Continuous Track Outboard Motor for Shallow Water Propulsion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional propeller-driven outboard motors struggle in shallow and obstructed water, and are unable to traverse ice or beach scenarios, limiting their operational flexibility and accessibility in various terrains.
Innovation Solution
A modular, transom-mounted continuous track outboard motor system that incorporates a suspension frame with a continuous track supported by drive and driven wheels, allowing for adjustable water engagement and operation in shallow and obstructed waters, including ice and beach environments, by utilizing a conventional outboard motor design with a continuous track that engages the water surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a conventional propeller-driven outboard motor is used, then propulsion efficiency is improved in deep water, but operational capability deteriorates in shallow and obstructed water
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the water engagement surface adjustable and movable. The continuous track system allows the water-engaging surface to be dynamically positioned at different depths and angles, enabling the motor to adapt between deep water propulsion mode and shallow water traversal mode, thus resolving the contradiction between propulsion efficiency and operational versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a single motor system that can perform multiple functions: conventional propeller-driven propulsion in deep water, continuous track propulsion in shallow water, and even traversal over ice and beach surfaces. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for specialized equipment for different terrains, resolving the contradiction between efficiency in one environment and adaptability across multiple environments
2Adaptability or versatility
If a continuous track system is used for shallow water propulsion, then adaptability to various terrains is improved, but device complexity increases compared to conventional propeller systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the continuous track system into modular components: a drive wheel, one or more driven wheels, and the continuous track itself. This modular segmentation allows for easier manufacturing, assembly, and maintenance, reducing the practical complexity despite the enhanced terrain traversal capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by integrating the continuous track system within a compact motor assembly that can be mounted on standard boat transoms. The drive and driven wheels are arranged in a compact configuration with the continuous track looping between them, allowing the complex terrain-traversal mechanism to be housed in a space-efficient manner that minimizes overall system complexity
3Force
If the continuous track lower run engages water deeply, then propulsion force is improved, but drag increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by allowing the lower run of the continuous track to be dynamically adjusted in its water engagement depth. The system can optimize the engagement level to achieve sufficient propulsion force while minimizing drag, adapting to different water conditions and speeds to maintain the optimal balance between force generation and resistance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by varying the engagement depth, contact area, and orientation of the continuous track's lower run with the water. By changing these parameters, the system can optimize propulsion force while controlling drag, allowing flexible adjustment between high-force low-speed operation and low-drag high-speed operation
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
Enables reliable and efficient propulsion in shallow and obstructed waters, including ice and beach scenarios, with reduced drag and no need for water cooling, providing a versatile and cost-effective solution for military, search and rescue, and recreational applications without requiring specialized skills or high-cost equipment.
Implementation Method 1
a lower run extending below the upper run and including a downwardly facing water engagement surface
Implementation Method 2
continuous track propulsion systems operate on the same general principal as a paddle wheel when utilized for waterborne propulsion
Implementation Method 3
coupling it with existing boats that can accept a standard transom-mounted motor and provide flotation
Data Source
AI summary
A watercraft propulsion system configured to be coupled to the transom of a boat. A continuous track is supported by a suspension frame and operably coupled to an outboard motor.