Asymmetric Propulsion System for Aquatic Vehicles
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional marine propulsion systems rely on symmetrically designed propellers for both propulsion and maneuverability, which can be complex, costly, and prone to biofouling, and require multiple actuators and through-holes, limiting efficiency and simplicity.
Innovation Solution
An asymmetric propulsion system with propeller blades distributed unevenly around a central hub, allowing for varying rotational velocity during a single revolution to achieve both propulsion and maneuverability using a single propeller, reducing the number of blades and actuators, and incorporating a controlling mechanism to regulate blade speed and position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If symmetrically disposed propeller blades are used, then propulsion and maneuverability can be achieved, but device complexity increases due to requiring multiple actuators and through-holes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines propulsion and maneuverability functions into a single propeller system with asymmetrically disposed blades. By positioning blades unevenly around the central hub and varying rotational velocity during a single revolution, the system achieves both forward propulsion and directional control without requiring separate actuators or multiple through-holes in the hull, thus reducing device complexity while maintaining operational capability
Solution Approach 2:
The asymmetric propeller system serves multiple functions simultaneously - it provides both propulsion and maneuverability control through a single integrated mechanism. The controlling mechanism regulates blade speed and position to achieve various motion modes including forward propulsion, lateral translation, and rotation, making the system universal and eliminating the need for separate dedicated actuators for different functions
2Force
If multiple propeller blades are used, then thrust is improved, but biofouling increases due to larger surface area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetrically disposed propeller blades where the number, position, and distribution of blades are uneven around the central hub rather than symmetric. This asymmetric configuration reduces the total blade surface area exposed to water compared to traditional symmetric multi-blade propellers, thereby minimizing biofouling while still generating sufficient thrust through optimized blade geometry and variable rotational velocity control during rotation
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional symmetric propeller design is used, then manufacturing is standardized, but cost increases due to complexity and number of components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adopts an asymmetric propeller design where blades are unevenly distributed around the central hub, which simplifies the overall structure by reducing the number of blades needed compared to symmetric designs. This asymmetric configuration, combined with a single integrated controlling mechanism, reduces the total number of components and actuators required, thereby lowering manufacturing costs despite the non-standardized blade arrangement
Solution Approach 2:
By merging multiple functions (propulsion and maneuverability) into a single integrated propeller system with asymmetric blades, the patent reduces the total component count. The single controlling mechanism manages both propulsion and directional control, eliminating the need for multiple separate actuators and reducing assembly complexity, which directly lowers manufacturing costs
Data Source
AI summary
An asymmetric propulsion mechanism capable of providing both axial thrust as well as lateral maneuverability from a single axis of rotation is described. The mechanism may be used on aquatic vehicles to minimize cost and maximize reliability and endurance. The mechanism comprises one or more propeller blades disposed asymmetrically around a rotating hub under the guidance of a control system including a motor capable of driving the propeller at various radial speeds throughout the course of a single revolution.