Lateral Thrust Device for Watercraft Reverse Steering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing watercraft propulsion systems face challenges in maneuverability when reversing, as they have a limited turning radius and counterintuitive steering due to the drastic redirection of the entire water flow.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising first and second main bodies with channels that redirect a portion of the reverse jet stream, providing lateral thrust and improving control over steering, is integrated with the deflector nozzle to enhance maneuverability in reverse.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the reverse gate drastically redirects the entire water flow, then reverse thrust is achieved, but the turning radius is limited and steering becomes counterintuitive
Solution Approach 1:
The reverse gate is divided into multiple segments that can be independently controlled. Instead of redirecting the entire water flow as a single unit, the gate segments can be positioned at different angles to provide gradual and intuitive steering control, allowing the operator to achieve desired turning radius without counterintuitive steering behavior.
Solution Approach 2:
The reverse gate transitions from a static, fixed-position structure to a dynamic, adjustable structure. The gate segments can be actively positioned and repositioned during operation, enabling real-time adaptation of the flow redirection pattern to achieve optimal steering control and turning radius for different operating conditions.
2Ease of operation
If the deflector nozzle pivots to maximum turn radius, then steering capability is achieved, but the jet stream provides only approximately 45 degrees of off-plane steering
Solution Approach 1:
Different portions of the reverse gate are assigned different functions and angles. The gate segments can be positioned to redirect water flow at various angles, with some segments providing greater deflection for faster turning while others provide more gradual deflection for precise control, thereby achieving both steering capability and improved turning speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The reverse gate employs asymmetric segment positioning and water flow distribution. By creating asymmetric flow patterns where different segments redirect water at different angles and with different intensities, the system achieves enhanced turning performance that overcomes the limitation of uniform 45-degree deflection.
3Force
If the reverse gate redirects water flow to the side of the boat, then lateral thrust is generated, but the stern travels in the opposite direction of the steering
Solution Approach 1:
The reverse gate inverts the conventional approach by redirecting water flow in a pattern that produces intuitive steering response. Instead of the stern traveling opposite to the steering direction, the segmented gate design creates flow patterns where the lateral thrust and stern movement are aligned with the operator's steering input, making the craft behave more like familiar vehicles.
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 device provides greater angular deflection of the reverse flow, resulting in improved control and intuitive steering in reverse, similar to automobiles and outboard-powered craft, while maintaining the ease-of-use of existing deflector nozzle configurations.
Implementation Method 1
redirecting a portion of the jet stream created by a watercraft
Implementation Method 2
providing lateral thrust
Data Source
AI summary
A device for redirecting the reverse jet stream flow created by a watercraft to provide a lateral thrust. A first and second main body of device is fixed to the deflector nozzle within first and second reverse nozzle outlet channels, respectively. Each main body has a channel disposed therein. Each channel has a bend that fluidly connects an inlet to an outlet. The reverse flow enters the respective inlet in a downward and backward direction with respect to deflector nozzle. The respective inlet and channel of main body bend the reverse flow such that, when the reverse flow exits the outlet, the reverse flow is primarily lateral.