| 摘要 |
Swimming apparatus for improved propulsion includes fluked foot flippers constructed to include a stiff load-bearing frame member in the leading edge of the fluke. As the flipper is pumped by the swimmer, a web secured to the frame member is caused to cup the flowing water by arching its surface. The flipper permits arching of the web and bending of the frame member both upward and downward, thereby creating a powerful stream of water propelled to the rear and resulting in a powerful propulsive forward thrust of the swimmer. The thrust is further enhanced by applying precisely formed hydrofoil cross-sectional or chordwise shaping to the fluke to accelerate the flow of water into the pocket. This flow also creates a lifting force which is in the direction of the fluke's motion and thus supports the kicking effort. In addition, spanwise hydrodynamic shaping serves to guide a greater volume of water into the pocket thereby further increasing the propulsive thrust.
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