Electric Fin Stabilizer Drive With Transmission-Input Holding Brake
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fin stabilizer systems in ships rely on hydraulic drives that generate large torques for pivoting the stabilizer fin, requiring complex and load-bearing fixing devices that are not efficient and prone to leakage.
Innovation Solution
A drive device with a compact electric motor, eccentric transmission, and a non-self-locking fixing mechanism using a toothed holding brake and electromagnet for precise, low-load fixing of the stabilizer fin in any pivot position, allowing for a compact and maintenance-free operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If hydraulic drives are used to generate large torques for pivoting the stabilizer fin, then the necessary torque is achieved, but the system becomes complex and prone to leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the hydraulic drive system with an electric motor combined with a transmission mechanism. The electric motor generates rotational motion that is transmitted through gears and shafts to the stabilizer fin, eliminating the need for hydraulic fluid, pumps, and associated leakage issues while maintaining the capability to generate necessary torque.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive system is divided into separate functional components: the electric motor, the transmission mechanism, and the fixing device. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall system architecture compared to a monolithic hydraulic system.
2Reliability
If fixing devices act directly on the fin shaft to lock it in position, then reliable fixing is achieved, but the mechanical stress on the fin shaft increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission mechanism serves as an intermediary between the motor and the fin shaft. The fixing device acts on the transmission input shaft rather than directly on the fin shaft, so the transmission mechanism mediates the force transmission. This reduces the mechanical stress on the fin shaft while maintaining fixing reliability through the intermediate transmission components.
3Ease of manufacture
If a non-self-locking drive motor is used, then the motor construction is simplified and maintenance-free, but the motor requires additional fixing control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission mechanism provides self-locking functionality through its mechanical design, specifically through the gear engagement and friction characteristics. This eliminates the need for additional self-locking mechanisms in the motor itself, maintaining motor simplicity while achieving the necessary fixing control through the transmission's inherent properties.
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 precise, low-load fixing of the stabilizer fin in any pivot position, reducing mechanical stress and eliminating hydraulic leakage issues while ensuring reliable operation even in power failures.
Implementation Method 1
The release force is generated, for example, via at least one electromagnet, and is then a magnetic force
Implementation Method 2
The mechanical locking force is effected, for example, via at least one compression spring
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
Disclosed is a drive device of a fin stabilizer for pivoting a stabilizer fin about its fin shaft axis, including a drive motor and a transmission, wherein a fixing device for fixing the stabilizer fin in a pivot position acts directly on a transmission input shaft, and a fin stabilizer.