Modular Propulsion Nozzle for Complex Curvatures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional propeller nozzles with simple standardized designs are inadequate for achieving improved hydrodynamic characteristics, particularly with complex surface geometries like double and triple curvatures, due to limitations in manufacturing processes such as welding.
Innovation Solution
A propulsion unit nozzle design featuring a load-bearing core structure with hydrodynamic elements mounted on it, allowing for complex surface geometries and modular assembly, enabling efficient manufacturing and adaptation to varying vessel and propulsion system requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If traditional welding-based manufacturing processes are used for propeller nozzles, then simple standardized designs can be produced, but complex surface geometries like double and triple curvatures cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle is divided into multiple modular elements that can be manufactured separately using conventional welding processes and then assembled together. Each element can have simplified geometry suitable for traditional manufacturing, while the overall assembly achieves complex double and triple curvature surface geometries through the arrangement of multiple segments.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple individually manufactured nozzle elements are combined and welded together to form the complete nozzle structure. This merging of simpler components enables the creation of complex surface geometries that would be difficult or impossible to produce as a single piece using traditional welding processes.
2Productivity
If propeller nozzles are designed with complex surface geometries for improved hydrodynamic characteristics, then efficiency increases, but manufacturing becomes more difficult and less effective
Solution Approach 1:
The complex nozzle geometry is segmented into multiple manageable elements that can be manufactured using standard, efficient welding processes. This segmentation maintains manufacturing efficiency by avoiding the need for complex single-piece manufacturing while still achieving the desired hydrodynamic surface geometries through the assembly of multiple elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The design parameters of individual nozzle elements are optimized for efficient manufacturing using conventional processes, while the overall nozzle achieves complex hydrodynamic characteristics through the spatial arrangement and configuration of these elements. This allows separate optimization of manufacturing efficiency and hydrodynamic performance.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional standardized nozzle designs are used, then manufacturing is easier and more effective, but hydrodynamic characteristics are insufficient for improved efficiency and reduced emission
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle is segmented into multiple elements that can be manufactured using simple, effective traditional welding processes. Despite the segmentation and modular approach, the arrangement of these elements achieves the complex double and triple curvature surface geometries necessary for improved hydrodynamic characteristics, thus maintaining both manufacturing simplicity and hydrodynamic performance.
4Adaptability or versatility
If propeller nozzles are designed to be adaptive to varying vessel and propulsion system characteristics, then versatility improves, but design and manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle is designed as a modular assembly of multiple elements, where individual elements or groups of elements can be selectively configured to adapt to different vessel and propulsion system characteristics. This segmentation enables versatility without requiring complete redesign of the entire nozzle, as only specific elements need to be modified or replaced for different applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular element design allows the same basic element types to be used across different nozzle configurations for various vessel types and propulsion systems. This universality provides adaptability to varying requirements while avoiding the need for entirely unique designs for each application, thus controlling design 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
This design enhances manufacturing efficiency and adaptability, allowing for improved hydrodynamic performance and easier maintenance by using a core structure for structural integrity and hydrodynamic elements for complex geometries, reducing manufacturing complexity and enabling better water flow management.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of hydrodynamic elements mounted on and enclosing the core structure thereby defining the outer and the inner surfaces of the propulsion unit nozzle... The propulsion unit nozzle or propulsion unit nozzle affects the flow of water past the propeller
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a propulsion unit nozzle for being arranged around a propeller in a propulsion unit, comprising: a load bearing core structure extending in a circumference of the propulsion unit nozzle; and a plurality of hydrodynamic elements mounted on and enclosing the core structure thereby defining the outer and the inner surfaces of the propulsion unit nozzle. The invention further relates to a propulsion unit for a vessel comprising a propulsion unit nozzle and to a method for the manufacture of a propulsion unit nozzle.