Fin-Based Watercraft Propulsion via Torque Reaction Engine
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing propeller-driven watercraft face inefficiencies due to the rotation of the thrust fluid column, which reduces propulsive efficiency, and the complexity of fin-based propulsion systems with many moving parts and seals, leading to high manufacturing costs and reduced reliability.
Innovation Solution
The development of an efficient fin-based propulsion system with only one directly powered component, which is entirely sealed in some embodiments, utilizing a torque reaction engine (TRE) that causes the capsule to cyclically counter-rotate, generating thrust through oscillating yaw, pitch, or roll.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single propeller is used to propel watercraft, then the drive train complexity is reduced, but the propulsive efficiency decreases due to rotation of the thrust fluid column
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional rotating propeller mechanism with an oscillating fin mechanism driven by a torque reaction engine. The TRE causes the capsule to cyclically counter-rotate, which oscillates the fin back and forth to generate thrust through alternating angles of attack, eliminating the continuous rotation problem while maintaining propulsion efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of rotating the fin continuously in one direction like a propeller, the system inverts the approach by using cyclic counter-rotation of the capsule to oscillate the fin in alternating directions. This creates a push-pull motion pattern similar to marine mammals rather than continuous rotation
2Loss of energy
If two counter-rotating propellers are used to eliminate thrust fluid rotation, then propulsive efficiency improves, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of two counter-rotating propellers into a single oscillating fin system. The cyclic counter-rotation of the capsule driven by the TRE produces alternating oscillation directions of the fin, achieving the effect of counter-rotation with a single fin rather than two separate propellers
Solution Approach 2:
The single fin serves multiple functions: it generates thrust through oscillation, eliminates the need for counter-rotating components, and simplifies the drive train while maintaining the benefits of counter-rotating propulsion through the capsule's cyclic counter-rotation
3Force
If traditional fin-based propulsion systems with many moving parts are used, then the thrust generation capability is improved, but the manufacturing cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates unnecessary moving parts from traditional fin-based systems. The fin is mounted to oscillate with minimal mechanical components, relying on the capsule's cyclic counter-rotation rather than complex bearing assemblies, seals, and actuators found in conventional fish-like propulsion systems
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the torque reaction from the TRE's cyclic counter-rotation to directly oscillate the fin without requiring additional motors, bearings, or mechanical linkages. The capsule's own motion serves to drive the fin oscillation, eliminating the need for separate thrust generation mechanisms
4Force
If multiple seals and moving bearings are used in fin-based propulsion systems, then the thrust transmission is improved, but the reliability decreases due to friction and maintenance requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical seal and bearing systems with a magnetic coupling mechanism. The TRE uses magnetic fields to transmit rotational force to the capsule without physical contact, eliminating seals and bearings that require maintenance and reduce reliability in wet environments
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
This solution achieves higher efficiency and reliability compared to traditional propeller-driven systems and fin-based systems, with reduced mechanical complexity and maintenance costs, while maintaining a robust and cost-effective design.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a torque reaction engine (TRE) that causes the capsule to cyclically counter-rotate, generating thrust through oscillating yaw, pitch, or roll
Implementation Method 2
The alternating rotational force from the torque reaction engine is communicated to a fin, fluke, wing, or blade (hereinafter, 'fluke'). Translation of the fluke up and down (or side-to-side or clockwise and counterclockwise) accelerates thrust fluid and produces thrust
Implementation Method 3
Translation of the fluke up and down (or side-to-side or clockwise and counterclockwise) accelerates thrust fluid and produces thrust
Data Source
AI summary
A watercraft comprises a motor, an inertial mass, and a fin. The motor oscillates the inertial mass about an axis, producing a torque reaction on and oscillation of the motor. Oscillation of the motor is communicated to the fin, producing thrust. The system can be operated in reverse, to generate electric power when the system is in a flowing stream of thrust fluid.