Stern-Mounted Propulsion Mounting Assembly with Forward Convergence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional marine vessel propulsion systems face limitations in steering range and maneuverability, particularly in achieving forward convergence of stern-mounted propulsion units, which affects the vessel's ability to perform smooth turns and heading corrections.
Innovation Solution
A mounting assembly with angle-setting members that angle stern-mounted propulsion units inwardly and forwardly, allowing their propeller axes to converge, thereby increasing the steering range and enabling better alignment of propulsion forces for improved maneuverability and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If stern-mounted propulsion units are positioned parallel to the vessel centerline, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the steering range and maneuverability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly pre-angles the propulsion units forwardly toward the bow at a predetermined angle (5-15 degrees) relative to the vessel centerline. This preliminary angular positioning allows the propeller axes to converge forwardly, enabling the vessels to achieve pure sideways movement and improved maneuverability without requiring complex real-time adjustment mechanisms during operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If propulsion units are angled forwardly towards the bow, then maneuverability and heading correction capability are improved, but the mounting structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly is divided into distinct functional components: a pair of angle-setting members (each comprising a wedge-shaped member and an L-shaped member), stern brackets, and fasteners. This segmentation allows the angular adjustment function to be isolated to specific components, making the overall structure more manageable and easier to manufacture despite the forward convergence requirement.
Solution Approach 2:
The angle-setting members act as intermediary components between the stern brackets and the propulsion units. These intermediaries provide the forward angling function while allowing the propulsion units to be mounted at the optimized convergence angle, thereby improving maneuverability without directly complicating the main mounting structure.
3Ease of operation
If propeller axes are made convergent, then the ability to perform pure sideways movement and rotational adjustments is enhanced, but the alignment precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly specifies a predetermined angular parameter range for the forward convergence of propeller axes (5-15 degrees relative to the vessel centerline). By defining this parameter range, the invention balances the need for convergent propeller axes to achieve pure sideways movement and rotational adjustments with practical manufacturing capabilities, avoiding excessive alignment precision requirements while maintaining enhanced control precision.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a mounting assembly for a marine vessel having a pair of stern-mounted propulsion units. The assembly includes a pair of angle-setting members which forwardly angle the propulsion units towards a bow of the marine vessel when each propulsion unit is at the center of its total steering range. Each propulsion unit has a line of action of its propulsion force. The lines of action of the propulsion units intersect each other between a center of rotation of the marine vessel and a stern of the marine vessel when the propulsion units are steered forwardly towards each other.