Movable Underwater Wings for Vessel Steering and Lift
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing underwater wing systems for vessels fail to effectively control steering and minimize energy consumption while reducing environmental impact, as they either rely solely on motor propulsion or fixed wing angles that do not allow for directional changes.
Innovation Solution
A control system utilizing movable underwater wings with a safety brake, allowing for adjustable wing positions and simultaneous control of lift and steering through pairs of wings that turn in opposite directions during turns, reducing drag and energy consumption, and featuring a safety mechanism to return wings to pre-set positions in case of obstacles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If fixed wing angles are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but steering capability and directional control are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the underwater wings movable rather than fixed. The wings can change their angle and position dynamically during vessel operation, allowing the system to adapt to different steering requirements while maintaining structural simplicity through a relatively straightforward mechanical actuation system.
2Use of energy by moving object
If motor propulsion is used, then reliable propulsion is achieved, but energy consumption and environmental impact increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the vessel from water resistance by using underwater wings to lift the hull above the water surface. This reduces the wetted surface area and hydrodynamic drag significantly, thereby reducing energy consumption for propulsion while maintaining reliable movement through the wings' hydrodynamic lift and the vessel's buoyancy.
3Ease of operation
If quick turns with minimum radius are performed, then maneuverability is improved, but vessel heeling and stability increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by using differential wing positioning during turns. One wing is positioned at a different angle or depth than the other, creating asymmetric hydrodynamic forces that enable sharp turning with minimum radius. This asymmetric configuration allows the vessel to turn quickly while the hull remains stable above water, reducing heeling compared to traditional water-based turning mechanisms.
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 agile and safe vessel navigation with reduced energy consumption and noise, maintaining a stable hull position above water, even in choppy conditions, while minimizing environmental impact by reducing water resistance and wave interaction.
Implementation Method 1
The lift generated by the wings raises the vessel above the waterline
Implementation Method 2
steering a vessel with moving underwater wings... minimize water resistance
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The control system of the vessel with moving underwater wings allows steering with the wings (4a and 4b), while in turn the front pair of wings (4a) turns in the direction of the turn, the rear pair of wings (4b) turns in the opposite direction. The wing pairs (4a and 4b) settled in the direction of the turn radius. This reduces the turning radius and the roll of the vessel in comparison with conventional steering systems, increasing the manoeuvrability of the vessel. The minimal roll of the vessel in the turns allows for an even and maximum distance between the surface and the entire hull of the vessel. This is an advantage in wavy waters, because the waves do not crash into the hull of the vessel. This lowers energy consumption and makes for a peaceful and quiet ride. It is possible to steer the with only the motor (6), with only at least two pairs of wings (4a and 4b) at the same time or a separate a pair of wings (4a or 4b), or in a combined manner with the motor (6) and two pairs of wings (4a and 4b) at the same time or a separate pair of wings (4a or 4b). From an energy consumption standpoint the combined steering mode with the motor (6) and two pairs of wings (4a and 4b) is the most optimal type of control. The control system of the vessel with moving underwater wings, is linked to the lifting system (1), the safety brake (1c), which allows one to raise the wings (4a and 4b) over the vessel out of the water and the lower the wings (4a and 4b) under the hull of the vessel at the desired position or angle, which produces lift and thus raises the vessel out of the water during the sail at already very low speed. The brake (1c) keeps the wings (4a in 4b) in their set position. The lifting system (1) with a safety brake (1c) also has a safety function.