Hydrofoil Rod System

Abstract

To improve smoothness of a rod for driving a flap of a hydrofoil.SOLUTION: A rod system 7 of a hydrofoil vessel 1 includes: a rod 72 coupled to a front unit flap 41 as well as being inserted into an insertion space 31 in the front unit strut 3 for driving the front unit flap 41 by being displaced in the axial direction; slide bearings 74a, 74b provided in the insertion space 31 for supporting the rod 72 so as to be freely displaced in the axial direction; and a first seal mechanism 75 provided in a position on the front unit flap 41 side with respect to the slide bearings 74a 74b in the insertion space 31 for sealing between the insertion space 31 and the rod 72.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The technology disclosed herein relates to a hydrofoil rod system that drives the flaps of the hydrofoil. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, there is known a hydrofoil vessel having hydrofoils attached to the bottom of the vessel. The hydrofoils extend in the left-right direction of the vessel and are supported by struts. The hydrofoils are provided with flaps for controlling the attitude of the vessel. A rod for driving the flap is inserted through the strut and connected to the flap. The flap is driven by an actuator displacing the rod in its axial direction. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Pat. No. 4,655,913 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the above-mentioned hydrofoil ship, the flaps are frequently driven to control the attitude of the hull, and therefore high smoothness of the rod is required. In other words, improving the smoothness of the rod leads to higher accuracy of the attitude control of the hull.

[0005] The technology disclosed in this application has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned points, and its purpose is to improve the smoothness of the rod for driving the flap of the hydrofoil. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The technology disclosed in this application is a rod system for a hydrofoil vessel that drives a flap of a hydrofoil supported by a strut in the hydrofoil vessel. The rod system includes a rod, a bearing, and a first seal mechanism. The rod is connected to the flap and inserted into an insertion space in the strut, and displaces in the axial direction to drive the flap. The bearing is provided in the insertion space and supports the rod so that it can be displaced in the axial direction. The first seal mechanism is provided at a position closer to the flap than the bearing in the insertion space, and seals between the insertion space and the rod. Effect of the Invention

[0007] The hydrofoil rod system disclosed herein can improve rod smoothness. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the hydrofoil vessel seen from the front right. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the hydrofoil vessel seen from the rear left. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the front and rear struts and foils of a hydrofoil vessel. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of the rod system. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of the first sealing mechanism. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of the second sealing mechanism. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a strut drive mechanism. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a strut drive mechanism. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an actuator of the strut drive mechanism. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a first sealing mechanism according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, an exemplary embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a hydrofoil vessel 1 as viewed from the right front. Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the hydrofoil vessel 1 as viewed from the left rear. Fig. 3 is a perspective view of front and rear struts and foils of the hydrofoil vessel 1.

[0010] The hydrofoil vessel 1 comprises a hull 2, one front strut 3, a front foil 4 attached to the front strut 3, three rear struts 5, an rear foil 6 attached to the rear strut 5, two jet pumps 11, and two gas turbine engines 12. Note that the numbers of the front struts 3, front foils 4, rear foils 6, etc. are not limited to these.

[0011] Hereinafter, the forward and backward directions are defined as "fore" and "aft" in the direction of travel of the hydrofoil ship 1, respectively. The left-right directions are defined as "right" and "left" in the direction of travel of the hydrofoil ship 1, respectively. The height direction of the hydrofoil ship 1 is defined as the up-down direction.

[0012] The front strut 3 is provided at the front of the hull 2, in the center in the left-right direction. The upper end of the front strut 3 is connected to the bottom of the hull 2. The front strut 3 is provided on the hull 2 ​​so as to rotate in the fore-aft direction (i.e. so as to rotate around an axis extending in the left-right direction). Specifically, the front strut 3 is configured to rotate in the fore-aft direction between a first state in which it extends downward from the bottom of the hull 2, and a second state in which it extends forward from the bottom of the hull 2. Furthermore, the front strut 3 is provided on the hull 2 ​​so as to be rotatable around its axis. Hereinafter, when describing the configuration of the front strut 3 etc., unless otherwise specified, the front strut 3 is assumed to be in the first state.

[0013] The front foils 4 extend to the left and right, respectively, from the lower ends of the front struts 3. In other words, the front foils 4 are an example of hydrofoils, and are supported by the front struts 3.

[0014] A plurality of front flaps 41 are provided at the rear end of the front foil 4. The front flaps 41 are provided rotatably about axes extending in the left-right direction of the hull 2. The lift force generated by the front foil 4 is adjusted by the rotation of the front flaps 41. The front flaps 41 are an example of a flap.

[0015] The three rear struts 5 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction at the rear of the hull 2. The upper ends of the rear struts 5 are connected to the bottom of the hull 2. The rear struts 5 are arranged on the hull 2 ​​so as to rotate in the fore-aft direction (i.e. so as to rotate around an axis extending in the left-right direction). Specifically, the rear struts 5 are configured to rotate in the fore-aft direction between a first state in which they extend downward from the bottom of the hull 2, and a second state in which they extend rearward from the bottom of the hull 2. Hereinafter, when distinguishing between the three rear struts 5, they will be referred to as the left rear strut 5, the central rear strut 5, and the right rear strut 5, from the left.

[0016] The rear foil 6 is provided on the lower ends of the three rear struts 5. Specifically, the rear foil 6 extends left and right so as to connect the lower end of the left rear strut 5 with the lower end of the central rear strut 5, and the rear foil 6 extends left and right so as to connect the lower end of the right rear strut 5 with the lower end of the central rear strut 5. In other words, the rear foil 6 is an example of a hydrofoil, and is supported by the rear struts 5.

[0017] A plurality of rear flaps 61 are provided at the rear end of the rear foil 6. The rear flaps 61 are provided rotatably about axes extending in the left-right direction. The rear flaps 61 rotate to adjust the lift force generated by the rear foil 6. The rear flaps 61 are an example of a flap.

[0018] One jet pump 11 and one gas turbine engine 12 form one pair, and the gas turbine engine 12 drives the jet pump 11. In other words, the hydrofoil ship 1 has two pairs of jet pumps 11 and gas turbine engines 12.

[0019] The two jet pumps 11 are arranged on the left and right sides at the rear and bottom of the hull 2. A water supply port 51 that opens forward is provided at the lower end of the central rear strut 5. The upper end of the central rear strut 5 branches into two, each connected to one of the two jet pumps 11. A water supply passage is formed inside the central rear strut 5. Water flows from the water supply port 51 into the interior of the central rear strut 5, flows through the water supply passage, and flows into each of the two jet pumps 11.

[0020] The two gas turbine engines 12 are disposed on the left and right sides, respectively, at the rear of the hull 2. Each gas turbine engine 12 is connected to a jet pump 11 via a reduction gear (not shown) in a gear box 12a.

[0021] The jet pump 11 is an axial water jet pump that jets water backward to propel the hydrofoil boat 1 forward.

[0022] The hydrofoil vessel 1 can be switched between a boat-running state (not shown) in which the vessel travels with the bottom of the hull 2 ​​submerged, and a foil-running state (the state shown in Figures 1 and 2) in which the vessel travels with the hull 2 ​​raised above the water surface by the lift of the front foil 4 and the rear foil 6. In the boat-running state, both the front strut 3 and the rear strut 5 are in the first state or the second state. Also, in the boat-running state, one of the front strut 3 and the rear strut 5 may be in the first state and the other in the second state. In the foil-running state, both the front strut 3 and the rear strut 5 are in the first state. In other words, the hydrofoil vessel 1 is a so-called fully submerged hydrofoil vessel in which the entire front foil 4 and the rear foil 6 are submerged below the water surface when foil-running.

[0023] In addition, the hydrofoil vessel 1 is balanced during turning by the front strut 3 rotating about its axis during foil flight. In other words, the front strut 3 has a function of supporting the front foil 4 and a function as a rudder.

[0024] Rod System FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of the rod system 7. As shown in FIG.

[0025] The hydrofoil vessel 1 further comprises two rod systems which drive the front flap 41 of the front foil 4 and the rear flap 61 of the rear foil 6. Since the two rod systems have the same basic configuration, the rod system 7 which drives the front flap 41 will be described here as an example. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the positions and directions mentioned here refer to the positions and directions in the hydrofoil vessel 1 in a foiling state.

[0026] The rod system 7 includes an actuator 71, a rod 72, a link mechanism 73, sliding bearings 74a and 74b, a first seal mechanism 75, a second seal mechanism 76, and a spacer 78.

[0027] The rod 72 is connected to the front flap 41 and inserted into the insertion space 31 in the front strut 3 , and drives the front flap 41 by being displaced in the axial direction.

[0028] Specifically, the rod 72 has a circular outer shape and extends in the vertical direction. The rod 72 is inserted into an insertion space 31 formed in the front strut 3. The insertion space 31 is a cylindrical space extending in the vertical direction in the front strut 3. The rod 72 is inserted into the insertion space 31 so as to be displaceable in the axial direction of the rod 72 (i.e., the vertical direction). More specifically, the rod 72 is inserted into the insertion space 31 with its lower end positioned outside the insertion space 31 and therefore the front strut 3. Furthermore, the rod 72 is inserted into the insertion space 31 with its upper end positioned outside the insertion space 31.

[0029] The rod 72 is indirectly connected to the front flap 41. Specifically, the lower end of the rod 72 is connected to the front flap 41 via a link mechanism 73. The front flap 41 is supported by a pin 42 extending in the left-right direction of the hull 2, and rotates around the pin 42. The link mechanism 73 is connected to a lever 41a of the front flap 41. In other words, the link mechanism 73 rotates the lever 41a (front flap 41) as the rod 72 is displaced in the axial direction. In this way, the rod 72 drives the front flap 41 by being displaced in the axial direction.

[0030] The actuator 71 is connected to the upper end of the rod 72. That is, the actuator 71 is connected to the end of the rod 72 opposite to the front flap 41 side. The actuator 71 displaces the rod 72 in the axial direction. In this example, the actuator 71 is a hydraulic cylinder. That is, a piston rod 71a of the actuator 71 is connected to the upper end of the rod 72, and the actuator 71 displaces the rod 72 in the axial direction by moving the piston rod 71a back and forth (reciprocating motion).

[0031] The actuator 71 is provided in a portion that is not submerged when the hydrofoil is traveling. The non-submerged portion is a portion of the hydrofoil ship 1 that is not submerged below the water surface WS. In this example, the actuator 71 is provided at a position higher than the bottom of the hull 2. Therefore, when the hydrofoil is traveling, the hull 2 ​​rises above the water surface WS, and the actuator 71 is not submerged below the water surface WS (see FIG. 4).

[0032] The plain bearings 74a, 74b are provided in the insertion space 31 and support the rod 72 so as to be displaceable in the axial direction. That is, the rod 72 slides in the axial direction relative to the plain bearings 74a, 74b. The plain bearings 74a, 74b are an example of a bearing. A plurality of plain bearings 74a, 74b (four in this example) are provided. The plurality of plain bearings 74a, 74b are arranged in order in the axial direction in the insertion space 31. The plurality of plain bearings 74a, 74b are provided at a predetermined interval from each other.

[0033] In this manner, the rod 72 is supported by the plurality of sliding bearings 74a, 74b, thereby suppressing buckling of the rod 72. This improves the smoothness of the rod 72. In other words, the rod 72 is displaced smoothly in the axial direction.

[0034] The first seal mechanism 75 is provided at a position closer to the front flap 41 than the plain bearings 74a, 74b in the insertion space 31, and seals between the insertion space 31 and the rod 72. That is, the first seal mechanism 75 is provided at a position closer to the front flap 41 than the plain bearing 74b, which is the closest to the front flap 41 among the multiple plain bearings 74a, 74b, in the insertion space 31. In this manner, the first seal mechanism 75 is provided to prevent foreign matter such as water (seawater) and marine organisms from entering the insertion space 31 from the front flap 41 side.

[0035] The second seal mechanism 76 is provided at a position in the insertion space 31 opposite the front flap 41 side from the plain bearings 74a, 74b, and seals between the insertion space 31 and the rod 72. That is, the second seal mechanism 76 is provided at a position on the actuator 71 side from the plain bearing 74a (i.e., the plain bearing 74a closest to the actuator 71) that is the farthest from the front flap 41 among the plurality of plain bearings 74a, 74b in the insertion space 31. In this manner, the second seal mechanism 76 is provided to prevent foreign matter such as water (seawater) and marine organisms from entering the insertion space 31 from the actuator 71 side (i.e., the side opposite the front flap 41).

[0036] In this manner, by providing the first seal mechanism 75 and the second seal mechanism 76, a watertight space 35 is defined and formed by both seal mechanisms 75, 76 in the insertion space 31. The watertight space 35 is a space that prevents the intrusion of water and foreign matter from the outside, and is set as a space that accommodates at least the portion of the rod 72 that slides on the plain bearings 74a, 74b. The detailed configurations of the first seal mechanism 75 and the second seal mechanism 76 will be described later.

[0037] The spacer 78 is provided in the insertion space 31 and maintains a distance between the sliding bearings 74a, 74b. Specifically, the spacer 78 is formed in a cylindrical shape and is disposed on the outer periphery of the rod 72. The inner diameter of the spacer 78 is larger than the outer diameter of the rod 72, and the outer diameter of the spacer 78 is smaller than the inner diameter of the insertion space 31. The spacer 78 is provided between the sliding bearings 74a, 74b and disposed in contact with the sliding bearings 74a, 74b. By providing the spacer 78 in this manner, the sliding bearings 74a, 74b are maintained at a predetermined distance.

[0038] Furthermore, in the insertion space 31, spacers 78 are provided between the first seal mechanism 75 and the sliding bearing 74b immediately above it, and between the second seal mechanism 76 and the sliding bearing 74a immediately below it. Therefore, the first seal mechanism 75 and the second seal mechanism 76 are held at a predetermined distance from the sliding bearings 74a and 74b. Furthermore, each of the multiple sliding bearings 74a and 74b is sandwiched between the spacers 78. Therefore, even if the sliding bearings 74a and 74b are not fixed to the inner circumferential surface of the insertion space 31, for example, the sliding bearings 74a and 74b are held (fixed) by the spacers 78.

[0039] A waterproofing agent is applied to the rod 72 located on the side of the sliding bearings 74a and 74b from the first seal mechanism 75. More specifically, a waterproofing agent is applied to the surfaces of the rod 72, the sliding bearings 74a and 74b, the first seal mechanism 75, the second seal mechanism 76, and the spacer 78 located in the watertight space 35. In this example, the waterproofing agent is grease. By applying the waterproofing agent in this manner, the watertight space 35 is waterproofed. In addition, since grease is used as the waterproofing agent, the sliding parts between the rod 72 and the sliding bearings 74a and 74b are also lubricated.

[0040] The rod 72, the sliding bearings 74a, 74b, the first sealing mechanism 75, the second sealing mechanism 76, and the spacer 78 are assembled together before being installed in the insertion space 31. During this assembly, a waterproofing agent is applied to each of the rod 72 and the sliding bearings 74a, 74b, etc. The assembled rod 72 and the sliding bearings 74a, 74b, etc. are again coated with a waterproofing agent and installed in the insertion space 31.

[0041] The sealing mechanisms 75, 76 and the sliding bearings 74a, 74b, etc. thus assembled in the insertion space 31 are pressed in the axial direction by the pressing members 77a, 77b. Specifically, the pressing member 77b attached to the end of the insertion space 31 on the actuator 71 side presses the second sealing mechanism 76 downward. The pressing member 77a attached to the end of the insertion space 31 on the front flap 41 side presses the first sealing mechanism 75 upward via the spacer 78. This fixes the sliding bearings 74a, 74b and the sealing mechanisms 75, 76, etc. in predetermined positions.

[0042] Among the plurality of sliding bearings 74a, 74b, at least the sliding bearing 74b closest to the first seal mechanism 75 is a spherical bearing (also called a spherical sliding bearing). In this example, only the sliding bearing 74b closest to the first seal mechanism 75 is a spherical bearing. As shown in FIG. 5, the sliding bearing 74b has an outer ring 741 and an inner ring 742. The sliding contact surface between the outer ring 741 and the inner ring 742 is spherical. By making the sliding bearing 74b a spherical bearing, the thrust load (axial load) acting on the rod 72 from the front flap 41 via the link mechanism 73 can be received by the sliding bearing 74b. The sliding bearings 74a other than the sliding bearing 74b are composed of a single member formed in a cylindrical shape.

[0043] In this way, by making the plain bearing 74b, which is closest to the first seal mechanism 75, in other words, closest to the front flap 41, of the multiple plain bearings 74a, 74b, a spherical bearing, the buckling length of the rod 72 is minimized. Therefore, buckling of the rod 72 that may occur due to a thrust load (axial load) acting from the front flap 41 can be suppressed.

[0044] 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of the first sealing mechanism 75. The first sealing mechanism 75 has a holding member 751, a rod packing 755, a wiper seal 756, and a gasket 757.

[0045] The rod packing 755 is an example of an inner seal member that contacts the outer circumferential surface of the rod 72, and two are provided in this example. The wiper seal 756 is an example of an inner seal member that contacts the outer circumferential surface of the rod 72, and one is provided in this example. In the first seal mechanism 75, the wiper seal 756 and two rod packings 755 are arranged in this order from the front flap 41 side (the lower side in FIG. 5). The gasket 757 is an example of an outer seal member that contacts the inner circumferential surface of the insertion space 31, and one is provided in this example.

[0046] The holding member 751 holds the rod packing 755, the wiper seal 756, and the gasket 757. Specifically, the holding member 751 has a first metal portion 752, a second metal portion 753, and a resin portion 754, which are integral with each other.

[0047] The first metal part 752 is a metal part that holds a rod packing 755 and a wiper seal 756. The second metal part 753 is a metal part that holds a gasket 757. The first metal part 752 and the second metal part 753 are each formed in a substantially annular shape. In the first metal part 752, two rod packings 755 and a wiper seal 756 are fitted into three grooves formed in the inner circumferential surface. In the second metal part 753, a gasket 757 is fitted into one groove formed in the outer circumferential surface.

[0048] The outer diameter of the first metal part 752 is smaller than the outer diameter of the second metal part 753. The inner diameter of the first metal part 752 is smaller than the inner diameter of the second metal part 753. The first metal part 752 and the second metal part 753 are provided so as to be shifted from each other in the axial direction of the rod 72. The resin part 754 is a resin part that connects the first metal part 752 and the second metal part 753. The resin part 754 is an elastic part. The first metal part 752 and the second metal part 753 are connected only by the resin part 754. A spacer 78 that contacts the second metal part 753 and the outer ring 741 is provided between the first seal mechanism 75 and the sliding bearing 74b.

[0049] In the first seal mechanism 75 configured in this manner, the gap between the retaining member 751 (first metal portion 752) and the outer circumferential surface of the rod 72 is sealed by the rod packing 755 and the wiper seal 756. In addition, in the first seal mechanism 75, the gap between the retaining member 751 (second metal portion 753) and the inner circumferential surface of the insertion space 31 is sealed by the gasket 757. In this manner, the gap between the rod 72 and the insertion space 31 is sealed by the first seal mechanism 75. In the first seal mechanism 75, the watertight space 35 is defined at the position of the gasket 757.

[0050] In the first seal mechanism 75, the first metal part 752 and the second metal part 753 are connected by the resin part 754, so that the first metal part 752 and the second metal part 753 can each have flexibility in the radial direction. That is, the first metal part 752 and the second metal part 753 can each be displaced in the radial direction. Therefore, the first metal part 752 can easily conform to the outer circumferential surface of the rod 72, and the second metal part 753 can easily conform to the inner circumferential surface of the insertion space 31. Therefore, the sealing performance by the first seal mechanism 75 is improved.

[0051] 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of the second seal mechanism 76. The second seal mechanism 76 has a holding member 761, a rod packing 762, and O-rings 763a and 763b.

[0052] The rod packing 762 is an example of an inner seal member that contacts the outer circumferential surface of the rod 72, and two are provided in this example. The O-ring 763a is an example of an outer seal member that contacts the inner circumferential surface of the insertion space 31, and two are provided in this example.

[0053] Holding member 761 holds rod packing 762 and O-ring 763a. Holding member 761 is a cylindrical member made of metal. In holding member 761, rod packing 762 is fitted into two grooves formed on the inner circumferential surface. In holding member 761, O-ring 763a is fitted into a groove formed on the outer circumferential surface near the lower part, and another O-ring 763a is positioned on a step formed on the upper end. O-ring 763a positioned on this step is held from above by pressing member 767.

[0054] Furthermore, a recess is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the retaining member 761 between the two rod packings 762. One O-ring 763b is housed in the recess. This O-ring 763b is fitted onto the outer periphery of the rod 72. Furthermore, the retaining member 761 holds cylindrical plain bearings 764 at both the upper and lower parts. The rod 72 is inserted through the plain bearings 764, which support the rod 72 so as to be freely displaceable in the axial direction.

[0055] The second seal mechanism 76 also has a holding member 765 and a wiper seal 766 provided on the upper and lower sides, respectively, of the holding member 761. The wiper seal 766 is an example of an inner seal member that contacts the outer circumferential surface of the rod 72. The holding member 765 is an annular member made of metal. In the holding member 765, the wiper seal 766 is fitted into a groove formed on the inner circumferential surface.

[0056] In the second seal mechanism 76 configured in this manner, the gap between the holding members 761, 765 and the outer circumferential surface of the rod 72 is sealed by the rod packing 762 and the wiper seal 766. Also, in the second seal mechanism 76, the gap between the holding member 761 and the inner circumferential surface of the insertion space 31 is sealed by the O-ring 763a. In this manner, the gap between the rod 72 and the insertion space 31 is sealed by the second seal mechanism 76.

[0057] <Strut drive mechanism> Fig. 7 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of strut drive mechanism 8. Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of strut drive mechanism 8. Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of actuator 81 of strut drive mechanism 8.

[0058] The hydrofoil vessel 1 further includes a strut drive mechanism 8 that rotates the front strut 3. The strut drive mechanism 8 includes an actuator 81, a shaft 82 (also commonly known as a king post), a torque arm 83, and a housing 84. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the positions and directions mentioned here refer to the positions and directions in the hydrofoil vessel 1 in a foiling state.

[0059] The shaft 82 extends in the vertical direction, and is non-rotatably connected to the upper part of the front strut 3. The shaft 82 is rotatably supported by a housing 84. Specifically, the shaft 82 passes through the housing 84. The housing 84 holds two sliding bearings 85, 86 that rotatably support the shaft 82. A torque arm 83 is non-rotatably connected to the upper end of the shaft 82 that passes through the housing 84. That is, in the strut drive mechanism 8, the shaft 82, the torque arm 83, and the front strut 3 rotate together.

[0060] The actuator 81 rotates the torque arm 83. In this example, the actuator 81 is a hydraulic cylinder. Specifically, a piston rod 813 of the actuator 81 is connected to the torque arm 83, and a cap side of the actuator 81 is connected to a bracket 84a provided on a housing 84. As the piston rod 813 moves back and forth (reciprocating motion), the torque arm 83 rotates, and the front strut 3 rotates accordingly.

[0061] The actuator 81 is provided with a mechanism for alleviating excessive force (rotational force) even if the front strut 3 comes into contact with an obstacle and an excessive force acts on the actuator 81. Specifically, the actuator 81 is provided with a relief valve 816.

[0062] In the actuator 81, a piston rod 813 connected to a piston 812 in a cylinder tube 811 advances and retreats. The inside of the cylinder tube 811 is divided into a cap chamber 811a and a rod chamber 811b by the piston 812. When hydraulic oil is supplied from the first port Pc to the cap chamber 811a, the piston rod 813 advances. When hydraulic oil is supplied from the second port Pr to the rod chamber 811b, the piston rod 813 retreats.

[0063] A first flow passage 814 communicating with the cap chamber 811a and a second flow passage 815 communicating with the rod chamber 811b are provided in the cylinder tube 811. The relief valve 816 has a case 817, a valve body 818, and a spring 819.

[0064] The inside of the case 817 forms a valve chamber 817a. A valve element 818 (poppet) is housed in the valve chamber 817a so as to be displaceable. In this example, the valve element 818 is displaceable in the vertical direction in FIG. 9. A spring 819 is provided in the valve chamber 817a and biases the valve element 818 in one direction (downward in FIG. 9 in this example). The valve chamber 817a communicates with both the first flow path 814 and the second flow path 815.

[0065] In the relief valve 816, the valve body 818 is displaced to switch between a communication state in which the first flow path 814 and the second flow path 815 communicate with each other and a blocking state in which the first flow path 814 and the second flow path 815 are blocked. Specifically, the valve body 818 is displaced downward by the biasing force of the spring 819 to switch to the blocking state, and the valve body 818 is displaced upward against the biasing force of the spring 819 to switch to the communicating state. More specifically, when the combined force of the force of the pressure of the cap chamber 811a acting on the first pressure receiving portion 818a of the valve body 818 through the first flow path 814 and the force of the pressure of the rod chamber 811b acting on the second pressure receiving portion 818b of the valve body 818 through the second flow path 815 becomes larger than the biasing force of the spring 819, the valve body 818 is displaced upward to switch to the communicating state.

[0066] When the relief valve 816 is in a communicating state, the cap chamber 811a and the rod chamber 811b communicate with each other, so that the cap chamber 811a and the rod chamber 811b are pressure-equalized. That is, in the cap chamber 811a and the rod chamber 811b, pressure escapes from one chamber with higher pressure to the other chamber with lower pressure. As a result, even if an excessive rotational force acts on the actuator 81 and the pressure in the cap chamber 811a or the rod chamber 811b becomes excessively high, the excessive pressure can be released as described above, so that the excessive force acting on the actuator 81 can be alleviated. Therefore, even if the front strut 3 comes into contact with an obstacle, damage to the actuator 81 and the torque arm 83 can be prevented in advance.

[0067] As described above, the rod system 7 of the hydrofoil vessel 1 of the embodiment drives the front flap 41 (flap) of the front foil 4 (hydrofoil) supported by the front strut 3 (strut) in the hydrofoil vessel 1. The rod system 72 is connected to the front flap 41 and inserted into the insertion space 31 in the front strut 3 to drive the front flap 41 by displacing in the axial direction, and includes plain bearings 74a, 74b (bearings) provided in the insertion space 31 to support the rod 72 so as to be displaceable in the axial direction, and a first seal mechanism 75 provided in the insertion space 31 at a position closer to the front flap 41 than the plain bearings 74a, 74b and for sealing between the insertion space 31 and the rod 72.

[0068] According to the above-mentioned configuration, when the rod 72 is displaced, the rod 72 slides against the sliding bearings 74a, 74b. Meanwhile, the first seal mechanism 75 prevents foreign matter such as water (seawater) and marine organisms from entering the insertion space 31 from the front flap 41 side. Therefore, the outer circumferential surface of the rod 72 sliding against the sliding bearings 74a, 74b can be prevented from being corroded by water. In addition, the outer circumferential surface of the rod 72 sliding against the sliding bearings 74a, 74b can be prevented from being attached with marine organisms. This avoids an increase in the sliding resistance of the rod 72 against the sliding bearings 74a, 74b, improving the smoothness of the rod 72. Therefore, the control accuracy of the front flap 41 can be improved.

[0069] In particular, since the front flap 41 is submerged during wing flight, there is a high risk of water or other liquids entering from the front flap 41 side. However, according to the above embodiment, the intrusion of water or other liquids can be prevented, thereby effectively improving the smoothness of the rod 72.

[0070] In the rod system 7 of the hydrofoil ship 1 of the embodiment, the rod 72 located on the side of the first seal mechanism 75 facing the sliding bearings 74a, 74b is coated with a waterproofing agent.

[0071] According to the above-mentioned configuration, even if water should seep in through the first sealing mechanism 75, the waterproofing agent can prevent the water from adhering to the outer circumferential surface of the rod 72. Therefore, corrosion of the rod 72 due to water can be further prevented.

[0072] In addition, the rod system 7 of the hydrofoil vessel 1 of the above embodiment further includes a second sealing mechanism 76 that is provided at a position in the insertion space 31 opposite the front flap 41 side from the sliding bearings 74a, 74b, and seals between the insertion space 31 and the rod 72.

[0073] According to the above-mentioned configuration, the second seal mechanism 76 prevents foreign matter such as water (seawater) and marine organisms from entering the insertion space 31 from the side opposite to the front flap 41 side. Therefore, the outer circumferential surface of the rod 72 sliding against the plain bearings 74a, 74b can be more effectively prevented from being corroded by water. In addition, the outer circumferential surface of the rod 72 sliding against the plain bearings 74a, 74b can be more effectively prevented from having marine organisms attach to it.

[0074] In the rod system 7 of the hydrofoil ship 1 of the embodiment, a plurality of plain bearings 74a, 74b are provided.

[0075] According to the above-mentioned configuration, since a plurality of sliding bearings 74a, 74b are provided, the rod 72 can be supported more stably than in the case where there is a single sliding bearing. Also, an increase in the sliding resistance of the rod 72 in each of the sliding bearings 74a, 74b can be avoided.

[0076] Moreover, the rod system 7 of the hydrofoil ship 1 of the embodiment further includes a spacer 78 that is provided in the insertion space 31 and maintains the distance between the plain bearings 74a, 74b.

[0077] According to the above configuration, the plurality of plain bearings 74a, 74b can be held at predetermined positions at predetermined intervals. Therefore, the plain bearings 74a, 74b can be supported more stably than the rod 72. Also, for example, even if the plain bearings 74a, 74b are not fixed to the inner circumferential surface of the insertion space 31, the plain bearings 74a, 74b can be held by being sandwiched between the spacer 78. Therefore, during maintenance and inspection, the plain bearings 74a, 74b can be easily installed in and removed from the insertion space 31.

[0078] In the rod system 7 of the hydrofoil ship 1 of the embodiment, at least the plain bearing 74b closest to the first seal mechanism 75 among the plurality of plain bearings 74a, 74b is a spherical bearing.

[0079] According to the above configuration, since the sliding bearing 74b is a spherical bearing, the thrust load (axial load) acting on the rod 72 from the front flap 41 can be received by the sliding bearing 74b. Among the multiple sliding bearings 74a, 74b, the sliding bearing 74b is the sliding bearing closest to the first seal mechanism 75, i.e., the sliding bearing closest to the front flap 41, and therefore the buckling length of the rod 72 can be minimized. Therefore, buckling of the rod 72 that may occur due to the thrust load (axial load) acting from the front flap 41 can be effectively suppressed. As a result, the smoothness of the rod 72 is further improved.

[0080] The rod system 7 of the hydrofoil vessel 1 of the embodiment further includes an actuator 71 connected to the end of the rod 72 opposite to the front flap 41 side, for displacing the rod 72 in the axial direction. The actuator 71 is provided in a portion that is not submerged when the foil is traveling.

[0081] According to the above-mentioned configuration, it is possible to suppress the influence of moisture on the actuator 71, such as corrosion.

[0082] In the rod system 7 of the hydrofoil vessel 1 of the embodiment, the first seal mechanism 75 has a rod packing 755 and a wiper seal 756 (inner seal member) that contact the outer circumferential surface of the rod 72, a gasket 757 (outer seal member) that contacts the inner circumferential surface of the insertion space 31, and a retaining member 751 that holds the rod packing 755, the wiper seal 756, and the gasket 757. The retaining member 751 has a first metal part 752 that holds the rod packing 755, a second metal part 753 that holds the gasket 757, and a resin part 754 that connects the first metal part 752 and the second metal part 753.

[0083] According to the above-mentioned configuration, the gap between the holding member 751 (first metal portion 752) and the outer circumferential surface of the rod 72 is sealed by the rod packing 755 and the wiper seal 756. Also, the gap between the holding member 751 (second metal portion 753) and the inner circumferential surface of the insertion space 31 is sealed by the gasket 757. In this way, the gap between the rod 72 and the insertion space 31 can be sealed by the first sealing mechanism 75.

[0084] Since the first metal part 752 and the second metal part 753 are connected by the resin part 754, each of the first metal part 752 and the second metal part 753 can be given flexibility in the radial direction. Therefore, the first metal part 752 can easily conform to the outer circumferential surface of the rod 72, and the second metal part 753 can easily conform to the inner circumferential surface of the insertion space 31. Therefore, even if the rod 72 is bent, for example, the first metal part 752 conforms according to the shape of the rod, so that the degree of contact of the rod packing 755 and the like with the rod 72 can be appropriately ensured. Therefore, the sealing property by the first seal mechanism 75 can be maintained with high accuracy.

[0085] (Other embodiments) As described above, the above embodiment has been described as an example of the technology disclosed in this application. However, the technology in this disclosure is not limited to this, and can be applied to embodiments in which modifications, replacements, additions, omissions, etc. are appropriately performed. In addition, it is also possible to combine the components described in the above embodiment to form a new embodiment. In addition, among the components described in the attached drawings and detailed description, not only components essential for solving the problem but also components that are not essential for solving the problem in order to exemplify the technology may be included. Therefore, the fact that these non-essential components are described in the attached drawings and detailed description should not immediately be taken to mean that these non-essential components are essential.

[0086] For example, in the rod system 7 of the above embodiment, the first seal mechanism may be changed to a configuration as shown in Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a first seal mechanism 79 according to another embodiment. The first seal mechanism 79 of this example has a retaining member 791, a rod packing 792, a wiper seal 793, and a gasket 794.

[0087] The rod packing 792 is an example of an inner seal member that contacts the outer circumferential surface of the rod 72. The wiper seal 793 is an example of an inner seal member that contacts the outer circumferential surface of the rod 72. In the first seal mechanism 79, the wiper seal 793 and the rod packing 792 are arranged in this order from the front flap 41 side (the lower side in FIG. 10). The gasket 794 is an example of an outer seal member that contacts the inner circumferential surface of the insertion space 31. The holding member 791 holds the rod packing 792, the wiper seal 793, and the gasket 794. The holding member 791 is a cylindrical member made of metal. In the holding member 791, the rod packing 792 and the wiper seal 793 are fitted into two grooves formed on the inner circumferential surface. In addition, in the holding member 791, the gasket 794 is fitted into one groove formed on the outer circumferential surface.

[0088] In the first sealing mechanism 79 configured in this manner, the gap between the retaining member 791 and the outer circumferential surface of the rod 72 is sealed by the rod packing 792 and the wiper seal 793. In addition, in the first sealing mechanism 79, the gap between the retaining member 791 and the inner circumferential surface of the insertion space 31 is sealed by the gasket 794. In this manner, the gap between the rod 72 and the insertion space 31 is sealed by the first sealing mechanism 79. In addition, in this first sealing mechanism 79, the watertight space 35 is defined at the position of the wiper seal 793.

[0089] In addition, in the above embodiment, the configuration, action, and effect of the rod system that drives the rear flap 61 are basically the same as those of the rod system 7 that drives the front flap 41 described above.

[0090] In the rod system 7 of the above embodiment, the second sealing mechanism 76 may be omitted, and application of a waterproofing agent to the rod 72 and the like may be omitted.

[0091] Furthermore, the configurations of the first seal mechanism 75 and the second seal mechanism 76 described above are merely examples, and any configuration that can prevent the intrusion of water or the like into the insertion space 31 may be used.

[0092] In the rod system 7 of the embodiment, a waterproofing agent other than the above-mentioned grease may be used.

[0093] In addition, in the rod system 7 of the above embodiment, of the multiple sliding bearings 74a, 74b, only the sliding bearing 74b closest to the first sealing mechanism 75 is a spherical bearing, but in addition to the sliding bearing 74b, all or part of the other sliding bearings 74a may also be spherical bearings.

[0094] Further, in the rod system 7 of the above embodiment, the sliding bearings 74a and 74b are used as the bearings, but rolling bearings may also be used. [Explanation of symbols]

[0095] 1 hydrofoil 3 Front strut (strut) 4 Front foil (hydrofoil) 7 Rod System 31 Insertion space 41 Front flap (flap) 71 Actuator 72 Rod 74a Plain bearing (bearing) 74b Plain bearing (bearing) 75,79 First seal mechanism 76 Second sealing mechanism 78 Spacer 751 Retaining member 752 1st metal part 753 2nd metal part 754 Resin part 755 Rod packing (inner seal material) 756 Wiper seal (inner seal material) 757 Gasket (outer seal material)

Claims

1. 1. A rod system for a hydrofoil vessel for driving a flap of a hydrofoil supported by a strut on the hydrofoil vessel, comprising: a rod connected to the flap and inserted into an insertion space in the strut, the rod displacing in an axial direction to drive the flap; a bearing provided in the insertion space and supporting the rod so as to be displaceable in the axial direction; A rod system for a hydrofoil vessel comprising: a first seal mechanism provided within the insertion space and between the bearing and the flap, for sealing between the rod and the strut in the insertion space.

2. 2. The hydrofoil rod system of claim 1, A rod system for a hydrofoil vessel, wherein the rod located on the bearing side from the first seal mechanism is coated with a waterproofing agent.

3. A hydrofoil rod system according to claim 1 or 2, The rod system for a hydrofoil vessel further comprises a second seal mechanism provided at a position in the insertion space opposite the flap side from the bearing, for sealing between the insertion space and the rod.

4. 2. The hydrofoil rod system of claim 1, A rod system for a hydrofoil vessel, the rod system including a plurality of bearings.

5. A rod system for a hydrofoil vessel for driving a flap of a hydrofoil supported by a strut on the hydrofoil vessel, comprising: a rod connected to the flap and inserted into an insertion space in the strut, the rod displacing in an axial direction to drive the flap; a plurality of bearings provided in the insertion space and supporting the rod so as to be displaceable in the axial direction; a first seal mechanism provided at a position closer to the flap than the bearings in the insertion space and configured to seal between the rod and the strut in the insertion space; A rod system for a hydrofoil vessel comprising: a spacer that is provided in the insertion space, contacts the plurality of bearings in the axial direction, and maintains the distance between the bearings.

6. A rod system for a hydrofoil vessel for driving a flap of a hydrofoil supported by a strut on the hydrofoil vessel, comprising: a rod connected to the flap and inserted into an insertion space in the strut, the rod displacing in an axial direction to drive the flap; a plurality of bearings provided in the insertion space and supporting the rod so as to be displaceable in the axial direction; a first seal mechanism that is provided at a position closer to the flap than the bearings in the insertion space and that seals between the rod and the strut in the insertion space, A rod system for a hydrofoil vessel, wherein at least one of the plurality of bearings closest to the first seal mechanism is a spherical bearing.

7. 2. The hydrofoil rod system of claim 1, The actuator is connected to an end of the rod opposite to the flap side and displaces the rod in an axial direction. A rod system for a hydrofoil, the actuator being provided in a non-submerged portion when the foil is traveling.

8. 2. The hydrofoil rod system of claim 1, the first seal mechanism includes an inner seal member that contacts an outer circumferential surface of the rod, an outer seal member that contacts an inner circumferential surface of the insertion space, and a holding member that holds the inner seal member and the outer seal member, A rod system for a hydrofoil vessel, wherein the retaining member has a first metal part that holds the inner seal member, a second metal part that holds the outer seal member, and a resin part that connects the first metal part and the second metal part.

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