Fluid-Hinge Trim Tab for Watercraft Attitude Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trim tab and stern flap technologies face limitations in achieving optimal hydrodynamic performance, fuel efficiency, and durability due to fixed hinge points that restrict slidability and require complex actuator mounting, leading to inefficiencies and increased maintenance time.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a fluid-hinge system with a containment shelf-bracket and a flexible planar surface allows for forward, aft, and vertical slidability, enabling a fluid-hinge mechanism that supports the planar surface without a fixed connection, combined with an actuator pivotally connected to the rear of the planar surface, optimizing surface area for improved hydrodynamic performance and ease of maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed hinge point is used to connect the trim tab to the hull, then the structural stability is improved, but the slidability and adaptability of the trim tab are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from a fixed hinge connection to a fluid hinge system that allows dynamic movement. The fluid hinge enables the trim tab to slide forward, aft, and vertically relative to the hull, providing adaptability while maintaining structural stability through controlled fluid pressure. This resolves the contradiction by making the connection dynamic rather than static.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses hydraulics to create a fluid hinge that replaces the fixed mechanical hinge. By using hydraulic fluid pressure to support and control the trim tab position, the system achieves both structural stability (through fluid support) and slidability (through controlled fluid movement). The hydraulic system allows the trim tab to move freely while maintaining stable positioning when needed.
2Ease of manufacture
If a fixed hinge connection is used, then the manufacturing simplicity is improved, but the device complexity increases due to required non-right angle actuator mounting
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic fluid hinge eliminates the need for complex non-right angle actuator mounting by providing a flexible connection point. The actuator can be mounted at a right angle to the hull, simplifying both manufacturing and installation. The hydraulic system absorbs the angular variations and movement requirements, reducing mechanical complexity.
3Power
If the planar surface is descended to maximum position, then the attitude control effectiveness is improved, but the strain on the hinge and risk of damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic fluid hinge distributes the hydrodynamic forces acting on the trim tab across the fluid pressure system rather than concentrating them at a single fixed hinge point. This fluid pressure distribution reduces peak stresses and strains on the connection components, enhancing durability while maintaining full attitude control effectiveness when the trim tab is descended to maximum position.
4Reliability
If traditional trim tab systems are used, then the basic attitude control function is achieved, but the fuel efficiency and hydrodynamic performance are suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes fuel efficiency and hydrodynamic performance by enabling dynamic adjustment of multiple parameters: the trim tab's position (forward/aft/vertical), surface area, and angulation. The fluid hinge system allows continuous parameter changes to achieve optimal hydrodynamic conditions for different operating scenarios, reducing drag and improving fuel efficiency while maintaining reliable attitude control.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method involving hydro-lifters for achieving attitude and control of a watercraft including at least one elongate planar surface, at least one actuator mounted to the hull of the watercraft and pivotally connected to a planar surface. The system using at least one containment shelf-bracket fastened to the underside of the hull forming a non-fixed containment area, between an upper surface of the containment shelf-bracket and the hull, to capture the planar surface and provide a support surface on which the planar surface may rest and allowing forward, aft, and vertical slidability of the planar surface. A method for calculating optimal surface area of the planar surfaces for fuel efficiency by obtaining the measurements of an overall length of the hull and maximum beam of the hull, multiplying the measurement, multiplying the value by 1-3%, and dividing the resulting number by the quantity of planar surfaces.