Flexible Impact Blade with Torsionally Elastic Spar for Watercraft Propulsion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies lack a flexible impact blade and drive device that can elastically deform in multiple directions with continuous shape changes, mimicking the movement kinematics and flow dynamics of nature, such as bird flight and underwater movements of penguins and manta rays, to achieve complex flight maneuvers and propulsion.
Innovation Solution
A flexible impact blade with a drive device featuring flexible sections that can be curved across the blade surface, supported by a torsionally elastic spar system, allowing for adjustable curvature and twist, and connected via traction or compression elements to transmit forces effectively, enabling the blade to deform in various ways for enhanced propulsion and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If rigid systems are used for propulsion and control, then structural stability is maintained, but the ability to execute complex flight maneuvers and replicate natural movement kinematics is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The wing structure is divided into multiple flexible sections (first flexible section and second flexible section) that can independently deform and articulate relative to each other, enabling complex three-dimensional flight maneuvers while maintaining overall structural integrity through the segmented architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamically adjustable flexible sections with variable curvature that can actively change their shape and orientation during flight, allowing the structure to adapt to different maneuvering requirements while maintaining stability through controlled dynamic adjustments rather than rigid fixed positions
2Adaptability or versatility
If flexible sections with adjustable curvature are used, then continuous shape change and natural movement replication are achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes flexible sections with inherent curvature capabilities that can be actuated to achieve continuous shape changes, replacing complex rigid mechanisms with simpler flexible structures that naturally conform to the desired shapes through material properties and geometric design
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible sections employ variable curvature parameters that can be continuously adjusted along their length, allowing smooth transitions between different shapes and configurations without requiring discrete mechanical adjustments, thereby simplifying the control system while maintaining high adaptability
3Productivity
If multiple flexible sections are coupled in a power transmitting manner, then propulsion efficiency is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple flexible sections into a unified power transmission system where the sections are coupled in series to transmit propulsive forces efficiently, integrating the functions of multiple components into a coordinated system that achieves high propulsion efficiency while managing manufacturing complexity through standardized coupling mechanisms
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 allows for complex flight maneuvers and improved propulsion by enabling continuous shape adjustments and twist, reducing wake turbulence and enhancing structural stability, while maintaining a lightweight and flexible structure.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible impact blade that can elastically and three-dimensionally deform, whereby a continuous change of shape can be adjusted with a flowing contour transition
Implementation Method 2
supported by a torsionally elastic spar system, allowing for adjustable curvature and twist
Data Source
AI summary
A watercraft having a plurality of flexible section secured to a mount, having a drive assembly, wherein the water craft can move the flexible section upwardly and downwardly to propel the watercraft through the water.