WIND PROPELLED CRAFT WITH MULTI-FUNCTION RUDDER CONTROL ARM

摘要

A unique wind propelled craft (15) including a body (17), a deck (20) which forms the upper surface of the body (17), a sail (29) for propelling the body (17) by wind forces, a rudder (51) for maneuvering the craft (15) and rudder control assembly (53) for controlling and adjusting the position of the rudder (51). The rudder control assembly (53) includes a steering assembly (60) and a pair of rotating steering members (82, 84) operably connected to the rudder (51) for turning the rudder (51) upon rotation of the steering members (82, 84). Each of the steering members (82, 84) is adapted to releasably engage the steering assembly (60) at two separate locations along the deck (20). The steering assembly (60) includes an elongated multi-function rudder control arm (95). The control arm (95) includes at its distal end a grip (102) for engagement with a user's hand and at its proximate end a universal joint assembly (110). The universal joint assembly (110) allows a user to manipulate the control arm (95) throughout an entire hemisphere of positions without effectuating any corresponding movement of the steering members (82, 84) or the rudder (51). Turning movement of the rudder (51) is accomplished by rotating the grip (102), and in turn, the control arm (95).