In-Nozzle Deflector Gate for Jet Reverse Steering Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Personal watercraft often lack the capability to efficiently change direction from forward to reverse and steer effectively while reversing, limiting maneuverability.

Innovation Solution

A jet propulsion system with a deflector gate pivotably mounted to a nozzle, actuated by an actuator, which can pivot between a default and deflector position to redirect water flow for reversing and steering, integrated with a nozzle trim mechanism to adjust water direction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a conventional jet propulsion system is used without a deflector gate, then the structure is simple, but the capability to efficiently change direction from forward to reverse and steer while reversing is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedirectional change capabilityVSAvoidpropulsion system structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The propulsion system is segmented into functional components: the nozzle for forward thrust, the deflector gate for flow redirection, and the actuator for gate control. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, enabling the system to adapt to different operational modes (forward, reverse, steering) without requiring complete structural redesign

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The deflector gate is designed as a dynamic component that can pivot between a default position (for forward thrust) and a deflected position (for reverse/thrust redirection). This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt its water flow direction in real-time, providing versatile directional control while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If the deflector gate is positioned to deflect water for reverse direction, then reverse steering capability is improved, but the forward thrust efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvereverse steering capabilityVSAvoidforward thrust efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The deflector gate operates dynamically, remaining in the default position during forward operation to maintain optimal thrust efficiency, and pivoting to the deflected position only when reverse steering is required. This dynamic positioning ensures that the system achieves reverse steering capability without compromising forward thrust efficiency

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The deflector gate uses a simple pivot mechanism rather than a complex multi-position adjustable system. The gate is designed to be in one of two primary states (default or deflected), avoiding the need for expensive, complex positioning mechanisms that would compromise forward performance while enabling reverse capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Productivity

If the nozzle is continuously adjusted for trim optimization, then propulsion efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepropulsion efficiencyVSAvoidnozzle adjustment mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The nozzle trim mechanism is merged with the deflector gate actuation system. A single actuator performs dual functions: adjusting the nozzle trim position for optimization and controlling the deflector gate position. This merging reduces the number of separate mechanisms required, maintaining propulsion efficiency while limiting the increase in device complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Enables efficient directional change and steering capabilities, enhancing maneuverability and control during both forward and reverse movements.

Implementation Method 1

an impeller positioned within the housing interior to draw water into the housing interior via the inlet and to expel the water from the outlet in a downstream direction

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectImpeller: Impeller

Implementation Method 2

the deflector gate in the default position having the second end downstream of the first end and in the deflector position deflecting at least some of the water out of an opening of the nozzle in an upstream direction

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFluid flow deflection:

Implementation Method 3

an actuator connected to the deflector gate and configured to displace the deflector gate to the deflector position

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical actuation: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS12522333B2Jet propulsion system with in-nozzle deflector gate

Publication Date: 2026.01.13 TAIGA MOTORS INC

AI summary

A jet propulsion system includes a housing and an impeller positioned within the housing interior. A nozzle is positioned at least partially downstream of the housing outlet and a deflector gate is positioned within the nozzle interior. The deflector gate has a first end, a second end and a pivot provided at the first end. The deflector gate is pivotable relative to the nozzle about a pivot axis defined by the pivot between a default position and a deflector position. The deflector gate in the default position having the second end downstream of the first end, and in the deflector position deflecting at least some of the water out of an opening of the nozzle in an upstream direction.