Dual Propeller Steering with Differential Power Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Contemporary aquatic vessels lack the desired maneuverability, especially for specialized operations like hunting large fish, due to limitations in steering control and power distribution.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus for steering aquatic vessels that involves angularly adjustable propeller assemblies and a control unit to receive user commands, determining and adjusting power differences between propeller assemblies to enhance maneuverability, using a combination of lever or joystick controls and software-executable logic to optimize thrust directions and power distribution.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional steering arrangements with synchronized propeller pivoting are used, then the vessel structure remains simple and cost-effective, but the maneuverability and responsiveness of the vessel are insufficient for specialized operations

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovemaneuverabilityVSAvoidsteering control complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic control of propeller assemblies by enabling independent angular adjustment of each propeller assembly relative to the hull. The control unit receives commands and dynamically modifies power distribution and thrust directions based on real-time operational requirements, transforming the static synchronized steering system into a dynamic adaptable system that can independently control each propeller's angle and power output to achieve superior maneuverability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operational parameters by independently varying the power output to each propeller assembly and adjusting the angular orientation of each propeller assembly. The control unit modifies these parameters (power distribution, thrust direction angles) based on user commands and sensor feedback, enabling continuous adjustment of vessel motion characteristics without mechanical complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Speed

If additional steering mechanisms or increased engine power are added to improve maneuverability, then the vessel's responsiveness increases, but the weight and cost of the vessel increase

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveresponsivenessVSAvoidvessel weight

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical steering mechanisms (such as rudders, mechanical linkages, and hydraulic systems) with an electronically controlled propeller thrust vectoring system. The control unit electronically manages power distribution and angular positioning of propeller assemblies, substituting complex mechanical steering hardware with electronic control and software-based thrust management, thereby achieving rapid responsiveness without adding mechanical weight

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The propeller assemblies serve multiple functions: they provide propulsion forward and reverse, enable steering through independent angular adjustment, and allow for differential power distribution. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate steering mechanisms, reducing overall system weight while maintaining high responsiveness through the same propeller units

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If independent control of each propeller assembly is implemented, then precise steering and maneuverability are achieved, but the control system complexity and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesteering precisionVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The control system incorporates sensor feedback from the vessel's motion and position, allowing the control unit to automatically adjust power distribution and propeller angles to achieve desired steering outcomes. This self-regulating capability reduces the need for complex manual control mechanisms and enables precise steering through automated feedback loops, simplifying the overall control architecture while maintaining high precision

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS8060265B2Method of steering aquatic vessels

Publication Date: 2011.11.15 VOLVO PENTA AB

AI summary

There is provided a boat (200) including a hull (20), and two engines (30, 50) couplable to rotationally drive mutually spaced separate corresponding propeller assemblies for providing thrusts. Directions of the thrusts are angularly adjustable (α1, α2) relative to the hull (20). A control unit (70) receives first and second user commands (S1, S2) and sends corresponding signals for controlling powers (P1, P2) coupled from the engines (30, 50) to their propeller assemblies. The control unit (70) determines a difference in power (ΔP) to be coupled to the propeller assemblies as a function of the first and second user commands (S1, S2). The control unit (70) controls coupling of power (P1, P2) to the propeller assemblies so that the propeller assemblies develop a difference in thrust which is a function of the difference in power (ΔP). The control unit (70) adjusts angles (α1, α2) of the directions of thrusts as a function of the difference in power (ΔP) to assist the difference in power (ΔP) coupled to the propeller assemblies to enhance maneuverability of the vessel (200).