Separated Electric Motor Assisted Propulsion for Human-Powered Watercraft
First Claim
1. A propulsion system for watercraft comprising:
- a.) at least one human-powered propulsion means,b.) at least one electric motor-powered propulsion means,c.) the electric motor-powered propulsion means configured to provide propulsion as a function of the state of the human-powered propulsion means, whereby the electric motor-powered propulsion assists the human-powered propulsion means.
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Accused Products
Abstract
A propulsion system for hybrid electric watercraft for personal enjoyment that incorporates human power with electric motor assistance, energy storage and optional solar power to achieve increased watercraft speeds and/or reduced pedaling effort. Control electronics enable operator-adjustable electric motor assistance to the propulsion, thereby providing flexible pedal cadences and efforts and enjoyment for a wide variety of operators. An optional photovoltaic solar panel augments the power generation to extend travel time with motor assistance, and recharges the energy storage system. This invention enables a pleasure watercraft that is simultaneously lightweight, low cost, low maintenance, environmentally friendly with zero pollution, ultra-low noise, and thrilling to operate, while simultaneously providing a means of enjoyable exercise for operators of nearly all abilities.
29 Citations
20 Claims
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1. A propulsion system for watercraft comprising:
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a.) at least one human-powered propulsion means, b.) at least one electric motor-powered propulsion means, c.) the electric motor-powered propulsion means configured to provide propulsion as a function of the state of the human-powered propulsion means, whereby the electric motor-powered propulsion assists the human-powered propulsion means. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13)
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14. A method of propelling watercraft comprising:
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a.) exerting human effort to provide a first propelling force, b.) providing a second propelling force via at least one electric motor-powered propulsion means, c.) sensing of said human effort, and d.) controlling said second propelling force based upon the sensed human effort, whereby said second propelling force assists said first propelling force to increase the speed of a watercraft. - View Dependent Claims (15, 16, 17, 18, 19)
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20. A propulsion system for watercraft comprising:
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a.) a human-powered propulsion means, b.) an electric motor-powered propulsion means, c.) the electric motor-powered propulsion means configured to provide propulsion as a function of the rotational speed or torque of the human-powered propulsion means and of an assistance factor;
wherein the assistance factor is adjustable by the operator, whereby the electric motor-powered propulsion means assists the human-powered propulsion means.
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Specification