Propulsion device and watercraft

Abstract

The application discloses a propelling device and a water traffic device, and relates to the technical field of propelling devices, and specifically discloses a propelling device, which comprises a rotating mechanism, a propelling mechanism, a shell assembly, a motor component, a first sealing structure and a second sealing structure. The shell assembly is connected to the rotating mechanism, and a motor cavity is arranged in the shell assembly. The shell assembly is provided with a first shaft hole and a second shaft hole penetrating through the motor cavity. The motor component is arranged in the motor cavity and comprises a motor shaft. The motor shaft is arranged in the first shaft hole and the second shaft hole. The first sealing structure is arranged between the motor shaft and the first shaft hole. The second sealing structure is arranged between the motor shaft and the second shaft hole. The second sealing structure and the first sealing structure each comprise at least two sealing parts arranged along the axial direction of the motor shaft. A propeller is connected to the motor shaft. The application can improve the sealing reliability between the motor shaft and the shell assembly, and is beneficial to the miniaturization design requirement of the propelling device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of power propulsion system technology, and in particular to a propulsion device and a water transportation device. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, propulsion devices, as the electric propulsion systems of ships, are used to propel ships on the water. Currently, common ship propulsion devices are generally quite large. For ships with less demanding requirements, the power requirements of the propulsion device are not high, thus necessitating miniaturization. However, miniaturizing propulsion devices presents numerous challenges, especially since they operate in an underwater environment where sealing performance is crucial. Miniaturization reduces the size of the sealing structure, but the external pressures such as water pressure it must withstand remain unchanged. Ensuring a good seal within a limited space is one of the most pressing issues to be addressed. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides a propulsion device and a water transportation device that can improve sealing performance while meeting the miniaturization design requirements of the propulsion device, thereby improving the reliability of the propulsion device.

[0004] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a propulsion device, comprising: a rotating mechanism; the propulsion mechanism including: a housing assembly connected to the rotating mechanism, the housing assembly having a motor cavity inside, and the housing assembly having a first shaft hole and a second shaft hole penetrating the motor cavity; a motor component disposed within the motor cavity, the motor component including a motor shaft passing through the first shaft hole and the second shaft hole; a first sealing structure sealingly disposed between the motor shaft and the first shaft hole; a second sealing structure sealingly disposed between the motor shaft and the second shaft hole, wherein both the second sealing structure and the first sealing structure include at least two sealing portions disposed along the axial direction of the motor shaft; and a propeller connected to the motor shaft.

[0005] In the above technical solution, in order to meet the sealing requirements between the two ends of the motor shaft and the first and second shaft holes during the miniaturization design of the propulsion device, the second sealing structure and the first sealing structure are both configured to include at least two sealing parts arranged along the axial direction of the motor shaft. This can provide multiple sealing protection for the two ends of the motor shaft, reduce the risk of sealing failure of the motor shaft and the housing assembly as a whole due to the failure of a single sealing part, thereby improving the sealing reliability between the motor shaft and the housing assembly. This is conducive to achieving the miniaturization design requirements of the propulsion device, and can reduce the high standard requirements for each sealing part while meeting the sealing requirements, thus reducing costs.

[0006] In some embodiments of this application, the first sealing structure includes: a support base having a third shaft hole through which the motor shaft passes, the support base being disposed on a first end face of the housing assembly near the first shaft hole and connected to the first end face; a first elastic sealing part being disposed in the third shaft hole and arranged circumferentially around the motor shaft, and sealingly disposed between the third shaft hole and the motor shaft; and a mechanical sealing part being sealed between the support base and the motor shaft, and located on the side of the first elastic sealing part away from the motor cavity.

[0007] In the above technical solution, a static seal can be used between the support base and the first end face of the housing assembly. This sealing method is relatively simple and easily ensures reliable sealing, reducing the risk of external liquids such as seawater entering the housing assembly from between the support base and the first end face. Since the motor shaft rotates within the first shaft hole, the sealing requirements are high. Using a combination of a first elastic seal and a mechanical seal provides dual sealing protection, adapting to more complex working conditions and offering better sealing performance. This reduces the risk of liquid entering the first shaft hole from the third shaft hole, thereby improving the sealing reliability between the first shaft hole and the motor shaft, which in turn enhances the overall reliability of the propulsion device.

[0008] In some embodiments of this application, the mechanical seal includes: a bushing, a portion of which is located within a third shaft hole and is sealed between the motor shaft and the first elastic seal; a gland, which is located on the side of the support base away from the housing assembly and is connected to the bushing; a stationary ring, which is annularly arranged around the bushing and is located between the bushing and the support base; a rotating ring, which is annularly arranged around the bushing and is located between the bushing and the gland; and an elastic element, which is located between the gland and the rotating ring to keep the rotating ring and the stationary ring in close contact with each other.

[0009] In the above technical solution, the bushing enhances the sealing performance between the motor shaft and the first elastic seal, further reducing the risk of seal failure. It also provides installation and positioning for the stationary and rotating rings. The gland connects to the bushing and mates with the support, fixing the positions of the stationary and rotating rings and enhancing the reliability of their installation. The stationary and rotating rings fit together tightly under the action of the elastic element, forming an effective sealing surface, further improving sealing performance and preventing liquid from entering the motor cavity along the motor shaft. Secondly, in the mechanical seal of the above structure, the bushing, gland, stationary ring, rotating ring, and elastic element form a tortuous sealing path. This sealing path is more complex and longer, increasing the difficulty for liquids such as seawater to enter the motor cavity from the mechanical seal, reducing the risk of seal failure, and improving the reliability of the motor shaft end seal.

[0010] In some embodiments of this application, a first sealing cavity is formed together between the stationary ring, the rotating ring, the first elastic sealing part, and the bushing. The first sealing cavity is configured to store compressed gas with a pressure lower than the external ambient pressure when the propulsion device is working.

[0011] In the above technical solution, the pressure of the compressed gas in the first sealing cavity is lower than the ambient pressure when the propulsion device is working. This allows a small amount of liquid from the external environment to enter between the stationary and rotating rings, thus lubricating them, reducing wear, and improving the reliability of the mechanical seal. Furthermore, this lubrication method is relatively simple and reduces costs. Secondly, due to the pressure difference, liquid from the external environment is less likely to penetrate the stationary and rotating rings and enter the first sealing cavity, further enhancing the sealing effect of the mechanical seal.

[0012] In some embodiments of this application, at least two first elastic sealing portions are provided along the axial direction of the motor shaft, and a second sealing cavity is formed between any two adjacent first elastic sealing portions, the second sealing cavity being configured to store lubricating medium.

[0013] In the above technical solution, multiple first elastic sealing parts are provided, offering various sealing protections, further enhancing the sealing effect, and reducing the risk of seal failure. The second sealing cavity stores lubricating medium, filling the tiny gaps formed between the first elastic sealing parts and the third shaft hole / sleeve. This allows for a tighter fit between the first elastic sealing parts and the support / sleeve, further blocking leakage channels and helping to maintain good sealing performance and improve sealing reliability. By storing lubricating medium, the second sealing cavity also reduces friction between adjacent first elastic sealing parts, reducing heat generated by friction. This reduces rapid wear of the first elastic sealing parts due to excessive friction, extending their service life and improving their sealing reliability.

[0014] In some embodiments of this application, the first elastic sealing part is a lip seal ring, and the lip formed by the first elastic sealing part faces the side away from the motor cavity.

[0015] In the above technical solution, the lip of the lip seal has good elasticity, allowing it to adhere tightly to the surface of the bushing and the wall of the third shaft hole under its own elasticity. Even if there are some microscopic unevennesses on the sealing surface, it can still adapt well and achieve a good sealing effect. Since the propulsion device operates in an underwater environment, the lip of the first elastic seal faces away from the motor cavity. Under the action of external seawater or other liquids, as the pressure of the external seawater or other liquids increases, the lip expands to both sides and tightly adheres to the surface of the bushing and the wall of the third shaft hole, which can further improve the sealing performance of the first elastic seal.

[0016] In some embodiments of this application, the first sealing structure includes a second elastic sealing part, which is annular. The second elastic sealing part is provided between the support base and the first end face, between the bushing and the motor shaft, between the stationary ring and the support base, and between the rotating ring and the gland.

[0017] In the above technical solution, by setting a second elastic sealing part at the position of the above structure, the sealing and protection effect can be further increased. Thus, the first sealing structure can form multiple complex sealing structures, thereby enhancing the sealing effect and further reducing the risk of sealing failure, and improving the sealing reliability of the motor shaft end.

[0018] In some embodiments of this application, the second sealing structure includes: a dynamic sealing part, including a bushing and a pressure plate circumferentially arranged around the motor shaft in the axial direction, the bushing being disposed in the second shaft hole and sleeved on the motor shaft, the pressure plate being disposed in the motor cavity and connected to the housing assembly; and a third elastic sealing part, which is sealed between the bushing and the second shaft hole.

[0019] In the above technical solution, the second sealing structure can form a multiple sealing structure, thereby enhancing the sealing performance of the second sealing structure, improving sealing reliability, and reducing the risk of other liquids such as seawater from the external environment entering the motor cavity. This can improve the sealing reliability of the motor shaft end.

[0020] In some embodiments of this application, at least two third elastic sealing portions are provided along the axial direction of the motor shaft. In the above technical solution, by providing multiple third elastic sealing portions, multiple third elastic sealing portions can further achieve multiple sealing protection, reducing the risk of liquids such as seawater entering the motor cavity from the second shaft hole, thereby further improving the sealing reliability of the second sealing structure.

[0021] In some embodiments of this application, the third elastic sealing part is a lip seal ring, and the lip formed by the third elastic sealing part faces the side away from the motor cavity.

[0022] In the above technical solution, the lip of the lip seal has good elasticity, allowing it to adhere tightly to the surface of the bushing and the wall of the second shaft hole under its own elasticity. Even if there are some microscopic unevennesses on the sealing surface, it can still adapt well and achieve a good sealing effect. Since the propulsion device operates in an underwater environment, the lip of the third elastic seal faces away from the motor cavity. Under the action of external seawater or other liquids, as the pressure of the external seawater or other liquids increases, the lip expands to both sides and adheres tightly to the surface of the bushing and the wall of the second shaft hole, which can further improve the sealing performance of the third elastic seal.

[0023] In some embodiments of this application, the dynamic sealing part further includes a first spacer ring, and a first spacer ring is provided between any two adjacent third elastic sealing parts.

[0024] In the above technical solution, by setting a first spacer, the probability of two adjacent third elastic sealing parts sticking together due to high temperature can be reduced, which is beneficial for easy separation of adjacent third elastic sealing parts during later replacement or maintenance. The first spacer also provides support between two adjacent third elastic sealing parts, allowing them to deform evenly under pressure, and preventing wear caused by mutual friction. This helps reduce wear on the third elastic sealing parts, extend their service life, and thus improve the reliability of the dynamic sealing part.

[0025] In some embodiments of this application, the second sealing structure further includes a fourth elastic sealing portion, which is annular and disposed between the bushing and the motor shaft. In this technical solution, the fourth elastic sealing portion enhances the sealing performance between the bushing and the motor shaft, reducing the likelihood of other liquids such as seawater from the external environment entering the motor cavity from between the bushing and the motor shaft, thereby further enhancing the sealing performance of the second sealing structure.

[0026] In some embodiments of this application, the rotating mechanism includes: a base; a slewing bearing including an inner ring and an outer ring, the outer ring being connected to the base, the inner ring being disposed inside the outer ring and rotatably connected to the outer ring, the inner ring being connected to a housing assembly; a drive assembly disposed on the base and drivingly connected to the inner ring; and a third sealing structure disposed between the inner ring and the outer ring, and including at least two seals disposed along the axial direction of the slewing bearing.

[0027] In the above technical solution, the base, slewing bearing, and drive assembly constitute the main components of the rotating mechanism. The rotating mechanism using this solution has a simple structure and operates stably and reliably. By using a third sealing structure, including at least two seals arranged along the axial direction of the slewing bearing and positioned between the inner and outer rings, the sealing performance between the inner and outer rings can be enhanced, reducing the risk of leakage and thus improving the reliability of the rotating mechanism.

[0028] In some embodiments of this application, the seal is a fabric-reinforced oil seal structure and a lip seal ring, with the lip of the seal facing towards the side closest to the propulsion mechanism. In this technical solution, by setting the seal as a fabric-reinforced oil seal structure and simultaneously a lip seal ring, the seal can achieve higher sealing performance, enhancing the sealing effect of the third sealing structure between the inner and outer rings, improving the reliability of the rotating mechanism, and consequently improving the reliability of the propulsion device.

[0029] In some embodiments of this application, the third sealing structure further includes a second spacer ring, wherein a second spacer ring is provided between any two adjacent sealing elements.

[0030] In the above technical solution, the second spacer ring reduces the likelihood of adjacent seals sticking together due to high temperatures, facilitating easy separation of adjacent seals during later replacement or maintenance. The first spacer ring also provides support between adjacent seals, ensuring uniform deformation under pressure and preventing wear caused by mutual friction. This reduces seal wear, extends seal lifespan, and ultimately improves the reliability of the third sealing structure.

[0031] In some embodiments of this application, the second spacer ring is provided with a flow channel, which is a through-hole extending in the radial direction of the second spacer ring, and a storage cavity for storing lubricating medium is formed between the second spacer ring and the inner ring and / or between the second spacer ring and the outer ring.

[0032] In the above technical solution, whether a storage cavity is formed between the second spacer and the inner ring, or between the second spacer and the outer ring, or both, the flow channel can transport the lubricating medium from one storage cavity to both sides of the second spacer, so that lubrication can be obtained between the second spacer and the inner ring, and between the second spacer and the outer ring. This helps to reduce the wear of the seal, extend the service life of the seal, and improve the sealing reliability of the third sealing structure.

[0033] In some embodiments of this application, a conveying channel for conveying lubricating medium is formed within the outer ring, and the conveying channel is connected to the flow channel. In the above technical solution, one end of the conveying channel can be connected to a pump for conveying lubricating medium, thereby periodically replenishing the lubricating medium in the storage cavity, which is beneficial to improving the sealing performance and service life of the third sealing structure.

[0034] In some embodiments of this application, the third sealing structure further includes a fifth elastic sealing portion, which is annular and disposed between the base and the outer ring. In the above technical solution, by providing a fifth elastic sealing portion between the base and the outer ring, liquids such as seawater from the external environment can be prevented from entering the slewing bearing, thereby improving the reliability of the slewing bearing.

[0035] In some embodiments of this application, the housing assembly includes a first part and a second part connected together. The first part is connected to the base and has a cavity inside. The first part has an airfoil-shaped cross-section perpendicular to the axial direction of the slewing bearing. The second part has a motor cavity inside.

[0036] In the above technical solution, the housing assembly can consist of two parts. The second part contains a motor cavity for housing the motor components, while the first part has an internal cavity. This design helps reduce the weight of the housing assembly, saves materials, and reduces the energy consumption of the propulsion mechanism. Since the housing assembly is located in the propeller's wake, by setting the shape of the first part's cross-section perpendicular to the axial direction of the slewing bearing to an airfoil shape, the first part can achieve a smaller drag ratio, higher efficiency, and better anti-cavitation performance.

[0037] In some embodiments of this application, the housing assembly is a split structure, with the first part and the second part welded together. This technical solution reduces the manufacturing difficulty of the housing assembly, thereby facilitating control over its product quality and improving its reliability, ultimately contributing to enhanced reliability of the overall propulsion device.

[0038] In some embodiments of this application, the first part and the second part are integrally molded parts. In this technical solution, the shell assembly manufactured using the above structure has good consistency, good structural strength and rigidity, and is not easily damaged, thereby improving the overall reliability and thus improving the reliability of the propulsion device.

[0039] In some embodiments of this application, the first part includes a flange connection part and a column part connected together. The column part has a cavity inside, and a plurality of stiffeners are provided in the cavity. The plurality of stiffeners are spaced apart along the axial direction of the motor shaft. The stiffeners are provided with a first through hole. The second part is provided with a second through hole communicating with the cavity. The flange connection part is provided with a third through hole communicating with the cavity.

[0040] In the above technical solution, a cavity structure can be formed between multiple stiffeners and between the stiffeners and the first part. The first through hole, second through hole, and third through hole enable the cavity structure to communicate with the motor cavity. This facilitates the wiring harness arrangement of the motor components and also helps to dissipate the heat generated by the motor components into the cavity structure, where the first and second parts exchange heat with seawater or other liquids in the external environment, thereby accelerating the cooling of the motor components. By setting multiple stiffeners in the cavity, the structural strength of the first part can be increased, and the vibration and noise of the propulsion device can be reduced.

[0041] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a water transportation device, including a device body; a propulsion device as described in any of the preceding descriptions, wherein the rotating mechanism and the propulsion mechanism are disposed on the outside of the device body, and the rotating mechanism is disposed at the bottom of the device body.

[0042] In the above technical solution, the propulsion device has high sealing reliability, which is conducive to miniaturization design, so that water transportation devices can be equipped with miniaturized and podded propulsion devices, which can improve the maneuverability of water transportation devices. Attached Figure Description

[0043] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this application and should not be regarded as a limitation of the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0044] Figure 1 Schematic diagrams of the propulsion device provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0045] Figure 2 Schematic diagrams of the propulsion mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0046] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A magnified view of part I;

[0047] Figure 4 for Figure 2 A magnified view of section II;

[0048] Figure 5 Schematic diagram of the structure of the rotating mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application Figure 1 ;

[0049] Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the structure of the rotating mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application Figure 2 ;

[0050] Figure 7 for Figure 6 A magnified view of section III;

[0051] Figure 8 for Figure 6 A magnified view of section IV;

[0052] Figure 9 A top view of a rotating mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0053] Figure 10 for Figure 2 A sectional view taken along line AA;

[0054] Figure 11 Rear view of a propulsion mechanism provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0055] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a water transportation device provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0056] icon:

[0057] 1000. Water transportation facilities;

[0058] 100. Propulsion device;

[0059] 10. Rotating mechanism;

[0060] 11. Base;

[0061] 12. Slewing bearing;

[0062] 121. Inner ring; 122. Outer ring; 122a. Conveying channel;

[0063] 13. Driver components;

[0064] 131. Drive motor; 132. Planetary gearbox; 133. Transmission gear set; 1331. Large rotary gear; 1332. Small rotary gear;

[0065] 14. Third sealing structure;

[0066] 141. Seal; 142. Second spacer ring; 142a. Flow channel; 142b. Storage cavity; 143. Fifth elastic seal;

[0067] 20. Promoting agencies;

[0068] 21. Housing assembly;

[0069] 21a, motor cavity; 21b, first shaft hole; 21c, second shaft hole; 21d, first end face;

[0070] 211. Part One;

[0071] 211a, Cavity; 2111, Flange Connection; 2111a, Third Through Hole; 2112, Column Section; 2113, Rib Plate; 2113a, First Through Hole;

[0072] 212, Part Two; 212a, Second Via;

[0073] 213. First bearing housing; 214. First bearing; 215. Second bearing housing; 216. Second bearing; 22. Motor component;

[0074] 221. Motor shaft;

[0075] 23. First sealing structure;

[0076] 231, Support base; 231a, Third shaft hole;

[0077] 232. First elastic sealing part;

[0078] 233. Mechanical seal;

[0079] 2331, Bushing; 2332, Gland; 2333, Stationary Ring; 2334, Rotary Ring; 2335, Elastic Element; 23a, First Sealing Cavity; 23b, Second Sealing Cavity;

[0080] 234. Second elastic sealing part;

[0081] 24. Second sealing structure;

[0082] 241. Dynamic sealing part; 2411. Bushing; 2412. Pressure plate; 2413. First spacer ring; 242. Third elastic sealing part; 243. Fourth elastic sealing part;

[0083] 25. Propeller;

[0084] 30. Wiring harness; 40. Fourth sealing structure;

[0085] 50. Slip ring mechanism; 51. Electric slip ring; 52. Signal slip ring; 53. Gas-liquid slip ring;

[0086] 200. Equipment cabin. Detailed Implementation

[0087] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0088] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the terminology used in the description of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the application; the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, in the description, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. The terms "first," "second," etc., in the description, claims, or accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order or hierarchy.

[0089] In this application, the reference to "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment that is mutually exclusive with other embodiments.

[0090] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "attachment" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0091] In this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, in this application, the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0092] In the embodiments of this application, the same reference numerals denote the same components, and for the sake of brevity, detailed descriptions of the same components are omitted in different embodiments. It should be understood that the thickness, length, width, and other dimensions of various components in the embodiments of this application shown in the accompanying drawings, as well as the overall thickness, length, width, and other dimensions of the integrated device, are merely illustrative and should not constitute any limitation on this application.

[0093] In this application, "multiple" means two or more (including two).

[0094] In related technologies, propulsion devices, as the electric propulsion systems of ships, are used to propel ships on the water. Currently, common ship propulsion devices are generally quite large. For ships with less demanding requirements, the power requirements of the propulsion device are not high, thus necessitating miniaturization. However, miniaturizing propulsion devices presents numerous challenges, especially since they operate in an underwater environment where sealing performance is crucial. Miniaturization reduces the size of the sealing structure, but the external pressures such as water pressure it must withstand remain unchanged. Ensuring a good seal within a limited space is one of the most pressing issues to be addressed.

[0095] In typical propulsion devices, the large size of the device allows for more space to accommodate various sealing elements when designing the sealing system. The larger size also makes it easier to control the manufacturing precision of the sealing elements. For large seals, even with some dimensional errors during manufacturing, the impact on the sealing effect is likely to be small relative to the overall size. Because the sealing elements in large propulsion devices are larger, the sealing surface area is also larger, resulting in less pressure per unit area under the same external pressure, thus better dispersing the pressure. However, for miniaturized propulsion devices, the significantly reduced size necessitates a correspondingly smaller sealing system, placing higher demands on its design.

[0096] Based on the above considerations, in order to solve the problem that the miniaturization design of the propulsion device leads to high requirements for the sealing system and difficulty in designing the sealing structure, the applicant has designed a propulsion device, including a rotating mechanism and a propulsion mechanism; the propulsion mechanism includes a housing assembly, a motor component, a first sealing structure, a second sealing structure, and a propeller; the housing assembly is connected to the rotating mechanism, and the housing assembly has a motor cavity, and the housing assembly has a first shaft hole and a second shaft hole penetrating the motor cavity; the motor component is located in the motor cavity, and the motor component includes a motor shaft, which passes through the first shaft hole and the second shaft hole; the first sealing structure is sealed between the motor shaft and the first shaft hole; the second sealing structure is sealed between the motor shaft and the second shaft hole, wherein both the second sealing structure and the first sealing structure include at least two sealing parts arranged along the axial direction of the motor shaft; the propeller is connected to the motor shaft.

[0097] In this type of propulsion device, during the miniaturization design of the propulsion device, in order to meet the sealing requirements between the two ends of the motor shaft and the first and second shaft holes, the second sealing structure and the first sealing structure are both configured to include at least two sealing parts arranged along the axial direction of the motor shaft. This can provide multiple sealing protection for the two ends of the motor shaft, reducing the risk of sealing failure of the entire motor shaft and housing assembly due to the failure of a single sealing part. This can improve the sealing reliability between the motor shaft and the housing assembly, which is conducive to achieving the miniaturization design requirements of the propulsion device. It can also reduce the high standard requirements for each sealing part while meeting the sealing requirements, thereby reducing costs.

[0098] This application provides a water transportation device that uses a propulsion device as its power propulsion system. The water transportation device can be, but is not limited to, ships or submarines. Ships can include, but are not limited to, passenger ships, cargo ships, ferries, tugboats, fishing boats, icebreakers, etc. Submarines can include, but are not limited to, sightseeing submarines, research submarines, etc.

[0099] According to some embodiments of this application, refer to Figure 1This application provides a propulsion device 100, including a rotating mechanism 10 and a propulsion mechanism 20. The propulsion mechanism 20 includes a housing assembly 21, a motor component 22, a first sealing structure 23, a second sealing structure 24, and a propeller 25. The housing assembly 21 is connected to the rotating mechanism 10, and a motor cavity 21a is provided inside the housing assembly 21. The housing assembly 21 also has a first shaft hole 21b and a second shaft hole 21c that penetrate the motor cavity 21a. The motor component 22 is disposed inside the motor cavity 21a and includes a motor shaft 221 that passes through the first shaft hole 21b and the second shaft hole 21c. The first sealing structure 23 is sealed between the motor shaft 221 and the first shaft hole 21b. The second sealing structure 24 is sealed between the motor shaft 221 and the second shaft hole 21c. Both the second sealing structure 24 and the first sealing structure 23 include at least two sealing portions arranged along the axial direction of the motor shaft 221. The propeller 25 is connected to the motor shaft 221.

[0100] The rotating mechanism 10 can refer to a structure or component that can drive the propulsion mechanism 20 to make circular motion around a fixed axis or center point.

[0101] The housing assembly 21 may refer to a structural unit for accommodating the motor component 22, and the interior of the housing assembly 21 at least partially forms a motor cavity 21a for accommodating the motor component 22.

[0102] The motor component 22 can refer to a structure or component that functions as a motor. Optionally, the motor component 22 can be a permanent magnet synchronous variable frequency motor. The motor component 22 can be an independent motor or it can form a complete motor structure together with the housing assembly 21. For example, the motor component 22 may include a stator assembly and a rotor assembly, and is disposed within the motor cavity 21a of the housing assembly 21, together forming a complete motor structure.

[0103] The first sealing structure 23 can refer to a structure that can provide a seal between the motor shaft 221 and the first shaft hole 21b. The second sealing structure 24 can refer to a structure that can provide a seal between the motor shaft 221 and the second shaft hole 21c. Both the second sealing structure 24 and the first sealing structure 23 can include multiple sealing parts. Each sealing part can refer to a structural component that provides a seal. In other words, both the second sealing structure 24 and the first sealing structure 23 are multi-layered sealing structures. For the second sealing structure 24 and the first sealing structure 23, even if only one or part of the sealing parts fail, the remaining sealing parts can still provide a good seal, unless all the sealing parts fail. Thus, the systematic action of multiple sealing parts enables the second sealing structure 24 and the first sealing structure 23 to have high sealing performance, thereby enhancing the sealing performance between the motor shaft 221 and the housing assembly 21.

[0104] The propeller 25 can refer to a structure or component that converts rotational power into axial thrust. Optionally, the propeller 25 can be a towed propeller, which can provide better incoming flow conditions, reduce wake effects, and also help enhance maneuverability and reduce noise and vibration.

[0105] The propulsion device 100 of this application can be, but is not limited to, a podded propulsion device. For example, in an underwater transportation device 1000 where the propulsion device 100 is applied, both the rotating mechanism 10 and the propulsion mechanism 20 of the propulsion device 100 can operate in an underwater environment. The rotating mechanism 10 can drive the propulsion mechanism 20 to rotate 360 ​​degrees, directly controlling the thrust direction of the propulsion mechanism 20. This improves the maneuverability of the underwater transportation device 1000. Furthermore, the propulsion device 100 with the above-described structure can possess high sealing performance, meeting the sealing requirements for miniaturization design. This facilitates the miniaturization of the propulsion device 100, enabling the installation of a podded propulsion device on a small water transportation device 1000. For example, after meeting the sealing requirements, the propulsion device 100 of this application can achieve a total power of approximately 450kW, which is sufficient for use in a small water transportation device 1000.

[0106] In the above technical solution, in order to meet the sealing requirements of the two ends of the motor shaft 221 with the first shaft hole 21b and the second shaft hole 21c during the miniaturization design of the propulsion device 100, the second sealing structure 24 and the first sealing structure 23 are configured to each include at least two sealing parts arranged along the axial direction of the motor shaft 221. This can provide multiple sealing protection for the two ends of the motor shaft 221, reduce the risk of sealing failure of the motor shaft 221 and the housing assembly 21 as a whole due to the failure of a single sealing part, thereby improving the sealing reliability between the motor shaft 221 and the housing assembly 21, which is conducive to achieving the miniaturization design requirements of the propulsion device 100, and can reduce the high standard requirements for each sealing part while meeting the sealing requirements, thus reducing costs.

[0107] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The first sealing structure 23 includes a support base 231, a first elastic sealing part 232, and a mechanical sealing part 233. The support base 231 is provided with a third shaft hole 231a, through which the motor shaft 221 passes. The support base 231 is located on the first end face 21d of the housing assembly 21 near the first shaft hole 21b and is connected to the first end face 21d. The first elastic sealing part 232 is located in the third shaft hole 231a and is arranged in a ring around the circumferential direction of the motor shaft 221, and is sealed between the third shaft hole 231a and the motor shaft 221. The mechanical sealing part 233 is sealed between the support base 231 and the motor shaft 221 and is located on the side of the first elastic sealing part 232 away from the motor cavity 21a.

[0108] Support 231 may refer to a component that provides a mounting base for the first elastic seal 232 and the mechanical seal 233.

[0109] The first elastic sealing part 232 can refer to a component that performs a sealing function through elastic deformation. For example, the first elastic sealing part 232 can be a rubber sealing ring.

[0110] The mechanical seal 233 can refer to a structure or device that prevents fluid leakage by having at least one pair of end faces of the rotation axis perpendicular to the motor shaft 221 keep in contact and slide relative to each other under the action of fluid pressure and the elastic force (or magnetic force) of the compensation mechanism and the cooperation of the auxiliary seal.

[0111] In the above technical solution, a static seal can be used between the support base 231 and the first end face 21d of the housing assembly 21. The sealing method is relatively simple and easy to ensure reliable sealing, which can reduce the risk of external liquids such as seawater entering the housing assembly 21 from between the support base 231 and the first end face 21d. Since the motor shaft 221 rotates in the first shaft hole 21b, the sealing requirements are high. The method of using the first elastic sealing part 232 and the mechanical sealing part 233 in cooperation can provide dual sealing protection, adapt to more complex working conditions, and have better sealing performance. This reduces the risk of liquid entering the first shaft hole 21b from the third shaft hole 231a, thereby improving the sealing reliability between the first shaft hole 21b and the motor shaft 221, which is conducive to improving the overall reliability of the propulsion device 100.

[0112] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 3 The mechanical seal 233 includes a bushing 2331, a gland 2332, a stationary ring 2333, a rotating ring 2334, and an elastic element 2335. A portion of the bushing 2331 is located within the third shaft hole 231a and is sealed between the motor shaft 221 and the first elastic seal 232. The gland 2332 is located on the side of the support 231 away from the housing assembly 21 and is connected to the bushing 2331. The stationary ring 2333 is arranged annularly around the bushing 2331 and is located between the bushing 2331 and the support 231. The rotating ring 2334 is arranged annularly around the bushing 2331 and is located between the bushing 2331 and the gland 2332. The elastic element 2335 is located between the gland 2332 and the rotating ring 2334 to keep the rotating ring 2334 and the stationary ring 2333 in close contact with each other.

[0113] The bushing 2331, gland 2332, stationary ring 2333, and rotating ring 2334 can all refer to components arranged in a ring around the motor shaft 221 in the circumferential direction. The stationary ring 2333, rotating ring 2334, and elastic element 2335 constitute the core structure of the mechanical seal to achieve the mechanical sealing function.

[0114] The elastic element 2335 can be, but is not limited to, a spring, a sheet, etc. For example, the elastic element 2335 is a stainless steel metal spring, which can press the stationary ring 2333 and the moving ring 2334 together for pre-tightening of the sealing end face and absorption of dynamic impact. There can be multiple elastic elements 2335, which are spaced apart around the circumferential direction of the motor shaft 221.

[0115] The stationary ring 2333 and the moving ring 2334 can be made of, but are not limited to, graphite, silicon carbide, tungsten carbide, etc. For example, both the stationary ring 2333 and the moving ring 2334 are made of silicon carbide.

[0116] In the above technical solution, the bushing 2331 enhances the sealing performance between the motor shaft 221 and the first elastic seal 232, further reducing the risk of seal failure. It also provides installation and positioning for the stationary ring 2333 and the rotating ring 2334. The gland 2332 connects to the bushing 2331 and cooperates with the support 231, fixing the positions of the stationary ring 2333 and the rotating ring 2334 and enhancing the reliability of their installation positions. The stationary ring 2333 and the rotating ring 2334 fit together and maintain tight contact under the action of the elastic element 2335, forming an effective sealing surface. This further improves sealing performance and prevents liquid from entering the motor cavity 21a along the motor shaft 221. Secondly, in the mechanical seal 233 of the above structure, a tortuous sealing path can be formed between the bushing 2331, the gland 2332, the stationary ring 2333, the rotating ring 2334 and the elastic element 2335. The structure of this sealing path is more complex and the length is also larger, which can increase the difficulty for liquids such as seawater to enter the motor cavity 21a from the mechanical seal 233, reduce the risk of sealing failure, and improve the reliability of the shaft end seal of the motor shaft 221.

[0117] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 3 A first sealing cavity 23a is formed between the stationary ring 2333, the moving ring 2334, the first elastic sealing part 232 and the bushing 2331. The first sealing cavity 23a is configured to store compressed gas with a pressure lower than the external ambient pressure when the propulsion device 100 is working.

[0118] The propulsion device 100 can be used in a water transport device 1000. For example, the water transport device 1000 can be a marine transport device, therefore the operating environment of the propulsion device 100 can be seawater. In the above application scenario, the outer side of the mechanical seal 233 is wetted with seawater and can be lubricated using seawater. In this case, the first sealing cavity 23a can be filled with dry, clean compressed air, the design pressure of which can be slightly lower than the pressure of the external seawater. Optionally, the design pressure within the first sealing cavity 23a can be 0.01 MPa to 0.03 MPa less than the external ambient pressure.

[0119] For example, the first sealing cavity 23a can be configured such that when the mechanical seal 233 does not discharge sewage, the pressure inside the first sealing cavity 23a is 0.01MPa to 0.02MPa less than the pressure of the external seawater; when the mechanical seal 233 discharges sewage, the pressure inside the first sealing cavity 23a is 0.02MPa to 0.03MPa less than the pressure of the external seawater. The design pressure of the first sealing cavity 23a can be calculated based on the draft of the water transport device 1000.

[0120] In the above technical solution, the pressure of the compressed gas in the first sealing cavity 23a is lower than the ambient pressure when the propulsion device 100 is working. This allows a small amount of liquid from the external environment to enter between the stationary ring 2333 and the rotating ring 2334, thus lubricating them and reducing wear. This improves the reliability of the mechanical seal 233 and reduces costs. Furthermore, this lubrication method is relatively simple. Secondly, due to the pressure difference, liquid from the external environment is less likely to penetrate the stationary ring 2333 and the rotating ring 2334 to enter the first sealing cavity 23a, further enhancing the sealing effect of the mechanical seal 233.

[0121] In some embodiments of this application, the support base 231 is provided with a recovery port communicating with the first sealed cavity 23a. The recovery port is connected to a recovery container through a pipe. The support base 231 is also provided with a compressed air pipe communicating with the first sealed cavity 23a. The compressed air pipe is provided with a control valve, which is configured to be able to open or close according to a set time.

[0122] The control valve can be a programmable valve component, or it can be a structure composed of a control switch and a regular valve. For example, the control valve may include a time relay and a switching valve.

[0123] In the above technical solution, the compressed air pipe can be opened at certain intervals. The compressed air can blow the trace amount of seawater that leaks into the end face between the stationary ring 2333 and the rotating ring 2334 from the first sealing cavity 23a into the recovery container through the recovery port. This can ensure that the first sealing cavity 23a is always in a relatively dry and clean environment, which can reduce the risk of pollution and corrosion, and help extend the service life of the first elastic sealing part 232, the stationary ring 2333, and the rotating ring 2334, thereby improving the reliability of the first sealing structure 23.

[0124] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 3 At least two first elastic sealing portions 232 are provided along the axial direction of the motor shaft 221, and a second sealing cavity 23b is formed between any two adjacent first elastic sealing portions 232. The second sealing cavity 23b is configured to store lubricating medium.

[0125] The lubricating medium may include, but is not limited to, complex calcium sulfonate-based grease, special calcium soap-based grease, aluminum complex thickener grease, or silicone grease, etc. For example, the lubricating medium may be extreme pressure lithium-based grease.

[0126] In the above technical solution, multiple first elastic sealing portions 232 are provided, which can offer various sealing protections, further enhance the sealing effect, and reduce the risk of sealing failure. The second sealing cavity 23b can store lubricating medium, filling the tiny gaps formed between the first elastic sealing portion 232 and the third shaft hole 231a and bushing 2331. This allows for a tighter fit between the first elastic sealing portion 232 and the support seat 231 and bushing 2331, further blocking leakage channels for liquid flow, thus maintaining good sealing performance and improving sealing reliability. By storing lubricating medium, the second sealing cavity 23b can also reduce friction between adjacent first elastic sealing portions 232, reducing heat generated by friction. This reduces rapid wear of the first elastic sealing portion 232 due to excessive friction, extending its service life and improving its sealing reliability.

[0127] In some embodiments of this application, the support 231 is provided with a replenishment port communicating with the second sealing cavity 23b. The replenishment port is connected to a grease pump via a pipe. The grease pump is configured to replenish lubricating medium into the second sealing cavity 23b. The grease pump can periodically replenish lubricating medium into the second sealing cavity 23b, reducing the risk that excessive consumption of lubricating medium will affect the lubrication effect of the first elastic sealing part 232.

[0128] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 3 The first elastic sealing part 232 is a lip-shaped sealing ring, and the lip formed by the first elastic sealing part 232 faces the side away from the motor cavity 21a.

[0129] In the above technical solution, the lip of the lip seal has good elasticity, and can tightly adhere to the surface of the bushing 2331 and the wall of the third shaft hole 231a under its own elasticity. Even if there is a certain degree of micro-unevenness on the sealing surface, it can still adapt well and have a good sealing effect. Since the working environment of the propulsion device 100 is an underwater environment, the lip of the first elastic sealing part 232 faces the side away from the motor cavity 21a. Under the action of external seawater or other liquids, as the pressure of the external seawater or other liquids increases, the lip expands to both sides and tightly adheres to the surface of the bushing 2331 and the wall of the third shaft hole 231a, which can further improve the sealing performance of the first elastic sealing part 232.

[0130] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 3The first sealing structure 23 includes a second elastic sealing part 234, which is annular. The second elastic sealing part 234 is provided between the support seat 231 and the first end face 21d, between the bushing 2331 and the motor shaft 221, between the stationary ring 2333 and the support seat 231, and between the moving ring 2334 and the pressure cover 2332.

[0131] The second elastic sealing part 234 can refer to a component that achieves a sealing function through elastic deformation. The structure of the second elastic sealing part 234 and the first elastic sealing part 232 may be the same or different. Optionally, the second elastic sealing part 234 can be an O-ring, and the material can be high-temperature resistant fluororubber.

[0132] In the above technical solution, by setting a second elastic sealing part 234 at the position of the above structure, the sealing and protection effect can be further increased. Thus, the first sealing structure 23 can form a complex multiple sealing structure, thereby enhancing the sealing effect and further reducing the risk of sealing failure, and improving the sealing reliability of the motor shaft 221 shaft end.

[0133] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The second sealing structure 24 includes a dynamic sealing part 241 and a third elastic sealing part 242. The dynamic sealing part 241 includes a bushing 2411 and a pressure plate 2412 that are circumferentially arranged around the motor shaft 221 in the axial direction. The bushing 2411 is disposed in the second shaft hole 21c and sleeved on the motor shaft 221. The pressure plate 2412 is disposed in the motor cavity 21a and connected to the housing assembly 21. The third elastic sealing part 242 is sealed between the bushing 2411 and the second shaft hole 21c.

[0134] The bushing 2411 can provide sealing and support between the third elastic seal 242 and the motor shaft 221.

[0135] The pressure plate 2412 can limit the third elastic seal 242, reducing the risk of the third elastic seal 242 dislodging from the second shaft hole 21c. For example, refer to... Figure 4 The end of the second shaft hole 21c facing the motor cavity 21a can be opened, thereby facilitating the assembly of the third elastic seal 242, while the pressure plate 2412 can limit the third elastic seal 242. Optionally, the pressure plate 2412 can be a specially hardened stainless steel sleeve with a hardness of not less than HRC45 (Rockwell hardness scale C).

[0136] The third elastic sealing part 242 can refer to a component that achieves a sealing function through elastic deformation. Optionally, the material of the third elastic sealing part 242 can be high-temperature resistant fluororubber.

[0137] In the above technical solution, the second sealing structure 24 can form a multi-seal structure, thereby enhancing the sealing performance of the second sealing structure 24, improving sealing reliability, and reducing the risk of other liquids such as seawater from the external environment entering the motor cavity 21a. This can improve the sealing reliability of the motor shaft 221 shaft end.

[0138] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 4 The third elastic sealing part 242 is provided with at least two parts along the axial direction of the motor shaft 221.

[0139] In the above technical solution, by setting multiple third elastic sealing parts 242, multiple third elastic sealing parts 242 can further achieve multiple sealing protection, reduce the risk of liquids such as seawater entering the motor cavity 21a from the second shaft hole 21c, thereby further improving the sealing reliability of the second sealing structure 24.

[0140] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 4 The third elastic sealing part 242 is a lip-shaped sealing ring, and the lip formed by the third elastic sealing part 242 faces the side away from the motor cavity 21a.

[0141] In the above technical solution, the lip of the lip seal has good elasticity, and can tightly adhere to the surface of the bushing 2411 and the hole wall of the second shaft hole 21c under its own elasticity. Even if there is a certain degree of micro-unevenness on the sealing surface, it can still adapt well and have a good sealing effect. Since the working environment of the propulsion device 100 is an underwater environment, the lip of the third elastic sealing part 242 faces the side away from the motor cavity 21a. Under the action of external seawater or other liquids, as the pressure of the external seawater or other liquids increases, the lip expands to both sides and tightly adheres to the surface of the bushing 2411 and the hole wall of the second shaft hole 21c, which can further improve the sealing performance of the third elastic sealing part 242.

[0142] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 4 The dynamic sealing part 241 also includes a first spacer ring 2413, and the first spacer ring 2413 is provided between any two adjacent third elastic sealing parts 242.

[0143] The first spacer ring 2413 can be made of metal or non-metal, and can refer to a component that can separate two adjacent third elastic sealing parts 242.

[0144] In the above technical solution, since the motor component 22 generates a lot of heat during operation, which affects the third elastic seal 242 at one end of the motor shaft 221, the first spacer 2413 can reduce the probability of two adjacent third elastic seals 242 sticking together due to high temperature. This facilitates the easy separation of adjacent third elastic seals 242 during later replacement or maintenance. The first spacer 2413 also provides support between two adjacent third elastic seals 242, allowing them to deform evenly under pressure. It also prevents wear caused by mutual friction between adjacent third elastic seals 242, thus reducing wear, extending the service life of the third elastic seals 242, and improving the reliability of the dynamic seal 241.

[0145] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 4 The second sealing structure 24 also includes a fourth elastic sealing part 243, which is annular and located between the bushing 2411 and the motor shaft 221.

[0146] The fourth elastic sealing part 243 can refer to a component that performs a sealing function through elastic deformation. Optionally, the material of the fourth elastic sealing part 243 can be high-temperature resistant fluororubber. For example, the fourth elastic sealing part 243 can be an O-ring. One or more fourth elastic sealing parts 243 can be provided between the bushing 2411 and the motor shaft 221; no specific limitation is made here.

[0147] In the above technical solution, the fourth elastic sealing part 243 can enhance the sealing between the bushing 2411 and the motor shaft 221, reduce the probability of other liquids such as seawater from the external environment entering the motor cavity 21a from between the bushing 2411 and the motor shaft 221, and further enhance the sealing performance of the second sealing structure 24.

[0148] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 5 and Figure 6 The rotating mechanism 10 includes a base 11, a slewing bearing 12, a drive assembly 13, and a third sealing structure 14. The slewing bearing 12 includes an inner ring 121 and an outer ring 122. The outer ring 122 is connected to the base 11, and the inner ring 121 is located inside the outer ring 122 and rotatably connected to the outer ring 122. The inner ring 121 is connected to the housing assembly 21. The drive assembly 13 is located on the base 11 and drives the inner ring 121. The third sealing structure 14 is located between the inner ring 121 and the outer ring 122 and includes at least two seals 141 arranged along the axial direction of the slewing bearing 12.

[0149] The base 11 can refer to the basic support component of the rotating mechanism 10, which is used to provide an installation reference and stable support for other components of the rotating mechanism 10. When the propulsion device 100 is applied in a water transportation device 1000, taking the water transportation device 1000 as a ship as an example, the base 11 can be fixed to the hull connecting plate.

[0150] The base 11 serves as the main structural component connecting the propulsion device 100 to the water transport device 1000, and its main structure can be integrally processed from DH36 marine steel plate.

[0151] The slewing bearing 12, also known as a slewing bearing or turntable bearing, is a large bearing capable of withstanding combined loads, including large axial forces, radial forces, and overturning moments. The outer ring 122 of the slewing bearing 12 is connected to the base 11 using grade 10.9 bolts (a type of high-strength bolt). The inner ring 121 and the housing assembly 21 are also connected using grade 10.9 bolts.

[0152] The drive assembly 13 can refer to a power component that provides power to drive the propulsion mechanism 20 to rotate. The drive assembly 13 can be, but is not limited to, a motor, a rotary cylinder, a rotary hydraulic cylinder, etc., and no specific limitation is made in the above embodiments.

[0153] The third sealing structure 14 can refer to a structure that can provide a seal between the inner ring 121 and the outer ring 122 of the slewing bearing 12. The third sealing structure 14 can be composed of two or more sealing elements 141. The sealing elements 141 can be, but are not limited to, rubber seals (including but not limited to O-rings, lip seals, rubber gaskets, etc.), plastic seals (including but not limited to PTFE seals, nylon seals, etc.), metal seals (including but not limited to metal gaskets or metal oil seals), etc.

[0154] In the above technical solution, the base 11, the slewing bearing 12, and the drive assembly 13 constitute the main components of the rotating mechanism 10. The rotating mechanism 10 using this solution has a simple structure and operates stably and reliably. By using the third sealing structure 14, which includes at least two seals 141 arranged along the axial direction of the slewing bearing 12 and positioned between the inner ring 121 and the outer ring 122, the sealing performance between the inner ring 121 and the outer ring 122 can be enhanced, reducing the risk of leakage and thereby improving the reliability of the rotating mechanism 10.

[0155] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 6The drive assembly 13 includes a drive motor 131, a planetary gearbox 132, and a transmission gear set 133. The drive motor 131 and the planetary gearbox 132 are mounted on the base 11. The drive motor 131 drives and connects to the planetary gearbox 132, the planetary gearbox 132 drives and connects to the transmission gear set 133, and the transmission gear set 133 drives and connects to the inner ring 121, so as to drive the inner ring 121 to rotate relative to the outer ring 122.

[0156] Optionally, the drive motor 131 can be a variable frequency motor. Using a variable frequency motor has the advantages of significant energy saving, excellent speed regulation performance, good starting performance and high operating stability.

[0157] The transmission gear set 133 can refer to a combination of at least two meshing gears. Optionally, the transmission gear set 133 may include a large rotating gear 1331 and a small rotating gear 1332. The large rotating gear 1331 is located inside the inner ring 121 and meshes internally with the small rotating gear 1332. The drive motor 131 is connected to the small rotating gear 1332. Using this internally meshing gear set can make the structure more compact, which is beneficial to the miniaturization design of the rotating mechanism 10, and thus to the miniaturization design of the podded propulsion device.

[0158] Optionally, the rotary pinion 1332 is made of high-strength carburized steel, and its surface undergoes carburizing and quenching treatment. The rotary gear 1331 is a high-quality alloy steel forging, with a machining accuracy of grade 7-8. This structure improves the surface hardness of the rotary pinion 1332, ensuring it is not lower than HRC58, thus increasing the contact strength of the tooth surface. The rotary gear 1331, with the same structure, improves operational stability and safety. In other words, the rotary pinion 1332 and rotary gear 1331, using the above-described design, ensure the strength and reliability of both components within the miniaturized design of the propulsion device 100, thereby improving the reliability of the propulsion device 100.

[0159] Optionally, there can be at least two drive components 13. By providing a larger number of drive components 13, the driving force of the rotating mechanism 10 can be increased, and the load on a single drive component 13 can be reduced. For example, refer to... Figure 6 The drive assembly 13 consists of two units. The drive motor 131 can be a variable frequency motor, with two variable frequency motors arranged according to the installation space. Two independent slewing variable frequency cabinets control the two motors respectively. The slewing drive system is designed for a slewing speed of 6° / s in cruise mode and 12° / s in maneuvering mode, while also considering emergency stop requirements at all speeds. In the event of a failure of a single drive motor 131, the propulsion unit 100 can operate at reduced power.

[0160] In some embodiments of this application, the inner ring 121 and outer ring 122 are deep groove ball bearings, and at least two rows of balls are provided in the axial direction of the slewing bearing 12. It is understood that in the miniaturized design of the propulsion device 100, this structure can improve the rotational stability and reliability of the slewing bearing 12. Optionally, the inner ring 121 and outer ring 122 are made of 42CrMo alloy steel, and the balls are made of GCr15 alloy steel. By selecting materials with small clearance and high strength, the transmission accuracy and load-bearing capacity of the slewing bearing 12 are improved.

[0161] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 6 The seal 141 is a cloth-reinforced oil seal structure and is a lip seal ring. The lip formed by the seal 141 faces the side closer to the propulsion mechanism 20.

[0162] Fabric-reinforced oil seals can refer to structures composed of multiple layers of woven fiber and rubber composites, capable of withstanding large eccentricities. Seals 141 employ a fabric-reinforced oil seal structure. This design enhances the mechanical strength and wear resistance of seal 141 due to the presence of the fabric layer, facilitating the withstand of higher pressures and speeds. It is also suitable for harsh underwater environments. Furthermore, fabric-reinforced oil seals can adapt to different temperature, pressure, and media requirements, with an operating temperature range of -40℃ to 120℃, making them suitable for cold, deep-water environments and high-temperature operating environments created by motors.

[0163] Both the rotating mechanism 10 and the propulsion mechanism 20 of the propulsion device 100 of this application can operate in an underwater environment. Therefore, the lip formed by the seal 141 faces the side closest to the propulsion mechanism 20. Under the pressure of the working environment of seawater or other liquids, as the pressure of the external seawater or other liquids increases, the lip of the seal 141 can expand to both sides and tightly fit against the side walls of the inner ring 121 and the outer ring 122, which can further improve the sealing performance of the seal 141. Secondly, since at least two seals 141 adopt the above structure, the third sealing structure 14 as a whole can have a stronger sealing performance.

[0164] In the above technical solution, by setting the seal 141 as a cloth-reinforced oil seal structure and simultaneously as a lip seal, the seal 141 can have a high sealing performance, which can enhance the sealing effect of the third sealing structure 14 between the inner ring 121 and the outer ring 122, improve the reliability of the rotating mechanism 10, and thus improve the reliability of the propulsion device 100.

[0165] In some embodiments of this application, at least portions of the inner ring 121 and outer ring 122 corresponding to the seal 141 are provided with an alloy material layer. It is understood that the areas of the inner ring 121 and outer ring 122 in contact with the seal 141 can be provided with a high-hardness, seawater-resistant alloy material layer, thereby improving the corrosion resistance and wear resistance of the slewing bearing 12. Optionally, the alloy material layer can be welded to the sidewalls of the inner ring 121 and outer ring 122.

[0166] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 7 The third sealing structure 14 also includes a second spacer ring 142, which is provided between any two adjacent sealing elements 141.

[0167] The second spacer 142 can be made of metal or non-metal, and can refer to a component that can act as a separator between two adjacent seals 141.

[0168] In the above technical solution, by setting the second spacer 142, the probability of two adjacent seals 141 sticking together due to high temperature can be reduced, which is beneficial for easy separation of adjacent seals 141 during later replacement or maintenance. The first spacer 2413 can also provide support between two adjacent seals 141, so that the two adjacent seals 141 can deform evenly when subjected to pressure, and can also prevent the two adjacent seals 141 from wearing due to mutual friction, which helps to reduce the wear of the seals 141, extend the service life of the seals 141, and thus improve the reliability of the third sealing structure 14.

[0169] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 7 The second spacer 142 is provided with a flow channel 142a, which is a through channel extending in the radial direction of the second spacer 142. A storage cavity 142b for storing lubricating medium is formed between the second spacer 142 and the inner ring 121 and / or between the second spacer 142 and the outer ring 122.

[0170] It is understood that in the assembly consisting of the slewing bearing 12 and the third sealing structure 14, the storage cavity 142b may be formed only between the second spacer 142 and the inner ring 121, or only between the second spacer 142 and the outer ring 122, or both between the second spacer 142 and the inner ring 121 and between the second spacer 142 and the outer ring 122 (see...). Figure 7 ).

[0171] In the above technical solution, whether a storage cavity 142b is formed between the second spacer 142 and the inner ring 121, or both the second spacer 142 and the outer ring 122 are formed with storage cavities 142b, or both are formed with storage cavities 142b, the flow channel 142a can transport the lubricating medium from one storage cavity 142b to both sides of the second spacer 142, so that the second spacer 142 and the inner ring 121, and the second spacer 142 and the outer ring 122 can be lubricated. This helps to reduce the wear of the seal 141, extend the service life of the seal 141, and improve the sealing reliability of the third sealing structure 14.

[0172] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 7 The outer ring 122 has a conveying channel 122a for conveying lubricating medium, and the conveying channel 122a is connected to the flow channel 142a.

[0173] In the above technical solution, one end of the conveying channel 122a can be connected to a pump for conveying lubricating medium, so that the lubricating medium in the storage cavity 142b can be replenished regularly, which is beneficial to improving the sealing performance and service life of the third sealing structure 14.

[0174] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 8 The third sealing structure 14 also includes a fifth elastic sealing part 143, which is annular and located between the base 11 and the outer ring 122.

[0175] The fifth elastic sealing part 143 can refer to a component that achieves a sealing function through elastic deformation. Optionally, the material of the fifth elastic sealing part 143 can be high-temperature resistant fluororubber. For example, the fifth elastic sealing part 143 can be an O-ring.

[0176] In the above technical solution, by providing a fifth elastic sealing part 143 between the base 11 and the outer ring 122, liquids such as seawater from the external environment can be prevented from entering the interior of the slewing bearing 12, thereby improving the reliability of the slewing bearing 12.

[0177] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 2 The housing assembly 21 includes a first part 211 and a second part 212 connected together. The first part 211 is connected to the base 11. A cavity 211a is formed inside the first part 211. The shape of the first part 211 in the cross section perpendicular to the axial direction of the slewing bearing 12 is airfoil-shaped. The second part 212 is provided with a motor cavity 21a.

[0178] In the above technical solution, the housing assembly 21 can be composed of two parts. The second part 212 has a motor cavity 21a for housing the motor component 22, while the first part 211 has an internal cavity 211a. This helps reduce the weight of the housing assembly 21, saves materials, and reduces the energy consumption of the propulsion mechanism 20. Since the housing assembly 21 is located in the wake of the propeller 25, the shape of a portion of the first part 211 in a cross-section perpendicular to the axial direction of the slewing bearing 12 is set to be airfoil-shaped (see...). Figure 10 This allows the cross-sectional resistance of the first part 211 to be relatively small, the efficiency to be relatively high, and the anti-cavitation performance to be relatively good.

[0179] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 2 The housing assembly 21 is a split structure, and the first part 211 and the second part 212 are welded together.

[0180] Although the purpose of the propulsion device 100 is to miniaturize it, even the miniaturized propulsion device 100 is still relatively large in size. Correspondingly, the size of the housing assembly 21 is also relatively large. Therefore, the first part 211 and the second part 212 can be fabricated separately first, and then the first part 211 and the second part 212 can be connected by welding to form the housing assembly 21.

[0181] The first part 211 can be a single-piece molded part, for example, it can be manufactured by a single-piece casting method. The first part 211 can also be formed by assembling and welding multiple parts together. Similarly, the second part 212 can be a single-piece molded part, or it can be formed by assembling and welding multiple parts together. Among them, since the second part 212 is the housing of the motor component 22, its shape is relatively complex. Optionally, the second part 212 can be manufactured as a cast steel part.

[0182] In the above technical solution, by adopting the above structure, the manufacturing difficulty of the housing component 21 can be reduced, which is conducive to controlling the product quality of the housing component 21 and improving the reliability of the housing component 21, thereby helping to improve the overall reliability of the propulsion device 100.

[0183] In some embodiments of this application, the first portion 211 and the second portion 212 are integrally formed. Exemplarily, the first portion 211 and the second portion 212 may be integrally cast, thereby making the housing assembly 21 an integrally formed part.

[0184] In the above technical solution, the shell assembly 21 manufactured using the above structure has good consistency, good structural strength and rigidity, and is not easily damaged, thereby improving the overall reliability and thus improving the reliability of the propulsion device 100.

[0185] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 2 and Figure 10 The first part 211 includes a flange connection part 2111 and a column part 2112 connected together. A cavity 211a is formed inside the column part 2112. A plurality of stiffening plates 2113 are provided in the cavity 211a. The plurality of stiffening plates 2113 are spaced apart along the axial direction of the motor shaft 221. The stiffening plates 2113 are provided with a first through hole 2113a. The second part 212 is provided with a second through hole 212a communicating with the cavity 211a. The flange connection part 2111 is provided with a third through hole 2111a communicating with the cavity 211a.

[0186] The flange connection 2111 can refer to a circular plate-shaped component used to connect the inner ring 121 of the rotating mechanism 10.

[0187] The column portion 2112 can refer to a columnar structural member. The shape of the column portion 2112 in its cross-section perpendicular to the axial direction of the slewing bearing 12 is configured as an airfoil (see...). Figure 9 The stiffening plate 2113 can refer to a plate installed inside the column portion 2112 that serves to enhance strength. The column portion 2112 and the flange connection portion 2111 can also form a T-shaped structure (see...). Figure 11 This structure can improve the structural strength and rigidity of the first part 211, enabling it to withstand greater pressure and be less prone to damage, thereby improving the reliability of the housing assembly 21.

[0188] In the above structure, multiple stiffeners 2113 can divide the cavity 211a into multiple cavity structures, wherein one or more cavity structures can be used to arrange wiring harnesses 30, which may include, but are not limited to, power cables that provide power to the motor component 22, signal cables that monitor and control the status of the motor component 22, or cables that control the operation of other components. Furthermore, the cavity 211a can also provide the necessary passages for lubrication and air piping.

[0189] In the above technical solution, a cavity structure can be formed between the multiple stiffeners 2113 and between the stiffeners 2113 and the first part 211. The first through hole 2113a, the second through hole 212a, and the third through hole 2111a enable the cavity structure to communicate with the motor cavity 21a. This facilitates the wiring harness arrangement of the motor component 22 and also helps to dissipate the heat generated by the motor component 22 during operation into the cavity structure, where the first part 211 and the second part 212 exchange heat with seawater or other liquids in the external environment, thereby accelerating the cooling of the motor component 22. By setting multiple stiffeners 2113 in the cavity 211a, the structural strength of the first part 211 can be increased, which helps to reduce the vibration and noise of the propulsion device 100.

[0190] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 2 A fourth sealing structure 40 is provided between the flange connection 2111 and the inner ring 121. The fourth sealing structure 40 can be a sealing ring.

[0191] The fourth sealing structure 40 can refer to a component or structure that performs a sealing function. Optionally, the fourth sealing structure 40 can be an elastic seal, such as an O-ring.

[0192] It is understandable that by providing a fourth sealing structure 40 between the flange connection 2111 and the inner ring 121, the sealing performance between the flange connection 2111 and the inner ring 121 can be enhanced, reducing the risk of seawater or other liquids from the external environment entering the housing assembly 21 from between the flange connection 2111 and the inner ring 121, and improving the overall sealing reliability of the propulsion device 100.

[0193] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 2 The housing assembly 21 may also include a first bearing housing 213, a first bearing 214, a second bearing housing 215, and a second bearing 216. The first bearing housing 213 is disposed on the second part 212 and forms a first shaft hole 21b. The motor shaft 221 is mounted on the first bearing housing 213 through the first bearing 214. The second bearing housing 215 is disposed on the second part 212 and forms a second shaft hole 21c. The motor shaft 221 is mounted on the second bearing housing 215 through the second bearing 216.

[0194] Optionally, the first bearing 214 and the second bearing 216 are rolling bearings. Furthermore, the first bearing 214 is located close to the propeller 25 and is configured as a CARB cylindrical roller bearing. The second bearing 216 comprises two face-to-face self-aligning roller thrust bearings, both of which are spherical bearings. This corrects for machining or assembly deviations, and under the combined bending moment generated by the rotational motion of the motor shaft 221 of the motor assembly 22, the eccentric magnetic pull, and the hydrodynamic load on the propeller blades of the propeller 25, the spherical bearings can reduce excessive wear caused by uneven bearing stress.

[0195] In some embodiments of this application, insulating ceramic is sprayed at the contact points of the first bearing housing 213 and the first bearing 214, and at the contact points of the second bearing housing 215 and the second bearing 216. It is understood that since the motor shaft 221 of the motor component 22 is directly connected to the propeller 25, when the motor stops or during single-propeller towing operations, the propeller 25 generates torque when impacted by water flow, which may drive the motor shaft 221 to rotate at a low speed and discontinuously. This causes the motor component 22 to generate reverse current and electromotive force. The insulating ceramic used in the above-mentioned solution can block current from passing through the first bearing 214 and the second bearing 216, reducing the risk of electrolytic corrosion damage to the bearing raceways due to the reverse current and electromotive force generated by the motor component 22, and thus improving the lifespan of the first bearing 214 and the second bearing 216.

[0196] Optionally, a ground ring is provided on the non-driving end of the first bearing 214 and the second bearing 216. This solution allows the current generated by the motor shaft 221 to be discharged.

[0197] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 9 The propulsion device 100 also includes a slip ring mechanism 50, which is mounted on the base 11.

[0198] The slip ring mechanism 50 can refer to a mechanism composed of an electric slip ring 51, a signal slip ring 52, and a pneumatic-hydraulic slip ring 53, and includes auxiliary components such as a temperature sensor, and adopts a lateral wiring method. The main function of the electric slip ring 51 is to transmit the power output from the frequency converter to the motor component 22 within the 360-degree rotatable propulsion mechanism 20. The operating status detection signal of the motor component 22 is fed back to the control and detection system via the signal slip ring 52, facilitating the control system's monitoring of the propulsion device 100's underwater operating status. Simultaneously, the lubricating medium and leaked compressed air recovered from the entire propulsion device 100 can be transmitted through the liquid transport channel of the pneumatic-hydraulic slip ring 53.

[0199] In some embodiments of this application, the propulsion device 100 further includes a control component configured to control the overall propulsion, rotation, drive, monitoring, and protection functions of the propulsion device 100. Specifically, the control component can control equipment such as the motor component 22, the drive motor 131, and the lubrication and air system. The control component mainly includes, but is not limited to, a propulsion control unit, a steering control unit, a frequency converter, a local control box, a combined start-up unit, and a UPS.

[0200] The architecture of the control components is divided into the field device layer, the control layer, and the management layer.

[0201] The field equipment layer includes propulsion inverters, slewing inverters, etc. Each controlled device sends its real-time data to the propulsion control unit and slewing control unit via a serial fieldbus (such as PROFIBUS-DP) and hardwire.

[0202] The control layer consists of a propulsion control unit and a slewing control unit. The control unit has a built-in high-performance programmable controller. The propulsion control unit is mainly responsible for issuing control commands for the motor speed / torque of the propulsion mechanism 20, while the slewing control unit is responsible for controlling the motor of the rotating mechanism 10 to follow the rudder command.

[0203] The management layer consists of remote control stations and a health diagnostic unit for the control system. The remote control stations include a driver's cab control station and a central control room control station. Each station communicates with the propulsion control unit in real time via a redundant network (such as real-time Ethernet). Each station operates independently, and this redundant control network and independent station design enhances the safety and stability of the control system. The health diagnostic unit collects real-time data from the propulsion and slewing control units via real-time Ethernet, displays the collected data in a graphical interface, provides real-time alarms and data storage, and performs trend analysis and status diagnostics on the stored data.

[0204] The main function of the local control box is to enable local operation of the pod propulsion system, including propulsion start / stop, acceleration / deceleration, slewing start / stop, and clockwise / counterclockwise slewing control. Control signals are transmitted directly to the propulsion drive inverter and slewing inverter via hard-wired signals, independent of the remote control path.

[0205] Reference Figure 12 This application provides a water transportation device 1000, including a device body 200 and a propulsion device 100.

[0206] The propulsion device 100 is any of the propulsion devices 100 described above. The rotation mechanism 10 and the propulsion mechanism 20 are located on the outside of the device housing 200, and the rotation mechanism 10 is located at the bottom of the device housing 200.

[0207] The device hull 200 can refer to the main structure of the water transport device 1000. For example, when the water transport device 1000 is a ship, the device hull 200 can refer to the hull. When the water transport device 1000 is a submarine, the device hull 200 can refer to the submarine hull.

[0208] In the above-described water transport device 1000, since the rotating mechanism 10 and the propulsion mechanism 20 are located on the outside of the device body 200, and the rotating mechanism 10 is located at the bottom of the device body 200, the propulsion device 100 can be configured as a podded propulsion unit. When the propulsion device 100 is in operation, the rotating mechanism 10 can drive the propulsion mechanism 20 to rotate 360 ​​degrees underwater, thereby changing the propulsion direction of the propulsion mechanism 20 and thus realizing the maneuverability of the water transport device 1000.

[0209] In the above technical solution, the propulsion device 100 has high sealing reliability, which is conducive to miniaturization design, so that the water transportation device 1000 can be equipped with a miniaturized and podded propulsion device 100, which can improve the maneuverability of the water transportation device 1000.

[0210] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other. The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit the application. For those skilled in the art, unless otherwise specified, all implementation methods and optional implementation methods of this application can be combined to form new technical solutions. Unless otherwise specified, all technical features and optional technical features of this application can be combined to form new technical solutions. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A propulsion device, characterized in that, include: Rotating mechanism; The propulsion mechanism includes: A housing assembly is connected to the rotating mechanism. The housing assembly has a motor cavity inside and a first shaft hole and a second shaft hole penetrating the motor cavity. A motor component is disposed within the motor cavity, and the motor component includes a motor shaft that passes through the first shaft hole and the second shaft hole; A first sealing structure is disposed between the motor shaft and the first shaft hole; The second sealing structure is disposed between the motor shaft and the second shaft hole, wherein both the second sealing structure and the first sealing structure include at least two sealing parts disposed along the axial direction of the motor shaft; A propeller connected to the motor shaft.

2. The propulsion device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first sealing structure includes: A support base is provided with a third shaft hole, through which the motor shaft passes. The support base is located on the first end face of the housing assembly near the first shaft hole and is connected to the first end face. The first elastic sealing part is disposed in the third shaft hole and is arranged in a ring around the circumferential direction of the motor shaft, and is sealed between the third shaft hole and the motor shaft. A mechanical seal is provided between the support base and the motor shaft, and is located on the side of the first elastic seal away from the motor cavity.

3. The propulsion device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The mechanical seal includes: A bushing, a portion of which is located within the third shaft hole and is sealed between the motor shaft and the first elastic sealing part; A pressure cap, which is disposed on the side of the support base away from the housing assembly and is connected to the bushing; A stationary ring is arranged in a ring around the bushing and is located between the bushing and the support seat; A rotating ring is arranged in a ring around the bushing and is disposed between the bushing and the pressure cap; An elastic element is provided between the pressure cap and the moving ring to keep the moving ring and the stationary ring in close contact with each other.

4. The propulsion device according to claim 3, characterized in that, A first sealing cavity is formed between the stationary ring, the rotating ring, the first elastic sealing part, and the bushing. The first sealing cavity is configured to store compressed gas with a pressure lower than the external ambient pressure when the propulsion device is working.

5. The propulsion device according to any one of claims 3 to 4, characterized in that, At least two first elastic sealing portions are provided along the axial direction of the motor shaft, and a second sealing cavity is formed between any two adjacent first elastic sealing portions. The second sealing cavity is configured to store lubricating medium.

6. The propulsion device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first elastic sealing part is a lip-shaped sealing ring, and the lip formed by the first elastic sealing part faces the side away from the motor cavity.

7. The propulsion device according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that, The first sealing structure includes a second elastic sealing part, which is annular. The second elastic sealing part is provided between the support base and the first end face, between the bushing and the motor shaft, between the stationary ring and the support base, and between the moving ring and the pressure cover.

8. The propulsion device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second sealing structure includes: The dynamic sealing part includes a bushing and a pressure plate circumferentially arranged around the motor shaft in the axial direction. The bushing is disposed in the second shaft hole and sleeved on the motor shaft. The pressure plate is disposed in the motor cavity and connected to the housing assembly. The third elastic sealing part is disposed between the bushing and the second shaft hole.

9. The propulsion device according to claim 8, characterized in that, At least two third elastic seals are provided along the axial direction of the motor shaft.

10. The propulsion device according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The third elastic sealing part is a lip-shaped sealing ring, and the lip formed by the third elastic sealing part faces the side away from the motor cavity.

11. The propulsion device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The dynamic sealing part further includes a first spacer ring, and the first spacer ring is provided between any two adjacent third elastic sealing parts.

12. The propulsion device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The second sealing structure further includes a fourth elastic sealing part, which is annular and disposed between the bushing and the motor shaft.

13. The propulsion device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rotating mechanism includes: Base; A slewing bearing includes an inner ring and an outer ring, the outer ring being connected to the base, the inner ring being disposed inside the outer ring and rotatably connected to the outer ring, and the inner ring being connected to the housing assembly; A drive assembly, which is disposed on the base and drives the inner ring; A third sealing structure is disposed between the inner ring and the outer ring, and includes at least two seals disposed along the axial direction of the slewing bearing.

14. The propulsion device according to claim 13, characterized in that, The sealing element is a cloth-reinforced oil seal structure and is a lip seal ring, with the lip formed by the sealing element facing the side closer to the propulsion mechanism.

15. The propulsion device according to claim 14, characterized in that, The third sealing structure further includes a second spacer ring, which is provided between any two adjacent sealing elements.

16. The propulsion device according to claim 15, characterized in that, The second spacer ring is provided with a flow channel, which is a through-hole extending in the radial direction of the second spacer ring. A storage cavity for storing lubricating medium is formed between the second spacer ring and the inner ring and / or between the second spacer ring and the outer ring.

17. The propulsion device according to claim 16, characterized in that, The outer ring has a conveying channel for conveying the lubricating medium, and the conveying channel is connected to the flow channel.

18. The propulsion device according to claim 15, characterized in that, The third sealing structure further includes a fifth elastic sealing part, which is annular and disposed between the base and the outer ring.

19. The propulsion device according to claim 13, characterized in that, The housing assembly includes a first part and a second part connected together. The first part is connected to the base and has a cavity inside. The first part has an airfoil-shaped cross-section perpendicular to the axial direction of the slewing bearing. The second part contains the motor cavity.

20. The propulsion device according to claim 19, characterized in that, The housing assembly is a split structure, and the first part and the second part are welded together.

21. The propulsion device according to claim 19, characterized in that, The first part and the second part are integrally molded parts.

22. The propulsion device according to any one of claims 19 to 21, characterized in that, The first part includes a flange connection part and a column part connected together. The column part has a cavity formed inside. The cavity is provided with a plurality of stiffening plates. The plurality of stiffening plates are spaced apart along the axial direction of the motor shaft. The stiffening plates are provided with a first through hole. The second part is provided with a second through hole communicating with the cavity. The flange connection part is provided with a third through hole communicating with the cavity.

23. A water transportation device, characterized in that, include: Equipment cabin; The propulsion device according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the rotating mechanism and the propulsion mechanism are disposed on the outside of the device housing, and the rotating mechanism is disposed at the bottom of the device housing.

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