You can freely build on How Ole Evinrude Invented the Modern Portable Outboard Motor
This patent expired in 1930. Every claim — 0 independent, 0 dependent — is now unenforceable. Anyone can use, reproduce, manufacture, sell, or offer for sale this technology without a license.
Original assignee
EVINRUDE MOTOR CO
Patent granted
1911
Expired
1930
Forward citations
1
What this patent covers
The patent describes a self-contained marine propulsion unit designed to be clamped onto the stern of a small rowboat. It integrates the gasoline engine, the vertical drive shaft, and the propeller into a single, portable assembly. By mounting the motor externally, it removes the need for heavy, permanent inboard engines, effectively turning a standard rowboat into a motorized vessel.
What is now free to use
All 0 claims of US 1001260 are in the public domain. Specifically:
The 0 dependent claims add narrowing limitations and are also free.
What is NOT covered
Patent expiry frees this specific invention. Separately-patented improvements made after expiry may still be protected.
Does not cover electric outboard motors or battery-powered propulsion systems.
Does not cover inboard engines where the motor is mounted inside the hull.
Does not cover jet-drive propulsion systems that lack a traditional propeller.
Who is building on this today
Evinrude, now part of BRP (Bombardier Recreational Products), remains a leader in this space. Mercury Marine and Yamaha also dominate the modern market, refining the basic architecture established by this early patent.
Products built on expired version of this technology
Evinrude portable outboard motors
Modern small-craft fishing outboards
Inflatable boat motors
How to cite this patent in your documentation
EVINRUDE MOTOR CO. US Patent 1001260. Marine propulsion mechanism.. Granted 1911, expired 1930. Now in the public domain.
Note: This is a convenience citation. Consult a patent attorney for formal freedom-to-operate analysis.
PatentBrief is an educational resource and does not provide legal advice. Patent expiration information is derived from USPTO records and may not reflect continuation patents, divisional filings, or separately-patented improvements. For commercial use or production decisions, obtain a formal freedom-to-operate (FTO) opinion from a registered patent attorney.