Modular Hull Thrusters for Precise Low-Speed Vessel Maneuvering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thruster systems for marine vessels require significant bursts of power from the main battery, which can overload it, and lack precise maneuverability at low speeds, especially when navigating in wake-free zones or around obstacles.
Innovation Solution
A modular thruster system with independently controllable thruster motor/propeller units at various hull positions, each with a dedicated battery pack and electrical control system, allowing precise maneuvering and reducing the load on the main battery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a modular thruster system with dedicated battery packs is implemented, then maneuverability at low speeds is improved and main battery strain is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The thruster system is divided into modular units, each with its own motor, propeller, and dedicated battery pack. This segmentation allows independent operation of each thruster unit, providing precise maneuverability at low speeds while distributing power demands across multiple smaller battery packs rather than overloading a single main battery.
Solution Approach 2:
The system adds a new dimension of control by positioning thruster units at multiple locations on the vessel hull (bow, stern, sides) rather than relying solely on the traditional single propeller and rudder system. This multi-location arrangement enables independent control of thrust vectors from different positions, dramatically improving low-speed maneuverability and positioning capability.
2Measurement precision
If multiple thruster units are positioned at different hull locations, then positioning precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning control system is segmented into independent control channels for each thruster unit location. Each location has its own control electronics and power management system, allowing precise independent adjustment of thrust magnitude and direction from each position on the hull, thereby achieving high positioning precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular thruster units are designed with universal mounting configurations that can be adapted to multiple hull locations. Each unit serves multiple functions: propulsion, steering, and positioning control. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized systems at each location, managing complexity while maintaining positioning precision.
3Reliability
If dedicated battery packs are used for each thruster unit, then power delivery reliability is improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is segmented into multiple dedicated battery packs, each assigned to specific thruster units. This segmentation ensures that each thruster unit has reliable, uninterrupted power delivery independent of other units, preventing power shortages during high-demand maneuvers while distributing the total weight across multiple smaller, strategically positioned battery packs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the power delivery parameters by using multiple smaller battery packs with higher discharge rates rather than a single large battery. This parameter change allows each battery pack to be optimized for high-power, short-duration bursts required by thruster operation, improving reliability while the distributed arrangement optimizes weight distribution on the vessel.
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
Enhances maneuverability and reduces battery strain by allowing precise control and positioning of marine vessels at low speeds, minimizing the risk of collisions and improving safety.
Implementation Method 1
an electric motor mounted to the bracket
Implementation Method 2
a propeller or impeller attached to the motor that drives in a desired rotational direction to maneuver the marine vessel
Data Source
AI summary
A thruster system for improved steering and maneuverability of a marine vessel when operating at relatively low, or wakeless speeds, such as in the vicinity of docks, swimmers or other obstacles, or when trailering, beaching or mooring. The thruster system has a modularized design adapted to independently control separate motor/driver units located at various positions on the vessel's hull. Each driver (e.g., propeller or impeller) of the modular thruster motor system has its own relatively small, electric motor and mounting bracket, permitting each motor to be separately mounted to a location on the hull of the marine vessel apart from other thruster motors. The thruster system is further enhanced by an electrical control system for controlling each modular thruster motor system of the thruster system. In some embodiments, a charging system is provided that permits each electrical control system to be separately charged from the marine vessel's main battery.