Lateral propulsion device for ship comprising inclined grid

Abstract

A lateral propulsion device for a vessel comprising a lateral handling tunnel (25) through a hull (21), a tunnel wall (27) and an opening edge (26) defining a tunnel entrance opening (28) on an outer hull surface (210). The transverse propulsion device comprises a grid (4) comprising a plurality of uprights (41) and a plurality of crosspieces (42) intersecting on a grid surface (45). The grille (4) comprises at least one crosspiece (42) extending between an inner crosspiece end (421) continuous with the tunnel wall (27) and an outer crosspiece end (422) closer to the outer hull surface (210) than the inner crosspiece end (421).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a transverse propulsion device for a ship.

[0002] Preferably, the invention is directed to large vessels, such as container ships or cruise ships. Background Art

[0003] In the context of ship operations, it is known that for berthing and unberthing maneuvers in confined spaces and at low speeds, special transverse propulsion devices are indispensable which are equipped with maneuvering thrusters whose axes of rotation are transverse to the vertical longitudinal plane or diametrical plane of the vessel.

[0004] In order to protect the transverse propulsion devices from possible impacts, it is known to fasten a grating to the entrance opening of a maneuvering tunnel transverse to the hull of the vessel, in which the maneuvering thrusters are accommodated.

[0005] Furthermore, in order to reduce turbulence phenomena during navigation, it is known to include special closing devices provided with a movable door, which is usually placed at the opening of the transverse maneuvering tunnel. The door is movable between an open position, in which it allows the flow of water inside the maneuvering tunnel, and a closed position, in which it completely closes the tunnel entrance opening and substantially reshapes the outer surface of the hull.

[0006] In particular, it is known that a door mounted on multiple hinges is connected to the mouth of a transverse maneuvering tunnel. Examples of these solutions are described in CN205819525, CN105329405, CN102381439, CN109094715, WO2019 / 220152 and GB782628. Further embodiments are described in international applications WO2022079655A1, WO2022079651A1 and WO2022079652A1 on behalf of the applicant. Maneuvering transverse tunnel closing devices including protective grilles at the mouth of a transverse maneuvering tunnel are known in the art. Examples of these solutions are described in EP2923942 A1, KR20140036409 A, US10988220 B2 and CN111516842B.

[0007] Such a transversely operated tunnel closure has a number of critical aspects known to designers in the marine field.

[0008] The main issues consist in the design of the hydrodynamic shape of the door, with the aim of minimizing the turbulence generated during cruising due to the shape discontinuity between the door and the outer surface of the hull, while aiming to minimize the volume in the open position, i.e. during operation of the transverse propulsion means.

[0009] At the same time, the closing devices of the transverse maneuvering tunnels have a high structural complexity and contribute to the overall weight of the vessel.

[0010] Furthermore, the transverse manoeuvring tunnel closing device must be designed to minimise the potentially damaging effects of a slamming phenomenon whereby the vessel's hull (usually the bow) suddenly sinks into the water (e.g. due to water motion). In particular at high speeds, such a slamming phenomenon would generate high pressure gradients at the transverse manoeuvring tunnel and could cause damage to the vessel's plating and connections or impair the operation of doors and transverse propulsion devices.

[0011] These critical aspects and related problems prompted the designers to adopt conflicting technical solutions, on one hand completely closing the lateral maneuvering tunnel entrance openings to better recreate the hydrodynamic shape of the hull, and on the other hand completely opening the tunnel entrance openings to simplify and lighten the hull and eliminate any abrupt pressure gradients between the inside and outside of the maneuvering tunnel. Summary of the invention

[0012] The object of the present invention is to create a transverse propulsion device which makes it possible to overcome the drawbacks highlighted in the solutions of the prior art.

[0013] An object of the present invention is to provide a transverse propulsion device which achieves a compromise between low drag and turbulence generation during cruising, while at least partially maintaining a mainly laminar water flow that externally beats the hull of the vessel in the vicinity of the entrance opening of the transverse maneuvering tunnel, and at the same time minimizing the overall weight and reducing the structural complexity of the vessel's hull.

[0014] In particular, one object of the invention is to produce a structurally simple transverse propulsion device having a significantly reduced number of components.

[0015] A further object of the invention is to provide a transverse propulsion device of extremely limited weight.

[0016] Another object is to provide a transverse propulsion device that simplifies installation and maintenance operations.

[0017] Furthermore, it is an object of the present invention to eliminate or suppress the formation of high pressure gradients between the inside and the outside of the transverse maneuvering tunnel, which are usually caused by slamming phenomena of the vessel's hull.

[0018] These and other objects are achieved by means of a transverse propulsion device for a vessel according to claim 1. The dependent claims show preferred embodiments comprising a series of advantageous technical effects. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] The features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description, its preferred embodiments and the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0020] - Figure 1 shows details of a hull of a vessel according to an embodiment of the invention, the hull having a plurality of manoeuvring tunnels and closing means associated with each manoeuvring tunnel;

[0021] - Figure 2 shows a forward portion of a vessel according to an embodiment of the present invention, the forward portion of the vessel having a plurality of maneuvering tunnels formed in the hull, and closing devices associated with the maneuvering tunnels;

[0022] - Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the hull of a vessel at a lateral maneuvering tunnel according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] - Figure 4 depicts a front view of a pair of grids for two lateral maneuvering tunnels aligned along an outer flow direction, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] - Figure 5 shows a grid of a lateral maneuvering tunnel according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] - Figure 6 depicts a grid of a lateral maneuvering tunnel according to a second embodiment of the invention;

[0026] - Figure 7 shows a grid of a lateral maneuvering tunnel according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] - Figure 8 Depicted Figure 5 A perspective view of the grille;

[0028] - Fig. 9 Shown according to Figure 5 a cross-sectional view of a hull of a vessel of an embodiment of the invention in a substantially vertical cross-sectional plane of the vessel in the vicinity of a tunnel entrance opening;

[0029] - Fig.10 Describes the basis Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of a hull of a vessel of an embodiment of the invention in a substantially horizontal cross-sectional plane at a transverse maneuvering tunnel;

[0030] - Fig.11 Shows Figure 6 A perspective view of the grille;

[0031] - Fig.12 Shows Figure 7 A perspective view of the grille;

[0032] - Fig.13 shows a grid of a lateral maneuvering tunnel according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] - Fig.14 Describes the basis Fig.13 A cross-sectional view of a hull of a vessel of an embodiment of the invention in a substantially horizontal cross-sectional plane at a transverse maneuvering tunnel;

[0034] - Fig.15 A perspective view showing a grid of a lateral manoeuvring tunnel according to a fifth embodiment of the invention;

[0035] - Fig.16 Shown according to Fig.15 Embodiments of the latitudinal manipulation tunnel grid;

[0036] - Fig.17 Describes the basis Fig.15 a cross-sectional view of a hull of a vessel of an embodiment of the invention in a substantially vertical cross-sectional plane of the vessel in the vicinity of a tunnel entrance opening;

[0037] - Fig.18 Describes the basis Fig.15 A cross-sectional view of a hull of a vessel of an embodiment of the invention in a substantially horizontal cross-sectional plane at a transverse maneuvering tunnel;

[0038] - Fig.19 shows a grid of a lateral maneuvering tunnel according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] - Fig. 20 Describes the basis Fig.19 A cross-sectional view of a hull of a vessel of an embodiment of the invention in a substantially horizontal cross-sectional plane at a transverse maneuvering tunnel;

[0040] - Fig.21 depicts a cross-sectional view of a hull of a vessel according to a first embodiment of an opening edge in a substantially horizontal cross-sectional plane at a lateral maneuvering tunnel, wherein the opening edges are coupled;

[0041] - Fig. 22 depicts a cross-sectional view of the hull of a vessel in a substantially horizontal cross-sectional plane at a transverse maneuvering tunnel according to a second embodiment of the opening edge, wherein the opening edge is inclined;

[0042] - Fig.23 A cross-sectional view of a hull of a vessel at a transverse manoeuvring tunnel in a substantially horizontal cross-sectional plane is depicted according to a third embodiment of an opening edge, wherein the opening edge comprises a countersunk hole. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] With reference to the drawings, reference numeral 1 generally indicates a transverse propulsion device of a vessel, and reference numeral 2 generally indicates a vessel.

[0044] The vessel 2 comprises a hull 21 comprising an outer hull surface 210. During cruising, an external water current 200 flows locally along the outer hull surface 210 along a flow direction S.

[0045] In one embodiment, the vessel 2 comprises transverse propulsion means.

[0046] Typically, the vessel 2 comprises a forwardly protruding bulbous bow 29 configured to direct an external water flow 200 along an external hull surface 210, in particular along a flow direction S. The flow direction S is typically inclined relative to a horizontal bottom plane extending primarily along the keel of the vessel at a flow angle comprised between 5 and 60 degrees.

[0047] Under conditions of forward motion of the vessel and sailing at cruising speed, the external water flow 200 flows along the external hull surface 210 at a high speed.

[0048] Cruising speed refers to the speed at which the vessel sails comprised between 10 and 25 knots, preferably equal to approximately 18 knots.

[0049] High external water velocity is defined as a velocity close to or greater than 4 meters per second, preferably greater than 5 meters per second, for example comprised between 7 and 10 meters per second. In contrast, low external water velocity refers to a velocity close to or less than 2.5 meters per second, for example approximately equal to 1 meter per second.

[0050] The transverse propulsion device comprises a transverse maneuvering tunnel 25 extending transversely in the hull of the vessel, preferably opening at both longitudinal sides of the vessel.

[0051] In one embodiment, the transverse propulsion device comprises at least one maneuvering thruster housed in the transverse maneuvering tunnel 25 and configured to move water from the interior to the exterior of the transverse maneuvering tunnel 25 through the tunnel entrance opening 28 in an operational transverse propulsion device configuration.

[0052] In the non-actuated configuration of the transverse propulsion device, the maneuvering thrusters are stationary.

[0053] In various embodiments, the transverse propulsion device is devoid of maneuvering thrusters. In one embodiment, the transverse maneuvering tunnel is of the reverse suction type, for example, having a diameter equal to about 1.5 meters, configured to fluidly connect the two longitudinal sides of the vessel in order to suppress or eliminate the reverse water flow generated by the maneuvering thrusters of the other transverse maneuvering tunnels.

[0054] The transverse maneuvering tunnel 25 comprises a tunnel wall 27 which peripherally delimits the transverse maneuvering tunnel 25 inside the hull 21 .

[0055] The lateral maneuvering tunnel 25 comprises a tunnel axis X oriented to intersect the outer hull surface 210 , for example, along which the tunnel wall 27 extends primarily.

[0056] The lateral manoeuvring tunnel 25 comprises an opening edge 26 which extends at least partially around the tunnel axis X and delimits a tunnel entrance opening 28 opening on the outer hull surface 210 .

[0057] Specifically, the tunnel entrance opening 28 is located between the opening edges 26 in the projection of the outer hull surface 210 .

[0058] In one embodiment, the opening edge 26 is connected to the tunnel wall 27 with a connection radius comprised between 100 and 500 mm, preferably comprised between 200 and 400 mm.

[0059] In one embodiment, the opening edge comprises a significantly flared tail section downstream of the lateral maneuvering tunnel in the flow direction in order to promote external water flow.

[0060] Preferably, the lateral manoeuvring tunnel 25 further comprises a second opening edge defining a tunnel exit opening opposite the tunnel entrance opening 28 , for example opposite along the tunnel axis X.

[0061] Along the flow direction S, the opening edge 26 is divided into a first edge portion 261 and a second edge portion 262 complementary to the first edge portion 261 , both having an extension around the tunnel axis X, for example a substantially circular or oval or elliptical extension.

[0062] Along the flow direction S, the first edge portion 261 is destined to be hit by the external water flow 200 first.

[0063] In other words, the external water flow 200 initially contacts the first edge portion 261 along the flow direction S, and then contacts the second edge portion 262 .

[0064] In other words, the first edge portion 261 extends around the tunnel axis X according to the flow direction S substantially (at least partially) towards the bow of the vessel.

[0065] In other words, the opening edge 26 is composed of the first edge portion 261 and the second edge portion 262 .

[0066] Similarly, the tunnel entrance opening 28 is divided into a first half region 281 partially defined by the first edge portion 261 and a second half region 282 complementary to the first half region 281 and partially defined by the second edge portion 262 .

[0067] In other words, the external water flow 200 contacts the first half area 281 along the flow direction S, and then contacts the second half area 282 .

[0068] In other words, the tunnel entrance opening 28 consists of a first half area 281 and a second half area 282 .

[0069] The opening edge 26 extends along the tunnel axis X between an inner edge section 265 connected to the tunnel wall 27 and an outer edge section 267 connected to the outer hull surface 210 .

[0070] In one embodiment, the opening edge 26 comprises a central edge portion 266 included along the tunnel axis X between an inner edge section 265 and an outer edge section 267 .

[0071] In one embodiment, the opening edge 26 has a substantially corner shape, such as a substantially right angle ( Fig. 22 ).

[0072] In one embodiment, the opening edges 26 are flared, preferably they include flared sections ( Fig.23 ).

[0073] In one embodiment, the opening edge 26 extends between a first edge portion 273, which is flush with the external hull surface 210, and a second edge portion 270, which is spaced from the first edge portion 273 within the transverse maneuvering tunnel 25 and along the tunnel axis X at a height comprised between 400 and 600 millimeters.

[0074] The transverse propulsion device comprises a grid 4 associated with a transverse maneuvering tunnel 25 .

[0075] In one embodiment, the grille 4 is fixed to the opening edge 26 .

[0076] In one embodiment, the grille 4 is fixed to the opening edge 26 in a removable manner, for example by means of bolts and screws.

[0077] In one embodiment, the grille 4 extends relative to the entire tunnel entrance opening 28 .

[0078] In one embodiment, the grill 4 joins the first edge portion 261 and the second edge portion 262 .

[0079] The grille 4 includes a plurality of uprights 41 and a plurality of crosspieces 42 oriented to intersect the uprights 41 .

[0080] The intersection of the crosspiece 42 and the upright post 31 makes the grille 4 become a whole.

[0081] In one embodiment, at least some or all of the pillars 41 are oriented substantially perpendicular to the flow direction S.

[0082] In one embodiment, the grid 4 has a thickness greater than 70 mm, ie the dimension of the uprights 41 and the crosspieces 42 along the tunnel axis X. Preferably, the thickness of the grid 4 is comprised between 80 and 130 mm.

[0083] In one embodiment, the grating 4 cooperates with the outer hull surface 210 to overall form a hydrodynamically shaped surface along which the outer water flow 200 flows.

[0084] In particular, the grille 4 cooperates with the outer hull surface 210 in the second half region 282 of the inlet opening 28 .

[0085] In one embodiment, the grille 4 is positioned so that the grille surface 45 is substantially tangential to the outer hull surface 210 near or at the outer rail end 422 .

[0086] In one embodiment, the grille 4 is positioned such that the grille surface 45 is substantially tangential to the exterior hull surface 210 at or near the second edge portion 262 .

[0087] In one embodiment, the grid 4 extends over a curved grid surface 45 .

[0088] In one embodiment, the grille 4 extends over a curved grille surface 45 which is convex relative to the transverse steering channel 25 .

[0089] In one embodiment, all or only some of the uprights 41 and all or only some of the crosspieces 42 intersect and define a plurality of functional through-windows 40 therebetween.

[0090] In one embodiment, for all or only some of the functional through-windows 40 , the vertical distance D along the flow direction S between two consecutive uprights 41 delimiting a functional through-window 40 is comprised between 150 and 250 millimeters.

[0091] In one embodiment, the standoff distance D is comprised between 180 and 220 millimeters.

[0092] In one embodiment, for all or only some of the functional through-windows 40 , the distance between two crosspieces 42 delimiting a functional through-window 40 is comprised between 300 and 500 millimeters, for example equal to 400 millimeters.

[0093] In one embodiment, all or only some of the functional through-going windows 40 have a main dimension along a direction intersecting the flow direction S or substantially transverse thereto.

[0094] In one embodiment, all or only some of the functional through-windows 40 have a substantially rectangular shape, the longer sides of which are oriented in a direction substantially transverse to the flow direction S.

[0095] In one embodiment, all or only some of the functional through-windows 40 have a substantially rectangular shape, wherein the longer side of the rectangle is approximately equal to twice the shorter side of the rectangle.

[0096] In one embodiment, when the lateral maneuvering tunnel 25 is at least partially filled with water and the external water flow 200 flows at a high speed (preferably a speed greater than 4 meters per second) along the flow direction S, the lateral propulsion device is configured so that the water in the lateral maneuvering tunnel 25 keeps flowing at a low speed along the tunnel axis X, preferably a speed less than 2.5 meters per second.

[0097] In one embodiment, when the external water flow 200 flows along the flow direction S at a high speed (preferably a speed greater than 4 meters per second), the functional through windows 40 are configured to cooperate with each other and produce a low-friction fluid dynamic surface that facilitates the flow of the external water flow 200 along the flow direction S.

[0098] In one embodiment, when the external water flow 200 flows at a high speed (preferably a speed greater than 4 meters per second) along the flow direction S, the functional through-windows 40 are configured to cooperate with each other and limit or prevent the external water flow 200 from passing through the functional through-windows 40 and flowing toward the interior of the lateral manipulation tunnel 25.

[0099] In one embodiment, as the external water flow 200 flows along the flow direction S at a high speed (preferably a speed greater than 4 meters per second), the functional through-window 40 is configured to retain water at a low speed (preferably a speed less than 2.5 meters per second) at the functional through-window 40 and / or in the lateral manipulation tunnel 25 near the functional through-window 40.

[0100] In one embodiment, the tunnel entrance opening 28 may be approximated by an imaginary entrance circumference extending about the tunnel axis X on an entrance plane P, the circumference defining an entrance area A.

[0101] In one embodiment, each functional through-window 40 has a functional area Af on the grille surface 45 .

[0102] In one embodiment, the functionality ratio Af / A between the functional area Af and the inlet area A is comprised between 0.05% and 3%.

[0103] Preferably, the functionality ratio Af / A is comprised between 1% and 2.5%, for example it is equal to approximately 1.7%.

[0104] In one embodiment, the pillars 41 have a decreasing dimension along the flow direction S. In other words, relative to the flow direction S, the pillars are thin.

[0105] In one embodiment, the grille 4 comprises a grille surface 45 along which the posts 41 and the crosspieces 42 are arranged.

[0106] The grid surface 45 intersects the axis X of the tunnel.

[0107] The grill surface 45 intersects the exterior hull surface 210 .

[0108] The grid surface 45 is an imaginary surface at least partially curved in space, identified by the position of the transverse maneuvering tunnel along the hull and along the direction S of the flow.

[0109] In one embodiment, the grid surface 45 is substantially a grid plane 45 .

[0110] In one embodiment, the grid surface 45 is inclined relative to the outer hull surface 210, forming a grid angle α comprised between 5 and 20 degrees, preferably comprised between 7 and 12 degrees.

[0111] In one embodiment, the grid angle α is convex relative to the flow direction S, ie it faces the flow direction S. As shown in FIG.

[0112] In one embodiment, the grid surface 45 is inclined relative to the tunnel axis X by an internal angle δ comprised between 70 and 85 degrees, preferably between 78 and 83 degrees.

[0113] Preferably, the interior angle δ is complementary to the grid angle α.

[0114] Preferably, the tunnel wall 27 comprises a plurality of fixing flanges 275 protruding into the transverse manoeuvring tunnel 25, for example protruding from the tunnel wall or an opening edge, and which are configured to mechanically engage at least one column 41 and / or crosspiece 42, for example by bolts or screws or by means of a form connection or a force connection.

[0115] In one embodiment, on the grid plane 45 and along the flow direction S, the grid 4 includes at least one column 41 mechanically connected to the inner edge segment 265, at least one column 41 mechanically connected to the central edge portion 266, and at least one column 41 mechanically connected to the outer edge segment 267.

[0116] In one embodiment, the pillar 41 extends between a first pillar end 411 and a second pillar end 412 relative to the tunnel entrance opening 28 .

[0117] The grille 4 includes a crosspiece 42 extending on a grille surface 45 (eg, grille plane 45 ) between an inner crosspiece end 421 and an opposing outer crosspiece end 422 .

[0118] Preferably, the inner crosspiece end 421 is continuous with the tunnel wall 27 .

[0119] The inner crosspiece end 421 is mechanically connected to the inner edge section 265 or to the tunnel wall 27 in the vicinity of the inner edge section 265 .

[0120] The outer crosspiece end 422 is mechanically connected to the outer edge section 267 or to a portion of the opening edge 26 between the inner edge section 265 and the outer edge section 267 .

[0121] In one embodiment, the inner crosspiece end 421 is mechanically connected to the inner edge section 265 .

[0122] In one embodiment, the outer crosspiece end 422 is mechanically connected to the outer edge segment 267 .

[0123] In one embodiment, the inner rail end 421 is mechanically connected to the first edge portion 261 of the opening edge.

[0124] In one embodiment, the outer rail end 422 is mechanically connected to the second edge portion 262 of the opening edge.

[0125] In one embodiment, for example Figure 8 In the embodiment of FIG. 4 , all pillars 41 are positioned substantially perpendicular to the flow direction S.

[0126] The grille 4 includes at least one crosspiece 42 extending on a grille surface 45 (eg, grille plane 45 ) between an inner crosspiece end 421 mechanically connected to the inner edge segment 265 and an outer crosspiece end 422 mechanically connected to the outer edge segment 267 .

[0127] In one embodiment, the grille 4 is positioned such that the outer crosspiece ends 422 are located close to the outer hull surface 210 , while the inner crosspiece ends 421 are located away from the outer hull surface 210 .

[0128] In one embodiment, the grille 4 is positioned so that the outer rail ends 422 are located closer to the outer hull surface 210 relative to the location of the inner rail ends 421 .

[0129] In one embodiment, the grid 4 is lowered in the first half region 281 and along the tunnel axis X relative to the external hull surface 210 .

[0130] In one embodiment, at least one pillar 41 is substantially in the shape of a broken line or a broken straight line.

[0131] Preferably, the at least one upright post 41 comprises at least two upright sections 417 , 419 , which extend mainly on two mutually separate and intersecting imaginary straight lines R1 , R2 , which extend mainly on the grille surface 45 .

[0132] In one embodiment, the at least one pillar 41 comprises at least one upright section 417 , 419 inclined at an upright angle β1 , β2 convex relative to the flow direction S.

[0133] In one embodiment, the vertical angles β1, β2 are smaller than 90°.

[0134] In one embodiment, said upright angle β1 , β2 is comprised between 15 and 60 degrees, for example it is equal to approximately 45 degrees.

[0135] In one embodiment, the at least one pillar 41 comprises at least one upright section 418 which is substantially perpendicular to the flow direction S on the grid surface 45 .

[0136] In one embodiment, all the columns 41 are basically in the shape of a broken line or a broken straight line, wherein each column 41 includes a central upright section 418 basically perpendicular to the flow direction S on the grid surface 45 and two inclined upright sections 417, 419, which are continuous and arranged at the ends of the central upright section 418.

[0137] In one embodiment, at least one pillar 41 has a substantially curved shape.

[0138] In one embodiment, at least one pillar 41 has a substantially circular arc shape.

[0139] In one embodiment, the circumferential arc is convex relative to the flow direction S.

[0140] In one embodiment, for example, by Fig.14 As shown in the example in , the grid 4 is housed in a transverse maneuvering tunnel 25 and comprises at least one crosspiece, preferably all crosspieces, having an inner crosspiece end 421 and an outer crosspiece end 422 mechanically connected to the tunnel wall 27 near the inner edge section 265 of the opening edge 26.

[0141] In one embodiment, for example, Fig.16 , Fig.17 and Fig.18 As shown, the grid 4 comprises at least one column, preferably all columns, having a first column end 411 mechanically connected to the tunnel wall 27 , preferably in the vicinity of the inner edge section 265 of the opening edge 26 .

[0142] In particular, the first column end 411 is the lower end of the at least one column 41 .

[0143] Furthermore, at least one pillar, preferably all pillars, have a second pillar end 412 mechanically connected to the tunnel wall 27 at a location distal to the inner edge section 265 .

[0144] In particular, the second column end 412 is an upper end portion of the at least one column 41 .

[0145] In one embodiment, for example, Fig.16 , Fig.17 and Fig.18 As shown, the surface 45 of the grid 4 intersects the tunnel wall 27 and is transverse to the tunnel axis X.

[0146] In one embodiment, the lateral maneuvering tunnel 25 includes an entrance plane P intersecting the tunnel axis X, and the tunnel entrance opening 28 has an entrance area A on the entrance plane P.

[0147] In one embodiment, the entry plane P is transverse to the tunnel axis X.

[0148] In one embodiment, the entry plane P passes substantially through the opening edge 26 .

[0149] In one embodiment, the first edge portion 261 corresponds to an arc of the circumference of an imaginary inlet circle subtended by an angle less than 180 degrees, preferably less than 150 degrees, and even more preferably less than 140 degrees.

[0150] In one embodiment, the first edge portion 261 corresponds to an arc of the circumference of an imaginary inlet circle subtended by an angle comprised between 100 and 140 degrees, preferably comprised between 120 and 130 degrees.

[0151] In one embodiment, the flow direction S is substantially tangential to an angle subtended by a circumferential arc corresponding to the first edge portion 261 .

[0152] In one embodiment, the total length of the vessel 2 is greater than 200 meters, for example equal to 250 meters.

[0153] In one embodiment, the inner diameter of the lateral maneuvering tunnel 25 between the tunnel walls 27 is comprised between 2.0 and 2.8 meters, preferably between 2.1 and 2.5 meters, for example 2.2 meters.

[0154] Innovatively, the transverse propulsion device that is the subject of the present invention achieves its intended purpose and overcomes the typical problems of the prior art by simplifying the hull structure, reducing weight and facilitating design, installation and maintenance operations.

[0155] Advantageously, the transverse propulsion arrangement minimizes the potentially damaging effects of hull slamming, protecting the transverse maneuvering tunnel.

[0156] Advantageously, the propulsion device achieves a high compromise between structural simplicity and minimization of undesirable turbulence phenomena along the outer hull surface. Advantageously, the transverse propulsion device generates low turbulence at high cruising speeds, preferably at a cruising speed equal to or greater than 9 or 10 knots, at which cruising speed the turbulent drag significantly affects the efficiency of the vessel.

[0157] Advantageously, the external water flow flows in a substantially constant manner in the flow direction along the tunnel entrance opening.

[0158] Advantageously, the grid is denser, ie the number of uprights is substantially doubled or tripled relative to the grids commonly used in prior art transverse propulsion devices, thereby reducing the generation of turbulence.

[0159] Advantageously, the dimension of the grille along the tunnel axis is thicker than the grilles typically used in prior art transverse propulsion devices. This helps to prevent or limit the crossing of the functional through-windows.

[0160] Advantageously, the grid allows water to pass through the tunnel entrance opening when the transverse propulsion means are in operation.

[0161] Advantageously, the grid achieves a compromise between minimizing the throttling effect of the tunnel entrance opening and maximizing the effect of conveying the external water flow at high speed in the direction of flow.

[0162] Advantageously, the grid allows for lateral manipulation of sudden pressure gradients between the inside and outside of the tunnel as the hull is slammed by water.

[0163] Advantageously, the posts create reduced friction against the external water flow in the flow direction.

[0164] Advantageously, the external water flow contacts the functional through-window mainly at the grating, since the posts have a reduced surface area facing the external water flow, which therefore slides over the water present in the functional through-window with a low coefficient of friction.

[0165] Advantageously, the functional through-window realizes the closing function of the tunnel entrance opening in case of external water flow at high speed.

[0166] Advantageously, the grid utilizes the inertia of motion of the external water flow to direct the water in the direction of flow to the outside of the lateral maneuvering tunnel, thereby minimizing or eliminating crossovers in the functional through-windows.

[0167] Advantageously, the structural complexity of the transverse propulsion device is reduced.

[0168] Advantageously, the grid is removably connected, avoiding the need to dry-dock the vessel.

[0169] Advantageously, the grating may be removed to access the interior of the manoeuvring tunnel for inspection and maintenance operations.

[0170] Advantageously, the grid is adapted to different embodiments of the opening edge.

[0171] Advantageously, the grid with uprights in the shape of straight broken lines, with inclined upright sections, facilitates the flow of external water from the center of the tunnel entrance opening towards the edge of the opening, i.e. in a centrifugal direction relative to the tunnel axis X. Advantageously, the inclined upright sections help prevent or limit the entry of water into the interior of the lateral maneuvering tunnel, i.e. facilitate the flow of water in the flow direction.

[0172] Advantageously, in the embodiment of the grid with convex uprights in the shape of circumferential arcs, the radius of curvature favours the external water flow from the centre of the tunnel entrance opening towards the edge of the opening, i.e. in a centrifugal direction with respect to the tunnel axis X. Advantageously, the uprights in the shape of circumferential arcs help prevent or limit the ingress of water into the interior of the lateral manoeuvring tunnel.

[0173] It is quite clear that a person skilled in the art may modify the invention described above to meet possible requirements, all modifications being included within the scope of protection defined by the appended claims.

[0174] For example, a person skilled in the art could make a transverse propulsion device comprising a grid substantially as described above, but only comprising uprights or only crosspieces. However, this equivalent solution is a disadvantageous solution because the grid is subject to very undesirable vibration and resonance phenomena.

[0175] Reference numerals list

[0176] 1 Transverse propulsion device 261 first edge portion

[0177] 2 Ship 262 Second edge part

[0178] 21 Hull 265 Inner edge section

[0179] 200 External water flow 266 Center edge section

[0180] 210 External hull surface 267 External edge section

[0181] 25 Lateral maneuvering tunnel 27 Tunnel wall

[0182] 26 Opening edge 270 Second edge section

[0183] 273 First edge segment

[0184] 275 Fixed flange

[0185] 28 Tunnel entrance opening

[0186] 281 First Half Area

[0187] 282 Second Half Area

[0188] 3- 4 Grille

[0189] 40 Functional pass-through window 41 Column

[0190] 411 First column end 412 Second column end 417 upright section (inclined) 418 vertical section (center) 419 upright section (inclined) 42 Crossbar

[0191] 421 Inner crossbar end 422 outer crosspiece end A Inlet area D Standing distance P Inlet plane S Flow direction X Tunnel Axis α Grid angle δ internal angle β vertical angle

Claims

1. A transverse propulsion device (1) for a ship (2), wherein the ship (2) comprises a hull (21), the hull comprising an external hull surface (210), an external water flow (200) flowing locally along the external hull surface in a flow direction (S); wherein the transverse propulsion device comprises: - a lateral maneuvering tunnel (25), comprising a tunnel wall (27) extending along a tunnel axis (X), the tunnel axis (X) being oriented to intersect the external hull surface (210), and an opening edge (26) extending at least partially around the tunnel axis (X) and defining a tunnel entrance opening (28) opening on the external hull surface (210), wherein the opening edge (26) extends along the tunnel axis (X) between an inner edge section (265) intersecting the tunnel axis (X) and connected to the tunnel wall (27) and an outer edge section (267) intersecting the tunnel axis (X) and connected to the external hull surface (210); - a grid (4) associated with the transverse maneuvering tunnel (25), comprising a plurality of crosspieces (42) and / or a plurality of uprights (41) intersecting one another, the plurality of crosspieces and the plurality of uprights extending mainly on a grid surface (45) intersecting the tunnel axis (X) and the external hull surface (210); The transverse propulsion device is characterized in that the grid (4) comprises at least one crosspiece (42), the at least one crosspiece extending on the grid surface (45) between: an inner crosspiece end (421) which is mechanically connected to the inner edge section (265) or to a portion of the tunnel wall (27) close to the inner edge section (265), and An outer crosspiece end (422) which is mechanically connected to the outer edge section (267) or to a portion of the opening edge (26) which is axially enclosed between the inner edge section (265) and the outer edge section (267).

2. The lateral propulsion device according to claim 1, wherein: The grid surface (45) is substantially the grid plane (45).

3. The lateral propulsion device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The grille (4) includes at least one crosspiece (42) extending on the grille surface (45) between an inner crosspiece end (421) mechanically connected to the inner edge segment (265) and an outer crosspiece end (422) mechanically connected to the outer edge segment (267).

4. A transverse propulsion device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: All posts (41) are positioned substantially perpendicular to said flow direction (S).

5. The transverse propulsion device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: At least one upright post (41) is substantially in the shape of a folded line or a folded straight line and comprises at least two upright sections (417, 419), wherein the at least two upright sections extend mainly on two mutually separate intersecting imaginary straight lines (R1, R2), wherein the intersecting imaginary straight lines extend mainly on the grille surface (45).

6. The lateral propulsion device according to claim 5, wherein: The at least one upright post (41) comprises at least one upright section (418) on the grid surface (45) substantially perpendicular to the flow direction (S).

7. The transverse propulsion device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: At least one column (41) is substantially curved.

8. A transverse propulsion device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The opening edge (26) is divided along the flow direction (S) into a first edge portion (261) intended to be firstly hit by the external water flow (200) and a second edge portion (262) complementary to the first edge portion (261), wherein the inner crosspiece end (421) is mechanically connected to the first edge portion (261), and wherein the outer crosspiece end (422) is mechanically connected to the second edge portion (262).

9. The lateral propulsion device according to claim 8, wherein: In the second half region (282), the grid (4) cooperates with the external hull surface (210) to form as a whole a surface having a hydrodynamic shape, along which the external water flow (200) flows.

10. A transverse propulsion device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The grating (4) extends over a curvilinear grating surface (45) and includes at least one crosspiece (42) having an outer crosspiece end (422) that is substantially tangential to the outer hull surface (210).

11. A transverse propulsion device (1) for a ship (2), wherein: The ship (2) comprises a hull (21), the hull comprising an external hull surface (210), along which an external water flow (200) flows locally in a flow direction (S); wherein the transverse propulsion device comprises: a lateral maneuvering tunnel (25), comprising a tunnel wall (27) extending along a tunnel axis (X), the tunnel axis being oriented to intersect the external hull surface (210), and an opening edge (26) extending at least partially around the tunnel axis (X) and defining a tunnel entrance opening (28) opening on the external hull surface (210), wherein the opening edge (26) is divided along the flow direction (S) into a first edge portion (261) intended to be firstly hit by the external water flow (200) and a second edge portion (262) complementary to the first edge portion (261); - a grating (4) associated with the transverse maneuvering tunnel (25), comprising a plurality of columns (41) and a plurality of crosspieces (42) intersecting one another, extending mainly on a grating surface (45) intersecting the tunnel axis (X) and the external hull surface (210); wherein the tunnel entrance opening (28) is divided into a first half area (281) partially delimited by the first edge portion (261) and a second half area (282) complementary to the first half area (281) and partially delimited by the second edge portion (262); The transverse propulsion device is characterized in that, in the first half area (281), the grid (4) is lowered relative to the external hull surface (210) along the tunnel axis (X) and towards the inside of the volume of the ship (2) defined by the external hull surface (210).

12. A transverse propulsion device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The grid (4) is mechanically connected to the tunnel wall (27) in a removable manner, for example by means of bolts and screws connected to fixing flanges (275) protruding from the tunnel wall (27) and / or the opening edge (26), wherein the hull (21) is immersed in water.

13. A transverse propulsion device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: All or only some of the uprights (41) and all or only some of the crosspieces (42) define a plurality of functional through windows (40) therebetween, wherein, when the external water flow (200) flows along the flow direction (S) at a high speed, preferably at a speed exceeding 4 meters per second, the grille (4) is configured to prevent or restrict the external water flow (200) from flowing through the functional through windows (40).

14. The lateral propulsion device according to claim 13, wherein: The functional through-going window (40) has a major dimension in a direction intersecting or substantially perpendicular to the flow direction (S).

15. The lateral propulsion device according to claim 14, wherein: The vertical distance (D) along the flow direction (S) between two consecutive uprights (41) defining the functional through-going window (40) therebetween is between 150 and 250 mm, preferably between 180 and 220 mm.

16. The transverse propulsion device according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein: The functional through-window (40) is configured to maintain water at a low velocity, preferably less than 2.5 meters per second, at the functional through-window (40) and / or in the lateral maneuvering tunnel (25) near the functional through-window (40).

17. A transverse propulsion device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: In the non-actuated configuration, when the lateral maneuvering tunnel (25) is at least partially filled with water and the external water flow (200) flows along the flow direction (S) at a high speed, preferably at a speed exceeding 4 meters per second, the functional through-windows (40) are configured to cooperate with each other and keep the water in the lateral maneuvering tunnel (25) at a low speed, preferably at a speed lower than 2.5 meters per second, along the tunnel axis (X).

18. A transverse propulsion device (1) for a vessel (2), wherein: The ship (2) comprises a hull (21), the hull comprising an external hull surface (210), along which an external water flow (200) flows locally in a flow direction (S); wherein the transverse propulsion device comprises: - a transverse maneuvering tunnel (25) comprising a tunnel wall (27) extending along a tunnel axis (X), the tunnel axis being oriented to intersect the external hull surface (210), and an opening edge (26) extending at least partially around the tunnel axis (X) and defining a tunnel entrance opening (28) opening on the external hull surface (210), wherein the opening edge (26) substantially forms a right angle or comprises a flare between the external hull surface (210) and the tunnel wall (27); wherein the opening edge (26) extends between a first edge section (273) and a second edge section (270), the first edge section being flush with the external hull surface (210), and the second edge section being spaced apart from the first edge section (273) by an amount between 400 and 600 mm within the transverse maneuvering tunnel (25) and along the tunnel axis (X); - a grid (4) associated with the transverse maneuvering tunnel (25), comprising a plurality of crosspieces (42) and / or a plurality of uprights (41) intersecting one another, the plurality of crosspieces and the plurality of uprights extending mainly on a grid surface (45) intersecting the tunnel axis (X) and the external hull surface (210); The transverse propulsion device is characterized in that the grid (4) comprises at least one crosspiece (42), the at least one crosspiece extending on the grid surface (45) between: an inner crosspiece end portion (421) mechanically connected to the second edge portion (270) or mechanically connected to a portion of the tunnel wall (27) close to the second edge section (270), and an outer rail end portion (422) mechanically connected to the first edge portion (273) or mechanically connected to the opening edge (26) and axially closed at the first edge section (273) and a portion between the second edge segment (270).

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