Underwater manpower propeller
By using a human-powered dual-impeller design and an optimized water flow submersible propulsion system, the problems of endurance and stability of electrically driven diving equipment have been solved, achieving efficient, safe, and lightweight underwater propulsion.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202422406839.7
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-09-30
- Publication Date
- 2025-10-31
- Estimated Expiration
- 2034-09-30
AI Technical Summary
Existing electric propulsion systems for diving equipment suffer from limited range, sealing issues, and torque instability during single-impeller rotation, affecting operational stability and efficiency.
It adopts a human-powered dual-impeller design, with the two impellers rotating in opposite directions to counteract rotational distortion. Combined with the outer casing and diversion pipe, it optimizes water flow and forms a duct to improve propulsion efficiency.
This invention enables a lightweight, battery-free thruster, improving usability and stability, enhancing propulsion efficiency, reducing maintenance costs, and improving operational sensitivity and safety.
Smart Images

Figure CN223494742U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of underwater propulsion technology, and in particular to an underwater human-powered propulsion device. Background Technology
[0002] With societal development, diving has gradually become a popular underwater recreational activity for ordinary people, and diving equipment has evolved from large deep-sea diving devices to smaller shallow-sea diving equipment. In existing shallow-sea diving equipment, propellers are increasingly used to help divers reach their desired locations more quickly and effortlessly. Among existing propellers, the most common solution is a motor-driven propeller blade. The biggest problem with electric propulsion is power supply; the range is directly related to the battery capacity, and the battery level must be checked during use. Secondly, electric propulsion requires addressing the sealing issue, as the battery, motor, and circuitry need to be housed in a sealed environment. Furthermore, current technologies use a single impeller to provide driving force, and this impeller generates torque during rotation. If the center of gravity is too low, this torque can have adverse effects. Utility Model Content
[0003] This application provides a human-powered underwater propulsion device. The propulsion device is driven by human power and does not require batteries. In addition, the propulsion device does not contain electronic components and has relatively few sealed areas. Moreover, the propulsion device adopts a dual-impeller drive scheme, and the two impellers rotate in opposite directions, which can counteract the rotational torsion generated by the impellers during rotation, making the propulsion device move more smoothly.
[0004] A human-powered underwater propulsion device includes a power structure configured to be driven by human power; and a drive structure comprising a first impeller, a second impeller, and a transmission structure, wherein the first impeller and the second impeller are disposed at the same axial position and have opposite blade orientations; wherein the power structure drives the first impeller and the second impeller to rotate in opposite directions via the transmission structure, such that the first impeller and the second impeller generate thrust in the same direction.
[0005] In some embodiments, the power structure includes a central shaft and foot pedals respectively disposed at both ends of the central shaft, and a power gear is mounted on the central shaft; the transmission structure includes a gear set, the gear set including a first gear fixedly connected to the first impeller and a second gear fixedly connected to the second impeller; the power structure drives the first gear and the second gear of the transmission structure through its power gear to rotate the first impeller and the second impeller.
[0006] In some embodiments, the method further includes a fixed shaft; the axis of the central shaft is perpendicular to the axis of the fixed shaft, and the central shaft and the fixed shaft are rotatably connected; the first impeller and the second impeller are rotatably sleeved on the fixed shaft; the first gear is disposed at a first end of the first impeller facing the central shaft; the second gear is disposed at a first end of the second impeller facing the central shaft.
[0007] In some embodiments, the first impeller is disposed between the central shaft and the second impeller; the transmission structure further includes a third gear, which is fixedly mounted on the second end of the first impeller; and a gear shaft, which is disposed between the first impeller and the second impeller, on which a fourth gear is rotatably mounted; wherein the first gear and the power gear are meshed together, and the second gear is meshed with the third gear through the fourth gear.
[0008] In some embodiments, the transmission structure further includes a bushing disposed between the first gear and the first impeller.
[0009] In some embodiments, the propeller further includes a fixed shaft; the central shaft and the fixed shaft are rotatably connected; the transmission structure further includes a rotating shaft and a planetary gear, the axial direction of the rotating shaft is the same as the axial direction of the planetary gear, a fifth gear is mounted on the rotating shaft, the planetary gear is arranged on the fixed shaft, the fifth gear meshes with the planetary gear, and the rotating shaft and the fixed shaft are rotatably connected; a first end of the rotating shaft is close to the central shaft, a second gear is fixedly mounted on the first end of the rotating shaft, the second gear meshes with the power gear, and a second impeller is fixedly mounted on the second end of the rotating shaft; the first impeller is disposed between the second gear and the second impeller and is rotatably sleeved on the rotating shaft; the first gear includes a gear ring disposed on the inner wall of the first impeller, the gear ring meshing with the planetary gear.
[0010] In some embodiments, the propeller is fitted with an outer casing, and both the first impeller and the second impeller are disposed within the outer casing; the outer casing includes a first end and a second end opposite to each other, wherein the first end of the outer casing faces the thrust direction of the propeller.
[0011] In some embodiments, the outer cover includes a drainage tube disposed at a first end of the outer cover, the drainage tube having an inlet radius larger than its inner radius.
[0012] In some embodiments, the outer cover includes a tail tube disposed at a second end of the outer cover, the radius of the tail tube's outlet being smaller than the radius of its inner side.
[0013] In some embodiments, a protective net is provided at the first end and / or the second end of the outer cover, the protective net having a plurality of mesh openings, and the outer edge of the protective net being connected to the inner wall of the outer cover.
[0014] In some embodiments, the first end of the fixed shaft is oriented toward the thrust direction of the thruster;
[0015] The first end of the fixed shaft is provided with a middle tube, one end of which is connected to the first end of the fixed shaft. The fixed shaft and the middle tube may optionally be provided with an included angle α, so that the middle tube is ergonomically arranged with the power structure and the drive structure.
[0016] In some embodiments, a handle is provided at the first end of the fixed shaft.
[0017] In some embodiments, the first end of the fixed shaft is provided with a retractable upper tube.
[0018] In some embodiments, the thruster further includes a protective cover, and both the power gear and the first gear are disposed inside the protective cover; the end of the protective cover facing the thrust direction of the thruster is tapered.
[0019] In some implementations, the power structure and the drive structure are provided with at least one unidirectional gear, so that human power can be transmitted to the drive structure in one direction.
[0020] Compared with existing technologies, this application firstly employs a human-powered system. By adopting human-powered operation, it eliminates the dependence on electricity, avoiding the limitations of battery capacity, bulky size, and frequent charging in traditional electric drive devices. It also significantly reduces environmental pollution. The underwater human-powered propulsion device disclosed in this application is lighter and more portable, suitable for various scenarios such as swimming, fitness, sports, and entertainment, eliminating concerns about power supply and improving its flexibility and versatility. Secondly, this application uses a dual-impeller design. Compared to single-impeller solutions, the dual impellers in this application rotate in opposite directions, and the blades on the two impellers have opposite tilt angles. This not only effectively balances the deflection torque of the propulsion device during underwater operation, ensuring operational stability, but also significantly enhances thrust efficiency through the coordinated operation of the two impellers. Without increasing energy consumption, it achieves more powerful underwater propulsion, making it particularly suitable for applications requiring efficient power support, such as diving and underwater operations. Third, a protective cover is installed on the power structure to prevent the gears in the power structure from scratching the user and to prevent debris in the water from getting tangled on the gears, improving safety and extending the equipment's lifespan while reducing maintenance costs. Fourth, an outer cover is installed on the drive structure, which, in addition to its protective function, also forms a culvert for water flow. This effectively guides and accelerates the water flow. The first end of the outer cover has a diversion pipe, and the second end has a tailpipe. The design of the diversion and tailpipes optimizes the inflow and outflow of water power, significantly increasing the water flow velocity and pressure within the culvert. This further enhances the thruster's output without increasing manpower requirements, achieving more efficient power conversion. Users can control speed and direction more freely during underwater activities, improving operational sensitivity and efficiency. It also increases the water intake within the culvert and enhances the culvert's output thrust. Attached Figure Description
[0021] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this application, are used to provide a further understanding of this application. The illustrative embodiments and descriptions of this application are used to explain this application and do not constitute an undue limitation of this application. Wherein:
[0022] Figure 1 These are schematic diagrams of the thruster in some embodiments;
[0023] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A magnified view of a portion of point A in the middle;
[0024] Figure 3 for Figure 1 Exploded view;
[0025] Figure 4 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the side view structure;
[0026] Figure 5 for Figure 4 BB direction sectional view;
[0027] Figure 6 for Figure 5 A magnified view of a portion of point C in the middle;
[0028] Figure 7 for Figure 5 A magnified view of a portion of point D in the middle;
[0029] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of some embodiments;
[0030] Figure 9 for Figure 8 EE direction sectional view;
[0031] Figure 10 for Figure 9 A magnified view of a portion of point F in the middle;
[0032] Figure 11 and Figure 12 for Figure 8 Diagrams from different perspectives;
[0033] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the thruster in some embodiments;
[0034] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the power structure in some embodiments;
[0035] Figure 15 These are schematic diagrams of the power structure and drive structure in some embodiments;
[0036] Figure 16 for Figure 15 A schematic diagram of the cross-section along the GG direction;
[0037] Figure 17 These are schematic diagrams of the power structure and drive structure in some embodiments;
[0038] Figure 18 for Figure 17 A schematic diagram of the cross-section along the HH direction;
[0039] Figure 19 for Figure 18 A magnified view of a portion of point I in the middle;
[0040] Figure 20 for Figure 18 A magnified view of a portion of point J.
[0041] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:
[0042] 101-Middle tube; 102-Fixed shaft; 103-Upper tube; 104-Snap fastener; 105-Handle; 106-Rotating shaft; 1061-Sixth bevel gear; 1062-Third gear; 107-Planetary gear; 1071-Gear shaft;
[0043] 20, 21 - Power structure; 201 - Central shaft; 202 - Crank; 203 - Foot pedal; 204 - First bevel gear; 205 - Shaft hole; 206 - Protective cover; 207 - Turbine; 208 - Worm gear; 209 - Support seat; 2010 - First gear;
[0044] 30, 31, 32 - Drive structure; 301 - Sleeve; 3011 - Second bevel gear; 3012 - Third bevel gear; 302 - First impeller; 3021 - Gear ring; 3022 - First blade; 303 - Second impeller; 3031 - Fourth bevel gear; 3032 - Second blade; 304 - Drive shaft; 3041 - Fifth bevel gear; 305 - Outer cover; 3051 - Support rod; 3052 - Duct; 3053 - First protective net; 3054 - Second protective net; 3055 - Drainage pipe; 3056 - Tailpipe; 306 - Second gear. Detailed Implementation
[0045] The present application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. Various examples are provided by way of explanation and not by way of limitation. In fact, those skilled in the art will recognize that modifications and variations can be made to the present application without departing from the scope or spirit thereof. For example, a feature shown or described as part of one embodiment may be used in another embodiment to produce yet another embodiment. Therefore, it is desirable that the present application encompass such modifications and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.
[0046] In the description of this application, the terms "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," and "bottom," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this application and do not require that this application be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as limiting this application. The terms "connected," "linked," and "set up" used in this application should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection or a detachable connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through intermediate components. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms can be understood according to the specific circumstances.
[0047] The accompanying drawings illustrate one or more examples of this application. The detailed description uses numerical and alphabetic designations to refer to features in the drawings. Similar or analogous designations in the drawings and description have been used to refer to similar or analogous parts of this application. As used herein, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc., are used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to indicate the location or importance of individual components.
[0048] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, according to an embodiment of this application, a human-powered underwater propulsion device is provided, including a fixed shaft 102, on which a power structure 20 and a drive structure 30 are disposed. The power structure 20 is connected to the drive structure 30 and provides driving force to the drive structure 30.
[0049] like Figure 1 and Figures 2 to 6 As shown, the power structure 20 includes a shaft hole 205, which is disposed at the first end of the fixed shaft 102, and the shaft hole 205 is arranged radially along the fixed shaft 102. A rotatable central shaft 201 is installed in the shaft hole 205, and the central shaft 201 is connected to the inner wall of the shaft hole 205 through a bearing. Cranks 202 are respectively provided on both sides of the shaft hole 205, the first ends of the cranks 202 are fixedly connected to the ends of the central shaft 201, and a foot pedal 203 is installed at the second end of each crank 202. The central shaft 201 is directly driven to rotate by the foot pedal 203, which not only conforms to the natural movement pattern of the human body, but also allows the user to comfortably and efficiently use leg strength for propulsion, which is especially suitable for long-term underwater work or recreational activities, reducing fatigue. A first bevel gear 204 is fixedly installed on one side of the central shaft 201.
[0050] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, the drive structure 30 includes a first impeller 302, a second impeller 303, and a transmission structure for transmitting power.
[0051] The transmission structure includes a bushing 301, which is sleeved on the outside of a fixed shaft 102. The first end of the bushing 301 is close to the central shaft 201, and a second bevel gear 3011 is fixedly mounted on the first end of the bushing 301, meshing with a first bevel gear 204. A third bevel gear 3012 is fixedly mounted on the second end of the bushing 301. Both the second bevel gear 3011 and the third bevel gear 3012 are connected to the fixed shaft 102 via bearings. A first impeller 302 is fixedly sleeved on the outside of the bushing 301, positioned between and close to the second bevel gear 3011 and the third bevel gear 3012. The second end of the fixed shaft 102 extends from the second end of the bushing 301, and a second impeller 303 is mounted between the second end of the fixed shaft 102 and the third bevel gear 3012. The second impeller 303 is connected to the fixed shaft 102 via bearings. A fourth bevel gear 3031 is fixedly mounted on one end of the second impeller 303 facing the bushing 301. The transmission structure also includes a transmission shaft 304, which is positioned between the third bevel gear 3012 and the fourth bevel gear 3031. The axial direction of the transmission shaft 304 is radially aligned with the fixed shaft 102, and the first end of the transmission shaft 304 is fixedly connected to the fixed shaft 102. A fifth bevel gear 3041 is mounted on the transmission shaft 304 and is connected to the transmission shaft 304 via a bearing. The fifth bevel gear 3041 meshes with both the third bevel gear 3012 and the fourth bevel gear 3031.
[0052] When the driving force drives the bushing 301, the third bevel gear 3012, and the first impeller 302 to rotate in the first direction, the third bevel gear 3012 transmits the driving force to the fourth bevel gear 3031 through the fifth bevel gear 3041, thereby driving the second impeller 303 to rotate in the second direction. The first and second directions are opposite, which allows the two rotating impellers to cancel out at least a portion of the torque in their rotational directions, reducing mechanical vibration and energy loss caused by torque imbalance and improving the overall operating efficiency and stability of the propulsion system. Furthermore, the first impeller 302 has several outwardly extending first blades 3022 circumferentially, and the second impeller 303 has several outwardly extending second blades 3032 circumferentially. The first blades 3022 and the second blades 3032 have opposite orientations. This ensures that when the first impeller 302 and the second impeller 303 rotate in opposite directions, the two impellers can provide driving force in the same direction, which not only cancels out the torque but, more importantly, concentrates the thrust output in the same direction. This design makes the hydrodynamic force more concentrated, increasing the volume and speed of the water flow per unit time, thus significantly enhancing the overall propulsion effect.
[0053] In some embodiments, the third bevel gear 3012 and the fourth bevel gear 3031 are identical in specifications, and the first impeller 302 and the second impeller 303 are identical in specifications, but the first impeller 302 and the second impeller 303 are arranged in opposite directions. The purpose is to ensure that the first impeller 302 and the second impeller 303 maintain the same rotational speed and have the same rotational torque. This symmetry and synchronicity optimizes the distribution and use of power, allowing each impeller to contribute its thrust efficiently and avoiding efficiency loss or uneven mechanical stress caused by impeller speed mismatch.
[0054] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, in some embodiments, a protective cover 206 is provided at the first end of the fixed shaft 102. The first bevel gear 204 and the second bevel gear 3011 are both disposed inside the protective cover 206, preventing finger scratches or other injuries that may be caused by accidental contact when the user operates or approaches the propeller. At the same time, the presence of the protective cover 206 can also prevent foreign objects such as aquatic plants and debris from entering the gear system, reducing the risk of gears being entangled or damaged, thereby extending the service life of the propeller and improving the safety of use.
[0055] In some embodiments, one end of the protective cover 206 is tapered, with the apex of the tapered shape facing the direction of motion of the propeller. This helps reduce water flow resistance during underwater movement. The tapered tip smoothly guides the water flow, reducing eddies and separation on the surface of the protective cover, allowing water to flow smoothly without creating significant resistance, thereby improving the hydrodynamic performance and forward efficiency of the propeller. This is particularly important for manually driven underwater propellers, as it directly relates to the efficiency of force conversion by the user and the response speed of the propeller.
[0056] like Figures 8 to 10 As shown, in some embodiments, a tubular outer cover 305 is provided at the second end of the fixed shaft 102. The outer cover 305 is sleeved on the outside of the fixed shaft 102, and the first end of the outer cover 305 faces the direction of movement of the propeller. The first impeller 302 and the second impeller 303 are both disposed inside the outer cover 305. The outer cover 305 is fixedly connected to the fixed shaft 102 by at least one support rod 3051. In addition to its protective function, the outer cover 305 can form a duct 3052 on its inner side. The duct 3052 can output the water flow driven by the first impeller 302 and the second impeller 303 along the axial direction of the duct 3052 to the second end of the duct 3052.
[0057] like Figures 9 to 11As shown, in some embodiments, a first protective net 3053 is provided at the first end of the outer cover 305. A first through hole R1 is provided at the center of the first protective net 3053, and the first protective net is fitted onto the outside of the bushing 301. The outer edge of the first protective net 3053 is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the outer cover 305, and the diameter of the first through hole R1 is greater than or equal to the outer diameter R2 of the bushing 301. This ensures the free rotation of the bushing 301 while effectively preventing larger debris from entering the duct 3052, protecting the internal mechanical structure from damage, and maintaining smooth water flow. The first protective net 3053 has several mesh openings to prevent debris from entering the duct 3052.
[0058] like Figure 9 , Figure 10 and Figure 12 As shown, in some embodiments, a second protective net 3054 is provided at the second end of the outer cover 305, and the outer edge of the second protective net 3054 is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the outer cover 305; a second through hole is provided at the center of the second protective net 3054, and the wall of the second through hole is fixedly connected to the fixed shaft 102. In addition to preventing debris from entering the duct 3052, the second protective net 3054 can also provide support for the outer cover 305.
[0059] like Figure 8 and Figure 10 As shown, in some embodiments, a drainage pipe 3055 is provided at the first end of the outer casing 305. The radius of the first end of the drainage pipe 3055 is larger than the radius of the second end, and the radius of the second end of the drainage pipe 3055 is the same as the radius of the first end of the outer casing 305. The second end of the drainage pipe 3055 is connected to the first end of the outer casing 305. The drainage pipe 3055 can introduce more water into the culvert 3052, increasing the water inflow.
[0060] like Figure 8 and Figure 10 As shown, in some embodiments, a tailpipe 3056 is provided at the second end of the outer casing 305. The radius of the first end of the tailpipe 3056 is larger than the radius of the second end, and the radius of the first end of the tailpipe 3056 is the same as the radius of the second end of the outer casing 305. The first end of the tailpipe 3056 is connected to the second end of the outer casing 305. The tailpipe 3056 can concentrate the water flow output from the culvert 3052, increase the flow velocity, and thus increase the thrust output of the propeller, improving the overall propulsion performance. The tapered design of the diversion pipe and the tailpipe not only optimizes the introduction and output of water flow functionally, but may also reduce the direct impact of water flow on the culvert wall to a certain extent, protecting the culvert structure and extending its service life.
[0061] like Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, in some embodiments, a middle tube 101 is provided at the first end of the fixed shaft 102, and the first end of the fixed shaft 102 is connected to the first end of the middle tube 101. An upper tube 103 is provided at the second end of the middle tube 101, and the first end of the upper tube 103 can extend into or out of the second end of the middle tube 101 to achieve a telescopic function. The upper tube 103 and the middle tube 101 are locked together by a buckle 104 provided at the second end of the middle tube 101.
[0062] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the second end of the upper tube 103 is provided with a handle 105, which makes it easy for users to hold and operate, improves the portability and comfort of operation of the device, and enables users to more stably control the direction and force of the thruster when used in water.
[0063] In some embodiments, such as Figure 13 As shown, the central tube and the fixed shaft can be selectively set at an angle α. This angle α can be set according to ergonomics to provide comfortable support and reduce fatigue during exercise. In some embodiments, the central tube and the fixed shaft are rotatably connected, allowing the aforementioned angle α to be selectively set to meet different needs in different situations. Furthermore, once the aforementioned angle α is determined, a limiting structure can be used to fix the angle α. The limiting structure can be a locking structure, a damping structure, etc.
[0064] like Figure 14 As shown, according to one embodiment of this application, a power structure 21 is provided, which includes a shaft hole 205 disposed on a central tube 101. The shaft hole 205 is radially disposed along the central tube 101 and is close to the first end of the central tube 101. A rotatable central shaft 201 is installed in the shaft hole 205, and the central shaft 201 is connected to the inner wall of the shaft hole 205 via bearings. Cranks 202 are respectively disposed on both sides of the shaft hole 205. The first ends of the cranks 202 are respectively fixedly connected to the ends of the central shaft 201, and a foot pedal 203 is disposed on the second end of each crank 202. A worm gear 207 is fixedly mounted on the central shaft 201, and a worm 208 is disposed on the outer side of the central tube 101. The worm 208 is connected to the central tube 101 via a support seat 209, and the worm 208 is connected to the support seat 209 via bearings. The worm gear 207 is meshed with the worm 208. A first gear 2010 is mounted on one end of the worm gear 208 near the bushing 301. In the aforementioned drive structure 30, the second bevel gear 3011 on the bushing 301 of the transmission structure is replaced with a second gear 306 that meshes with and connects to the first gear 2010.
[0065] like Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, according to one embodiment of this application, a power structure 20 and a drive structure 31 are provided.
[0066] The power structure 20 includes a central shaft 201, which is rotatably mounted on a fixed shaft 102 via bearings. Cranks 202 are respectively provided on both sides of the central shaft 201. The first end of the cranks 202 is fixedly connected to the end of the central shaft 201, and a foot pedal 203 is installed on the second end of the cranks 202. A first bevel gear 204 is fixedly mounted on the central shaft 201.
[0067] The drive structure 31 includes a first impeller 302 and a second impeller 303, which are respectively disposed on both sides of the central shaft 201 and rotatably sleeved on the fixed shaft 102. A third bevel gear 3012 is disposed on the side of the first impeller 302 facing the first bevel gear 204 and is fixedly connected to the first impeller 302 coaxially. A fourth bevel gear 3031 is disposed on the side of the second impeller 303 facing the first bevel gear 204 and is fixedly connected to the second impeller 303 coaxially. Both the third bevel gear 3012 and the fourth bevel gear 3031 are meshed with the first bevel gear 204.
[0068] The third bevel gear 3012 and the fourth bevel gear 3031 together form a transmission structure. The user converts human power into driving force through the power structure, which in turn drives the first impeller 302 and the second impeller 303 to rotate. The first impeller 302 rotates in the opposite direction to the second impeller 303. This allows the two rotating impellers to cancel out at least a portion of the torque in their respective rotational directions, reducing mechanical vibration and energy loss caused by torque imbalance and improving the overall efficiency and stability of the propulsion system. Furthermore, the first impeller 302 has several outwardly extending first blades circumferentially, and the second impeller 303 has several outwardly extending second blades circumferentially. The first and second blades have opposite orientations, ensuring that when the first and second impellers rotate in opposite directions, they can provide driving force in the same direction. This not only cancels out torque but, more importantly, concentrates the thrust output in the same direction. This design makes the hydrodynamic force more concentrated, increasing the volume and velocity of the propelled water flow per unit time, thus significantly enhancing the overall propulsion effect.
[0069] like Figures 17 to 20 As shown, according to one embodiment of this application, a power structure 20 and a drive structure 32 are provided.
[0070] The power structure 20 includes a central shaft 201, which is rotatably mounted on a fixed shaft 102 via bearings. Cranks 202 are respectively provided on both sides of the central shaft 201. The first end of the cranks 202 is fixedly connected to the end of the central shaft 201, and a foot pedal 203 is installed on the second end of the cranks 202. A first bevel gear 204 is fixedly mounted on the central shaft 201.
[0071] The drive structure 32 includes a first impeller 302, a second impeller 303, and a transmission structure for transmitting power. The transmission structure includes a rotating shaft 106, whose first side is inserted into the first end of a fixed shaft 102 and rotatably connected to the inner wall of the fixed shaft 102. A sixth bevel gear 1061 is fixedly mounted on the first side of the rotating shaft 106, and the sixth bevel gear 1061 meshes with a first bevel gear 204. The first impeller 302 and the second impeller 303 are both sleeved on the second side of the rotating shaft 106, wherein the first impeller 302 is close to the first end of the fixed shaft 102 and rotatably connected to the rotating shaft 106, and the second impeller 303 is fixedly connected to the rotating shaft 106. The first impeller 302 has a plurality of outwardly extending first blades arranged circumferentially, and the second impeller 303 has a plurality of outwardly extending second blades arranged circumferentially, with the first and second blades arranged in a mirror image.
[0072] In some embodiments, the first impeller 302 has a first end and a second end along its axial direction, wherein the first end of the first impeller 302 is close to the first end of the fixed shaft 102. The second end of the first impeller 302 is rotatably connected to the outer wall of the rotating shaft 106 via a bearing, and the inner wall of the first end of the first impeller 302 is provided with a gear ring 3021. The transmission structure also includes a planetary gear 107, the axial direction of which is the same as the axial direction of the rotating shaft 106 and the axial direction of the first impeller 302. The planetary gear 107 is fixedly mounted on the first end of the fixed shaft 102 via a gear shaft 1071, and the planetary gear 107 meshes with the gear ring 3021. A third gear 1062 is provided on the rotating shaft 106, and the third gear 1062 meshes with the gear ring 3021 via the planetary gear 107. The user converts human power into driving force through the power structure, and drives the first impeller 302 and the second impeller 303 to rotate through the transmission structure. The rotation direction of the first impeller 302 is opposite to that of the second impeller 303. Its function is the same as that in the above embodiment, and will not be repeated here.
[0073] In some embodiments, the first bevel gear 204 of any of the above embodiments is rotatably connected to the central shaft 201 via a one-way gear; or, the worm gear 207 is rotatably connected to the central shaft via a one-way gear; or, the first gear 2010 is rotatably connected to the worm 208 via a one-way gear. This enables the power structure and drive structure to transmit motion in one direction.
[0074] The fixed shaft 102 in any of the above embodiments may optionally include a central tube 101. The fixed shaft 102 and the central tube 101 are integrally formed, fixedly connected, detachably connected, or rotatably connected.
[0075] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. 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 human-powered underwater propulsion device, characterized in that, include, A power structure configured to convert human power into driving force; and The drive structure includes a first impeller (302), a second impeller (303), and a transmission structure. The first impeller (302) and the second impeller (303) are arranged at the same axial position, and the first impeller (302) and the second impeller (303) have opposite blade orientations. The power structure drives the first impeller (302) and the second impeller (303) to rotate in opposite directions through the transmission structure, so that the first impeller (302) and the second impeller (303) generate thrust in the same direction.
2. The underwater human-powered propulsion device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The power structure includes a central shaft (201) and foot pedals (203) respectively disposed at both ends of the central shaft (201), and a power gear is mounted on the central shaft (201); The transmission structure includes a gear set, which includes a first gear fixedly connected to the first impeller (302) and a second gear fixedly connected to the second impeller (303); The power structure drives the first gear and the second gear of the transmission structure through its power gear, so as to rotate the first impeller (302) and the second impeller (303).
3. The underwater human-powered propulsion device according to claim 2, characterized in that, It also includes a fixed shaft (102); The central shaft (201) and the fixed shaft (102) are rotatably connected; Both the first impeller (302) and the second impeller (303) are rotatably sleeved on the fixed shaft (102); the first gear is disposed at the first end of the first impeller (302) facing the central shaft (201); the second gear is disposed at the first end of the second impeller (303) facing the central shaft (201).
4. The underwater human-powered propulsion device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first impeller (302) is disposed between the central shaft (201) and the second impeller (303); The transmission structure also includes: A third gear, which is fixedly mounted on the second end of the first impeller (302); and A gear shaft (304) is disposed between the first impeller (302) and the second impeller (303), and a fourth gear is rotatably mounted on the gear shaft (304); The first gear is meshed with the power gear, and the second gear is meshed with the third gear through the fourth gear.
5. The underwater human-powered propulsion device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The transmission structure further includes a bushing (301), which is disposed between the first gear and the first impeller (302); or / and The thruster also includes a protective cover (206), and both the power gear and the first gear are disposed inside the protective cover (206); the end of the protective cover (206) facing the thrust direction of the thruster is tapered.
6. The underwater human-powered propulsion device according to claim 2, characterized in that, It also includes a fixed shaft (102); The central shaft (201) and the fixed shaft (102) are rotatably connected; The transmission structure further includes a rotating shaft (106) and a planetary gear (107). The axial direction of the rotating shaft (106) is the same as that of the planetary gear (107). A fifth gear (1062) is mounted on the rotating shaft (106). The planetary gear (107) is arranged on the fixed shaft (102). The fifth gear (1062) meshes with the planetary gear (107). The rotating shaft (106) and the fixed shaft (102) are rotatably connected. The first end of the rotating shaft (106) is close to the central shaft (201), the second gear is fixedly installed at the first end of the rotating shaft (106), the second gear is meshed with the power gear, and the second impeller (303) is fixedly installed at the second end of the rotating shaft (106); The first impeller (302) is disposed between the second gear and the second impeller (303) and is rotatably sleeved on the rotating shaft (106); the first gear includes a gear ring (3021) disposed on the inner wall of the first impeller (302), and the gear ring (3021) meshes with the planetary gear (107).
7. The underwater human-powered propulsion device according to claim 1, 2, 3, or 6, characterized in that, It also includes an outer cover (305), and the first impeller (302) and the second impeller (303) are both disposed inside the outer cover (305); The outer cover (305) includes a first end and a second end opposite to each other, wherein the first end of the outer cover (305) faces the thrust direction of the thruster.
8. The underwater human-powered propulsion device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The outer cover (305) includes a drainage tube (3055) disposed at a first end of the outer cover (305), the radius of the inlet of the drainage tube (3055) being larger than the radius of its inner side; or / and The outer cover (305) includes a tail tube (3056), which is located at the second end of the outer cover (305), and the radius of the outlet of the tail tube (3056) is smaller than the radius of its inner side.
9. The underwater human-powered propulsion device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The outer cover (305) is provided with a protective net at the first end and / or the second end. The protective net has a plurality of mesh holes and the outer edge of the protective net is connected to the inner wall of the outer cover (305).
10. The underwater human-powered propulsion device according to claim 3 or 6, characterized in that, The first end of the fixed shaft (102) is oriented toward the thrust direction of the thruster; A central tube (101) is provided at the first end of the fixed shaft (102), one end of the central tube (101) is connected to the first end of the fixed shaft (102), and the fixed shaft (102) and the central tube (101) may optionally be provided with an included angle α, so that the central tube (101) and the power structure and the drive structure are arranged in an ergonomic manner; or / and The first end of the fixed shaft (102) is provided with a handle (105); or / and The first end of the fixed shaft (102) is provided with a retractable upper tube (103).