Electric Propulsion Device Turning Actuator for Compact Direction Change
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric propulsion devices that change the direction of propulsive force either require multiple propellers or a steering shaft, leading to increased size and complexity.
Innovation Solution
An electric propulsion device with a cylindrical duct defining a stator, a rim with fins, and a turning actuator supported by a bracket, allowing the duct and rim to be turned without additional propellers or steering shafts, using a driven gear and drive gear mechanism to reduce vertical height and increase compactness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a steering shaft is provided to integrally turn the duct and rim, then the direction of generated propulsive force can be changed, but the height of the electric propulsion device in the vertical direction is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the turning actuator from a lateral arrangement (requiring a steering shaft that extends horizontally) to a vertical arrangement above the duct. The turning actuator rotates the duct and rim assembly vertically, changing the propulsive force direction in the horizontal plane. This dimensional reconfiguration reduces the vertical height requirement while maintaining directional adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a bracket as an intermediary component that supports the duct and connects it to the turning actuator. The bracket serves as a mediator between the turning actuator and the duct, enabling the turning function while maintaining a compact vertical profile. This intermediary structure allows the duct to be turned relative to the bracket without requiring a long steering shaft.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple propellers are provided to change the direction of generated propulsive force, then directional control is achieved, but the device size is significantly increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the single duct-rim assembly multi-functional by enabling it to rotate and change direction. Instead of requiring multiple propellers for different directions, the same propulsive assembly can be oriented in different directions through the turning actuator. This universal design allows one component to perform multiple directional functions, significantly reducing device size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the static propulsive assembly into a dynamic one by adding the turning actuator that enables the duct and rim to rotate. This dynamic capability allows the single propulsive assembly to adapt its orientation and change the direction of generated propulsive force, replacing the need for multiple fixed propellers arranged in different directions.
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 solution enables efficient direction change of propulsive force while significantly reducing the size of the propulsion device, maintaining compactness and stability, and reducing resistance during planing operations.
Implementation Method 1
a rim (3) that defines a rotor rotatable relative to the duct and includes a plurality of fins
Implementation Method 2
a turning actuator that integrally turns the duct and the rim
Data Source
AI summary
An electric propulsion device includes a duct having a cylindrical shape and that includes a stator. A rim includes a rotor rotatable relative to the duct, and a plurality of fins. A bracket supports the duct so as to allow the duct to turn about a turning axis that intersects with the rotation axis of the rim, and a turning actuator that integrally turns the duct and the rim. The turning actuator is fixed to the bracket, and the duct is turnable relative to the bracket.