Coaxial Marine Propeller Drive for High Torque Without Gearing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing marine propulsion systems face inefficiencies due to the need for mechanical amplification and reduction gearing, which increases weight, friction, and complexity, limiting torque generation and responsiveness.
Innovation Solution
A marine propulsion system with an electric motor and propeller arranged coaxially, utilizing a stator and rotor with high pole count coils and a direct drive configuration, eliminating mechanical amplification and allowing for high torque generation at various speeds without reduction gearing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If mechanical amplification and reduction gearing are used in marine propulsion systems, then torque generation is improved, but weight increases and friction losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical amplification and reduction gearing system with an electric motor system that generates torque directly through electromagnetic fields. The motor's rotor and stator create rotational force without mechanical gears, eliminating the weight and friction associated with traditional mechanical transmission components while maintaining high torque output capability.
2Force
If mechanical amplification and reduction gearing are used in marine propulsion systems, then torque generation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates complex mechanical transmission systems including multiple gears, shafts, and coupling mechanisms by using an electric motor that produces torque directly. The motor assembly with its rotor, stator, and magnetic fields provides a simpler, more integrated solution that reduces the number of moving parts and simplifies the overall propulsion system architecture.
3Force
If mechanical amplification and reduction gearing are used in marine propulsion systems, then torque generation is improved, but friction losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical gear interfaces with electromagnetic field interactions in the motor. This substitution eliminates friction between gear teeth, shafts, and bearings that are inherent in mechanical transmission systems. The electromagnetic coupling between rotor and stator creates torque without physical contact, significantly reducing energy losses to friction and heat.
4Speed
If direct drive configuration with high pole count coils is used, then responsiveness is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves high responsiveness through parameter optimization in the motor design, specifically using high pole count coils and direct drive configuration. These parameter changes allow the motor to generate torque rapidly across a wide speed range without mechanical transmission. The manufacturing complexity is managed through standardized motor construction techniques and modular assembly processes.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system achieves high torque and responsiveness with minimal components, reducing weight, friction, and cost while providing efficient cooling through direct contact with aquatic environments, enhancing operational efficiency and longevity.
Implementation Method 1
a stator disposed within the motor housing and configured to be electrically energized to generate magnetic flux that causes the rotor to rotate
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid moving apparatus includes an electric motor having a rotor and a stator and a propeller. The rotor rotates relative to the stator on an axis to generate a rotational output. The rotational output is provided to the propeller to power the marine propulsion apparatus. The stator includes one or more coils configured to power rotation of the rotor. The one or more coils extend circumferentially around and can be coaxial on the axis. A portion of a housing of the motor extends into the aquatic environment to facilitate heat dissipation.