply relaxes his foot and pulls it out of the resilient boot. Since it is possible to fill the footwell with water, a one-way check valve drains the water out by simply lifting the hull upward allowing the unwanted water to discharge freely and, yet, sealing when returned to its normal position.

Still another object of the invention provides a device that is small and light enough to be easily transported on top of a car or in a station wagon, van, or the bed of a pick-up. The hull of each device is preferably fabricated of polyurethane foam covered with fiberglass or carbon fiber, which is strong any yet lightweight enough to be handled by one person easily.

Yet another object of the invention affords a well balanced exercise for the entire body, as the legs, torso, and arms are used to propel the device.

A further object of the invention allows a number of helpful ancillary devices to be added, such as a seat, a stabilizer arm, a strap for tieing the hulls together, a leg tether, a storage compartment, handles for gripping, flap securing tensioning member, sails, etc.

These and other objects and advantages of the pre¬ sent invention will become apparent from the subsequent detailed description of the preferred embodiment and the appended claims taken in conjunction with the acco pany- ing drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGURE 1 is a partial isometric view of the pre¬ ferred embodiment as used to walk on water.

FIGURE 2 is a side view of the preferred embodiment. FIGURE 3 is a plan view of the preferred embodiment.

FIGURE 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 4-4 of FIGURE 3 taken along the centerline illustrating the internal structure of the hull.

FIGURE 5 is a bottom view of the preferred embodimen with the fin side panels in the open position.

FIGURE 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines

FIGURE 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 7-7 of FIGURE 2.

FIGURE 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 8-8 of FIGURE 2.

FIGURE 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 9-9 of FIGURE 2 illustrating the interior cross- section of the footwell.

FIGURE 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 10-10 of FIGURE 2.

FIGURE 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 11-11 of FIGURE 2 depicting a cross-section of the storage compartment.

FIGURE 12 is a partial isometric view of one of the propulsion flaps completely removed for clarity. FIGURE 13 is a partial side elevational view of one of the flaps with the rotation illustrated by direc¬ tional lines and illustrates a small scoop to facilitate the flow of water under the propulsion flap. FIGURE 14 is a partial isometric view of the pre¬ ferred embodiment with the accessories in place.

FIGURE 15 is a plan view of two hulls tied together for stability.

FIGURE 16 is a partial isometric view of the re- silient shoe completely removed from the device for clarity.

FIGURE 17 is a partial isometric view of the pro¬ pulsion fin completely removed from the device for clarity. FIGURE 18 is a partial cut-away view of the hull in the area of the footwell illustrating the inside of the footwell and the shoe attaching means.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

The best mode for carrying out the invention is presented in terms of a preferred embodiment. The pre- ferred embodiment, as shown in FIGURES 1 through 18, is comprised of a pair of hulls 20 having a length longer than their width. The hulls 20 are preferably constructed of a urethane foam covered by fiberglass. While urethane is favored, any type of lightweight cellular material may be used and any type of resin or similar covering is acceptable, actually the construction materials are not limited to even the above, as many different types and composits may be employed with equal ease and utility. FIGURES 2 through 11 illustrate the hull 20 with its con- toured top, flat bottom and sides. It has been found that a length of 108 inches (274 cm) and width (denoted as VI = width of buoyant device) of 11.5 inches ^" (29 cm) is optimum for supporting the weight of a average person. One of the most important elements in the invention is the propulsion system which is capable of creating sufficient resistance in the water to allow the device to function. This system consists of a plurality of hinged rearwardly arcuating propulsion flaps 22 mounted on the bottom of the hull 20. The flaps 22 are connected on the forward edge with a hinge 24 allowing the flap to rotate downward from the hull 20. It has been found that an angle no greater than 90 degrees from the hull 20 allows the optimum surface area for water resistance. This angle is illustrated in FIGURE 13, referenced "a" for identification. The configuration of the flaps 22 is important for proper functioning, which includes a

width to length ratio of no less than 1.5 to 1. This ratio is taken with the length of the flap parallel to the length of the hull 20 and the width being transverse with the hull allowing the flap to completely fold flat when in the forward stroke. The flap 22 in order to function, rotates along an arc defined by the formula:

c ' = π r where

2 c ' = circumference of arc ~τ = 3.14

^~~ = length of flap from fixed axis of rotation. The greatest efficiency is realized when r is equal to or less than W and when the flaps ( r < ) are positioned no less than (dependent on number of flaps) one flap per 18 inches (45.7 cm) of buoyant device. Under this condition, the ratio of the number of pro¬ pulsion flaps to 1.5 feet (in length) of buoyant device is greater than or equal to 1.

If the flap 22 is too long or not angled as described above, a full cycle is not completed and the desired speed of the device may not be reached. Each flap 22 further contains a pair of upwardly depending side legs 26, best illustrated in FIGURES 12 and 13. These legs 26 are on the edges parallel with the hull 20 and assist in creating a cup-like resistance chamber when the device is forced rearwardly. The flaps 22 rotate into the hull 20 and pockets in the hull receive the legs 26 allowing the entire flap to be flush with the bottom surface. Each flap 22 contains a bevel 28 on the rear actuating side suc such that the water is easily penetrated allowing the flap to open on the rearward thrust. The hull 20 contains a scoop 63, illustrated in FIGURES 12 to facilitiate the flow of water under the propulsion flap.

A footwell 30 is located in each hull 20 slightly wider and longer than ones foot. The footwell 30 pene¬ trates the hull 20 to a depth below the water line and near the hull center of gravity. FIGURE 18 illustrates, by a cut-away view, the internal shape of the footwell 30 which is narrower at the top than the bottom allow¬ ing ones foot to enter conveniently, however, to be close enough to the ankle to provide support decreasing the susceptability of tipping in the water. The entire sides are preferably lined with a resilient material to provide user comfort as the ankle touches the sides during the walking process.

In order to maintain the users foot in the foot- well 30 a resilient shoe 32 is employed, which is much like that of a wet suit boot. FIGURE 16 illustrates this shoe 32 completely removed from the invention for clarity. This shoe 32 has an opening on the top to in¬ sert the foot with an elongated counter 34 to assist in grasping the back for pulling the shoe into place. The bottom of the shoe 32 contains attaching means in the form of a plate 36 permanently affixed to the sole, having a notch 38 in the front toe area and a pair of holes 40 one on each side near the widest part. The footwell 30 contains an upstanding stud 42 in the front of the bottom and an over extending side clamp 44 on each side. The side clamps 44 further contain a threaded bore 46 in the center thereof. The attachment is made by slipping the shoe 32 into the side clamps 44 simultan¬ eously from the back while the notch 38 aligns with the stud 42. A wingnut 48 is threaded onto the stud 42 and a pair of thumbscrews 50 are screwed into the bore 46 in each clamp 44. FIGURE 18, again, illustrates this connection with the thumbscrews 50 and wingnut 48 shown removed as indicated by phantom lines. While this e - bodiment of the shoe attaching means is disclosed any

type of attachments may be made with equal ease, such as over center devices, hook and loop tape, clamps, hooks, threaded fasteners, straps, buckles, and a myriad of other fasteners well known in the art. A propulsion fin 52 is mounted under the footwell 30 of each hull 20. The fin 52 is shaped like a rudder and is at right angles from the bottom of the hull 20 producing a stabilizing and directional effect to the device when moving in the water. An arcuating side panel 54 is mounted in a recess on each side of the fin with a hinge. These panels 54 function in the same manner as the flaps 22 extending the surface when forced rear¬ wardly and folding flat against the fin 52 when slid forward. The fin 52 is either fixed permanently or pre- ferably is removable to facilitate transportation and storage.

Not necessary for the invention but adding to the utility of the invention is a covered storage compartment 56 that may be located within each hull 20 directly be- hind or in front of the footwell 30. This compartment would allow stowing of the users gear or other ancillary equipment and is complete with a watertight hinged door 58.

A hull mooring member 59 in the form of an eyebolt, or the like, is positioned on top of the hull 20 on the stern allowing for fastening the device to the shore, dock, or used for attaching other equipment.

An ankle tether 60 may be utilized, as shown in FIGURE 1, to attach the device to the user in the event that the operator falls into the water. The tether 60 is well known being used on surfboards, and the like, and be conveniently attached to the above mooring member 59 or other appendage on the hull 20.

One or more handles 62 are mounted on the hull 20 to hold the hulls together or to grasp in emergencies.

also for normal handling. A connecting strap 64, illus¬ trated in FIGURE 15, ties the hulls 20 together for stability when entering.

A one-way check valve 66, shown in FIGURE 4, is positioned between the bottom of the footwell 30 and the underside of the hull 20 allows water trapped inside the footwell to be drained by lifting one hull above the water level. The check valve 66 may be any type suitable for the application, such as those using balls and re- silient seats, or the like, well known in the art.

In order to conveniently transport the device, flap securing means may be used. This securement may be accomplished by the use of a pair of keepers 68 embedded in the hull 20 adjacent to the first and last flap 22 and a tension member 70 connected to the keepers 68 and stretched tightly in between. The member 68 may be elastic or flexible with hooks or buckles to create the tension between the keepers 68. FIGURE 4 illustrates this securing means with the member 70 cut-away for clarity to allow the flaps 22 to be shown in their open position.

A stabilizing arm 72, shown in FIGURE 14, is mounted in a first socket 74 adjacent to each footwell 30. The arm contains a grip 76 on the uppermost end with the arm used for grasping to assist in stabilizing the hull 20. These arms 72 are removable and may be taken apart for storage within the compartment or may be solid and stored elsewhere.

A seat 78 may also be mounted in the hull 20 in a second socket 80, not unlike the first socket 74, for the arm 72. This seat 78 or chair may be a simple flat sur¬ face or may have a seat and a back, as illustrated in FIGURE 14. In any event, the flat surface is supported

by a leg 82 that slips into the second socket 80 making the apparatus removable. It will be seen that any type of seating device could be acceptable for the application. In use the hulls 20 are placed in the water and preferably, but not manditorially, tied together. The user places his feet in the shoes 32 and inserts them into the footwell 30 attaching them into place with the wingnut 48 and thumbscrews 50. The device is then launched and the user places one foot in front of the other in a walking stride and, as previously described, the flaps 22 and fin side panels 54 rotate at the proper time to allow the rearward thrust to function propelling the user over the water as if he were walking on land.

While the invention has been described in complete detail and pictorially shown in the accompanying draw¬ ings, it is not to be limited to such details, since many changes and modifications may be in the invention without departing from the spirit and the scope thereof. Hence, it is described to cover any and all modifications and forms which may come within the language and scope of the appended claims.