Purpose: The main objective of the present work was to develop a new type of human-powered watercraft for sports activities on still water bodies, such as reservoirs and lakes. Design/methodology/approach: The power for the watercraft is provided by the body of its operator who sets the propulsion mechanism in oscillating or rocking motion. The oscillating or rocking motion of the mechanism is transmitted to underwater propelling elements. A prototype has been built and tested. A computer model of this craft was constructed using Solidworks 2014 CAD tool and strength verification calculations were carried out in MSC.MARC software. Findings: The prototype consists of a float in the form of a surfboard and a moving mechanism which incorporates a welded high-strength aluminium alloy frame. Great effort was put into finding an appropriate shape of the propelling element. Practical implications: Multiple elements of various shapes and sizes have been tested. Their verification with the aid of CFD analysis in Xflow software was followed by physical testing. Originality/value: Once the suitable type, shape and size of the propelling element were identified, the elements were applied to the craft. Successful testing of these 2nd generation prototypes was completed this year.
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