Independent Propeller Shaft Control for Marine Pitch Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing marine propulsion systems face inefficiencies in controlling propeller pitch, leading to suboptimal performance, increased fuel consumption, and higher emissions due to cumbersome mechanical and hydraulic systems that lack flexibility and precision.
Innovation Solution
A marine propulsion unit with independently controllable power pathways, such as belt drives, axles, or motors, connected to the propeller shafts, allowing for precise adjustment of pitch angles through a control unit, optimizing propulsion efficiency and maneuverability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mechanical linkages and hydraulic systems are used to adjust propeller pitch, then pitch control is achieved, but the system becomes complex and prone to maintenance issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical linkages and hydraulic systems with an electric motor-driven system. The motor rotates the propeller shafts independently to change pitch angles, eliminating complex mechanical transmissions and hydraulic components while achieving precise pitch control through electronic means.
Solution Approach 2:
The propulsion system is divided into multiple independent power ways, each with its own motor controlling a specific propeller shaft. This segmentation allows independent control of each shaft's rotation speed and direction, enabling flexible pitch adjustment without requiring a complex centralized mechanical or hydraulic system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional mechanical and hydraulic systems are used for pitch control, then pitch adjustment is possible, but flexibility to adapt to varying operational demands is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the rotation speed and direction of each propeller shaft independently through electronic control of the motors. This allows real-time adaptation to varying operational conditions such as changes in speed, load, and navigational requirements, providing superior flexibility compared to fixed mechanical linkages.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the control parameter from mechanical position or hydraulic pressure to electric motor rotation speed and direction. This enables continuous and precise adjustment of propeller pitch angles to optimize performance across different operational modes, enhancing adaptability while simplifying control.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise control over pitch adjustment is not achieved, then suboptimal performance occurs, but traditional systems lack the capability for precise control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes electronic motor control for mechanical pitch adjustment mechanisms, enabling precise control of propeller pitch angles. The motor's ability to accurately control rotation speed and direction allows for fine-tuned pitch adjustments that optimize propulsion efficiency and performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates control units that monitor and adjust the rotation of each propeller shaft to achieve desired pitch angles. This feedback mechanism ensures precise pitch control by continuously comparing actual positions with target positions and making real-time corrections, thereby optimizing propulsion efficiency.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a marine propulsion unit, comprising at least one motor for rotating a pitchable propeller around an axis, the pitchable propeller being connected with a first shaft and a second shaft, the first shaft being rotated by a first power way, the second shaft being rotated by a second power way, wherein the first power way and the second power way are controllable independently of each other so that a first rotation speed (rpm) of the first shaft and a second rotation speed (rpm) of the second shaft can vary.