Hydraulic Thruster Tilt Mechanism for Vessel Helm Clearance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current marine thrusters face issues such as interference with helm platforms during storage, lack of a strong redundant tilt actuator system, inadequate down-tilt stops, protruding components that increase height, and limited extension/retraction travel, particularly on deep-draft vessels.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained hydraulic thruster design featuring a lower unit tilted above water level with a housing arm and tilt actuator, positive down-tilt stops, and long-travel extension/retraction mechanisms, allowing for accurate positioning on a vessel without permanent protrusions, reducing corrosion and maintenance costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the lower unit is tilted backwards for storage, then the lower unit can be retracted for maintenance and cleaning, but the protruding upper end of the lower unit interferes with the helm and helm platform
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies lateral offset positioning, moving the lower unit from a central location to a position offset from the centerline of the vessel. This dimensional change in horizontal positioning allows the lower unit to be tilted backwards without its upper end interfering with the helm platform, while still enabling access for maintenance and cleaning operations.
2Reliability
If a strong redundant tilt actuator system is implemented, then the tilt function is more reliable, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a redundant tilt actuator system by providing multiple actuators (typically two) positioned at different locations on the lower unit. Each actuator independently controls the tilt function, creating local redundancy. This approach enhances reliability without requiring a complete system redesign, as each actuator operates semi-independently to achieve the same tilt objective.
3Reliability
If permanent downwards-protruding members are used for positioning, then the thruster is securely positioned on the vessel, but the overall height increases interfering with storage and shipping
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes permanent downwards-protruding positioning members from the design. Instead, it uses adjustable positioning mechanisms such as removable pins or mechanical adapters that can be configured during installation but do not permanently extend the overall height of the thruster assembly. This extraction of permanent protruding elements allows secure positioning while maintaining compact dimensions for storage and shipping.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the extension and retraction mechanism provides long travel, then the thruster can be installed on deep draft vessels, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an extension and retraction mechanism with long travel capability using telescopic or articulated linkages that can dynamically adjust the length of the lower unit extension. This dynamic mechanism allows the thruster to accommodate deep draft vessels by extending downward while maintaining a compact retracted position, avoiding the need for permanently long structures that would increase overall height and complexity.
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 design enhances stability, reduces corrosion, facilitates efficient storage and operation, and provides cost-effective installation and maintenance by keeping components above water and using readily available materials, while enabling long-travel extension and retraction for deep-hulled vessels.
Implementation Method 1
a prime mover such as a diesel engine driving a hydraulic pump, together known as a 'power pack', and the resultant pressurized hydraulic fluid may be employed to drive a propeller
Implementation Method 2
a lower unit tiltably attached to a base, a housing arm attached to a housing and extending upwards from said housing, and a tilt actuator attached at one end to a distal end of the housing arm and at the other end to the base upper surface
Implementation Method 3
providing positive down-tilt stops which provide mechanical end-of-downwards-tilt travel stops, so that the lower unit is held securely vertical when tilted down
Data Source
AI summary
A self-contained hydraulic thruster for vessel. The hydraulic thruster incorporates at least one lower unit housing tiltably attached to a base at a base lower unit cutout laterally offset from a helm platform. Tilt actuator(s) disposed entirely above a base upper surface tilt each lower unit up or down relative to the base. Two positive down-tilt means are disclosed: housing arm lower edge(s) resting on the base upper surface, and also down stop tab(s) extending from a base lower unit cutout wall into the base lower unit cutout against which a forward housing wall edge butts when the housing is tilted fully down. In addition, base bores through the base are disclosed, and pins which slidably fit into respective base bores and extend downwards from the base to serve as positioning stops when installing the hydraulic thruster on a vessel.