A bow assembly of a ship

Abstract

The present invention relates to a bow assembly of a ship comprising a pair of arms forming a trapezoid-shaped bay and means for generating air bubbles in the trapezoid-shaped bay. The generation of bubbles improves the sailing efficiency the ship.

Description

A BOW ASSEMBLY OF A SHIPFIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to maritime industry. More particularly, the present invention relates to a bow assembly of a ship having a pair of arms with trapezoid bay capable of enhancing ship’s efficiency by natural air bubble generation.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The existing landscape of ship bow designs predominantly features bulbous bows or sharp edge bows. Bulbous bows are protruding structures located at the bow (front) of a ship below the waterline. They are designed to modify the flow of water around the hull, reducing wave resistance and improving fuel efficiency.

[0003] Bulbous bows are known to reduce drag, enhance speed, and improve fuel economy, especially at higher speeds. They can also contribute to better seakeeping qualities, such as reduced pitch and improved stability.

[0004] The design of bulbous bows involves careful consideration of the ship's hull form, operating speed range, and intended operational conditions. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations and model testing in tow tanks play a crucial role in optimizing the shape and size of the bulb.

[0005] Sharp-edge bows, also known as wave-piercing bows, are characterized by a more angular and slender shape compared to traditional bulbous bows. They are designed to cut through waves more efficiently, reducing slamming and improving overall performance.

[0006] Sharp-edge bows are particularly effective in rough sea conditions. By minimizing wave resistance and slamming, they contribute to smoother sailing, increased safety, and enhanced fuel efficiency, especially in adverse weather conditions.

[0007] The design of sharp-edge bows involves considerations of wave-piercing characteristics, structural integrity, and the impact on overall ship performance. Simulations and model testing are often employed to refine the design and ensure optimal performance.

[0008] Some recent developments involve combining features of both bulbous bows and sharp-edged bows. Hybrid designs aim to leverage the benefits of each type while minimizing potential drawbacks. Researchers and naval architects are exploring innovative designs that integrate bulbous bows with modified geometries to enhance wave-piercing capabilities.

[0009] However, the existing designs and structures of the bulbous bows have not been proven to be satisfactorily efficient till date and there is still a scope for improvement in the performance of ship through enhancing the efficiency by fuel saving and speed increasing of the ship.

[0010] It is, therefore, desirable to provide a bow assembly that overcomes challenges associated with the prior arts and obviates complexity existing in the prior arts.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter. Nor is this summary intended to be used to limit the claimed subject matter’s scope.

[0012] Both the foregoing summary and the following detailed description provide examples and are explanatory only. Accordingly, the foregoing summary and the following detailed description should not be considered to be restrictive. Further, features or variations may be provided in addition to those set forth herein. For example, embodiments may be directed to various feature combinations and sub-combinations described in the detailed description.

[0013] One of the objectives of the present invention is to provide a bow assembly which is fuel efficient and capable of enhancing performance of the ship.

[0014] One of the objectives of the present invention is to provide a bow assembly which is capable removing floating debris or objects adhering to the pair of arms, ensuring an optimal performance.

[0015] One of the objectives of the present invention is to provide a bow assembly which is capable of naturally generating air bubbles for forming air carpet at the bottom of the ship.

[0016] One of the objectives of the present invention is to utilize an external bow assembly that generates a substantial amount of air bubbles while sailing at speeds exceeding 18 knots. These air bubbles are intended to flow along the ship's bottom, forming an air carpet that alters the ship's interaction with prevailing wave patterns. In essence, the mechanism leverages naturally occurring waves across the water surface to enhance the flow beneath the ship.

[0017] One of the objectives of the present invention is to provide a ship bow assembly having a pair of arms with trapezoid-shaped bay capable of returning waves from the longer side, hence maximizing the area available for air bubble generation.

[0018] Another objective of the present invention is to ensure that the ship's bottom area is predominantly covered by naturally generated air bubbles. The bow assembly creates varying flow speeds along the ship's bottom, resulting in a pull effect that directs air bubbles towards the areas of fastest flow. To enhance this effect, very thin fins, less than 1 centimeter in thickness, can be optionally fitted to parts of the ship's bottom. These fins help spread the fastest flow towards slower flow areas, thereby increasing the coverage of natural air bubbles across the majority of the ship's bottom.

[0019] This invention introduces a novel concept of pair of arms with a trapezoid bay which offers a substantial enhancement in ship performance, particularly in terms of fuel efficiency and speed.

[0020] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a bow assembly of a ship comprising a pair of arms arranged in a spaced configuration at a front portion of the ship, a trapezoid- shaped bay structure formed therebetween and means for generating air bubbles within said trapezoid-shaped bay from inner edges of the arms due to wave action and inflow of water, wherein the inner edges of arms form angles of 20-45 degrees towards keel of the ship.

[0021] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a bow assembly of a ship comprising a pair of arms arranged in a spaced configuration at a front portion of the ship, a trapezoid- shaped bay structure formed therebetween and means for generating air bubbles within said trapezoid-shaped bay from inner edges of the arms due to wave action and inflow of water, wherein the inner edges of arms form angles of 20-45 degrees towards keel of the ship, wherein the distance between said pair of arms is in a range of 1-8% of the ship's beam.

[0022] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a bow assembly of a ship comprising a pair of arms arranged in a spaced configuration at a front portion of the ship, a trapezoid- shaped bay structure formed therebetween and means for generating air bubbles within said trapezoid-shaped bay from inner edges of the arms due to wave action and inflow of water, wherein the inner edges of arms form angles of 20-45 degrees towards keel of the ship, wherein the pair of arms is pressurized to form air bubbles as the ship sails, by automatic intake of air volume from the top of the sea into compartment of the pair of arms.

[0023] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a bow assembly of a ship comprising a pair of arms arranged in a spaced configuration at a front portion of the ship, a trapezoid-shaped bay structure formed therebetween and means for generating air bubbles within said trapezoid-shaped bay from inner edges of the arms due to wave action and inflow of water, wherein the inner edges of arms form angles of 20-45 degrees towards keel of the ship, wherein trapezoid-shaped bay facilitates the stable generation of air bubbles, slowing down the inflow of seawater to ensure a constant water flow for consistent air bubble production.

[0024] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a bow assembly of a ship comprising a pair of arms arranged in a spaced configuration at a front portion of the ship, a trapezoid- shaped bay structure formed therebetween and means for generating air bubbles within said trapezoid-shaped bay from inner edges of the arms due to wave action and inflow of water, wherein the inner edges of arms form angles of 20-45 degrees towards keel of the ship, wherein the trapezoid-shaped bay returns waves from the longer side, maximizing the area available for air bubble generation.

[0025] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for resolving contamination on the ship bow assembly, comprising a turning arm fitted with a wheel positioned between the two arms, capable of rotating naturally with the flow of the ship, wherein the turning arm is further equipped with an electric power system allowing reverse rotation, facilitating the removal of garbage or objects stuck to the pair of arms.

[0026] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for resolving contamination on the ship bow assembly, comprising a turning arm fitted with a wheel positioned between the two arms, capable of rotating naturally with the flow of the ship, wherein the turning arm is further equipped with an electric power system allowing reverse rotation, facilitating the removal of garbage or objects stuck to the pair of arms, wherein the turning arm's natural rotation from forward to backward aids in directing most debris towards the ship bottom, minimizing the impact of contamination on the ship bow assembly.

[0027] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a ship bow assembly comprising a pair of arms arranged in a spaced configuration at a front portion of the ship, a trapezoid-shaped bay structure located between said pair of arms, and means for naturally generating air bubbles within said trapezoid-shaped bay from inner edges of the arms due to wave action and inflowing seawater, wherein the inner edges of arms form angles of 20-45 degrees towards bottom of the ship, wherein said bow assembly is applied to ship types with fine hull structures, including but not limited to container ships, roll-on / roll-off (RoRo) ships, and liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers designed for speeds exceeding 18 knots.

[0028] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a ship bow assembly comprising a pair of arms arranged in a spaced configuration at a front portion of the ship, a trapezoid-shaped bay structure between said pair of arms, and means for generating air bubbles within said trapezoid-shaped bay from inner edges of the arms due to wave action and inflowing seawater, wherein a wheel is incorporated, which assists in debris removal and bubble generation, and can be driven by an electric motor for enhanced propulsion.

[0029] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a ship bow assembly comprising a pair of arms arranged in a spaced configuration at a front portion of the ship, a trapezoid-shaped bay structure located between said pair of arms, and means for naturally generating air bubbles within said trapezoid-shaped bay from inner edges of the arms due to wave action and inflowing seawater, wherein a turning arm is fitted with a wheel, which can rotate naturally with the ship's forward motion.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0030] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.

[0031] Fig. 1 illustrates an exemplary isometric view of a ship bow assembly, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

[0032] Fig. 2 illustrates an exemplary top view of a ship bow assembly, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

[0033] CALL OUT LIST:100: ship bow assembly102: pair of arms104: trapezoid-shaped bay106: wheel108: turning arm110: water j et inj ectorDETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0034] The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers are used in the drawings and the following description to refer to the same or similar elements. While many embodiments of the disclosure may be described, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible. For example, substitutions, additions, or modifications may be made to the elements illustrated in the drawings, and the methods described herein may be modified by substituting, reordering, or adding stages to the disclosed methods. Accordingly, the following detailed description does not limit the disclosure. Instead, the proper scope of the disclosure is defined by the appended claims. The present disclosure contains headers. It should be understood that these headers are used as references and are not to be construed as limiting upon the subjected matter disclosed under the header.

[0035] According to one of the embodiments of the present invention, the ship employing the ship bow assembly (100) is capable of creating an air carpet at its bottom using air bubbles to reduce resistance and increase speed by 5-10% and this involves using a compressor to generate the necessary air, requiring 100-400 kW of power, wherein the efficiency depends on the ship's draft condition — shallower or deeper, therefore, on average, compressors result in a 5-10% fuel saving.

[0036] According to the present invention, there is a pair of arms (102) provided in the ship that generates natural air bubbles and / or support by much smaller air bubbles toincrease the efficiency by 10-15%, where the pair of arms (102) with trapezoid bay (104) is most effective to the faster fine shaped hull structure such as container ships, roro ships, LNG ships able to sail over 18 knots design speed, wherein most of these ships today have a bulbous bow fitted.

[0037] This trapezoid-shaped bay (104) significantly influences the water flow dynamics around the ship. When the vessel moves forward, the direct inflow of water is the fastest and strongest, causing a suction effect on the water flow divided to the portside and starboard side of the ship.

[0038] This differential in flow speeds, with the center flow being faster and the side flows being slower, creates a distinctive "tornado flow" from the ship sides to the center bottom of the hull. This phenomenon, termed the "tornado flow," is one of the key aspects of the invention. The tornado flow effectively channels most of the air bubbles and waves generated at the bow to the bottom of the ship, reducing drag and turbulence.

[0039] To better understand the dynamics, one can imagine the water flow in a river, where the central flow is faster than the flow at the sides. Similarly, in this invention, the faster central flow and slower side flows create a vortex-like effect that optimizes water movement around the hull.

[0040] In the present invention, it is possible to modify the bulbous bow to the existing ships or fit to the new ship designs, wherein this ship bow assembly (100) is also able to fit to the slow speed ships such as bulk carriers, tankers which sail at less than 15 knots speeds and sometimes slow steaming at 12 knots by assisting much less air compressor blows at the trapezoid bay (104) which is enough to improve the efficiency, wherein said pair of arms (102) with bay (104) achieves 10-15% increase of the ship sailing efficiency.

[0041] Further, the shape of the pair of arms (102) with bay (104) is able to intake air volume to mix with zero emission generate the natural air bubbles. The resistance structure of the pair of arms (102) is minimum so that the total fuel saving can be achieved to 10-25%.

[0042] Further, the inside of trapezoid bay (104) mixes natural mechanism of the intake air and naturally generated air bubbles generated without any external energy while the ship is sailing. As the result of the continuous flow of air and waves, the trapezoid bay (104) generates a substantial amount of large and small air bubbles. As there are microplastics or ingredients of mitochondria or planktons, the air bubbles tend to generate smaller air bubbles. At times, there may be microbubbles with high density of air bubbles generating an air carpet at the ship bottom.

[0043] Further, the weakness of the disclosed ship bow assembly (100) is that floating garbage or floating woods stick to the front of the pair of arms (102). To solve this, there is an apparatus to lift and rotate the stanchion which can automatically turn and remove this garbage from time to time so that the resistance of this garbage can be removed. This allows the ship to sail at optimum efficiency.

[0044] In the present invention, the distance between the two arms (102) to fit with the bow is 1-5% of the ship beam which allows sufficient volume of water and air volume to mix up in the inner bay (104) to generate natural air bubbles.

[0045] In the present invention, there are five ways by which air bubbles are generated: a. From the inner edges of the arms (102), which is a natural generation of bubbles, such as through the flow of waves and inflow seawater generating air bubbles. b. Air volume on the top of the sea automatically intakes to the compartment of the pair of arms (102) pressurized into the system. Thesame depends upon the speed of sail, i.e., the faster the ship, the larger the amount of air bubbles. c. The collision of waves with the body of the vessel, resulting in resistance to return the water flow and causing the waves to jump up and fall. This also creates air bubbles. d. The continuous flow of air bubbles contained in waves which flow inside the arms (102). e. In the meantime, there are different flow speeds outside and inside the arms (102) which results in the outside waves flowing into the bottom of the ship. In other words, the inflow of water in the arms (102) naturally generates the bubbles while sailing forward.

[0046] The above-mentioned interaction generates air bubbles automatically which forces the air bubbles to flow to the ship bottom sufficient enough to spread over to the ship bottom. It is observed that the flow of most of the waves generated by the sailing of the ship can be directed to the ship bottom effectively.

[0047] The present invention does not require mechanical generation of air bubbles when the ship sails at ballast or very low draft condition. However, it is optional to use a small compressor to generate air bubbles at the above level of the ship bottom when the ship is sailing at low speed or in full load condition to enhance the full cover of air bubbles at the ship bottom.

[0048] Moreover, since the ship draft can be different, the structure of the inner pair of bows (102) have 20-45 degrees towards the ship bottom so that the flow of the water with naturally created air bubbles is always generated while the ship sails forward.

[0049] Furthermore, the bay (104) is trapezoid shaped, which allows the seawater inflow to slow down and then the constant effect of water flow becoming constant such that generating the air bubbles become stable as the ship sails at the same speed. Thisreturn wave is from the longer side of the trapezoid so that the area generating air bubbles is maximized.

[0050] Further, the continuous flow of seawater pushes almost all air bubbles to the ship bottom. Although the distance between the pair of arms (102) is only 1-8% of the ship beam, wherein the enormous water flow pushes almost all air bubbles to the ship bottom. When the ship is in shallow condition, this water volume is less however, the enough air bubbles generate an optimal air carpet. At this condition, it generates a higher effect of this system. When the ship is in deeper condition, there are much air bubbles generated with more seawater volume, the compensated air generated by the mechanical compressor is useful. When the ship is sailing at slow speed in any condition, the mechanical compressor is useful.

[0051] As the air bubbles are generated while the vessel is sailing forward, the bubbles are forced to flow to the bottom of the ship. This will result in the bubbles becoming smaller as the pressure pushes the bubbles. This makes the size of air bubbles close to microbubbles. Further, the collision between small air bubbles and the break-down of air bubbles results in larger units of bubbles, creating a microbubble carpet that can attach to the bottom of the ship due to the difference in pressure.

[0052] In an embodiment of the present invention, it is possible that the arms (102) is equipped with a wheel (106) or a propeller that rotates naturally with the flow of water. This rotation helps to clear the bay area (104) of debris and enhances bubble generation. The wheel (106) or propeller rotates naturally with the flow of water, helping to generate and distribute air bubbles within the trapezoid bay (104). The wheel (106) or propeller can be optionally connected to an electric motor, providing additional propulsion. This motorized assistance is particularly beneficial in rough sea conditions, where it helps maintain a constant speed by generating propulsion in the relatively calm water inside the arms (102).

[0053] In an embodiment, the system may also include an apparatus for removing floating debris or objects adhering to the arms (102). This apparatus consists of a turning arm (108) fitted with a wheel (106), which can rotate naturally with the ship's forward motion. If necessary, the wheel (106) can be powered electrically to reverse direction and remove persistent debris.

[0054] By clearing debris from the bay area (104), the apparatus ensures optimal performance of the air bubble generation system. The turning arm (108) effectively directs debris away from the arms (102) and prevents accumulation that could impede the system's efficiency.

[0055] In another embodiment of the present invention, a small waterjet injector (110) system may optionally be positioned between the arms (102), aimed at the front of the arms (102). This injector (110) mechanically generates air bubbles, enhancing the overall bubble generation process. It is particularly effective in initiating the first wave of bubbles, which then integrate into the natural bubble generation system. This ensures consistent bubble production across a range of speeds and sea conditions.

[0056] The ship bow assembly (100) generates the air bubbles by the inner side pair of arms (102) with bay (104), which automatically generate the air bubbles by colliding and dispersing them to the ship bottom naturally.

[0057] In the present invention, there is provided a method for increasing ship efficiency, comprising: a. Implementing the ship bow assembly (100), modifying the ship's existing bulbous bow, or integrating the system into new ship designs. b. Optionally employing a small compressor system to enhance air bubble coverage during low-speed or full-load conditions.c. Utilizing the apparatus to address and remove floating debris or objects adhering to the pair of arms (102), ensuring optimal system performance.

[0058] Utilization of wave resistance to create substantial air bubbles as water returns from the wave crest.

[0059] Interaction of the above three mechanisms (a, b, and c) continuously generates air bubbles, forcing them to flow towards and cover the ship bottom.

[0060] Further, an optional small compressor system positioned above the ship bottom to mechanically generate air bubbles when sailing at low speed or in full load conditions.

[0061] While the invention is amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, some embodiments have been illustrated by way of example in the drawings and are described in detail above. The intention, however, is not to limit the invention by those examples and the invention is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives to the embodiments described in this specification.

[0062] The embodiments in the specification are described in a progressive manner, and the focus of the description in each embodiment is on the differences from other embodiments. For the same or similar parts of each embodiment, reference may be made to each other.

[0063] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the above description was in respect of preferred embodiments and that various alterations and modifications are possible within the broad scope of the appended claims without departing from the spirit of the invention with the necessary modifications.

[0064] Based on the description of disclosed embodiments, persons skilled in the art can implement or apply the present disclosure. Various modifications of the embodiments are apparent to persons skilled in the art, and general principles defined in the specification can be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments in the specification but intends to cover the most extensive scope consistent with the principle and the novel features disclosed in the specification.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A bow assembly (100) of a ship comprising: a pair of arms (102) arranged in a spaced configuration at a front portion of the ship, forming a trapezoid-shaped bay (104) therebetween; and means for generating air bubbles within the trapezoid-shaped bay (104) from inner edges of the pair of arms due to wave action and inflow of water.

2. The bow assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the inner edges of arms form angles of 20-45 degrees towards keel of the ship.

3. The bow assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the distance between the pair of arms is in a range of 1-8% of beam of the ship.

4. The bow assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a wheel (106) placed in the trapezoid-shaped bay (104).

5. The bow assembly (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the rotation of the wheel generates air bubbles within the trapezoid-shaped bay (104).

6. The bow assembly (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein a turning arm (108) is operationally coupled to the wheel.

7. The bow assembly (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the wheel (106) is driven by an electric motor.

8. The bow assembly (100) as claim 4, further comprising a water jet injector (110) positioned between the arms (102a, 102b), aiming at the front of the arms (102a, 102b) and generating air bubbles.

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