CA2821427A1 - Oscillating propulsor - Google Patents
Oscillating propulsor Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2821427A1 CA2821427A1 CA2821427A CA2821427A CA2821427A1 CA 2821427 A1 CA2821427 A1 CA 2821427A1 CA 2821427 A CA2821427 A CA 2821427A CA 2821427 A CA2821427 A CA 2821427A CA 2821427 A1 CA2821427 A1 CA 2821427A1
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- Prior art keywords
- spherical body
- oscillating
- recited
- propulsor
- oscillating propulsor
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- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63H—MARINE PROPULSION OR STEERING
- B63H1/00—Propulsive elements directly acting on water
- B63H1/30—Propulsive elements directly acting on water of non-rotary type
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F03—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F03B—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS
- F03B13/00—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates
- F03B13/12—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy
- F03B13/14—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy
- F03B13/16—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member, i.e. a "wom" and another member, i.e. a reaction member or "rem"
- F03B13/20—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member, i.e. a "wom" and another member, i.e. a reaction member or "rem" wherein both members, i.e. wom and rem are movable relative to the sea bed or shore
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F03—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F03B—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS
- F03B17/00—Other machines or engines
- F03B17/06—Other machines or engines using liquid flow with predominantly kinetic energy conversion, e.g. of swinging-flap type, "run-of-river", "ultra-low head"
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F03—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F03D—WIND MOTORS
- F03D5/00—Other wind motors
- F03D5/06—Other wind motors the wind-engaging parts swinging to-and-fro and not rotating
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F05—INDEXING SCHEMES RELATING TO ENGINES OR PUMPS IN VARIOUS SUBCLASSES OF CLASSES F01-F04
- F05B—INDEXING SCHEME RELATING TO WIND, SPRING, WEIGHT, INERTIA OR LIKE MOTORS, TO MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS COVERED BY SUBCLASSES F03B, F03D AND F03G
- F05B2240/00—Components
- F05B2240/90—Mounting on supporting structures or systems
- F05B2240/93—Mounting on supporting structures or systems on a structure floating on a liquid surface
- F05B2240/931—Mounting on supporting structures or systems on a structure floating on a liquid surface which is a vehicle
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
- Y02E10/20—Hydro energy
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
- Y02E10/30—Energy from the sea, e.g. using wave energy or salinity gradient
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
- Y02E10/70—Wind energy
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02T—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO TRANSPORTATION
- Y02T70/00—Maritime or waterways transport
- Y02T70/50—Measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions related to the propulsion system
- Y02T70/5218—Less carbon-intensive fuels, e.g. natural gas, biofuels
- Y02T70/5236—Renewable or hybrid-electric solutions
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Ocean & Marine Engineering (AREA)
- Power Engineering (AREA)
- Aviation & Aerospace Engineering (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Sustainable Development (AREA)
- Sustainable Energy (AREA)
- Other Liquid Machine Or Engine Such As Wave Power Use (AREA)
Abstract
Apparatus for propelling fluids, crafts and harvesting fluid power comprises a spherical body 130, having a convex leading surface and a concave trailing surface. Upon oscillation, the spherical body 130 accelerates and ejects ambient fluids to impart a propulsive momentum to the apparatus and attachments thereto. Apparatus is secured to a motive power source directly or via actuating member 132, by fastening through aperture 134. Apparatus can be operated directly by a reciprocating motive power source, and by the reaction momentum imparted to a supporting base. Rotary to linear motion converters can also be used to drive the apparatus. Thrust may be vectored by rotation of the spherical body 130 about a base. Drag reduction using fluid dynamic shapes, fluid phobic materials and a lubricant cavity are embodied.
Description
OSCILLATING PROPULSOR
1. TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to propulsion systems and, more particularly, to devices that propel fluids and crafts in oscillation mode.
1. TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to propulsion systems and, more particularly, to devices that propel fluids and crafts in oscillation mode.
2. BACKGROUND ART
Over time, man has developed tools to help him propel and navigate his crafts over land and in bodies of fluid, be they lakes, rivers, oceans or the atmosphere. These tools have evolved from sticks, paddles, oars, hot air balloons and bird-like wings to today's state of the art wings and propeller screws. The propeller screw and its many modifications form the basis of most current propulsion systems. Design and manufacture of the propeller screw requires mastery of foil dynamics in which profile, shape, area, angle, number of blades, and speed are important parameters. Moreover, the phenomena of cavitation and stall limit the performance of the majority of propeller screws. Propeller screws are also sometimes lethal to wildlife.
There is an effort to develop alternative propulsion systems in the form of reciprocating wings, with a promise of greater efficiency. Most engines in use today are of the reciprocating type, yet they are invariably used in rotary mode; the mechanical simplification afforded by direct drive of oscillating propulsion systems would be a major advantage. Reciprocating propulsion systems may also be better suited to harnessing wave power for propulsion, further increasing efficiency and helping to preserve the environment through reduced hydrocarbon use.
However, current reciprocating propulsion systems are still based mostly on the airfoil or hydrofoil concept and can be expected to suffer from some of the limitations of the propeller screw, as already outlined.
A different approach to fluid propulsion involves imparting energy to a contained volume of fluid before discharge; other than enclosed propellers it appears that piston and diaphragm pumps, and the likes are the existing alternatives, with limited market success in craft propulsion. A submersible buoyant cup with transverse opening is disclosed in US pat. No.
Over time, man has developed tools to help him propel and navigate his crafts over land and in bodies of fluid, be they lakes, rivers, oceans or the atmosphere. These tools have evolved from sticks, paddles, oars, hot air balloons and bird-like wings to today's state of the art wings and propeller screws. The propeller screw and its many modifications form the basis of most current propulsion systems. Design and manufacture of the propeller screw requires mastery of foil dynamics in which profile, shape, area, angle, number of blades, and speed are important parameters. Moreover, the phenomena of cavitation and stall limit the performance of the majority of propeller screws. Propeller screws are also sometimes lethal to wildlife.
There is an effort to develop alternative propulsion systems in the form of reciprocating wings, with a promise of greater efficiency. Most engines in use today are of the reciprocating type, yet they are invariably used in rotary mode; the mechanical simplification afforded by direct drive of oscillating propulsion systems would be a major advantage. Reciprocating propulsion systems may also be better suited to harnessing wave power for propulsion, further increasing efficiency and helping to preserve the environment through reduced hydrocarbon use.
However, current reciprocating propulsion systems are still based mostly on the airfoil or hydrofoil concept and can be expected to suffer from some of the limitations of the propeller screw, as already outlined.
A different approach to fluid propulsion involves imparting energy to a contained volume of fluid before discharge; other than enclosed propellers it appears that piston and diaphragm pumps, and the likes are the existing alternatives, with limited market success in craft propulsion. A submersible buoyant cup with transverse opening is disclosed in US pat. No.
3,236,203 to Bramson (1966): this design is based on raising a volume of water in the cup from a body of water to a height above the body of water for release under the influence of gravity.
Drainage of water from the cup imparts a reaction force to the cup. Thrust from Bramson (1966) device is limited by the gravity of the Earth, a relatively constant force.
The potential power of this design is also limited by the diameter of the cup, since discharge of water at a height greater than the diameter of the cup may not add substantially to propulsion; the cup would start discharging its content as soon as it emerges from the water body and would be completing its discharge by the time the whole cup is out of the water body, depending off course on the dimensions of the cup. On the other hand, the time required to fill the cup under water would also be similarly limited by the cup dimensions and the potential for air entrapment within the cup. The above limitations imply a maximum stroke rate and speed for the device, governed by cup dimensions, geometry, gravity, and fluid dynamics considerations. Bramson (1966) propulsion device must surface to produce thrust. To this end the geometry and buoyancy of the cup are for water retention and conveyance to the surface and not for submerged operation. The need to surface also reduces efficiency since thrust would be produced mostly at the end of the upward stroke, as water egresses from the cup.
The novel oscillating propulsor of the present disclosure can operate fully submerged. The unique geometry and operation of the oscillating propulsor provide for cyclic acceleration and ejection of a volume of fluid to enable displacement and produce thrust. Other objects and advantages of my invention will become apparent from the detailed description that follows and upon reference to the drawings.
3. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A complete understanding of the present invention may be obtained by reference to the accompanying drawings, when considered in conjunction with the subsequent, detailed description, in which:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the oscillating propulsor;
Figure 2 is a perspective view of a spherical body with flat end caps showing alternative attachments of the actuating member;
Figure 3 is a perspective view of a spherical body with spherical end caps;
Figure 4 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 3 at minimum length limit;
Figure 5 is a chart view of the influence of size and geometry on thrust in water for a spherical body of 38 mm radius, oscillated at 30 strokes/sec and a stroke length of 19 mm;
Figure 6 is a perspective view of an oscillating propulsor fitted with a drag reduction member;
Figure 7 is a perspective view of an oscillating propulsor with an intake opening across the leading and trailing surfaces of the spherical body;
Figure 8 is a perspective view of an oscillating propulsor fitted with fore and aft fins;
Figure 9 is a section view of an oscillating propulsor fitted with lubricant inlet and outlet for provision of a lubricant cavity over the apparatus;
Figure 10 is a section view of an oscillating propulsor showing a pressure chamber with apertures, lubricant outlet and drag reduction member;
Figure 11 is a section view of an oscillating propulsor showing lubricant delivery to pressure chamber and egress to leading surface through the apertures shown in FIG. 10;
Figure 12 is a perspective view of a stylized catamaran watercraft propelled by the oscillating propulsor;
Figure 13 is a perspective view of an oscillating propulsor with a levered actuating member;
Figure 14 is a perspective view of a stylized watercraft propelled by swivelling actuation of the oscillating propulsor of FIG. 3;
Figure 15 is a perspective view of a watercraft propelled by the action of and the reaction to a reciprocating motive power source on the oscillating propulsor;
Figure 16 is a perspective view of a muscle powered watercraft propelled by the action of and the reaction to the reciprocating motive force of an operator;
Figure 17 is a perspective view of a thrust vectoring embodiment of the oscillating propulsor;
Drainage of water from the cup imparts a reaction force to the cup. Thrust from Bramson (1966) device is limited by the gravity of the Earth, a relatively constant force.
The potential power of this design is also limited by the diameter of the cup, since discharge of water at a height greater than the diameter of the cup may not add substantially to propulsion; the cup would start discharging its content as soon as it emerges from the water body and would be completing its discharge by the time the whole cup is out of the water body, depending off course on the dimensions of the cup. On the other hand, the time required to fill the cup under water would also be similarly limited by the cup dimensions and the potential for air entrapment within the cup. The above limitations imply a maximum stroke rate and speed for the device, governed by cup dimensions, geometry, gravity, and fluid dynamics considerations. Bramson (1966) propulsion device must surface to produce thrust. To this end the geometry and buoyancy of the cup are for water retention and conveyance to the surface and not for submerged operation. The need to surface also reduces efficiency since thrust would be produced mostly at the end of the upward stroke, as water egresses from the cup.
The novel oscillating propulsor of the present disclosure can operate fully submerged. The unique geometry and operation of the oscillating propulsor provide for cyclic acceleration and ejection of a volume of fluid to enable displacement and produce thrust. Other objects and advantages of my invention will become apparent from the detailed description that follows and upon reference to the drawings.
3. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A complete understanding of the present invention may be obtained by reference to the accompanying drawings, when considered in conjunction with the subsequent, detailed description, in which:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the oscillating propulsor;
Figure 2 is a perspective view of a spherical body with flat end caps showing alternative attachments of the actuating member;
Figure 3 is a perspective view of a spherical body with spherical end caps;
Figure 4 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 3 at minimum length limit;
Figure 5 is a chart view of the influence of size and geometry on thrust in water for a spherical body of 38 mm radius, oscillated at 30 strokes/sec and a stroke length of 19 mm;
Figure 6 is a perspective view of an oscillating propulsor fitted with a drag reduction member;
Figure 7 is a perspective view of an oscillating propulsor with an intake opening across the leading and trailing surfaces of the spherical body;
Figure 8 is a perspective view of an oscillating propulsor fitted with fore and aft fins;
Figure 9 is a section view of an oscillating propulsor fitted with lubricant inlet and outlet for provision of a lubricant cavity over the apparatus;
Figure 10 is a section view of an oscillating propulsor showing a pressure chamber with apertures, lubricant outlet and drag reduction member;
Figure 11 is a section view of an oscillating propulsor showing lubricant delivery to pressure chamber and egress to leading surface through the apertures shown in FIG. 10;
Figure 12 is a perspective view of a stylized catamaran watercraft propelled by the oscillating propulsor;
Figure 13 is a perspective view of an oscillating propulsor with a levered actuating member;
Figure 14 is a perspective view of a stylized watercraft propelled by swivelling actuation of the oscillating propulsor of FIG. 3;
Figure 15 is a perspective view of a watercraft propelled by the action of and the reaction to a reciprocating motive power source on the oscillating propulsor;
Figure 16 is a perspective view of a muscle powered watercraft propelled by the action of and the reaction to the reciprocating motive force of an operator;
Figure 17 is a perspective view of a thrust vectoring embodiment of the oscillating propulsor;
Figure 18 is perspective view of a stylized aircraft propelled by the oscillating propulsor in air d water; and Figure 19 is a perspective view of a muscle powered aircraft propelled by the oscillating propulsor.
OSCILLATING PROPULSOR
4. DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION
Structure and operation A vessel with a spherical surface, a part sphere, can be made out of metal, polymer, composite materials or a combination therefrom. Any other material suitable and appropriate for the application cirmcumstances of use can also be utilized: corrosion resistant stainless steel sheeting, for marine applications, is one example. Tubing, canisters and spheres available on the market can be modified and joined to make the vessel. The apparatus may also be made by any of or a combination of stamping, rolling, extrusion, moulding, casting, forging or machining of metals, sheeting, or polymers. Any other suitable fabrication method can be used. Joining can be done by welding or other fastening methods, for example, rivets. However, a streamlined fluid dynamic profile, hydrodynamic or aerodynamic, is advantageous for low drag.
Neutral or positive buoyancy of the apparatus in the ambient fluid can be used to eliminate the gravitational load associated with the mass of the apparatus during oscillation; this can be achieved by double walled, cored construction enclosing a medium whose density is lower than that of the ambient fluid; helium or hydrogen could be used for operation in an atmosphere for example. Expanded polymer foams such as polystyrene and polyurethane are examples of coring that can be used to achieve a desired buoyancy level in water. When not in use, a buoyant oscillating propulsor could automatically reposition to the shortest distance from its craft, at the top of stroke position; this would lessen the risk of oscillating propulsor damage by collision with obstacles in the ambient fluid, be it in water or the atmosphere, for examples.
Materials and methods for fabrication of metals, polymers and composites products are known to those skilled in the art and can be applied to the manufacture of the apparatus. A cylinder with a longitudinal cut out or opening is positioned over a water body, in a longitudinally parallel attitude to the surface of the water, with the opening at about 90 degrees angle to the surface of the water. Upon submersion, water is admitted into the cylinder. Vertical acceleration of the cylinder in the position described, followed by a sudden stop causes the accelerated water to be ejected from the longitudinal opening, along the curvature of the inner concave surface; reversal of the actuation stroke causes a similar ejection stream; the direction of the cyclical ejection 5 streams thus created is influenced by the size of the longitudinal opening; the wider the opening the more parallel the cyclical ejection streams become and the greater the thrust; at an opening width about the size of the sphere diameter, the ejection streams become parallel and thrust nears maximum value; cutting the opening width past cylinder diameter size or the middle of the sphere shape, results in diverging ejection streams. The volume of fluid enclosed and ejected is also reduced as the segment of sphere is reduced. The size reduction and divergent ejection angle result in reduced thrust. The geometry dynamics disclosed provide efficient conversion of fluid power into thrust, within the rules of fluid dynamics pertinent to each context. It would be obvious to one skilled in the art to provide a variety of geometrical shapes without departing significantly from the spirit of the present invention.
The apparatus can be held and actuated by hand motion or placed in a guide for actuation; it may also be actuated by the rocking and rolling motion of a ship to which it is attached. A handling stick for reciprocating actuation can also be joined to the cylinder at about the mid-points of the length and the diameter, for example. This construction allows a balanced movement when the assembly is stroked up and down or swiveled from side to side. Alternatively, handling sticks may be joined to the ends of the cylinder or to any cylinder location convenient and effective for operation. The sticks can be made out of tubing or bar of metal, polymer or composites; any other material suitable for the context of use can be utilized for construction of the apparatus of this disclosure. Examples of criteria for suitable materials include fatigue and corrosion resistance, durability, ease of fabrication and other characteristics pertinent to the fluid and context of use.
5. MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
For purposes of clarity and brevity, features whose function is the same or basically the same will be identified in each figure or embodiment by a prefix of the figure number the variant feature appears in, followed by the feature number, the feature number being the same for all variants. Examples of embodiments of the oscillating propulsor will be described first, followed by examples of embodiments making use of drag reduction attachments and thrust vectoring features; industrial applications of the oscillating propulsor will complete the description.
OSCILLATING PROPULSOR
4. DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION
Structure and operation A vessel with a spherical surface, a part sphere, can be made out of metal, polymer, composite materials or a combination therefrom. Any other material suitable and appropriate for the application cirmcumstances of use can also be utilized: corrosion resistant stainless steel sheeting, for marine applications, is one example. Tubing, canisters and spheres available on the market can be modified and joined to make the vessel. The apparatus may also be made by any of or a combination of stamping, rolling, extrusion, moulding, casting, forging or machining of metals, sheeting, or polymers. Any other suitable fabrication method can be used. Joining can be done by welding or other fastening methods, for example, rivets. However, a streamlined fluid dynamic profile, hydrodynamic or aerodynamic, is advantageous for low drag.
Neutral or positive buoyancy of the apparatus in the ambient fluid can be used to eliminate the gravitational load associated with the mass of the apparatus during oscillation; this can be achieved by double walled, cored construction enclosing a medium whose density is lower than that of the ambient fluid; helium or hydrogen could be used for operation in an atmosphere for example. Expanded polymer foams such as polystyrene and polyurethane are examples of coring that can be used to achieve a desired buoyancy level in water. When not in use, a buoyant oscillating propulsor could automatically reposition to the shortest distance from its craft, at the top of stroke position; this would lessen the risk of oscillating propulsor damage by collision with obstacles in the ambient fluid, be it in water or the atmosphere, for examples.
Materials and methods for fabrication of metals, polymers and composites products are known to those skilled in the art and can be applied to the manufacture of the apparatus. A cylinder with a longitudinal cut out or opening is positioned over a water body, in a longitudinally parallel attitude to the surface of the water, with the opening at about 90 degrees angle to the surface of the water. Upon submersion, water is admitted into the cylinder. Vertical acceleration of the cylinder in the position described, followed by a sudden stop causes the accelerated water to be ejected from the longitudinal opening, along the curvature of the inner concave surface; reversal of the actuation stroke causes a similar ejection stream; the direction of the cyclical ejection 5 streams thus created is influenced by the size of the longitudinal opening; the wider the opening the more parallel the cyclical ejection streams become and the greater the thrust; at an opening width about the size of the sphere diameter, the ejection streams become parallel and thrust nears maximum value; cutting the opening width past cylinder diameter size or the middle of the sphere shape, results in diverging ejection streams. The volume of fluid enclosed and ejected is also reduced as the segment of sphere is reduced. The size reduction and divergent ejection angle result in reduced thrust. The geometry dynamics disclosed provide efficient conversion of fluid power into thrust, within the rules of fluid dynamics pertinent to each context. It would be obvious to one skilled in the art to provide a variety of geometrical shapes without departing significantly from the spirit of the present invention.
The apparatus can be held and actuated by hand motion or placed in a guide for actuation; it may also be actuated by the rocking and rolling motion of a ship to which it is attached. A handling stick for reciprocating actuation can also be joined to the cylinder at about the mid-points of the length and the diameter, for example. This construction allows a balanced movement when the assembly is stroked up and down or swiveled from side to side. Alternatively, handling sticks may be joined to the ends of the cylinder or to any cylinder location convenient and effective for operation. The sticks can be made out of tubing or bar of metal, polymer or composites; any other material suitable for the context of use can be utilized for construction of the apparatus of this disclosure. Examples of criteria for suitable materials include fatigue and corrosion resistance, durability, ease of fabrication and other characteristics pertinent to the fluid and context of use.
5. MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
For purposes of clarity and brevity, features whose function is the same or basically the same will be identified in each figure or embodiment by a prefix of the figure number the variant feature appears in, followed by the feature number, the feature number being the same for all variants. Examples of embodiments of the oscillating propulsor will be described first, followed by examples of embodiments making use of drag reduction attachments and thrust vectoring features; industrial applications of the oscillating propulsor will complete the description.
Basic embodiments ¨ FIGS. 1 - 4 FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of the oscillating propulsor of this disclosure: a spherical body 130, having a convex leading surface, and a concave trailing surface.
This embodiment is designed for hand operation to propel fluids and produce thrust upon reciprocating animation or actuation, as shown in phantom lines; ambient fluids are accelerated and ejected from the spherical body 130 at the end of each stroke, as indicated by arrows.
Apparatus diameter can be advantageously designed to fit the operator's hands. A strap or handle may be installed for ease of handling. The spherical body 130 can also be guided by a sliding mechanism or by an engaging channel, for ease of manual operation. This embodiment can be used as a fluid mixer;
it can also be used as a thruster in boating and swimming, where buoyancy is an additional embodiment.
In another embodiment of the oscillating propulsor the spherical body 130 is secured to an actuating member 132. The actuating member 132 may be fitted with an aperture 134 for fastening to a motive power source such as a reciprocating engine (not shown).
For example, the apparatus can be animated by bolting the actuating member 132 to the conrod or an extension thereof of a reciprocating engine. The actuating member 132 can be mechanically coupled to a motive power source by any other safe and suitable means. Where animation of the apparatus is provided by muscle power, such as in leisure or sport crafts, the actuating member 132 can be made to a length ergonomically efficient for the operator, as dictated by mechanical advantage leverage requirements. The actuating member 132 is attached to the spherical body 130 in a position suitable for animating the spherical body 130; examples of attachment to the leading surface and alternatively to the trailing surface and the ends are shown in FIG. 2, alternatives being indicated by phantom lines. FIG. 3 illustrates another alternative attachment of the actuating member 332 across the spherical body 330. Movement of the actuating member 32 can be guided by an embracing sleeve or bushing, secured to a supporting base or craft: a square embrace can be used to fix thrust orientation whereas a round, rotatable embrace can be used where change of thrust direction is required, for steering and maneuvering, for examples.
As illustrated in FIG. 2 the spherical body 230 may be reinforced with a flat end cap 236. The flat end cap 236 provides an alternative attachment structure for the actuating member 232. The flat end cap 236 can also be used to attach the apparatus to a base or craft.
As illustrated in FIG. 3 the spherical body 330 may also be reinforced with a spherical end cap 338. The spherical end cap 338 maximizes thrust generation from fluid leaving the apparatus with a longitudinally directed momentum, as would happen when the oscillating propulsor is swiveled end to end. A swivel mechanism, affixed to a craft, can be a hinge type joint, for example. If fixed to a ship, the rolling movement of the ship at sea would provide a similar motion to generate thrust from wave action. The heaving motion of a ship at sea would also generate thrust from the apparatus by reciprocating, up and down movement.
When reduced to minimum length, the oscillating propulsor shown in FIG. 3 becomes a portion or segment of a sphere, as illustrated in FIG. 4.
Embodiment dynamic geometry - FIG. 5 The geometry of the spherical body 30 shows a remarkable influence on the thrust generated upon oscillation in water (FIG. 5). Whilst an optimum size in the range 0.5-0.6 diameter fraction is indicated in FIG. 5, it would be obvious to one skilled in the art that the optimum value may change with changes in fluid properties and dynamics; for example it is known that the speed of fluid flow over a sphere affects the location of flow separation and start of turbulence on the sphere, the location migrating down flow as speed increases; these factors in turn influence drag and thus would also influence the efficiency of propulsion generated. Thus, whilst a half sphere may clearly demonstrate the principle of the apparatus herein disclosed, the optimum geometry or portion of a sphere may be dependent on the nature of the fluid and the context of use. It would be obvious to one skilled in the art to provide a variety of geometrical shapes to vector fluid flow over and out of the apparatus without departing significantly from the scope of the present invention.
Embodiments with drag reduction attachments and features- FIGS. 6-11 Embodiment making use of hydrophobic materials To reduce resistance to movement or drag, the oscillating propulsor surfaces may be coated with or made out of fluid phobic materials. Examples of materials suitable for water applications include polymers, silicon coating, waxes and oils. Advances in nanotechnology have ushered the era of superhydrophobic materials with promises of drag reduction in marine propulsion applications; coating the oscillating propulsor with these superhydrophobic materials could reduce drag and increase efficiency of propulsion.
Embodiments making use of fluid dynamic shape - FIGS. 6 ¨ 8 A fluid dynamic profile may be provided to the oscillating propulsor (FIG. 6) by attaching a drag duction member 640. The drag reduction member 640 may also be built in integrally to the oscillating propulsor. For the embodiment disclosed in FIG. 4, the drag reduction member is essentially a cone. Aero and hydrodynamic profiles and their characteristics are known to one skilled in the art. As illustrated in FIG. 7, oscillating propulsor drag may also be reduced by cutting an intake opening 742 across the leading and trailing surfaces of the spherical body 730.
This embodiment provides the advantage of reduced drag at higher travel speeds as the incoming rush of fluid provides a dynamic seal against loss of thrust through forwards leakage.
As shown in FIG. 8 drag reduction may also be provided by securely connecting a fore fin 844 to the spherical body 830; the fore fin 844 has a rigid cylindrical head and a resilient sheet or mat attached thereto, as shown in FIG. 8. The fore fin 844 is designed to deflect the frontal stagnant pressure zone associated with sphere fluid dynamics. A fin installed on a craft, fore of the spherical body 30 would function in a similar way, within the constraints of applicable fluid dynamics. An aft fm 846, having a rigid cylindrical head and a resilient sheet or mat attached thereto, may also be attached to the spherical body 830, as shown in FIG. 8.
The fore fin 844 and the aft fm 846 also provide the advantage of additional thrust, particularly at low speeds.
Embodiments making use of lubricant cavity - FIGS. 9-11 Cavitation over the oscillating propulsor is anticipated at high oscillation frequencies and travel velocity. Alternatively, a lower density fluid or fast moving fluid may be coated over the oscillating propulsor's surfaces to reduce drag in the ambient fluids; FIG. 9 shows a sectionned oscillating propulsor fitted with the actuating member 932 fluidly connected to a lubricant inlet 948 and a lubricant outlet 950. A pressurized fluid such as air or water is conveyed, as depicted by arrows, to lubricant outlet 950 from lubricant inlet 948 and through actuating member 932.
The pressurized fluid exits lubricant outlet 950 radially to coat the leading surface of the spherical body 930 and thus lubricate movement of the apparatus in ambient fluids. Supply of pressurized fluid to the lubricant inlet 948 has to allow for the reciprocating movement of the oscillating propulsor; this can be achieved, for example, by way of a flexible hose or moveable seals. Alternatively the lubricant supply system could be installed in a fixed position, on a low drag frame for example, to coat the oscillating propulsor with lubricant. As shown in FIG. 10 the lubricant cavity may also be provided by way of a double walled pressure chamber 1052 integrally built to the spherical body 1030. The pressure chamber 1052 is perforated with at least one aperture 1034, for delivery of pressurized fluids from the actuating member 1032 to the leading surface of the spherical body 1030. FIG. 11 illustrates movement and delivery of pressurized fluid, indicated by arrows, from the actuating member 1132, to the pressure chamber 1152 and onto the leading surface of the spherical body 1130, through apertures 1034.
Alternatively the pressurized fluid may be supplied through lubricant outlet 1050, fore of the spherical body 1030, as shown in FIG. 10; in this embodiment the pressurized fluid is directed in a cone shape over the leading surface of the spherical body 1030, as indicated by arrows. In embodiments with a drag reduction member 1040, as previously exemplified in FIG. 6, the pressurized fluid can be directed over the surface of the drag reduction member 1040. The actuating member 32 may also be lubricated similarly, with or without a double wall pressure chamber 52.
Promotion of formation of lubricant cavity The surface of the oscillating propulsor may be configured or constructed to promote natural formation of a reduced viscosity boundary layer of the ambient fluid as provided, for example, by cavitation phenomena in water; examples of surface construction include sandblasting, dimpling and microstructures that reduce surface friction with ambient fluids.
The surface of golf balls and at least one soccer ball, known as the Jabulani, are engineered to reduce drag by means of surface structures like dimples, nibs and ridges. Mechanical vibrations from the motive power source could also promote cavitation for drag reduction over the oscillating propulsor and attachments thereto. It is anticipated that the oscillating propulsor could continue to function under supercavitation conditions because admission and acceleration of a high speed volume of fluid before ejection could enable temporary compression of affiliated gases before ejection of same in a forceful expansion.
Operation - FIGS. 1, 12-14, 15-19 The apparatus of this disclosure can be operated manually like oars or paddles with the additional advantages of reactive propulsion from up and down stroking as well as swiveling action. Reciprocating displacements of the apparatus accelerate fluid admitted therein before ejecting the same from the trailing concave surface at the end of each stroke.
The ejection of fluid imparts a reactive propulsive momentum to the oscillating propulsor and attachments thereto. Ejection of fluid from the apparatus causes admission of ambient fluid for the next stroke and so on as long as the apparatus is oscillated or reciprocated.
From a static position, thrust may be generated mostly by reaction of the oscillating propulsor to the mass and velocity of fluid ejected; as fluid flow over the oscillating propulsor increases, the momentum of the fluid may also be transmitted to the oscillating propulsor, upon fluid admission. Thus, as displacement or travel speed increases so should thrust increase; however, 5 the increase in speed is limited by the drag of the oscillating propulsor. Embodiments with drag reduction attachments and features, as previously disclosed, can be used to mitigate this limitation.
For any given fluid and embodiment of the apparatus, the thrust generated is influenced mostly 10 by fluid capacity of the oscillating propulsor, oscillation or stroke frequency, stroke length and displacement velocity. The apparatus may be attached to a craft to provide propulsion for travel.
Oscillation of the apparatus can be effected in linear mode, up and down strokes, as depicted in FIGS. 1, 12; operation can also be effected in radial mode, side to side or swivel action, as shown in the levers of FIGS. 13, 14 and as illustrated further under industrial applicability. In these figures, the extreme position of the oscillating propulsor is shown in phantom lines.
Arrows indicate direction of ejection of fluid from the oscillating propulsor.
Reaction movement of the oscillating propulsor is in opposite direction to the direction of fluid ejection. A
reciprocating engine can be coupled directly to the oscillating propulsor;
this would require connection to the conrod or an extension thereof, eliminating thus the flywheel, crankshaft and other components normally associated with a rotary engine. Such a simplified and lighter engine could boost efficiency and fitness of the present invention in the propulsion market.
Alternatively, rotary to reciprocating motion converters can be used with current motors or engines to drive the oscillating propulsor. Examples of useable motion converters include crank mechanisms and Scotch Yoke devices. Electric, fluid driven and wind mechanical oscillators may also be used to drive the oscillating propulsor. For leisure, sports and in general utility applications, motive power can be provided by an operator's muscles (FIGS. 16, 19), as further described below.
6. INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
Fluid pumps, crafts- watercrafts, aircrafts A general application of the oscillating propulsor is in displacement of fluids, be it in enclosed casings as used for pumps or in the open as used for mixing, aeration of fluids, and ventilation, for examples. Attached to a craft, the apparatus can provide propulsion means for the craft's displacement, travel or transportation, by wave power or motive power on board.
Watercrafts An example of a watercraft propelled by the apparatus is illustrated in FIG.
This embodiment is designed for hand operation to propel fluids and produce thrust upon reciprocating animation or actuation, as shown in phantom lines; ambient fluids are accelerated and ejected from the spherical body 130 at the end of each stroke, as indicated by arrows.
Apparatus diameter can be advantageously designed to fit the operator's hands. A strap or handle may be installed for ease of handling. The spherical body 130 can also be guided by a sliding mechanism or by an engaging channel, for ease of manual operation. This embodiment can be used as a fluid mixer;
it can also be used as a thruster in boating and swimming, where buoyancy is an additional embodiment.
In another embodiment of the oscillating propulsor the spherical body 130 is secured to an actuating member 132. The actuating member 132 may be fitted with an aperture 134 for fastening to a motive power source such as a reciprocating engine (not shown).
For example, the apparatus can be animated by bolting the actuating member 132 to the conrod or an extension thereof of a reciprocating engine. The actuating member 132 can be mechanically coupled to a motive power source by any other safe and suitable means. Where animation of the apparatus is provided by muscle power, such as in leisure or sport crafts, the actuating member 132 can be made to a length ergonomically efficient for the operator, as dictated by mechanical advantage leverage requirements. The actuating member 132 is attached to the spherical body 130 in a position suitable for animating the spherical body 130; examples of attachment to the leading surface and alternatively to the trailing surface and the ends are shown in FIG. 2, alternatives being indicated by phantom lines. FIG. 3 illustrates another alternative attachment of the actuating member 332 across the spherical body 330. Movement of the actuating member 32 can be guided by an embracing sleeve or bushing, secured to a supporting base or craft: a square embrace can be used to fix thrust orientation whereas a round, rotatable embrace can be used where change of thrust direction is required, for steering and maneuvering, for examples.
As illustrated in FIG. 2 the spherical body 230 may be reinforced with a flat end cap 236. The flat end cap 236 provides an alternative attachment structure for the actuating member 232. The flat end cap 236 can also be used to attach the apparatus to a base or craft.
As illustrated in FIG. 3 the spherical body 330 may also be reinforced with a spherical end cap 338. The spherical end cap 338 maximizes thrust generation from fluid leaving the apparatus with a longitudinally directed momentum, as would happen when the oscillating propulsor is swiveled end to end. A swivel mechanism, affixed to a craft, can be a hinge type joint, for example. If fixed to a ship, the rolling movement of the ship at sea would provide a similar motion to generate thrust from wave action. The heaving motion of a ship at sea would also generate thrust from the apparatus by reciprocating, up and down movement.
When reduced to minimum length, the oscillating propulsor shown in FIG. 3 becomes a portion or segment of a sphere, as illustrated in FIG. 4.
Embodiment dynamic geometry - FIG. 5 The geometry of the spherical body 30 shows a remarkable influence on the thrust generated upon oscillation in water (FIG. 5). Whilst an optimum size in the range 0.5-0.6 diameter fraction is indicated in FIG. 5, it would be obvious to one skilled in the art that the optimum value may change with changes in fluid properties and dynamics; for example it is known that the speed of fluid flow over a sphere affects the location of flow separation and start of turbulence on the sphere, the location migrating down flow as speed increases; these factors in turn influence drag and thus would also influence the efficiency of propulsion generated. Thus, whilst a half sphere may clearly demonstrate the principle of the apparatus herein disclosed, the optimum geometry or portion of a sphere may be dependent on the nature of the fluid and the context of use. It would be obvious to one skilled in the art to provide a variety of geometrical shapes to vector fluid flow over and out of the apparatus without departing significantly from the scope of the present invention.
Embodiments with drag reduction attachments and features- FIGS. 6-11 Embodiment making use of hydrophobic materials To reduce resistance to movement or drag, the oscillating propulsor surfaces may be coated with or made out of fluid phobic materials. Examples of materials suitable for water applications include polymers, silicon coating, waxes and oils. Advances in nanotechnology have ushered the era of superhydrophobic materials with promises of drag reduction in marine propulsion applications; coating the oscillating propulsor with these superhydrophobic materials could reduce drag and increase efficiency of propulsion.
Embodiments making use of fluid dynamic shape - FIGS. 6 ¨ 8 A fluid dynamic profile may be provided to the oscillating propulsor (FIG. 6) by attaching a drag duction member 640. The drag reduction member 640 may also be built in integrally to the oscillating propulsor. For the embodiment disclosed in FIG. 4, the drag reduction member is essentially a cone. Aero and hydrodynamic profiles and their characteristics are known to one skilled in the art. As illustrated in FIG. 7, oscillating propulsor drag may also be reduced by cutting an intake opening 742 across the leading and trailing surfaces of the spherical body 730.
This embodiment provides the advantage of reduced drag at higher travel speeds as the incoming rush of fluid provides a dynamic seal against loss of thrust through forwards leakage.
As shown in FIG. 8 drag reduction may also be provided by securely connecting a fore fin 844 to the spherical body 830; the fore fin 844 has a rigid cylindrical head and a resilient sheet or mat attached thereto, as shown in FIG. 8. The fore fin 844 is designed to deflect the frontal stagnant pressure zone associated with sphere fluid dynamics. A fin installed on a craft, fore of the spherical body 30 would function in a similar way, within the constraints of applicable fluid dynamics. An aft fm 846, having a rigid cylindrical head and a resilient sheet or mat attached thereto, may also be attached to the spherical body 830, as shown in FIG. 8.
The fore fin 844 and the aft fm 846 also provide the advantage of additional thrust, particularly at low speeds.
Embodiments making use of lubricant cavity - FIGS. 9-11 Cavitation over the oscillating propulsor is anticipated at high oscillation frequencies and travel velocity. Alternatively, a lower density fluid or fast moving fluid may be coated over the oscillating propulsor's surfaces to reduce drag in the ambient fluids; FIG. 9 shows a sectionned oscillating propulsor fitted with the actuating member 932 fluidly connected to a lubricant inlet 948 and a lubricant outlet 950. A pressurized fluid such as air or water is conveyed, as depicted by arrows, to lubricant outlet 950 from lubricant inlet 948 and through actuating member 932.
The pressurized fluid exits lubricant outlet 950 radially to coat the leading surface of the spherical body 930 and thus lubricate movement of the apparatus in ambient fluids. Supply of pressurized fluid to the lubricant inlet 948 has to allow for the reciprocating movement of the oscillating propulsor; this can be achieved, for example, by way of a flexible hose or moveable seals. Alternatively the lubricant supply system could be installed in a fixed position, on a low drag frame for example, to coat the oscillating propulsor with lubricant. As shown in FIG. 10 the lubricant cavity may also be provided by way of a double walled pressure chamber 1052 integrally built to the spherical body 1030. The pressure chamber 1052 is perforated with at least one aperture 1034, for delivery of pressurized fluids from the actuating member 1032 to the leading surface of the spherical body 1030. FIG. 11 illustrates movement and delivery of pressurized fluid, indicated by arrows, from the actuating member 1132, to the pressure chamber 1152 and onto the leading surface of the spherical body 1130, through apertures 1034.
Alternatively the pressurized fluid may be supplied through lubricant outlet 1050, fore of the spherical body 1030, as shown in FIG. 10; in this embodiment the pressurized fluid is directed in a cone shape over the leading surface of the spherical body 1030, as indicated by arrows. In embodiments with a drag reduction member 1040, as previously exemplified in FIG. 6, the pressurized fluid can be directed over the surface of the drag reduction member 1040. The actuating member 32 may also be lubricated similarly, with or without a double wall pressure chamber 52.
Promotion of formation of lubricant cavity The surface of the oscillating propulsor may be configured or constructed to promote natural formation of a reduced viscosity boundary layer of the ambient fluid as provided, for example, by cavitation phenomena in water; examples of surface construction include sandblasting, dimpling and microstructures that reduce surface friction with ambient fluids.
The surface of golf balls and at least one soccer ball, known as the Jabulani, are engineered to reduce drag by means of surface structures like dimples, nibs and ridges. Mechanical vibrations from the motive power source could also promote cavitation for drag reduction over the oscillating propulsor and attachments thereto. It is anticipated that the oscillating propulsor could continue to function under supercavitation conditions because admission and acceleration of a high speed volume of fluid before ejection could enable temporary compression of affiliated gases before ejection of same in a forceful expansion.
Operation - FIGS. 1, 12-14, 15-19 The apparatus of this disclosure can be operated manually like oars or paddles with the additional advantages of reactive propulsion from up and down stroking as well as swiveling action. Reciprocating displacements of the apparatus accelerate fluid admitted therein before ejecting the same from the trailing concave surface at the end of each stroke.
The ejection of fluid imparts a reactive propulsive momentum to the oscillating propulsor and attachments thereto. Ejection of fluid from the apparatus causes admission of ambient fluid for the next stroke and so on as long as the apparatus is oscillated or reciprocated.
From a static position, thrust may be generated mostly by reaction of the oscillating propulsor to the mass and velocity of fluid ejected; as fluid flow over the oscillating propulsor increases, the momentum of the fluid may also be transmitted to the oscillating propulsor, upon fluid admission. Thus, as displacement or travel speed increases so should thrust increase; however, 5 the increase in speed is limited by the drag of the oscillating propulsor. Embodiments with drag reduction attachments and features, as previously disclosed, can be used to mitigate this limitation.
For any given fluid and embodiment of the apparatus, the thrust generated is influenced mostly 10 by fluid capacity of the oscillating propulsor, oscillation or stroke frequency, stroke length and displacement velocity. The apparatus may be attached to a craft to provide propulsion for travel.
Oscillation of the apparatus can be effected in linear mode, up and down strokes, as depicted in FIGS. 1, 12; operation can also be effected in radial mode, side to side or swivel action, as shown in the levers of FIGS. 13, 14 and as illustrated further under industrial applicability. In these figures, the extreme position of the oscillating propulsor is shown in phantom lines.
Arrows indicate direction of ejection of fluid from the oscillating propulsor.
Reaction movement of the oscillating propulsor is in opposite direction to the direction of fluid ejection. A
reciprocating engine can be coupled directly to the oscillating propulsor;
this would require connection to the conrod or an extension thereof, eliminating thus the flywheel, crankshaft and other components normally associated with a rotary engine. Such a simplified and lighter engine could boost efficiency and fitness of the present invention in the propulsion market.
Alternatively, rotary to reciprocating motion converters can be used with current motors or engines to drive the oscillating propulsor. Examples of useable motion converters include crank mechanisms and Scotch Yoke devices. Electric, fluid driven and wind mechanical oscillators may also be used to drive the oscillating propulsor. For leisure, sports and in general utility applications, motive power can be provided by an operator's muscles (FIGS. 16, 19), as further described below.
6. INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
Fluid pumps, crafts- watercrafts, aircrafts A general application of the oscillating propulsor is in displacement of fluids, be it in enclosed casings as used for pumps or in the open as used for mixing, aeration of fluids, and ventilation, for examples. Attached to a craft, the apparatus can provide propulsion means for the craft's displacement, travel or transportation, by wave power or motive power on board.
Watercrafts An example of a watercraft propelled by the apparatus is illustrated in FIG.
12. The oscillating propulsor 1220, driven by motor M reciprocates up and down, taking in water, accelerating it and ejecting the same rearwards of the watercraft; this water ejection imparts a reaction propulsive momentum to the oscillating propulsor 1220 and the craft to which it is attached. The direction of water ejection is shown by the bottom arrows; the craft's direction of travel is opposite that of water ejection, as shown by the top wow.
FIG. 13 illustrates an oscillating propulsor fitted with the actuating member 1332 levered about the fulcrum 1354, for manual or powered operation. The fulcrum 1354 can be attached to the craft or device to be propelled. Reciprocating displacements of the lever's input arm, as shown by the top arrows, causes reciprocating strokes of the spherical body 1330 at the output arm;
when reciprocated, the spherical body 1330 admits ambient fluid, accelerating it and ejecting the same as depicted by the bottom arrows. Fluid ejection imparts a reaction propulsive momentum to the oscillating propulsor and attachments thereto. The oscillating propulsor and attachments thereto are urged in a direction opposite that of fluid ejection.
FIG. 14 shows a stylized watercraft fitted with a high mechanical advantage lever provided by the actuating member 1432, about the fulcrum 1454. Animation of the oscillating propulsor 1420 by motor M oscillates the apparatus in swivel mode, as shown in phantom lines.
The oscillating propulsor 1420 takes in water, accelerates and ejects the same rearwards of the watercraft, as indicated by bottom arrows; this water ejection imparts a reaction propulsive momentum to the oscillating propulsor 1420 and the craft to which it is attached. Direction of travel of the craft is opposite that of water ejection, as shown by the top arrow.
Novel craft concepts, propelled by the oscillating propulsor, are illustrated in FIGS. 15-19.
Whilst for illustration purposes these embodiments will be described with reference to watercrafts and aircrafts, the concepts relate generally to fluids and fluidized substances and can be adapted accordingly. In FIG. 15, a buoyant base B is fitted with oscillating propulsor 1520a at the front, in a horizontal rearwards thrusting position and similarly fitted with oscillating propulsor 1520b at the rear, cooperatively secured to the base B. Motor M1 is supported on base B and drives oscillating propulsor 1520c. Motor M2 is rotatably attached to base B and drives oscillating propulsor 1520d, in a vertical position. Upon operation, oscillating propulsor 1520c thrusts.water rearwards, along indication arrow, urging the craft forward. The reciprocating motion of oscillating propulsor 1520c by motor M1 causes a reactive up and down motion of the base B thus animating front and rear oscillating propulsors 1520a and 1520b, as shown in phantom lines and thrust indication arrows. Propulsion efficiency is maximized by using both the action of and reaction to the reciprocating motive force. Steering and additional thrust is provided by oscillating propulsor 1520d, reciprocated by motor M2 in a radial swivel, as shown by the arc with two arrows. Alternatively, oscillating propulsor 1520c can be installed rotatable to the base B or a conventional rudder can be installed on the craft, for steering. Recovery of reaction momentum and its application to propulsion is an advantage of this embodiment.
The craft disclosed in FIG. 15 could be supported entirely by the oscillating propulsors to provide a hydrofoil type watercraft; in that case oscillating propulsors become propulsive hydrofoils, adaptable with adjustable thrust angle akin to current hydrofoil angle adjustment systems. Alternatively, oscillating propulsors with some buoyancy would provide a surface skimming craft. Buoyancy can be provided by coring, as previously described;
in addition, the fore fin 44 and the aft fin 46 depicted in FIG. 8 could also be made out of buoyant materials like hydrophobic polymer sheets and mats.
A muscle-powered or man-powered watercraft propelled by means of the apparatus is exemplified in FIG. 16. A buoyant base B is fitted with oscillating propulsor 1620a at the front, in a horizontal rearwards thrusting position and similarly oscillating propulsor 1620b at the rear, cooperatively secured to the base B. At least one pedal 1666 is levered to the base B through the fulcrum 1654, to drive oscillating propulsor 1620c donwnward when depressed by foot, for example. Oscillating propulsor 1620c is slideably secured to the base by way of a square sleeve, embracing to the actuating member 1632. At least one handle 1668, hingedly connected to the pedal 1666 can be pulled by hand, for example, to power the upward stroke of the oscillating propulsor 1620c. Alternatively, the upward stroke can be returned by a spring 1670, urging the pedal 1666 upwards. The reciprocating motion of oscillating propulsor 1620c by pedal 1666 and handle 1668 causes a reactive up and down motion of the base B, thus animating front and rear oscillating propulsors 1620a and 1620b. Operation of the oscillating propulsors thrusts water, as indicated by arrows to propel the craft in the opposite direction. Steering can be effected with a conventional rudder or by differential thrusting of twinned oscillating propulsors, as illustrated in FIG. 16. Propulsion efficiency is maximized by using both the action of and the reaction to the reciprocating motive force of the operator. Other actuation systems can be used to operate this embodiment; examples of alternative actuation systems are described in US
pat. No 2,979,018 to Birdsall (1961) and in US pat. No. 3,236,203 to Bramson (1966).
Embodiment with thrust vectoring or directional control - FIGS. 15, 17.
In FIG. 15, motor M2 can swivel about the base B to provide a directed or vectored thrust from oscillating propulsor 1520d, as needed, to control the direction of travel of the craft. A
conventional rudder can also be used to steer the craft. An alternative embodiment for thrust vectoring, particularly advantageous where motors are fixed on a craft C, is shown in FIG. 17.
The actuating member 1732 of oscillating propulsor 1720 is rotatively coupled to a motion transmitter 1760 of motor M through an advantageously lightweight, bearing 1756. A control arm 1758 is cooperatively secured at a first end to the actuating member 1732 and is straddled at the second end by the U-shaped guide or slot 1762 of a steering member 1764.
The steering member 1764 is secured to bearing 1756a for advantageous rotation about the vertical axis of the actuating member 1732. Bearing 1756a is secured to the craft C and is slideably engaged to the actuating member 1732. Alternatively, bearing 1756a can be fixed to the base of motor M to provide a propulsion cum steering assembly, detachable from the craft. This embodiment allows for rotation or steering of the oscillating propulsor 1720 while oscillating, as shown in phantom lines. One or more magnets (not shown) may be attached to the second end of the control arm 1758, opposite similar pole magnets on the guide 1762; this embodiment essentially provides a magnetic bearing that allows operation of the apparatus with reduced mechanical interference and associated noises; the control arm 1758 would be centralized in the U-shaped guide 1762 by mutual repulsion of the opposing magnets. Other vibration dampening mitigation systems may be applied, for example rubber polymers. Steering can be effected by manual displacement of the steering member 1764 or by electric means like servo motors. Conventional steering devices, for example a steering wheel, can also be coupled to the steering member 1764. The thrust vectoring system thus described can be used with embodiments of the present disclosure, as required; it can also be used generally for maneuvering and direction control in other oscillating systems and as active braking means when thrust is applied against the direction of travel to slow down or bring a craft to a halt. The control arm 1758 may be consolidated with the lubricant inlet 948 of the embodiment in FIG. 9 to provide a dual purpose conduit for lubricant delivery and steering control.
Aircraft Propulsion of an aircraft could be achieved by mounting and operating the apparatus on a craft as illustrated in FIG. 18. The oscillating propulsor 1820 can be installed for propelling air or can be fitted for submerged operation in water, as shown in phantom lines. The oscillating propulsor 1820 is actuated by motor M to thrust air rearwards as shown by top arrow; for submerged operation, shown in phantom lines, water is ejected rearwards, as shown by bottom arrow, to propel and lift the craft out of water; the oscillating propulsor remains submerged while the craft flies in air. This hybrid aircraft-in-water, propelled by water, provides the advantage of high thrust in water with some of the craft's weight supported by water. The lower drag of the craft in the air, compared to a similar size watercraft, is another advantage of this embodiment. The craft would also benefit from Wing-In-Ground effect, a phenomenon known to increase efficiency of lift. The craft of this embodiment could have some autonomy in full airborne flight when sufficient speed is attained to leave water and allow momentary flight by inertia of movement. Alternatively, both air and water propulsion systems could be installed and used as needed to provide a versatile hybrid water and air craft.
FIG. 19 illustrates an embodiment of a muscle or man-powered aircraft propelled by the apparatus. At least one lever system, having a pedal 1966 and a handle 1968 input arms, is secured at the fulcrum to base B through bearing 1956. At least one oscillating propulsor 1920 is cooperatively connected to the output arm of the lever. Actuation of the pedal 1966 and the handle 1968, by foot and hand for example, rocks the oscillating propulsor 1920 in an arc, as shown by top arrows. Air is thrust downward from the oscillating propulsor 1920 to exert lift on the craft, as indicated by bottom arrows. Size and number of the oscillating propulsor 1920, stroke rate and length would have to be sufficient to lift the total weight of the craft, including contents. A twin lever system, as illustrated in FIG. 19 would be advantageous for balance of a human operator. A harness for the operator, secured to a safety bracket A, would be required (not shown). Harnesses used in parachuting, skydiving and like activities can be attached to the craft to secure the operator to the craft.
Whilst the example depicted in FIG. 19 shows direct drive of a plurality of oscillating propulsors, it should be understood that indirect drive with stroke rate multiplication can be utilized as required to generate the effective thrust for any given construction of this embodiment. For example, a leg and foot bicycle type drive system can be coupled to a Scotch Yoke mechanism to oscillate the apparatus at the effective stroke length and frequency.
Other uses When operated in reverse the apparatus should work as an energy harvester like propellers do.
Since other modifications and changes varied to fit particular operating requirements and environments will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the invention is not considered limited to the example chosen for purposes of disclosure, and covers all changes and modifications which do not constitute departures from the true spirit and scope of this invention.
Having thus described the invention, what is desired to be protected is presented in the subsequently appended claims.
FIG. 13 illustrates an oscillating propulsor fitted with the actuating member 1332 levered about the fulcrum 1354, for manual or powered operation. The fulcrum 1354 can be attached to the craft or device to be propelled. Reciprocating displacements of the lever's input arm, as shown by the top arrows, causes reciprocating strokes of the spherical body 1330 at the output arm;
when reciprocated, the spherical body 1330 admits ambient fluid, accelerating it and ejecting the same as depicted by the bottom arrows. Fluid ejection imparts a reaction propulsive momentum to the oscillating propulsor and attachments thereto. The oscillating propulsor and attachments thereto are urged in a direction opposite that of fluid ejection.
FIG. 14 shows a stylized watercraft fitted with a high mechanical advantage lever provided by the actuating member 1432, about the fulcrum 1454. Animation of the oscillating propulsor 1420 by motor M oscillates the apparatus in swivel mode, as shown in phantom lines.
The oscillating propulsor 1420 takes in water, accelerates and ejects the same rearwards of the watercraft, as indicated by bottom arrows; this water ejection imparts a reaction propulsive momentum to the oscillating propulsor 1420 and the craft to which it is attached. Direction of travel of the craft is opposite that of water ejection, as shown by the top arrow.
Novel craft concepts, propelled by the oscillating propulsor, are illustrated in FIGS. 15-19.
Whilst for illustration purposes these embodiments will be described with reference to watercrafts and aircrafts, the concepts relate generally to fluids and fluidized substances and can be adapted accordingly. In FIG. 15, a buoyant base B is fitted with oscillating propulsor 1520a at the front, in a horizontal rearwards thrusting position and similarly fitted with oscillating propulsor 1520b at the rear, cooperatively secured to the base B. Motor M1 is supported on base B and drives oscillating propulsor 1520c. Motor M2 is rotatably attached to base B and drives oscillating propulsor 1520d, in a vertical position. Upon operation, oscillating propulsor 1520c thrusts.water rearwards, along indication arrow, urging the craft forward. The reciprocating motion of oscillating propulsor 1520c by motor M1 causes a reactive up and down motion of the base B thus animating front and rear oscillating propulsors 1520a and 1520b, as shown in phantom lines and thrust indication arrows. Propulsion efficiency is maximized by using both the action of and reaction to the reciprocating motive force. Steering and additional thrust is provided by oscillating propulsor 1520d, reciprocated by motor M2 in a radial swivel, as shown by the arc with two arrows. Alternatively, oscillating propulsor 1520c can be installed rotatable to the base B or a conventional rudder can be installed on the craft, for steering. Recovery of reaction momentum and its application to propulsion is an advantage of this embodiment.
The craft disclosed in FIG. 15 could be supported entirely by the oscillating propulsors to provide a hydrofoil type watercraft; in that case oscillating propulsors become propulsive hydrofoils, adaptable with adjustable thrust angle akin to current hydrofoil angle adjustment systems. Alternatively, oscillating propulsors with some buoyancy would provide a surface skimming craft. Buoyancy can be provided by coring, as previously described;
in addition, the fore fin 44 and the aft fin 46 depicted in FIG. 8 could also be made out of buoyant materials like hydrophobic polymer sheets and mats.
A muscle-powered or man-powered watercraft propelled by means of the apparatus is exemplified in FIG. 16. A buoyant base B is fitted with oscillating propulsor 1620a at the front, in a horizontal rearwards thrusting position and similarly oscillating propulsor 1620b at the rear, cooperatively secured to the base B. At least one pedal 1666 is levered to the base B through the fulcrum 1654, to drive oscillating propulsor 1620c donwnward when depressed by foot, for example. Oscillating propulsor 1620c is slideably secured to the base by way of a square sleeve, embracing to the actuating member 1632. At least one handle 1668, hingedly connected to the pedal 1666 can be pulled by hand, for example, to power the upward stroke of the oscillating propulsor 1620c. Alternatively, the upward stroke can be returned by a spring 1670, urging the pedal 1666 upwards. The reciprocating motion of oscillating propulsor 1620c by pedal 1666 and handle 1668 causes a reactive up and down motion of the base B, thus animating front and rear oscillating propulsors 1620a and 1620b. Operation of the oscillating propulsors thrusts water, as indicated by arrows to propel the craft in the opposite direction. Steering can be effected with a conventional rudder or by differential thrusting of twinned oscillating propulsors, as illustrated in FIG. 16. Propulsion efficiency is maximized by using both the action of and the reaction to the reciprocating motive force of the operator. Other actuation systems can be used to operate this embodiment; examples of alternative actuation systems are described in US
pat. No 2,979,018 to Birdsall (1961) and in US pat. No. 3,236,203 to Bramson (1966).
Embodiment with thrust vectoring or directional control - FIGS. 15, 17.
In FIG. 15, motor M2 can swivel about the base B to provide a directed or vectored thrust from oscillating propulsor 1520d, as needed, to control the direction of travel of the craft. A
conventional rudder can also be used to steer the craft. An alternative embodiment for thrust vectoring, particularly advantageous where motors are fixed on a craft C, is shown in FIG. 17.
The actuating member 1732 of oscillating propulsor 1720 is rotatively coupled to a motion transmitter 1760 of motor M through an advantageously lightweight, bearing 1756. A control arm 1758 is cooperatively secured at a first end to the actuating member 1732 and is straddled at the second end by the U-shaped guide or slot 1762 of a steering member 1764.
The steering member 1764 is secured to bearing 1756a for advantageous rotation about the vertical axis of the actuating member 1732. Bearing 1756a is secured to the craft C and is slideably engaged to the actuating member 1732. Alternatively, bearing 1756a can be fixed to the base of motor M to provide a propulsion cum steering assembly, detachable from the craft. This embodiment allows for rotation or steering of the oscillating propulsor 1720 while oscillating, as shown in phantom lines. One or more magnets (not shown) may be attached to the second end of the control arm 1758, opposite similar pole magnets on the guide 1762; this embodiment essentially provides a magnetic bearing that allows operation of the apparatus with reduced mechanical interference and associated noises; the control arm 1758 would be centralized in the U-shaped guide 1762 by mutual repulsion of the opposing magnets. Other vibration dampening mitigation systems may be applied, for example rubber polymers. Steering can be effected by manual displacement of the steering member 1764 or by electric means like servo motors. Conventional steering devices, for example a steering wheel, can also be coupled to the steering member 1764. The thrust vectoring system thus described can be used with embodiments of the present disclosure, as required; it can also be used generally for maneuvering and direction control in other oscillating systems and as active braking means when thrust is applied against the direction of travel to slow down or bring a craft to a halt. The control arm 1758 may be consolidated with the lubricant inlet 948 of the embodiment in FIG. 9 to provide a dual purpose conduit for lubricant delivery and steering control.
Aircraft Propulsion of an aircraft could be achieved by mounting and operating the apparatus on a craft as illustrated in FIG. 18. The oscillating propulsor 1820 can be installed for propelling air or can be fitted for submerged operation in water, as shown in phantom lines. The oscillating propulsor 1820 is actuated by motor M to thrust air rearwards as shown by top arrow; for submerged operation, shown in phantom lines, water is ejected rearwards, as shown by bottom arrow, to propel and lift the craft out of water; the oscillating propulsor remains submerged while the craft flies in air. This hybrid aircraft-in-water, propelled by water, provides the advantage of high thrust in water with some of the craft's weight supported by water. The lower drag of the craft in the air, compared to a similar size watercraft, is another advantage of this embodiment. The craft would also benefit from Wing-In-Ground effect, a phenomenon known to increase efficiency of lift. The craft of this embodiment could have some autonomy in full airborne flight when sufficient speed is attained to leave water and allow momentary flight by inertia of movement. Alternatively, both air and water propulsion systems could be installed and used as needed to provide a versatile hybrid water and air craft.
FIG. 19 illustrates an embodiment of a muscle or man-powered aircraft propelled by the apparatus. At least one lever system, having a pedal 1966 and a handle 1968 input arms, is secured at the fulcrum to base B through bearing 1956. At least one oscillating propulsor 1920 is cooperatively connected to the output arm of the lever. Actuation of the pedal 1966 and the handle 1968, by foot and hand for example, rocks the oscillating propulsor 1920 in an arc, as shown by top arrows. Air is thrust downward from the oscillating propulsor 1920 to exert lift on the craft, as indicated by bottom arrows. Size and number of the oscillating propulsor 1920, stroke rate and length would have to be sufficient to lift the total weight of the craft, including contents. A twin lever system, as illustrated in FIG. 19 would be advantageous for balance of a human operator. A harness for the operator, secured to a safety bracket A, would be required (not shown). Harnesses used in parachuting, skydiving and like activities can be attached to the craft to secure the operator to the craft.
Whilst the example depicted in FIG. 19 shows direct drive of a plurality of oscillating propulsors, it should be understood that indirect drive with stroke rate multiplication can be utilized as required to generate the effective thrust for any given construction of this embodiment. For example, a leg and foot bicycle type drive system can be coupled to a Scotch Yoke mechanism to oscillate the apparatus at the effective stroke length and frequency.
Other uses When operated in reverse the apparatus should work as an energy harvester like propellers do.
Since other modifications and changes varied to fit particular operating requirements and environments will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the invention is not considered limited to the example chosen for purposes of disclosure, and covers all changes and modifications which do not constitute departures from the true spirit and scope of this invention.
Having thus described the invention, what is desired to be protected is presented in the subsequently appended claims.
7. List of Reference signs 20 oscillating propulsor 30 spherical body 32 actuating member 34 aperture 36 flat end cap 38 spherical end cap 40 drag reduction member 42 intake opening 44 fore fin 46 aft fin 48 lubricant inlet 50 lubricant outlet 52 pressure chamber 54 fulcrum 56 bearing 58 control arm 60 motion transmitter 62 guide 64 steering member 66 pedal 68 handle 70 spring
Claims (39)
1. An oscillating propulsor for propelling fluids, crafts and harnessing fluid power comprising:
a spherical body, having a convex leading surface and a concave trailing surface, whereby, upon oscillation, ambient fluids are accelerated and ejected from the concave trailing surface thereby imparting a propulsive momentum to the spherical body and attachments thereto.
a spherical body, having a convex leading surface and a concave trailing surface, whereby, upon oscillation, ambient fluids are accelerated and ejected from the concave trailing surface thereby imparting a propulsive momentum to the spherical body and attachments thereto.
2. The oscillating propulsor as recited in claim 1, further comprising:
an aft fin, having a cylindrical head and a resilient sheet attached thereto, for thrust augmentation and vectoring, cooperatively connected to said spherical body.
an aft fin, having a cylindrical head and a resilient sheet attached thereto, for thrust augmentation and vectoring, cooperatively connected to said spherical body.
3. The oscillating propulsor as recited in claim 1, further comprising:
an actuating member, for transmitting motive power, cooperatively secured to said spherical body.
an actuating member, for transmitting motive power, cooperatively secured to said spherical body.
4. The oscillating propulsor as recited in claim 1, further comprising:
a drag reduction member, having a fluid dynamic shape, for streamlining, securely connected to said spherical body.
a drag reduction member, having a fluid dynamic shape, for streamlining, securely connected to said spherical body.
5. The oscillating propulsor as recited in claim 1, further comprising:
a fore fin, having a cylindrical head and a resilient sheet attached thereto, for drag reduction and thrust, cooperatively connected to said spherical body.
a fore fin, having a cylindrical head and a resilient sheet attached thereto, for drag reduction and thrust, cooperatively connected to said spherical body.
6. The oscillating propulsor as recited in claim 1 wherein an intake opening is cut across the leading and trailing edges of the spherical body, for fluid admission.
7. The oscillating propulsor as recited in claim 2, further comprising:
an actuating member, for transmitting motive power, cooperatively secured to said spherical body.
an actuating member, for transmitting motive power, cooperatively secured to said spherical body.
8. The oscillating propulsor as recited in claim 2, further comprising:
a drag reduction member, having a fluid dynamic shape, for streamlining, securely connected to said spherical body.
a drag reduction member, having a fluid dynamic shape, for streamlining, securely connected to said spherical body.
9. The oscillating propulsor as recited in claim 2, further comprising:
a fore fin, having a cylindrical head and a resilient sheet attached thereto, for drag reduction and thrust, cooperatively connected to said spherical body.
a fore fin, having a cylindrical head and a resilient sheet attached thereto, for drag reduction and thrust, cooperatively connected to said spherical body.
10. The oscillating propulsor as recited in claim 2 wherein an intake opening is cut across the leading and trailing edges of the spherical body, for fluid admission.
11. The oscillating propulsor as recited in claim 3, further comprising:
a drag reduction member, having a fluid dynamic shape, for streamlining, securely connected to said spherical body.
a drag reduction member, having a fluid dynamic shape, for streamlining, securely connected to said spherical body.
12. The oscillating propulsor as recited in claim 3, further comprising:
a fore fin, having a cylindrical head and a resilient sheet attached thereto, for drag reduction and thrust, cooperatively connected to said spherical body.
a fore fin, having a cylindrical head and a resilient sheet attached thereto, for drag reduction and thrust, cooperatively connected to said spherical body.
13. The oscillating propulsor as recited in claim 3 wherein an intake opening is cut across the leading and trailing edges of the spherical body, for fluid admission.
14. The oscillating propulsor as recited in claim 4, further comprising:
a fore fin, having a cylindrical head and a resilient sheet attached thereto, for drag reduction and thrust, cooperatively connected to said spherical body.
a fore fin, having a cylindrical head and a resilient sheet attached thereto, for drag reduction and thrust, cooperatively connected to said spherical body.
15. The oscillating propulsor as recited in claim 5 wherein an intake opening is cut across the leading and trailing edges of the spherical body, for fluid admission.
16. The oscillating propulsor as recited in claim 7, further comprising:
a drag reduction member, having a fluid dynamic shape, for streamlining, securely connected to said spherical body.
a drag reduction member, having a fluid dynamic shape, for streamlining, securely connected to said spherical body.
17. The oscillating propulsor as recited in claim 7, further comprising:
a fore fin, having a cylindrical head and a resilient sheet attached thereto, for drag reduction and thrust, cooperatively connected to said spherical body.
a fore fin, having a cylindrical head and a resilient sheet attached thereto, for drag reduction and thrust, cooperatively connected to said spherical body.
18. The oscillating propulsor as recited in claim 7 wherein an intake opening is cut across the leading and trailing edges of the spherical body, for fluid admission.
19. The oscillating propulsor as recited in claim 8, further comprising:
a fore fin, having a cylindrical head and a resilient sheet attached thereto, for drag reduction and thrust, cooperatively connected to said spherical body.
a fore fin, having a cylindrical head and a resilient sheet attached thereto, for drag reduction and thrust, cooperatively connected to said spherical body.
20. The oscillating propulsor as recited in claim 9, further comprising:
an across the leading and trailing edges intake opening, for fluid admission.
an across the leading and trailing edges intake opening, for fluid admission.
21. The oscillating propulsor as recited in claim 11, further comprising:
a fore fin, having a cylindrical head and a resilient sheet attached thereto, for drag reduction and thrust, cooperatively connected to said spherical body.
a fore fin, having a cylindrical head and a resilient sheet attached thereto, for drag reduction and thrust, cooperatively connected to said spherical body.
22. The oscillating propulsor as recited in claim 12, further comprising:
an across the leading and trailing edges intake opening, for fluid admission.
an across the leading and trailing edges intake opening, for fluid admission.
23. The oscillating propulsor as recited in claim 17, further comprising:
a fore fin, having a cylindrical head and a resilient sheet attached thereto, for drag reduction and thrust, cooperatively connected to said spherical body.
a fore fin, having a cylindrical head and a resilient sheet attached thereto, for drag reduction and thrust, cooperatively connected to said spherical body.
24. The oscillating propulsor as recited in claim 18 wherein an intake opening is cut across the leading and trailing edges of the spherical body, for fluid admission.
25. A craft for transportation in and movement of fluids comprising:
A base, A motive power source, for animation, securely attached to the base a spherical body, having a convex leading surface, and a concave trailing surface, cooperatively connected to the motive power source whereby, upon oscillation, ambient fluids are accelerated and ejected from the concave trailing surface thereby imparting a propulsive momentum to the spherical body and attachments thereto.
A base, A motive power source, for animation, securely attached to the base a spherical body, having a convex leading surface, and a concave trailing surface, cooperatively connected to the motive power source whereby, upon oscillation, ambient fluids are accelerated and ejected from the concave trailing surface thereby imparting a propulsive momentum to the spherical body and attachments thereto.
26. The craft of claim 25 further comprising at least one spherical body attached to the base whereby the reaction momentum of the motive power source on the base actuates said spherical body to propel the base.
27. The craft of claim 25 further comprising lubricant cavity provision means, secured to the spherical body and attachments thereto whereby movement in ambient fluids is lubricated.
28. The craft of claim 25 further comprising thrust vectoring means whereby steering is effected.
29. The craft of claim 27 further comprising thrust vectoring means whereby steering is effected.
30. The oscillating propulsor of claim 1 further comprising lubricant cavity provision means, secured to the spherical body and attachments thereto whereby movement of the apparatus in ambient fluids is lubricated.
31. A thrust vectoring system for use in oscillating propulsion comprising:
a motive power source, having a base and a motion transmitter an oscillating propulsion device, a control arm, cooperatively secured to the oscillating propulsion device, a bearing, rotatably coupling to the motion transmitter and the oscillating propulsion device, whereby displacement of the control arm about the bearing changes the direction of thrust from the oscillating propulsion device.
a motive power source, having a base and a motion transmitter an oscillating propulsion device, a control arm, cooperatively secured to the oscillating propulsion device, a bearing, rotatably coupling to the motion transmitter and the oscillating propulsion device, whereby displacement of the control arm about the bearing changes the direction of thrust from the oscillating propulsion device.
32. The system of claim 31 further including a steering arm guidingly connected to the control arm and moveably connected to the base of the motive power source.
33. The system of claim 32 wherein guidingly connected comprises a magnetic bearing, embracing to the control arm.
34. The system of claim 31 wherein the control arm is a conduit fluidly connected to an inlet and an outlet for pressurized fluids whereby coating of the oscillating propulsion device with a lubricant cavity is effected.
35. The thrust vectoring system of any one of claims 31 to 34 wherein the oscillating propulsion device is a spherical body, having a convex leading surface and a concave trailing surface, whereby, upon oscillation, ambient fluids are accelerated and ejected from the concave trailing surface thereby imparting a propulsive momentum to the spherical body and attachments thereto.
36. A lubricant cavity provision system for reducing drag in oscillating propulsion comprising:
an oscillating propulsion device, a lubricant inlet, and a lubricant outlet, fluidly connected to the lubricant inlet whereby pressurized fluids supplied to the lubricant inlet are conveyed to the lubricant outlet for coating said device with a lubricant cavity thereby lubricating movement of said device in ambient fluids.
an oscillating propulsion device, a lubricant inlet, and a lubricant outlet, fluidly connected to the lubricant inlet whereby pressurized fluids supplied to the lubricant inlet are conveyed to the lubricant outlet for coating said device with a lubricant cavity thereby lubricating movement of said device in ambient fluids.
37. The lubricant cavity provision system of claim 36 wherein the oscillating propulsion device is a spherical body, having a convex leading surface and a concave trailing surface, whereby, upon oscillation, ambient fluids are accelerated and ejected from the concave trailing surface thereby imparting a propulsive momentum to the spherical body and attachments thereto.
38. Method of propelling fluids, crafts and harvesting fluid power comprising:
providing a vessel, open to ambient fluids, for accelerated conveyance of the fluids, and actuating the vessel in a reciprocating stroke movement whereby fluids are ejected from the vessel at the end of each stroke thereby imparting a propulsive momentum to the vessel and attachments thereto.
providing a vessel, open to ambient fluids, for accelerated conveyance of the fluids, and actuating the vessel in a reciprocating stroke movement whereby fluids are ejected from the vessel at the end of each stroke thereby imparting a propulsive momentum to the vessel and attachments thereto.
39. The method of claim 38, further comprising:
attaching at least one vessel to a craft whereby the reaction momentum imparted to the craft by the reciprocating stroke movement actuates the at least one vessel to propel the craft.
attaching at least one vessel to a craft whereby the reaction momentum imparted to the craft by the reciprocating stroke movement actuates the at least one vessel to propel the craft.
Priority Applications (12)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2821427A CA2821427A1 (en) | 2013-07-11 | 2013-07-11 | Oscillating propulsor |
| CA2832623A CA2832623A1 (en) | 2013-07-11 | 2013-11-07 | Oscillating propulsor |
| CA 2854305 CA2854305A1 (en) | 2013-07-11 | 2014-06-12 | Oscillating propulsor |
| US14/889,614 US10273932B2 (en) | 2013-07-11 | 2014-06-25 | Oscillating propulsor |
| EP14822382.9A EP3160839A4 (en) | 2013-07-11 | 2014-06-25 | Oscillating propulsor |
| CA2911964A CA2911964C (en) | 2013-07-11 | 2014-06-25 | Oscillating propulsor |
| PCT/CA2014/050605 WO2015003261A1 (en) | 2013-07-11 | 2014-06-25 | Oscillating propulsor |
| RU2016152073A RU2631742C1 (en) | 2013-07-11 | 2014-06-25 | Vibrating propulsor |
| CA2856793A CA2856793A1 (en) | 2013-07-11 | 2014-07-11 | Oscillating propulsor |
| RU2017122827A RU2659666C1 (en) | 2013-07-11 | 2015-01-12 | Impulse locomotor |
| US15/533,611 US10060409B2 (en) | 2013-07-11 | 2015-01-12 | Pulsed locomotor |
| CA2970942A CA2970942C (en) | 2013-07-11 | 2015-01-12 | Pulsed locomotor |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2821427A CA2821427A1 (en) | 2013-07-11 | 2013-07-11 | Oscillating propulsor |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2821427A1 true CA2821427A1 (en) | 2015-01-11 |
Family
ID=52471756
Family Applications (3)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2821427A Abandoned CA2821427A1 (en) | 2013-07-11 | 2013-07-11 | Oscillating propulsor |
| CA2832623A Abandoned CA2832623A1 (en) | 2013-07-11 | 2013-11-07 | Oscillating propulsor |
| CA2856793A Abandoned CA2856793A1 (en) | 2013-07-11 | 2014-07-11 | Oscillating propulsor |
Family Applications After (2)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2832623A Abandoned CA2832623A1 (en) | 2013-07-11 | 2013-11-07 | Oscillating propulsor |
| CA2856793A Abandoned CA2856793A1 (en) | 2013-07-11 | 2014-07-11 | Oscillating propulsor |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (3) | CA2821427A1 (en) |
-
2013
- 2013-07-11 CA CA2821427A patent/CA2821427A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2013-11-07 CA CA2832623A patent/CA2832623A1/en not_active Abandoned
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2014
- 2014-07-11 CA CA2856793A patent/CA2856793A1/en not_active Abandoned
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2856793A1 (en) | 2015-01-11 |
| CA2832623A1 (en) | 2015-01-11 |
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