The Water Bird
is a Human Powered Hydrofoil. It also can be called a HPV (Human Powered
Vehicle).
What is a
Hydrofoil?
Hydro means water
and foil means wing. So Hydrofoils are vehicles using a wing underwater to keep
the main body out of the water and travel with extremely low resistance. Other
popular examples are common Hydrofoil boots or the Airchair!
How does the
Water Bird work?
Speed and the
wing together produce lift, which keeps you out of the water. That is the same
with all Hydrofoils. But with the Water Bird you can gain or at least keep
speed by some kind of hopping on the vehicle. And you need that speed as you
should not get slower than about 8 km/h or you will get wet! Steering is
similar to bicycle, as you just turn the bar for turns. But different from
bicycles you keep the balance in another way as you dont lean into the
turn.
Where can it
be started?
You normally need
a jetty or bigger boot. Starting from the beach needs some practice. The main
goal of every start is to reach at least minimum speed so lift is produced!
How can the
Water Bird be transported?
The Water Bird
can very easy also be transported in even small cars. The whole body of the
Water Bird can be stored in the trunk, only the main wing will be placed
between the seats. This way you still can use all four main seats!
Who designed
the Water Bird?
As far as I know
a Chinese American designed the Water Bird. The Water Bird also is produced
in
China
.
Is it possible
to start the Water Bird from the water?
No!
But we are plans
on building extra equipment witch makes the Water Bird float totally.
How far can
you go?
There are no real records no or anything like that. I guess its going
to be a little bit better than with the trampofoil. So this summer we will see
the first competitive marks. Wonder when there will be Water Bird Races!
Can I do waves?
Yes you can!And it shall also
work quiet well, but for sure you need some surfing knowledge!
Facts!
The main wing is 2,44m and? about 12kg. The body mainly
is made from aircraft-aluminum. Max speed is about 27 km/h or 16 mph. Min speed is about 10 km/h or 6 mph
Warranty
We warrant the
Water Bird shall be free from defects in material or workmanship for 90 days
from date of purchase. This warranty does not apply to any product that had
been subject to misuse, abuse or negligence. Defects caused by tampering,
alterations and / or repairs are not covered by this warranty.