Flyboard

A Flyboard is a water sports equipment that is driven by the water-jet recoil of a jet ski and allows the user to locomotion under water and in the air. With the Flyboard can float up to 9 meters above the water surface.

History

The Flyboard was developed in spring 2011 from the jet ski driver Franky Zapata. After Zapata team had initially developed several prototypes, they managed to develop a model with which they rise up out of the water and were able to keep stable in the air. The French Patent Office Institut national de la propriété industrielle ( INPI) Zapata granted a patent on the Flyboard.

During the jet ski world championships in China in 2012 the device was unveiled to the public.

Technology

The 40 -pound device is connected via a long hose with a jet ski and driven by the recoil of the jet water jet. The water hose leading to the nozzles at the lower end of the Flyboards. The boarder controls the device by the foot inclination and depending on the variant, a smaller die at the hands.

There are two versions available. In the beginner version of a person operating the jet ski and the second flying the board. The improved freedom of movement it allows faster learning of handling. The second version is used only one person operating the jet ski on a controller while flying itself.

Conditions

Since the Flyboards is driven by a jet ski, it can only be used on waters that are approved for its use. For use in Germany a boat license is required in each case, as the jet skis have more than 15 hp.

The use of a lifejacket and a watersports helmet is recommended.