A bubble generation assembly for a vessel

Abstract

The present invention refers to a bubble generation assembly (100) mounted on a bow (106) of a vessel (102) to generate a bubble layer along a hull (116) of the vessel (102) to reduce hydrodynamic drag. The assembly (100) includes a base plate (104) and a central fin (108) extending orthogonally from the base plate (104) along a central line (110) of the vessel (102). Further, the assembly (100) includes a plurality of secondary fins (112) extending orthogonally from the base plate (104) and oriented angularly to the central fin on either side of the central fin (108). Fluid striking the central fin (108) and the plurality of secondary fins (112) when the vessel (102) moves, generates bubbles in the fluid.

Description

A BUBBLE GENERATION ASSEMBLY FOR A VESSELFIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of vessels. In particular, the present invention relates to a bubble generation assembly for a vessel. More particularly, this bubble generation assembly creates a bubble layer along the hull of the vessel, reducing hydrodynamic drag during vessel movement.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

[0003] In recent years, the maritime industry has been facing pressure to enhance operational efficiency and minimize environmental impact as fuel prices rise. Fuel consumption remains a major concern in the industry which directly correlates with operational costs and carbon dioxide emissions. Traditional methods of improving the fuel efficiency of vessels by optimizing hull, bow, and stem design and engine performance have reached certain limitations, necessitating innovative solutions.

[0004] One such solution which has gained attention is the use of air lubrication technology, specifically through the generation of layer of bubbles generated along the hull of the vessel. The bubbles layer, also referred to as air lubrication layer, reduces drag between the hull and the surrounding fluid. Consequently, vessels require less power to maintain cruising speeds, resulting in significant fuel savings and reduced emissions. The concept of air lubrication is not entirely new. Various techniques have been explored, including injecting air at different points along the hull and using specialized coatings to retain air bubbles. However, these approaches often suffer from inefficiencies and technical challenges, such as maintaining a consistent air layer and effectively generating bubbles at the right locations.

[0005] Additionally, these devices tend to consume power, which can be a significant barrier to their practical and economic viability for maritime operators. A major problem ismaintaining consistent bubble generation under varying operational conditions. Changes in sea state, vessel speed, and environmental factors can disrupt the bubble layer, thereby reducing its efficiency in lowering drag and saving fuel.

[0006] Further, the bubbles generated by these devices or assemblies pass through the propeller of the vessel, causing interference that reduces their efficiency and proper functioning. This interference impairs the ability of the propeller to operate optimally, thereby diminishing the overall efficiency of the vessel.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need for a simple, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly bubble generation assembly that addresses above mention shortcoming by strategically placed at the bow of the vessel. The placement of the bubble generation assembly ensures that bubbles are generated at the foremost part of the hull, allowing them to disperse evenly along the bottom surface of the vessel when it moves.OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] An object of the present invention is to provide a bubble generation assembly that ensures the continuous generation of bubbles when the vessel moves.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to provide a bubble generation assembly that reduces hydrodynamic drag along hull of the vessel by creating a bubble layer therebetween.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to provide a bubble generation assembly that guides the formed bubbles along the hull of the vessel.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to provide a bubble generation assembly that is adjustable at different draft levels.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide a bubble generation assembly that increases the efficiency of the vessel by generating a bubble layer along the hull of the vessel.

[0013] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a bubble generation assembly that simplifies the bubble generation and reduces bubble generation costs.SUMMARY

[0014] The present invention discloses a bubble generation assembly creates a bubble layer along a hull of the vessel to reduce hydrodynamic drag as the vessel moves. The bubble layer improves fuel efficiency, increases speed, and reduces CO2 emissions.

[0015] In an aspect, the bubble generation assembly includes a base plate coupled to a bow of the vessel and a central fin extending orthogonally from the base plate along a central line of the base plate. The assembly also includes a plurality of secondary fins extending orthogonally from the base plate and oriented angularly to the central fin on either side of the central fin. The fluid striking the central fin and the plurality of secondary fins when the vessel moves, generates bubbles in the fluid.

[0016] In an aspect, the assembly can be operatively coupled to an adjusting mechanism. The adjusting mechanism may be configured to adjust the assembly at different draft levels.

[0017] In an aspect, the assembly may be positioned between a pair of extended members of the vessel. The pair of extended members may be operatively coupled to the adjusting mechanism for adjusting the pair of extended members at different draft levels.

[0018] In an aspect, the central fin, the plurality of secondary fins, and the pair of extended members may facilitate a movement to form bubbles to move to a bottom of the vessel to form a bubble layer along a hull of the vessel.

[0019] In an aspect, the assembly may also include one or more horns positioned on the bow and configured to suck ambient air and to discharge the air into the fluid to form bubbles.

[0020] In another aspect, each secondary fin may be defined as an L-shaped structure having a horizontal member extending orthogonally from the base plate and a verticalmember projecting downwardly from an end of the horizontal member. The vertical member may have one or more slits.

[0021] In an aspect, the one or more slits of the vertical member of the secondary fins may be configured to guide the air into the fluid thereby mixture of the air and the fluid to generate bubbles.

[0022] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present invention.

[0024] FIG. 1 A illustrates an exemplary isometric view of a bubble generation assembly, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

[0025] FIG. IB illustrates an exemplary front view of a bubble generation assembly, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

[0026] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary representation of a bubble generation assembly mounted on a bow of a vessel, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the invention depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the invention. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover allmodifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the claims.

[0028] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a bubble generation assembly for a vessel. In particular, the present invention relates to the bubble generation assembly that creates a bubble layer along a hull of the vessel to reduce hydrodynamic drag.

[0029] Referring to FIG. 1A and IB, exemplary views of a bubble generation assembly 100 for a vessel 102 are disclosed. The bubble generation assembly 100 (hereinafter referred to as an assembly 100) includes a base plate 104 coupled to a bow 106 of the vessel 102 and a central fin 108 extending orthogonally from the base plate 104. The central fin 108 extends orthogonally from the base plate 104 along a central line 110 of the base plate 104. Further, the assembly 100 includes a plurality of secondary fins 112 extending orthogonally from the base plate and oriented angularly to the central fin 108 on either side of the central fin 108 and extending from the base plate 104 at a predefined angle from the central line 110 of the vessel 102. During movement of the vessel 102, bubbles are formed as the fluid strikes the central fin 108 and the plurality of secondary fins 112 of the assembly 100. The assembly 100 is configured to guide the generated bubbles to move a bottom of the vessel 102 and create a bubble layer along a hull 116 of the vessel 102. The bubble layer reduces the hydrodynamic drag along a hull 116 of the vessel 102, leading to improving the efficiency of the vessel 102.

[0030] In an alternative embodiment, the base plate 104 has a profile corresponding to the bow 106. The base plate 104 may be movably coupled or fixed through an attachment fixture to the bow 106. The attachment fixture may include but is not limited to, nut bolts or welding and the like.

[0031] The central fin 108 may be positioned vertically on the base plate 104 and extend along the central line 110 of the base plate 104. The central fin 108 also aids in improving the hydrodynamic performance of the vessel 102 by ensuring optimal flow dynamics around the bow 106, reducing hydrodynamic drag, and improving the overall efficiency of the vessel 102. The central line 110 defines corresponds to the horizontal central axis of the vessel 102. The central fin 108 provides directional stability and improves course-keeping abilities in various sea conditions. Additionally, the integration of the central fin 108 with the base plate104 ensure structural integrity, distributing loads effectively to avoid stress concentrations that could lead to material fatigue or failure.

[0032] The plurality of secondary fins 112 may be positioned at the predefined angle to enhance hydrodynamic efficiency, directing fluid and air flow more effectively along the hull 116. Further, each of the secondary fin 112 may be defined as an L-shaped structure having a horizontal member 112A and a vertical member 112B. One end of the horizontal member 112A may be attached to the base plate 104 and extend from the base plate 104 at the predefined angle of the center line 110 of the base plate 104. The vertical member 112B may extend perpendicular downward from another end of the horizontal member 112A. The predefined angle of the horizontal member 112A and the central line 110 can be adjusted based on specific design requirements, allowing customization to suit different types of maritime applications.

[0033] In an alternative embodiment, each secondary fin may be defined as a V-shaped structure. The V-shaped fin may consist of two members: a first member (corresponding to the vertical member) and a second member (corresponding to the horizontal member). The first member may extend upwardly and outwardly from the base plate at a predefined angle relative to the central line of the base plate, while the second member may project downwardly from the outer end of the first member, forming a V-shaped configuration with an angle of about 10-30 degrees.

[0034] The first member of each secondary fin may attach to the base plate at a predetermined angle and extend at a customizable orientation based on design requirements. The second member may extend downwardly at an angle from the end of the first member, optimizing the hydrodynamic performance for different maritime applications. This V-shaped design can allow for improved flow control, as the configuration may reduce drag and enhance stability in various maritime environments.

[0035] Some of the horizontal member 112A (especially top and bottom fins) of the secondary fins 112 may have an opening 112C for easy access for maintenance work. Further, the opening 112C allow the fluid to ascend and pass through the opening 112C and splashes back onto the fluid surface. Splashing action generates additional bubbles, which canenhance the overall efficiency of the vessel 102 by promoting better fluid dynamics and increasing the surface area contact between the fluid and the assembly 100.

[0036] Each of the vertical members 112B of the secondary fin 112 may have one or more slits 112D configured to guide the surrounding airflow into the fluid, resulting in airflow mixing with the nearby fluid to form bubbles. Furthermore, each slit 112D of the secondary fin 112 may provide sufficient space to draw in and guide the airflow. The one or more slits 112D may be positioned at various locations of the vertical member 112B and angles to accommodate the required airflow for generating an adequate amount of bubbles.

[0037] The vertical member 112B may aid in directing the airflow in a manner to optimizes bubble generation. Moreover, the positioning and orientation of the one or more slits 112D can be optimized to maximize the airflow. The generation of bubbles plays a significant role in improving the overall performance of the vessel 102, contributing to enhanced fuel efficiency, increased speed, and reduced CO2 emissions.

[0038] In an embodiment, the primary function of the plurality of secondary fins 112 is to guide airflow into the fluid to generate bubbles and further guide the bubble to move the bottom of the vessel 102 to form the bubble layer. Further, the plurality of secondary fins 112 may maintain the structural integrity of the assembly 100 by distributing forces more evenly across the base plate 104 and the central fin 108. The plurality of secondary fins 112 aids in minimizing stress concentrations and potential points of failure under various operational conditions. Furthermore, the plurality of secondary fins 112 may be configured to work in harmony with the central fin 108, creating a cohesive system that maximizes the overall performance of the vessel 102.

[0039] The material selection for the assembly 100 is critical, considering the need for both strength and resistance to the corrosive marine environment. In many cases, high-strength low-alloy steel (HSLA) is chosen due to its excellent strength-to-weight ratio and enhanced durability against corrosion. Alternatively, in high-performance vessels where weight savings are paramount, aluminum alloys or composite materials such as carbon fiber-reinforced plastics may be utilized in the making of the assembly 100.

[0040] Advanced welding techniques or mechanical fasteners might be employed, depending on the chosen material, to secure the central fin 108 and the plurality of secondary fins 112 robustly to the base plate 104. Overall, the implementation of the central fin 108 and the plurality of secondary fin 112 extending along the central line 110 of the vessel 102 plays a pivotal role in enhancing the hydrodynamic performance, stability, and structural resilience of the maritime apparatus, thereby contributing to improved operational efficiency and reduced environmental impact through lower fuel consumption and emissions.

[0041] Referring to FIG. 2, an exemplary representation of the bubble generation assembly 100 mounted on the bow 106 of the vessel 102 is disclosed. The assembly 100 may be positioned between a pair of extended members 114 of the vessel 102. The pair of extended members 114 may be positioned on either side of the bow 106. The arrangement of the pair of extended members 114 and the bow 106 may form a trapezoid-shaped bay to accommodate a portion of fluid within to generate bubbles. The trapezoid-shaped bay may be configured to reduce the fluid flow compared to the flow of the fluid along the outer side of each extended members 114. Furthermore, the pair of extended members 114 may be coupled to an adjusting mechanism to adjust at different draft levels.

[0042] In an embodiment, the assembly 100 may be operatively coupled to the adjusting mechanism, configured to adjust the assembly 100 at different draft levels to cater to all the possible draft levels of the vessel 102. The adjusting mechanism may be coupled to a control system of the vessel 102. The control system may be configured to control the adjusting mechanism to adjust the assembly 100 at the different draft levels.

[0043] In an embodiment, the central fin 108, the plurality of secondary fins 112, and the pair of extended members 114 facilitate the movement of the formed bubbles towards the bottom of the vessel 102, creating the bubble layer along the hull 116 of the vessel 102. The fluid moving along the outer side of each extended member 114 flows faster compared to the fluid within the trapezoid-shaped bay, creating pressure and velocity differences. These pressure differences generate a vacuum that aids in directing the formed bubbles to move along the hull 116.

[0044] In an embodiment, the assembly 100 may include one or more horns positioned on the bow 106 and configured to suck ambient air and to discharge the air into the fluid to form bubbles. The one or more horns (interchangeably referred to as horn hereafter) may be strategically located to maximize the intake of ambient air as the vessel 102 moves forward. The horns may be designed with aerodynamic profiles to reduce drag and optimize airflow. The intake openings of the horns may include filters or screens to prevent debris and contaminants from entering inside the horns.

[0045] In addition, the horns may have mechanisms such as fans or blowers to actively draw in air and enhance the flow rate. The density of the bubbles can be controlled through adjustable valves or nozzles within the horns. These adjustments allow for fine-tuning based on varying operational conditions, such as changes in water temperature, salinity, and speed. The vessel 102 may have one or more sensors to monitor the effectiveness of the bubble formation and provide real-time data for optimizing performance.

[0046] Furthermore, the horns can be integrated into the assembly 100 or bow 106 for seamless operation. For instance, the horns can be operatively coupled to the control system of the vessel 102 to adjust the air intake and bubble discharge rate in response to changes in speed or direction. The horns ensure that the bubble formation is consistently maintained at optimal levels, regardless of operational variations. The materials used for making the horns should be corrosion-resistant and capable of withstanding the harsh marine environment. Possible materials include stainless steel, titanium, or specialized polymers. The horns may consider ease of maintenance and accessibility, allowing for routine inspections and servicing to ensure sustained performance over time.

[0047] In an exemplary embodiment, the assembly 100 can be integrated into various types of ships based on specific requirements. Different vessels have unique bow 106 sizes, which may require multiple bubble generation assemblies to achieve optimal performance. Consequently, the size and configuration of each assembly 100 can be tailored to match the dimensions and needs of the vessel 102. For instance, smaller vessels might require a single, compact bubble generation assembly 100, strategically placed to maximize efficiency. In contrast, larger ships with more substantial bows 106 could benefit from multiple assemblies distributed along the hull 116 to ensure comprehensive coverage and enhanced performance.This adaptability allows the assembly 100 to be customized for a wide range of maritime applications, from small commercial boats to large ocean liners.

[0048] The bubble generation assembly (100) is designed to operate effectively across the full range of the vessel's draft. Specifically, the assembly (100) extends from a position corresponding to the vessel’s laden draft, where the vessel is fully loaded and submerged deeper in the water, to a position corresponding to the ballast draft, where the vessel is either empty or less loaded and sits higher in the water. This configuration ensures that the bubble generation function is maintained regardless of the vessel’s draft level, enabling consistent performance whether the vessel is in a fully laden or ballast condition. The vertical extent of the assembly (100) ensures that both the base plate (104) and the fins (108, 112) remain within the optimal water flow region at all times, allowing fluid to strike the fins and generate bubbles continuously throughout the vessel’s range of operation.

[0049] Moreover, the flexibility in the design of the assembly 100 ensures that it can be scaled up or down without compromising its functionality. As a result, shipbuilders and operators can implement this technology across different classes and sizes of vessels, providing a versatile solution for improving fuel efficiency, increasing speed, and reducing CO2 emissions in maritime operations. The assembly 100 can be configured to accommodate varying operational parameters, such as different cruising speeds, water conditions, and specific mission profiles. This level of customization ensures that each vessel equipped with the bubble generation assembly 100 can achieve optimal performance tailored to its unique operational context.

[0050] Overall, the assembly 100 ensures continuous bubble generation when fluid strikes the central fin 108 and the plurality of secondary fins 112 during the vessel 102 movement, thereby reducing hydrodynamic drag along the hull 116 of the vessel 102 by creating the bubble layer. Additionally, the assembly 100 enhances the vessel 102 efficiency by simplifying the bubble generation process to reduce production costs.

[0051] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the invention is determined by the claims that follow. The invention isnot limited to the described embodiments, versions, or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.

[0052] Reference numeral100 - assembly102 - vessel104 - base plate106 - bow108 - central fin110 - central line112 - plurality of secondary fins112A - horizontal member112B - vertical member112C - opening112D - one or more slits114 - pair of extended members116 - hull

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A bubble generation assembly (100) for a vessel (102), the assembly (100) comprising: a base plate (104) coupled to a bow (106) of the vessel (102);a central fin (108) extending orthogonally from the base plate (104) along a central line (110) of the base plate (104); and,a plurality of secondary fins (112) extending orthogonally from the base plate (104) and oriented angularly to the central fin on either side of the central fin (108); wherein fluid striking the first fin (108) and the plurality of second fins (112) when the vessel (102) moves, generates bubbles in the fluid.

2. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the assembly (100) is operatively coupled to an adjusting mechanism to adjust the assembly (100) at different draft levels.

3. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the assembly (100) is positioned between a pair of extended members (114) of the vessel (102).

4. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the pair of extended members (114) operatively coupled to the adjusting mechanism for adjusting the pair of extended members (114) at different draft levels.

5. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the central fin (108), the plurality of secondary fins (112), and the pair of extended members (114) facilitate movement to the formed bubbles to move to the bottom of the vessel (102) to form a bubble layer along a hull (116) of the vessel (102) and the fluid.

6. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprises one or more horns positioned on the bow (106) and configured to suck ambient air and to discharge the air into the fluid to form bubbles.

7. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the secondary fin (112) is defined by an L-shaped structure.

8. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein L-shaped structure is formed by a horizontal member (112A) and a vertical member (112B), the horizontal member (112A)extending orthogonally from the base plate (104) and the vertical member projecting (112B) downwardly from an end of the horizontal member.

9. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the secondary fin (112) is defined by a V-shaped structure.

10. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the vertical member has one or more slits.

11. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 10, wherein the one or more slits (112D) of the vertical member (112B) are configured to guide the air into the fluid, thereby mixture of the air and the fluid generates bubbles.

12. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the assembly (100) is configured to extend from a position corresponding to the vessel’s (102) laden draft to a position corresponding to the vessel’s (102) ballast draft, such that bubble generation is maintained across the range of the vessel’s draft levels.

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