Echo depth sounder for polar navigation ship, installation structure of echo depth sounder and ship provided with echo depth sounder

Abstract

A polar ship is disclosed. The polar ship includes: a plough formed at a lower portion of a bow of the ship; and the echo depth finder is arranged on the plough and is configured to emit ultrasonic pulses to the seabed, receive the ultrasonic pulses reflected back from the seabed and calculate the depth of the seabed based on the time required for returning the ultrasonic pulses.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an echo sounder for polar vessels, and more specifically, to an echo sounder that is not affected by bubbles that move to the bottom of the hull due to the unique hull shape of polar vessels, its mounting structure, and a vessel including the echo sounder. Background Technology

[0002] An echo sounder is a device installed on the bottom of a ship that measures water depth by emitting ultrasonic pulses towards the seabed and measuring the time it takes for the ultrasonic pulses to reflect back from the seabed. When bubbles generated around the hull due to ship movement or other factors pass above the echo sounder, the sounder may suffer interference from ultrasonic pulse transmission and reception, making its normal operation difficult.

[0003] Therefore, to avoid interference from air bubbles trapped below the waterline caused by waves at the waterline, it is generally recommended to mount the echo sounder on the foremost horizontal surface at the bottom of the bow. Furthermore, for ships equipped with a bow thruster, it is recommended to mount the echo sounder further forward than the bow thruster to minimize its influence.

[0004] Meanwhile, due to the reduction of Arctic sea ice caused by global warming, a new maritime route has been opened in the Arctic, namely the Northern Sea Route, which has attracted widespread attention. For South Korea, whose total trade volume relies on maritime trade for more than 99% of its total trade, transporting goods via the Northern Sea Route represents a valuable opportunity to create new added value.

[0005] Therefore, various polar environment studies are underway, including using satellites to collect sea ice information and using research icebreakers to acquire data, in order to establish safe navigation methods and determine the best routes for ships navigating the Northern Sea Route. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Technical issues

[0007] Recently, the applicant built and operated a vessel, specifically a polar vessel, in which the angle between the bow line and the waterline is 90 degrees or less. As a result, the applicant discovered that echo sounders mounted on icebreakers capable of navigating polar regions malfunctioned due to the unique bow and hull shape of the vessels, leading to this invention.

[0008] Specifically, because the bow hull of polar vessels is designed with the tangent of the hull's cross-section angled slightly relative to the waterline—a design consideration for icebreaking performance, i.e., the ability to move forward while breaking ice—polar vessels have wider and flatter hulls than typical merchant ships. This results in a significant tendency for bubbles generated by bow waves to flow along the hull's inclined surface towards the bottom of the hull. The applicant discovered that due to this flow characteristic, the volume of bubbles flowing along the bottom surface of the hull increases with increasing ship speed, impairing the operation of the echo sounder installed at the bottom of the bow.

[0009] Based on these findings, the present invention aims to provide an echo sounder for measuring water depth by being installed on the bottom of a polar vessel, its installation method, its installation structure, and a vessel including the same.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to provide an echo sounder, its mounting structure, and a ship including the echo sounder, which is unaffected by bubbles that move to the bottom of the hull at the bow of a polar vessel.

[0011] A further object of the present invention is to provide an echo sounder that does not interfere with the operation of polar vessels, its mounting structure, and a vessel including the same.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide an echo sounder, its mounting structure, and a ship including the echo sounder, which can be implemented with minimal modifications to the typical structure of a polar vessel.

[0013] Technical solutions

[0014] According to one aspect of the invention, a polar vessel may include a plow and an echo sounder. The plow may be formed in the lower part of the bow of the vessel. The echo sounder may be disposed inside the plow. The echo sounder may emit ultrasonic pulses toward the seabed. The echo sounder may receive ultrasonic pulses reflected back from the seabed. The echo sounder may calculate the depth of the seabed based on the time required for the ultrasonic pulses to return.

[0015] Specifically, the echo sounder unit may include a sounder body and a support. The support couples the sounder body to the lower part of the plow.

[0016] In addition, the plow unit may include a plow body and a plow hole. The plow hole may be formed in the lower part of the plow body to provide a channel for ultrasonic pulses emitted and received by the echo sounder unit to propagate to the outside of the plow body.

[0017] For example, the lower end of an echo sounder can be flush with the lower end of a plow in the height direction of the ship.

[0018] Furthermore, the echo sounder can be further installed on the lower part of the ship's stern fin.

[0019] A plow may have a flat area formed on its lower part.

[0020] For example, a plow can be shaped like a cut.

[0021] In addition, the plow may include a flat area formed on the cutting structure.

[0022] For example, the bottom of a polar vessel can be made into a flat shape.

[0023] Specifically, the flat area formed on the bottom of the ship can occupy 50% to 100% of the width of the bottom of the ship in the transverse section.

[0024] According to another aspect of the invention, an echo sounder is used on a polar vessel and mounted on a plow formed on the lower part of the bow of the vessel.

[0025] For example, a plow can be shaped like a cut.

[0026] According to another aspect of the invention, a vessel, wherein the angle β formed between the waterline and the bow line at a point (forward perpendicular: FP) ranges from 10 degrees to 70 degrees, may include a plow and an echo sounder. The plow may be formed in the lower portion of the bow of the vessel. The echo sounder may be mounted on the plow.

[0027] For example, a plow can be shaped like a cut.

[0028] Beneficial effects

[0029] Embodiments of the present invention provide a polar vessel, comprising: a plow formed in the lower portion of the bow of the vessel; and an echo sounder disposed inside the plow and configured to emit ultrasonic pulses toward the seabed, receive ultrasonic pulses reflected back from the seabed, and calculate the depth of the seabed based on the time required for the ultrasonic pulses to return, wherein the lower end of the plow is flush with the bottom of the vessel in the vertical direction. Therefore, the echo sounder unit can stably measure water depth without being affected by bubbles moving along the bow of the polar vessel.

[0030] The echo sounder unit may include a sounder body and a support that couples the sounder body to the lower part of the plow. This configuration ensures that the sounder body can be removed from the plow for repair or replacement if necessary.

[0031] The plow may include: a plow body; and a plow hole formed in the lower part of the plow body to provide a channel for ultrasonic pulses emitted and received by the echo sounder to propagate to the outside of the plow body. This configuration ensures that the echo sounder unit located inside the plow body can calculate the depth of the seabed by measuring the time of flight of the ultrasonic pulses reflected from the seabed.

[0032] The lower end of the echo sounder is flush with the lower end of the plow. This design prevents the echo sounder unit from protruding outside the plow, which would increase hull drag or cause physical damage to the echo sounder (100). Furthermore, this design prevents the echo sounder unit from being recessed into the plow, which would cause the plow to interfere with the transmission and reception of ultrasonic pulses.

[0033] The echo sounder can be further installed inside the stern fin of the ship. This configuration allows for the measurement of water depth at both the bow and stern.

[0034] The plow may include a flat area formed in its lower portion. By mounting the echo sounder on the flat area, the installation position of the echo sounder can be moved further forward in the bow direction, thus allowing the echo sounder to be placed further away from the bubble flow.

[0035] The plow can be formed in a cut-off shape. Therefore, the plow can have a smaller size than a plow without a cut-off structure, thereby reducing drag during ship navigation, while preventing potential malfunction of the echo sounder that may occur inside a plow without a cut-off structure.

[0036] The plow may include a flat area formed on the cut structure. This feature allows the echo sounder to be mounted on the flat area of ​​the plow, moving the installation position of the echo sounder further forward in the bow direction, thereby allowing the echo sounder to be placed further away from the bubble flow.

[0037] Embodiments of the present invention provide an echo sounder intended for use on polar vessels, wherein the echo sounder can be mounted on a plow formed on the lower part of the bow of the vessel. This configuration ensures that the echo sounder can stably measure water depth without being affected by bubbles moving along the bow of the polar vessel.

[0038] The plow can be of the cut-off type. This feature reduces drag during ship navigation by allowing the plow to have a smaller size than a plow without a cut-off structure, and prevents potential echo sounder malfunctions that may occur in a plow without a cut-off structure.

[0039] Embodiments of the present invention provide a vessel in which the angle (β) formed between the waterline and the bow line at the point where the waterline intersects the bow line (forward perpendicular: FP) ranges from 10 degrees to 70 degrees. The vessel includes: a plow formed on the lower portion of its bow; and an echo sounder mounted on the plow. Therefore, the echo sounder can stably measure water depth without being affected by bubbles moving along the bow of the polar vessel.

[0040] The plow can be formed in a cut-off shape. This feature reduces drag during ship navigation by allowing the plow to have a smaller size than a plow without a cut-off structure, and prevents potential echo sounder malfunctions that may occur in a plow without a cut-off structure.

[0041] In this article, the term "ship" is intended to include not only polar vessels but also general merchant ships. Attached Figure Description

[0042] Figure 1 This is a side view of a polar vessel, showing the bow, hull shape, and bubble behavior.

[0043] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of an echo sounder installation structure for a polar vessel according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 3 This is a side view of an echo sounder mounting structure for a polar vessel according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 4 According to one embodiment Figure 3 An enlarged longitudinal cross-sectional view of the stern fin.

[0046] Figure 5 According to another embodiment Figure 3 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the stern fin.

[0047] Figure 6 According to another embodiment Figure 3 An enlarged longitudinal cross-sectional view of the stern fin.

[0048] Figure 7 This is a side view of an echo sounder mounting structure for a polar vessel according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 8 This is a side view of an echo sounder mounting structure for a polar vessel according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 9 This is a front view of an echo sounder mounting structure for a polar vessel according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 10 This is a side view of an echo sounder mounting structure for a polar vessel according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 11 This is a bottom view of an echo sounder mounting structure for a polar vessel according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 12 for Figure 10 An enlarged longitudinal section view of the keel.

[0054] Figure 13A block flowchart illustrating an echo sounder installation method for a ship according to the present invention.

[0055] Figure 14 To show Figure 13 Analysis view of the fluid analysis steps.

[0056] Figure 15 To show Figure 13 A photo view of the distribution recognition steps.

[0057] Figure 16 The images show transverse cross-sectional views of different types of ships, taken at a position corresponding to 10% of the length of each ship, in the direction from the bow towards the stern.

[0058] Figure 17 The longitudinal cross-sectional view of the bow profile of different types of ships is shown.

[0059] Figure 18 The transverse cross-sectional view of a polar vessel according to the present invention is taken from a position corresponding to 10% of the vessel's length in the direction from the front of the bow toward the stern.

[0060] Figure 19 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the bow profile of a polar vessel according to the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0061] To fully understand the operational advantages of the present invention and the objectives achieved by practicing the present invention, reference should be made to the accompanying drawings illustrating preferred embodiments of the invention and their description.

[0062] In the following description, the features and effects of exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that throughout the specification and drawings, the same parts will be represented by the same reference numerals.

[0063] In this article, the forward part of the hull refers to the bow direction of the hull, and the aft part of the hull refers to the stern direction of the hull.

[0064] In this article, the upper part of the hull refers to the upper deck of the hull, and the side surface of the hull refers to the outer side plating of the hull.

[0065] In this article, the length of the hull refers to the distance from bow to stern in a direction parallel to the upper deck of the hull.

[0066] In this article, the width of the hull refers to the distance from one side of the outer plating to the other side of the outer plating in a direction parallel to the upper deck of the hull.

[0067] In this article, the height of the hull refers to the distance from the upper deck of the hull to the bottom of the hull in a direction orthogonal to the upper deck of the hull.

[0068] In this article, the transverse section refers to the section of the hull along the transverse direction of the hull.

[0069] In this paper, the longitudinal section refers to the section of the hull along the longitudinal direction of the hull.

[0070] Figure 1 This is a side view of a polar vessel, showing the bow, hull shape, and bubble behavior.

[0071] Reference Figure 1 The bow hull shape of the polar vessel (10) can be designed such that the angle between the bow and the waterline is smaller than that of a typical vessel. This is to take into account icebreaking performance, that is, the ability to move forward while breaking ice. Therefore, the bubbles (20) generated at the waterline can move along the sloping surface of the bow to the bottom of the vessel (10).

[0072] An echo sounder is mounted on a horizontal surface at the bottom of the vessel (10) and is configured to emit ultrasonic pulses toward the seabed and receive ultrasonic pulses reflected back from the seabed. The echo sounder can calculate the depth of the seabed by measuring the time required for the emitted ultrasonic pulses to return.

[0073] However, in a polar vessel (10), bubbles (20) that move to the bottom of the vessel (10) can interfere with the transmission and reception of ultrasonic pulses by the echo sounder when passing around it. If these problems are only discovered after the vessel (10) is built, resolving the issues related to the operation of the echo sounder becomes extremely challenging. Therefore, there is a need for an echo sounder for polar vessels that is unaffected by bubbles moving to the bottom of the hull, the vessel itself, a method for determining its installation location, its installation structure, and a method for installing it.

[0074] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of an echo sounder mounting structure for a polar vessel according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 This is a side view of the echo sounder mounting structure for a polar vessel according to this embodiment. Figure 4 According to one embodiment Figure 3 An enlarged longitudinal cross-sectional view of the stern fin.

[0075] Reference Figures 1 to 4 According to this embodiment, the echo sounder mounting structure for a polar vessel may include an echo sounder (100) and a stern fin (200). The echo sounder (100) may be mounted on the stern fin (200) formed at the stern of the polar vessel (10), preferably inside the stern fin (200), to stably measure water depth without being affected by bubbles (20) moving along the bow of the polar vessel (10).

[0076] An echo sounder (100) may be mounted on the stern fin (200), preferably inside the stern fin (200). The echo sounder (100) can emit ultrasonic pulses toward the seabed. The echo sounder (100) can receive ultrasonic pulses reflected back from the seabed. Therefore, the echo sounder (100) can calculate the depth of the seabed based on the time required for the ultrasonic pulses to return.

[0077] The ship (10) may have multiple stern fins (200). Here, an echo sounder (100) may be installed in only one of the multiple stern fins (200). Such an arrangement ensures accurate measurement of water depth by preventing cross-interference between the individual ultrasonic pulses emitted from the multiple echo sounders (100).

[0078] Typically, echo sounders (100) are susceptible to malfunctions caused by air bubbles (20) trapped below the water surface due to waves generated at the waterline. Therefore, echo sounders (100) are usually mounted on the bottom of the ship at the bow.

[0079] Furthermore, when the ship (10) has a bow thruster (not shown), the echo sounder (100) can be installed further forward than the bow thruster to avoid the influence of the bow thruster. In addition, to solve the problem caused by the bubble (20), the ship (10) can have a box-shaped keel structure (not shown) formed on its lower part, and the echo sounder (100) is installed in the box-shaped keel structure.

[0080] However, since the polar vessel (10) is designed with its bow tilted at a small angle relative to the waterline to account for icebreaking performance, the echo sounder (100) can still be affected by bubbles (20) even when the echo sounder is mounted at the front of the bow. In addition, the use of a box keel structure can lead to adverse effects, including increased hull drag and reduced hull structural strength.

[0081] Reference Figures 16 to 19 For the polar vessel according to the invention, the angle formed between the bow and the bottom of the hull in a transverse section taken at a position corresponding to 10% of the vessel's length in the direction from the bow end toward the stern (i.e., as...) Figure 18 The angle (α) shown is relatively shallow, measured at 70 degrees or less, preferably 50 degrees or less, to achieve icebreaking. In contrast, for general vessels, in the longitudinal section of the bow, the angle formed between the waterline and the bow line at the forward perpendicular is 90 degrees or greater, or the bow has a bulbous bow protruding from it.

[0082] Furthermore, for icebreakers operating in polar regions, such as Figure 19The measured angle β (that is, the angle formed between the waterline and the bow line at the point where the waterline intersects the bow line (forward perpendicular: FP)) is relatively shallow, measured at 70 degrees or less, preferably 50 degrees or less, and more preferably 45 degrees or less. However, the lower limit of angle β can be appropriately selected according to ship operation, hull structure, icebreaking performance, etc. The lower limit of angle β is preferably 10 degrees or more, excluding locally flat areas (0 degrees).

[0083] In ships (10) with an angle β of 70 degrees or less, preferably 50 degrees or less, and particularly 45 degrees or less, bubbles (20) tend to flow to the bottom of the hull. Therefore, the echo sounder (100) according to an embodiment of the invention provides a significant advantage for such ships (10). In general merchant ships, the angle β is typically about 90 degrees.

[0084] The prominent, protruding structure formed at the bow is called a "bulb" or "bulbousbow," but icebreakers operating in polar regions may lack a bulbous bow. Therefore, in such vessels with a shallow bow angle as described above, bubbles generated at the bow tend to flow along the bottom surface of the bow to the echo sounder, interfering with its function.

[0085] The echo sounder (100) may include a sounder body (110) and a support (120). The sounder body (110) may be coupled to the interior of the stern fin (200) via the support (120). Therefore, the sounder body (110) may be detached from the stern fin (200) for repair or replacement if necessary.

[0086] The bracket (120) couples the depth sounder body (110) to the lower part of the stern fin (200). The depth sounder body (110) can be mechanically coupled to the bracket (120) using bolts / nuts. Alternatively, the depth sounder body (110) can be coupled to the bracket (120) via an interference fit. Thus, the depth sounder body (110) can be detachably coupled to the bracket (120).

[0087] The bracket (120) can be mechanically fastened to the lower part of the stern fin (200) using bolts / nuts. Alternatively, the bracket (120) can be welded to the lower part of the stern fin (200). Thus, the bracket (120) can be securely fixed to the lower part of the stern fin (200).

[0088] It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to what has been shown or described above. These are merely exemplary and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0089] Reference Figures 1 to 4According to this embodiment, the stern fin (200) can be formed on the lower part of the stern of the ship (10). Therefore, the stern fin (200) can improve the propulsion efficiency of the ship (10)'s engine. The stern fin (200) may include a stern fin body (210) and a stern fin through-hole (220).

[0090] A stern fin through-hole (220) may be formed in the lower part of the stern fin body (210). The stern fin through-hole (220) provides a channel for ultrasonic pulses emitted and received by the echo sounder (100) to propagate through the stern fin body (210). Therefore, the echo sounder (100) located inside the stern fin body (210) can calculate the depth of the seabed by measuring the flight time of the ultrasonic pulses reflected from the seabed.

[0091] The lower end of the echo sounder (100) is flush with the lower end of the stern fin (200) in the vertical direction of the ship. This design prevents the echo sounder (100) from protruding beyond the stern fin (200), which would increase the drag of the ship (10) or damage the echo sounder (100). Furthermore, this design prevents the echo sounder (100) from being recessed into the stern fin (200), which would interfere with the transmission and reception of ultrasonic pulses.

[0092] The lower part of the echo sounder (100) may have the same shape as the stern fin through-hole (220). This construction prevents a gap from forming between the echo sounder (100) and the stern fin through-hole (220). Therefore, seawater can be prevented from entering the interior of the stern fin (200).

[0093] A sealing component (not shown) can be inserted between the lower part of the echo sounder (100) and the stern fin through-hole (220). This configuration more reliably prevents seawater from entering the interior of the stern fin (200).

[0094] It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to what has been shown or described above. These are merely exemplary and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0095] The technical advantages provided by the echo sounder mounting structure for polar vessels according to this embodiment are as follows.

[0096] Since the polar vessel (10) is designed with its bow tilted at a small angle relative to the waterline to take icebreaking performance into account, the echo sounder (100) can be affected by bubbles (20) moving from the bow along the bottom surface of the ship toward the stern, even when the echo sounder is mounted at the front of the bow.

[0097] Furthermore, the polar vessel (10) may have a prominent stern fin (200). This type of stern fin (200) is unaffected by the movement of bubbles (20) during the vessel's (10) voyage. Therefore, an echo sounder (100) may be mounted on the surface or inside the stern fin (200).

[0098] This design ensures that the echo sounder (100) can operate without being disturbed by bubbles (20) generated during the ship's (10) voyage, thus enabling accurate measurement of the seabed depth.

[0099] Figure 5 It is based on and Figure 3 An enlarged transverse cross-sectional view of the stern fin in another different embodiment. Figure 6 This is an enlarged longitudinal cross-sectional view of the stern fin according to this embodiment.

[0100] Reference Figures 1 to 5 According to this embodiment, the stern fin (200) may include a chamber (230) formed therein. The chamber (230) may be a space formed inside the stern fin (200). Personnel may enter or exit the chamber (230) through a passage formed inside the ship (10). The chamber (230) may include a door (240), a ladder (250), and a drainage unit (260).

[0101] When maintenance of the echo sounder (100) is required after the ship (10) has completed its voyage or during the voyage, personnel can access the echo sounder (100) through a door (240) and a ladder (250). One advantage of mounting the echo sounder (100) inside the stern fin (200) is that it eliminates the need for a separate chamber inside the ship (10) for the installation and operation of the echo sounder (100), as the chamber (230) formed inside the stern fin (200) can be used as the space for the installation and operation of the echo sounder (100).

[0102] A door (240) may be formed in the upper part of the chamber (230) and may be opened and closed. Thus, personnel may enter the interior of the chamber (230). Preferably, the door (240) is coupled to the chamber (230) by a hinge (not shown) such that the door (240) swings outward toward the chamber (230) when opened.

[0103] A ladder (250) may be formed on one side of the chamber (230). Thus, personnel entering the chamber (230) through the door (240) can descend to the bottom of the chamber (230) via the ladder (250). The ladder (250) may be formed of a corrosion-resistant and rigid material to withstand corrosion and damage caused by seawater entering the chamber (230).

[0104] A drainage unit (260) may be formed at the bottom of the chamber (230). The drainage unit (260) can discharge seawater entering the chamber (230) to the outside of the chamber (230). Thus, personnel can enter the chamber (230) to operate or repair the echo sounder (100).

[0105] Seawater entering the chamber (230) can be discharged to the outside of the ship (10) through the drainage unit (260). Alternatively, seawater entering the chamber (230) can be moved to another space inside the ship (10) through the drainage unit (260).

[0106] The technical advantages provided by the stern fin (200) according to this embodiment are as follows.

[0107] The vessel (10) may be provided with a separate compartment to protect the echo sounder (100) from accidents that may occur during the voyage of the vessel (10), such as water ingress. This separate compartment may be sized to ensure that personnel can access the echo sounder (100) and perform necessary maintenance or repair work.

[0108] When the echo sounder (100) is installed in the central stern fin (200) formed at the stern of the ship (10), the need to form a separate compartment in the ship (10) is eliminated, since the central stern fin (200) itself serves as a dedicated compartment for the echo sounder (100).

[0109] Therefore, the costs associated with forming independent compartments can be reduced, while more efficient space utilization can be achieved within the ship (10).

[0110] Figure 7 This is a side view of an echo sounder mounting structure for a polar vessel according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0111] Reference Figures 1 to 7 The echo sounder mounting structure for a polar vessel according to this embodiment may include an echo sounder (100) and a plow (300). The echo sounder (100) may be mounted inside the plow (300) which is formed in a fin shape at the bow of the vessel (10) to stably measure water depth without being affected by the bubble (20) moving along the bow of the polar vessel (10).

[0112] During navigation in ice-covered waters, polar vessels often encounter a phenomenon where broken ice flows down to the bow and accumulates on the bottom surface of the bow instead of flowing out to the stern, resulting in increased drag. A plow (300) formed as a protrusion from the lower part of the bow line prevents this ice accumulation, thereby mitigating the increase in drag. The shape of the plow (300) can be designed with consideration of icebreaking performance and hull drag during navigation in open waters.

[0113] Although rarely used on general merchant ships, the plow (300) can be used on polar vessels to provide a prominent hull form to ensure smooth flow of ice as described above. The plow (300) includes a strength-reinforcing member formed therein and a flat area formed on its lower surface. When the echo sounder (100) is mounted on the flat area, the mounting position of the echo sounder (100) is offset further forward in the bow direction, thereby reducing errors during the operation of the echo sounder (100) because the air bubble (20) flows behind the plow (300) and therefore does not pass through the offset position.

[0114] The echo sounder (100) can be mounted on or inside the plow (300). The echo sounder (100) can emit ultrasonic pulses toward the seabed. The echo sounder (100) can receive ultrasonic pulses reflected back from the seabed. Therefore, the echo sounder (100) can calculate the depth of the seabed based on the time required for the ultrasonic pulses to return.

[0115] The echo sounder (100) may include a sounder body (110) and a support (120). The sounder body (110) may be coupled to the interior of the plow (300) via the support (120). Therefore, the sounder body (110) may be separated from the plow (300) for maintenance or replacement if necessary.

[0116] The bracket (120) couples the depth sounder body (110) to the lower part of the plow (300). The depth sounder body (110) can be mechanically coupled to the bracket (120) using bolts / nuts. Alternatively, the depth sounder body (110) can be coupled to the bracket (120) by an interference fit. Thus, the depth sounder body (110) can be detachably coupled to the bracket (120).

[0117] The bracket (120) can be mechanically fastened to the lower part of the plow (300) using bolts / nuts. Alternatively, the bracket (120) can be welded to the lower part of the plow (300). Thus, the bracket (120) can be securely fixed to the lower part of the plow (300).

[0118] The echo sounder (100) can be further disposed inside the stern fin (200) of the ship (10). Thus, the echo sounder (100) can be installed at both the bow and stern of the ship (10).

[0119] Reference Figures 1 to 7 According to this embodiment, the plow (300) can be formed on the lower part of the bow of the ship (10). The echo sounder (100) can be installed inside the plow (300) formed in a fin shape on the bow of the ship (10) to stably measure the water depth without being affected by the bubble (20) moving along the bow of the polar ship (10).

[0120] In addition, the plow (300) can enhance the icebreaking performance of the ship (10). The plow (300) may include a plow body (310) and a plow hole (320).

[0121] A plow hole (320) may be formed in the lower part of the plow body (310). The plow hole (320) provides a channel for ultrasonic pulses emitted and received by the echo sounder (100) to propagate through the plow body (310). Therefore, the echo sounder (100) located inside the plow body (310) can calculate the depth of the seabed by measuring the flight time of the ultrasonic pulses reflected from the seabed.

[0122] The lower end of the echo sounder (100) is flush with the lower end of the plow (300) in the height direction of the ship. This design prevents the echo sounder (100) from protruding outside the plow (300), which would increase the drag of the ship (10) or damage the echo sounder (100). In addition, this design prevents the echo sounder (100) from being recessed into the plow (300), which would cause the plow (300) to interfere with the transmission and reception of ultrasonic pulses.

[0123] The lower portion of the echo sounder (100) can be shaped to match the plowshare hole (320). This design prevents a gap from forming between the echo sounder (100) and the plowshare hole (320). Therefore, seawater can be prevented from entering the interior of the plowshare (300). A sealing member (not shown) can be inserted between the lower portion of the echo sounder (100) and the plowshare hole (320). This design more reliably prevents seawater from entering the interior of the plowshare (300).

[0124] It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to what has been shown or described above. These are merely exemplary and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0125] The technical advantages provided by the echo sounder mounting structure for polar vessels according to this embodiment are as follows.

[0126] Because the polar vessel (10) is designed with a smaller angle between its bow and the waterline than that of a typical vessel to take icebreaking performance into account, the echo sounder (100) is susceptible to interference from bubbles (20) even when mounted on the horizontal bottom surface at the bow. However, when the echo sounder (100) is mounted at the bow, the influence of water depth can be identified more quickly during the vessel's (100's) voyage compared to when it is mounted at the stern.

[0127] Therefore, a protruding plow (300) can be formed at the bow of the ship (10). The horizontal bottom surface of this type of plow is positioned further forward in the bow direction, so it is not affected by the movement of the bubble (20) during the ship's (10) voyage. Therefore, an echo sounder (100) can be installed inside the horizontal bottom surface of the plow (300).

[0128] In this way, when the echo sounder (100) is installed inside the plow (300), the echo sounder (100) can operate without being disturbed by bubbles (20) generated during the ship's (10) navigation, thus enabling accurate measurement of the seabed depth. In addition, combining the installation of one echo sounder (100) inside the plow at the bow with the installation of another echo sounder (100) at the stern is more advantageous from the perspective of avoiding collisions during actual navigation, as it allows for the measurement of the water depth at the bow.

[0129] In other words, since the air bubbles (20) trapped below the bow can be dispersed by forming a plow (300) of a certain volume at the lower end of the bow, mounting the echo sounder (100) at the lower end of the plow (300) can prevent the echo sounder (100) from malfunctioning by eliminating the influence of the air bubbles (20) on the echo sounder (100). In addition, the plow (300) helps to enhance icebreaking performance by removing ice from the bottom of the ship during icebreaking navigation.

[0130] Figure 8 This is a side view of an echo sounder mounting structure for a polar vessel according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0131] Reference Figures 1 to 6 and Figure 8 The echo sounder mounting structure for a polar vessel according to this embodiment may include an echo sounder (100) and a plow (300). The echo sounder (100) may be mounted inside the plow (300) which is formed in a fin shape at the bow of the vessel (10) to stably measure water depth without being affected by the bubble (20) moving along the bow of the polar vessel (10).

[0132] An echo sounder (100) may be installed inside the plow (300). The echo sounder (100) may emit ultrasonic pulses toward the seabed. The echo sounder (100) may receive ultrasonic pulses reflected back from the seabed. Therefore, the echo sounder (100) may calculate the depth of the seabed based on the time required for the ultrasonic pulses to return.

[0133] The echo sounder (100) may include a sounder body (110) and a support (120). The sounder body (110) may be coupled to the interior of the plow (300) via the support (120). Therefore, the sounder body (110) may be detached from the plow (300) for repair or replacement if necessary.

[0134] The bracket (120) couples the depth sounder body (110) to the lower part of the plow (300). The depth sounder body (110) can be mechanically coupled to the bracket (120) using bolts / nuts. Alternatively, the depth sounder body (110) can be coupled to the bracket (120) by an interference fit. Thus, the depth sounder body (110) can be detachably coupled to the bracket (120).

[0135] The bracket (120) can be mechanically fastened to the lower part of the plow (300) using bolts / nuts. Alternatively, the bracket (120) can be welded to the lower part of the plow. Thus, the bracket (120) can be securely fixed to the lower part of the plow (300).

[0136] The echo sounder (100) can be further disposed inside the stern fin (200) of the ship (10). Thus, the echo sounder (100) can be installed at both the bow and stern of the ship (10).

[0137] Reference Figures 1 to 6 and Figure 8 According to this embodiment, the plow (300) can be formed in the lower part of the bow of the ship (10). The cut-off structure can be formed in the bow profile. Such a construction prevents the echo sounder (100) from malfunctioning when it is installed in the plow (300) without the cut-off structure.

[0138] The echo sounder (100) needs to be mounted on a flat, horizontal surface. When the cut-off structure is formed in the bow line, the bow-facing end of the cut-off horizontal surface is positioned further forward in the bow direction. Therefore, mounting the echo sounder (100) in the corresponding position reduces the risk of echo sounder malfunction by positioning the echo sounder further away from the flow of bubbles. The height and volume of the cut-off structure can be determined taking into account hull resistance during navigation in open water and the interference between ice and the hull. When the cut-off structure is applied to the plow (300), although the height of the flat bottom area of ​​the plow (300) towards the upper deck increases, the mounting position of the echo sounder (100) is offset further forward in the bow direction, thereby further reducing the likelihood that the echo sounder (100) will encounter bubbles (20).

[0139] Furthermore, the plow (300) according to this embodiment has a smaller size than a plow (300) without a cutting structure, thereby reducing the hull drag of the ship (10) during navigation. Further, the plow (300) according to this embodiment can enhance the icebreaking performance of the ship (10). The plow (300) may include a plow body (310) and a plow hole (320).

[0140] A plow hole (320) may be formed in the lower part of the plow body (310). The plow hole (320) provides a channel for ultrasonic pulses emitted and received by the echo sounder (100) to propagate through the plow body (310). Therefore, the echo sounder (100) located inside the plow body (310) can calculate the depth of the seabed by measuring the flight time of the ultrasonic pulses reflected from the seabed.

[0141] The lower end of the echo sounder (100) is flush with the lower end of the plow (300) in the height direction of the ship. This design prevents the echo sounder (100) from protruding outside the plow (300), which would increase the drag of the ship (10) or damage the echo sounder (100). In addition, this design prevents the echo sounder (100) from being recessed into the plow (300), which would cause the plow (300) to interfere with the transmission and reception of ultrasonic pulses.

[0142] The lower part of the echo sounder (100) can be formed in the same shape as the plow hole (320). This construction prevents the formation of a gap between the echo sounder (100) and the plow hole (320). Therefore, seawater can be prevented from entering the interior of the plow (300).

[0143] A sealing component (not shown) can be inserted between the lower part of the echo sounder (100) and the plow hole (320). This configuration more reliably prevents seawater from entering the interior of the plow (300).

[0144] It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to what has been shown or described above. These are merely exemplary and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0145] The technical advantages provided by the echo sounder mounting structure for polar vessels according to this embodiment are as follows.

[0146] The polar vessel (10) is designed with its bow tilted at a small angle relative to the waterline to take icebreaking performance into account. Therefore, even when the echo sounder (100) is positioned at the front of the bow, the echo sounder (100) can be affected by bubbles (20).

[0147] Because the polar vessel (10) is designed with a smaller angle between its bow and the waterline than that of a typical vessel to take icebreaking performance into account, the echo sounder (100) is susceptible to interference from bubbles (20) even when mounted at the bow. However, when the echo sounder (100) is mounted at the bow, the influence of water depth can be identified more quickly during the vessel's (100's) voyage compared to when it is mounted at the stern.

[0148] Therefore, a protruding plow (300) can be formed at the bow of the ship (10). This type of plow (300) is unaffected by the movement of the bubble (20) during navigation. Therefore, an echo sounder (100) can be installed inside the plow (300). Furthermore, by cutting the lower end of the plow (300) to further shift the installation position of the echo sounder (100) forward in the bow direction, the normal operation of the echo sounder (100) can be ensured.

[0149] Furthermore, the plow (300) can be formed into a cut structure with a predetermined shape.

[0150] This construction reduces the risk of echo sounder (100) malfunctioning when it is installed in a plow (300) without a cut-off structure. Furthermore, the plow according to this embodiment has a smaller size than a plow (300) without a cut-off structure, thereby reducing drag during the ship's (10) navigation. In addition, the echo sounder mounting structure according to this embodiment ensures accurate seabed depth measurement by allowing the echo sounder (100) to be unaffected by bubbles (20) generated during the ship's (10) navigation, and ensures safer navigation than if the echo sounder (100) were only installed at the stern, by allowing the echo sounder (100) to be further mounted at the bow.

[0151] Figure 9 This is a front view of an echo sounder mounting structure for a polar vessel according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 This is a side view of the echo sounder mounting structure for a polar vessel according to this embodiment. Figure 11 This is a bottom view of the echo sounder mounting structure for a polar vessel according to this embodiment. Figure 12 yes Figure 10 An enlarged longitudinal section view of the keel.

[0152] Reference Figures 1 to 6 and Figures 9 to 12 The echo sounder mounting structure for a polar vessel according to this embodiment may include an echo sounder (100) and a keel (400). The echo sounder (100) may be installed inside the keel (400) formed in the lower part of the polar vessel (10) to stably measure water depth without being affected by the bubble (20) moving along the bow of the vessel (10).

[0153] An echo sounder (100) may be installed inside the keel (400). The echo sounder (100) may emit ultrasonic pulses toward the seabed. The echo sounder (100) may receive ultrasonic pulses reflected back from the seabed. Therefore, the echo sounder (100) may calculate the depth of the seabed based on the time required for the ultrasonic pulses to return.

[0154] The echo sounder (100) may include a sounder body (110) and a support (120). The sounder body (110) may be coupled to the interior of the keel (400) via the support (120). Therefore, the sounder body (110) may be detached from the keel (400) for repair or replacement if necessary.

[0155] The bracket (120) couples the depth sounder body (110) to the lower portion of the keel (400) protruding from the bottom of the ship. The depth sounder body (110) can be mechanically coupled to the bracket (120) using bolts / nuts. Alternatively, the depth sounder body (110) can be coupled to the bracket (120) via an interference fit. Thus, the depth sounder body (110) can be detachably coupled to the bracket (120).

[0156] The bracket (120) can be mechanically fastened to the lower part of the keel (400) using bolts / nuts. Alternatively, the bracket (120) can be welded to the lower part of the keel (400). Thus, the bracket (120) can be securely fixed to the lower part of the keel (400).

[0157] Refer again Figures 1 to 6 and Figures 9 to 12 According to this embodiment, the keel (400) can be formed on the lower part of the bow of the ship (10). The keel (400) can be formed at a location where the flow of the bubble (20) is minimized based on fluid analysis (computational fluid dynamics, CFD) described below. Therefore, the echo sounder (100) can be unaffected by the movement of the bubble (20) during the navigation of the ship (10). Preferably, the keel (400) is mounted on the bow side of the ship.

[0158] Due to the waves generated on the water surface at the bow, the bubbles (20) carried under the hull tend to flow along the hull surface toward the stern, forming a layer of a certain thickness. Here, the thickness of this layer can vary depending on the draft and speed of the ship (10) and the external sea conditions. When the keel (400) is formed with a height greater than the height of the boundary layer formed by the bubbles flowing along the hull surface and the echo sounder (100) is mounted on a flat, horizontal surface of the keel (400), the echo sounder (100) can be prevented from malfunctioning due to the bubbles.

[0159] Furthermore, the lower end of the keel (400) can be positioned at a distance of 0.5 m or less from the bottom of the boat (10) in the downward direction. In other words, the keel (400) can be formed to a height (h) of 0.5 m or less. This construction allows the keel (400) to avoid encountering the flow of air bubbles (20) while minimizing the drag caused by the keel (400) during the navigation of the boat (10). The keel (400) may include a keel body (410) and a keel through-hole (420).

[0160] A keel through-hole (420) may be formed in the lower part of the keel body (410). The keel through-hole (420) provides a channel for ultrasonic pulses emitted and received by the echo sounder (100) to propagate through the keel body (410). Therefore, the echo sounder (100) located inside the keel body (410) can calculate the depth of the seabed by measuring the flight time of the ultrasonic pulses reflected from the seabed.

[0161] The lower end of the echo sounder (100) is flush with the lower end of the keel (400) in the height direction of the ship (10). This design prevents the echo sounder (100) from protruding outside the keel (400), which would increase the drag of the ship (10) or damage the echo sounder (100). In addition, this design prevents the echo sounder (100) from being recessed into the keel (400), which would cause the keel (400) to interfere with the transmission and reception of ultrasonic pulses.

[0162] The lower portion of the echo sounder (100) can be formed to the same shape as the keel through-hole (420). This construction prevents the formation of a gap between the echo sounder (100) and the keel through-hole (420). Therefore, seawater can be prevented from entering the interior of the keel (400). A sealing member (not shown) can be inserted between the lower portion of the echo sounder (100) and the keel through-hole (420). This construction more reliably prevents seawater from entering the interior of the keel (400). Preferably, the keel is designed to minimize the increase in drag and ice interference.

[0163] It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to what has been shown or described above. These are merely exemplary and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0164] The technical advantages provided by the echo sounder mounting structure for polar vessels according to this embodiment are as follows.

[0165] Since the polar vessel (10) is designed to tilt its bow at a small angle relative to the waterline to take icebreaking performance into account, the echo sounder (100) can be affected by bubbles (20) even when it is mounted at the front of the bow.

[0166] Because the polar vessel (10) is designed with a smaller angle between its bow and the waterline than that of a conventional vessel to account for icebreaking performance, the echo sounder (100) is susceptible to interference from bubbles (20) even when mounted at the bow. However, when the echo sounder (100) is mounted at the bow, the influence of water depth can be identified more quickly during the vessel's (100's) voyage compared to when it is mounted at the stern.

[0167] Therefore, the keel (400) can be formed at a location on the bottom of the hull where bubble flow is minimized based on fluid dynamics (CFD). The keel (400) formed at this location is unaffected by the movement of bubbles (20) during the voyage of the ship (10). Therefore, an echo sounder (100) can be installed inside the keel (400).

[0168] This design ensures that the echo sounder (100) can operate without being disturbed by bubbles (20) generated during the navigation of the ship (10), thus enabling accurate measurement of the depth of the seabed.

[0169] Figure 13 A block flowchart illustrating a method for installing an echo sounder on a ship according to the present invention is provided. Figure 14 To show Figure 13 Analysis view of the fluid analysis steps. Figure 15 To show Figure 13 A photo view of the distribution recognition steps.

[0170] Reference Figures 1 to 13 The method for installing an echo sounder for a ship according to the present invention may include a fluid analysis step (S100), a location selection step (S200), a distribution identification step (S300), and a full-scale observation step (S400). In this way, the location where the flow of bubbles (20) on the ship (10) is minimized can be selected as the optimal location for installing the echo sounder.

[0171] In the fluid analysis step (S100), the flow of bubbles (20) entrained below the ship (10) is identified based on fluid analysis. The fluid analysis step (S100) can be performed based on computational fluid dynamics analysis. Therefore, the flow of bubbles (20) entrained below the bottom surface of the ship (10) can be clearly identified by color classification.

[0172] In the location selection step (S200), the installation location of the echo sounder is selected based on the results of the fluid analysis step (S100).

[0173] In the distribution identification step (S300), the distribution of bubbles (20) on the hull surface under hydrodynamic flow conditions in the cavitation tunnel is used to verify the results of the fluid analysis step (S100). The distribution identification step (S300) can be performed by a bubble (20) injection test. In this way, the distribution of bubbles (20) on a scale model of the ship (10) can be identified before the ship (10) is actually built.

[0174] The distribution identification step (S300) can be executed only after the location selection step (S200) is completed, when a decision (R1) is made that requires the distribution identification step (S300).

[0175] In the full-scale observation step (S400), the flow of bubbles (20) around the echo sounder on the actual vessel (10) is checked to resolve problems causing the echo sounder to malfunction. The full-scale observation step (S400) can be performed based on images captured by an underwater camera.

[0176] The full-scale observation step (S400) can be performed only after the distribution identification step (S300) is completed, when a determination (R2) is made based on the results of the sea trial that the normal operation of the echo sounder is interfered with by the influence of the bubble (20). Therefore, countermeasures can be prepared by comparing and analyzing the results of the CFD and bubble (20) injection tests with the actual flow of the bubble (20) on the ship (10).

[0177] Reference Figures 1 to 14 As a result of performing the fluid analysis step (S100), the bottom of the stern fin formed at the stern is marked in black, indicating that the corresponding position is not affected by the flow of bubbles (20). Therefore, when the echo sounder is installed inside the stern fin (200), the echo sounder can accurately measure the depth of the seabed without being affected by the flow of bubbles (20).

[0178] Reference Figures 1 to 13 and Figure 15 As a result of performing the distribution identification step (S300), it is confirmed that at the bow, the bubble (20) moves downward to the bottom of the ship. Conversely, it is confirmed that the bottom of the stern fin is unaffected by the bubble (20). Therefore, when the echo sounder is installed inside the stern fin (200), the echo sounder can accurately measure the depth of the seabed without being affected by the flow of the bubble (20).

[0179] The technical advantages provided by the method for installing an echo sounder for polar vessels according to the present invention are as follows.

[0180] Because the polar vessel (10) is designed with its bow tilted at a shallow angle relative to the waterline for icebreaking performance, the echo sounder may suffer from operational problems due to air bubbles (20) even when it is mounted at the front of the bow. If such operational problems are only discovered after the vessel (10) has been built, it may be difficult to develop effective countermeasures.

[0181] Therefore, before the ship (10) is built, the location where bubble flow is minimized can be selected as the optimal location for the echo sounder installation based on fluid analysis (CFD). In addition, before the ship (10) is built, the results of the fluid analysis can be verified by performing a bubble (20) injection test on a scale model of the ship (10) in a cavitation water tunnel to identify the distribution of bubbles (20) on the hull surface under hydrodynamic flow conditions.

[0182] The ship (10) is built after these steps. When problems arise during the actual operation of the echo sounder after the ship (10) is built, the differences between the results obtained and those obtained in the steps performed before the ship (10) is built can be checked, and the findings obtained can be applied to subsequent ships (10) to be built.

[0183] The echo sounder according to this embodiment is intended for use on a polar vessel (10), wherein the vessel may include a stern fin formed on the lower portion of its stern. The echo sounder may be mounted on the stern fin.

[0184] According to this embodiment, the ship has an angle between its bow line and the waterline ranging from 10 degrees to 70 degrees, and the ship may include a stern fin and an echo sounder. The stern fin may be formed on the lower part of the stern of the ship (10). The echo sounder may be mounted on the stern fin.

[0185] from Figure 9 A cross-section of a polar vessel reveals that its bottom is flat. Because the hull of such a vessel is wider and flatter than that of a typical merchant ship, bubbles generated by bow waves or similar processes tend to flow along the sloping surfaces of the hull to the bottom. This invention provides various solutions to address this problem. Vessels employing this invention have a flat bottom region in their cross-section (preferably taken from a cross-section at the center of the hull's longitudinal direction), such as... Figure 9 As shown. The flat bottom area may correspond to the width of the boat minus twice the radius of the bilge. Preferably, the flat bottom area accounts for 50% to 100% of the width of the boat, more preferably 60% to 98% of the width of the boat, and even more preferably 75% to 95% of the width of the boat.

[0186] While some embodiments have been described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these embodiments are given by way of example only, and various modifications, variations, alterations, and equivalent embodiments may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the appended claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such variations or modifications that fall within the scope and spirit of the invention.

Claims

1. A polar vessel, comprising: A plow is formed on the lower part of the bow of the ship; as well as An echo sounder is positioned on the plow and configured to emit ultrasonic pulses toward the seabed, receive the ultrasonic pulses reflected back from the seabed, and calculate the depth of the seabed based on the time required for the ultrasonic pulses to return.

2. The polar vessel according to claim 1, wherein the echo sounder comprises: The depth sounder body; as well as A support bracket couples the depth sounder body to the lower part of the plow.

3. The polar vessel according to claim 2, wherein the plow comprises: plow body; as well as A plow hole is formed in the lower part of the plow body to provide a channel for ultrasonic pulses emitted and received by the echo sounder unit to propagate through the plow body.

4. The polar vessel according to claim 1, wherein the lower end of the echo sounder is flush with the lower end of the plow in the height direction of the vessel.

5. The polar vessel according to claim 1, wherein the echo sounder is further disposed inside the stern fin of the vessel.

6. The polar vessel of claim 1, wherein the plow includes a flat area formed in its lower portion.

7. The polar vessel according to claim 1, wherein the plow is formed as a cut-off structure.

8. The polar vessel of claim 7, wherein the plow includes a flat region formed on the cutting structure.

9. The polar vessel according to claim 1, wherein the bottom of the vessel is formed into a flat shape.

10. The polar vessel of claim 9, wherein a flat region formed on the bottom of the vessel occupies 50% to 100% of the width of the bottom of the vessel in the transverse section of the vessel.

11. An echo sounder for a polar vessel, wherein the echo sounder is mounted on a plow formed on the lower part of the bow of the vessel.

12. The echo sounder of claim 11, wherein the echo sounder is mounted on a plow formed in a cut-off shape on the lower portion of the bow of the ship.

13. A vessel, wherein the angle β between the waterline and the bow line at a point (forward perpendicular: FP) where the waterline intersects the bow line ranges from 10 degrees to 70 degrees, the vessel comprising: A plow formed on the lower part of the bow of the ship; as well as An echo sounder mounted on the plow.

14. The ship of claim 13, wherein the echo sounder is mounted on the plow, which is formed in a cut-off shape at the lower portion of the bow of the ship.

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