Rudder Trailing Tab Proportional Deflection Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rudder control systems with trailing tabs require complex controls and power sources, which can increase frictional drag and reduce efficiency in directional control and stabilizer operation.
Innovation Solution
A deflectable trailing tab system where the movement of the tab is directly proportional to the rudder fin's rotation, utilizing a strategically positioned support pin and drive shaft mechanism to eliminate the need for electric or hydraulic power, allowing for compact and efficient operation without adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a trailing tab is used with complex controls and power sources, then directional control precision is improved, but device complexity increases and energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes complex power sources (electric motors, hydraulic systems) and control mechanisms from the trailing tab system. The trailing tab is extracted as a simple mechanical component that operates passively through water flow forces, eliminating the need for complex control systems while maintaining directional control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The trailing tab is designed to operate autonomously using natural water flow forces. The tab automatically deflects and generates corrective forces without requiring external power sources or complex control systems, making the system self-sufficient and simplifying the overall control mechanism.
2Measurement precision
If electric or hydraulic power sources are used to operate the trailing tab, then control precision is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The trailing tab operates autonomously by harnessing natural water flow forces to generate corrective moments. No electric motors, hydraulic systems, or other power-consuming mechanisms are required, eliminating energy consumption entirely while maintaining control precision through passive hydrodynamic forces.
Solution Approach 2:
All power sources (electric and hydraulic) are completely removed from the system. The trailing tab is extracted as a purely mechanical, passive component that relies on water flow dynamics rather than active power-driven mechanisms, thereby eliminating energy consumption.
3Adaptability or versatility
If wide rudder rotation is used to achieve directional control, then directional control range is improved, but frictional drag increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rudder system is segmented into two independent components: the main rudder blade and the trailing tab. The trailing tab provides fine directional adjustments and stability corrections without requiring large rotations of the main rudder, thereby reducing frictional drag while maintaining directional control range.
Solution Approach 2:
The trailing tab is positioned at the trailing edge of the rudder where it can locally generate corrective forces. This local action allows for precise directional control without requiring the entire main rudder to rotate through wide angles, minimizing frictional drag on the main rudder while maintaining adaptability.
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 enhances rudder control efficiency by reducing the need for wide rudder rotation, minimizing power consumption, and maintaining torque equilibrium, while simplifying control mechanisms and eliminating the need for power sources, thereby improving directional control and reducing frictional drag.
Implementation Method 1
one fin develops upward lift while the other fin develops downward lift. The combination produces a stabilizing torque which counteracts the rolling force induced by wave action
Implementation Method 2
An upper surface of the base plate includes a support pin positioned along a predetermined distance from the shaft... rotation of the stabilizer fin causes and an equal 22.5° rotation of the trailing tab
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a rudder assembly formed from a rudder structure having an airfoil shaped rudder structure rotatably secured to a shaft that is rigidly secured an underlying base plate. An upper surface of the base plate includes a support pin positioned a predetermined distance from the shaft. A trailing tab having an underlying drive plate is hingedly coupled to the rudder structure. The drive plate has a centrally located slot constructed and arranged to be slidably secured to the support pin on the base plate. Rotation of the rudder structure results in direct movement of the trailing tab in proportion to the rudder position. Clockwise rotation of the rudder structure causes the clockwise rotation of the trailing tab. Counter-clockwise rotation of the rudder structure causes the counter-clockwise rotation of the trailing tab.