Remote Drive Rudder with Rotating Propeller for 360 Steering

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing propulsion systems for small watercraft are limited in steering range, reverse capability, and storage, with most requiring circular pedal motion and resulting in dead zones and inefficient reverse thrust.

Innovation Solution

A remotely driven watercraft with a freely rotatable rudder and propeller or flexible fins, powered by pedals via tension cables or hydraulic fluid, allowing 360-degree rotation and efficient reverse thrust, and capable of being stowed flat on the deck.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If a propeller is mounted on the rudder to provide forward and reverse thrust, then propulsion capability is improved, but the steering angle is limited to plus or minus 45 degrees and cannot rotate 360 degrees

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepropulsion capabilityVSAvoidsteering range

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The rudder assembly is made dynamically rotatable about a vertical axis, allowing it to transition from a fixed angular position to a freely rotatable configuration. This enables the rudder to achieve 360-degree rotation while maintaining its propulsion function, resolving the contradiction between propulsion capability and steering range.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The rudder assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as both a propulsion device (with propeller or fins) and a steering mechanism. By integrating these functions and enabling 360-degree rotation, the system achieves universal adaptability for various maneuvering requirements while maintaining effective propulsion.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the rudder is made freely rotatable about a vertical axis, then steering versatility is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesteering rangeVSAvoidmechanical complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The steering and propulsion functions are merged into a single integrated rudder assembly. The propeller or flexible fins are mounted directly on the rudder, which itself is mounted on the stern. This consolidation reduces the need for separate steering mechanisms and simplifies the overall system while enabling 360-degree rotation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Power

If pedals are used to drive the propeller through circular motion, then forward and reverse propulsion is achieved, but dead zones are created and reverse thrust efficiency is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepropulsion capabilityVSAvoidreverse thrust efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The mechanical connection between pedals and propeller is replaced with a cable-driven system. The pedals move in a linear back-and-forth motion that tensions and relaxes cables, which in turn rotate the rudder assembly. This substitution eliminates the circular pedal motion and associated dead zones, improving reverse thrust efficiency through more direct force transmission.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Power

If a propeller is used for propulsion, then thrust efficiency is improved, but the risk of damage and drag when not in use increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvethrust efficiencyVSAvoiddrag and damage risk

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The propeller is replaced with flexible fins that can dynamically change their configuration. When propulsion is needed, the fins assume an oscillating position to generate thrust. When not in use, the fins can be positioned to minimize drag and reduce the risk of damage from obstacles, providing adaptability that a fixed propeller cannot offer.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 with full directional control, reduces drag and damage risk, maintains balance during reverse motion, and simplifies storage and deployment.

Implementation Method 1

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTension: Tension

Implementation Method 2

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHydraulic: Hydraulic Press

Implementation Method 3

a propeller for propelling the watercraft

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPropulsion: Impeller

Implementation Method 4

pairs of oppositely oscillating flexible fins for propelling the watercraft

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectOscillation: Harmonic Oscillator

Data Source

PatentUS8753156B2Remote drive

Publication Date: 2014.06.17 WHITE RIVER MARINE GROUP LLC

AI summary

A remote powered propulsive device having a rudder which carries a propeller or oscillating fins which are powered by pedals alone or with hydraulic assist or by an electric motor.