Multi-Hull Vessel Suspension Geometry with Variable Linkage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-hulled vessel designs face challenges with high side loads and friction in sliding joints due to strong and large support components, and inefficient packaging and weight distribution, particularly when separate load paths are used through multiple mounting points, leading to reduced ride comfort and joint life.
Innovation Solution
A hull locating arrangement with longitudinally spaced locating linkages, including a variable length first locating linkage and a fixed length second linkage, which uses support components with a line of action aligned with sliding axes to minimize bending moments and side loads, and incorporates bearings or bushings for relative motion, allowing for lateral, longitudinal, roll, and yaw constraints while permitting heave and pitch motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If strong and large support components are used to provide support forces, then the support strength is improved, but the side loads and friction in sliding joints increase, reducing ride comfort and joint life
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the support components, specifically aligning the line of action of support forces with the sliding axes of the locating linkages. This parameter optimization reduces side loads and friction in sliding joints while maintaining adequate support strength, thereby improving joint life and ride comfort without sacrificing structural strength
2Ease of operation
If separate load paths through multiple mounting points are used, then the support and locating functions are separated, but the bending induced into the body and hull increases and packaging efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the support and locating functions by providing both functions through the same locating linkage assembly. The support components are integrated into the locating linkage structure, allowing both support forces and locating forces to be transmitted through unified load paths, which reduces bending moments and improves packaging efficiency while maintaining functional separation through distinct force application points
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 solution reduces mechanical stress on support components, minimizes friction, and improves packaging efficiency by aligning support forces with sliding axes, enhancing ride comfort and extending joint life while maintaining effective support and motion constraints.
Implementation Method 1
The first locating linkage being arranged to permit relative motion between the first and second parts along at least one sliding axis
Implementation Method 2
the support force of the first support element of the first support component has a line of action that is within thirty degrees of parallel to a first linkage plane extending through the body end pivot axis and the hull end pivot axis
Implementation Method 3
The first locating linkage includes bearings or bushings to permit the relative motion between the first and second parts along said at least one sliding axis
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A hull locating arrangement for a multi-hulled vessel having a body at least partially suspended above at least a first and a second hull by support components is disclosed. The hull locating arrangement comprises, for a hull, a first locating linkage and a second locating linkage to together constrain the hull in the lateral, longitudinal, roll and yaw directions relative to the body. The first and second locating linkages are longitudinally spaced, and the first locating linkage includes a first part and a second part, one of the parts of the first locating linkage being pivotally connected to the body about a body end pivot axis, and the other of the parts being pivotally connected to the hull about a hull end pivot axis. The first locating linkage is also arranged to permit relative motion between the first and second parts along at least one sliding axis to thereby permit the first locating linkage to vary in length between the body end pivot axis and the hull end pivot axis. The support components include a first support component adjacent the first locating linkage, the first support component including a first support element providing a support force supporting a portion of the body above the first hull. The support force of the first support element has a line of action that is within thirty degrees of parallel to a first linkage plane extending through the body end pivot axis and the hull end pivot axis.