EP3359444B1 - Position changing device, in particular for a watercraft - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a position changing device, in particular a drive and / or trimming device, in particular for a watercraft, for example a boat, raft or ship, but also a platform located in the water, at least temporarily not firmly anchored in the ground.

Water vehicles have been used to move people across the waters since time immemorial. In this long period, seafaring has changed fundamentally several times, starting with dugout or rafting, from muscle-powered vehicles to wind-powered vehicles to machine-driven watercraft.

Machine-driven watercraft, such as B. boats or ships are usually driven by propellers or propellers. Until recently, these were designed as rigid shafts protruding from the ship's hull with a correspondingly shaped impeller and could only be rotated along the direction of expansion of the shaft. The direction of travel of the watercraft was specified by one or more rudders, regardless of the drive.

To increase the maneuverability of a motor-driven ship, as is particularly necessary when maneuvering in narrow harbors or canals, there has been a solution for some time now to outsource the drive motor, shaft and propeller from the actual hull and the drive motor in a mechanically connected to the hull To accommodate housing, wherein the propeller is arranged on the outside of the housing and is mechanically connected to the drive motor via the shaft. These so-called pods are rotatably and / or pivotably mounted in relation to the ship's hull, which makes it possible to increase maneuverability.

The DE 10 2008 037 677 A1 and the US 2,714,866 A show a classic pod drive. Consisting of a propeller pod drive with a propeller attached to a drive shaft outside the propeller pod. The propeller nacelle is connected to the hull of a watercraft by means of a suspension and can be swiveled in the azimuthal direction via a nacelle swivel drive. The DE 10 2009 033 554 A1 shows a propeller nacelle in a so-called pod drive, which is connected to a hull of a watercraft via a shaft. The shaft has a biconcave, streamlined cross section. At least one propeller is attached to the outside of the propeller pod. If two opposing propellers are attached to the outside of the propeller pod, this is a pull propeller and a push propeller.

Furthermore, from the DE 10 2004 048 754 A1 and the DE 10 054 148 A1 Pod ship propulsion systems with a housing rotatably attached to the hull with at least one ship propeller outside the housing are known.

EP 2 591 993 A1 shows a ship propulsion device comprising a bracket that is attachable to a ship, a housing with a channel that is rotatable relative to a bracket about a steering axis, a propeller that is rotatably arranged within the channel about a propeller axis, and an electric motor that the propeller turns. The propeller contains several blades and a cylindrical rim which surrounds the several blades and is arranged in the housing. The electric motor turns the edge in relation to the channel.

In addition, it has always been of great importance to Distribute people and / or goods evenly in or on the watercraft. An uneven distribution of loads leads to an imbalance in the water, which makes the watercraft unstable, especially when waves and / or gusts of wind hit it, which can cause an inclined watercraft to capsize more than would be the case with an evenly loaded watercraft.

In the past, if it was not possible to distribute the loads evenly, additional weights were taken on board to achieve a normal position in the water, a process known as trimming. However, this means that additional weight, apart from the above-mentioned purpose, often superfluous weight, has to be carried, which increases the draft of the watercraft, which increases the water resistance. This effect is reinforced by the additional weight to be moved.

Trimming is particularly important for today's ever-increasing passenger ships, cargo ships and platforms. In the case of passenger ships, this is due in particular to the fact that, due to their high structures, they have a comparatively high center of gravity and therefore already have a reduced stability compared to flat watercraft. For cargo ships, especially container ships, which nowadays often have space for several tens of thousands of containers, even loading is an essential criterion. This also applies, for example, in the port during loading and unloading processes, in which regular unloading must be ensured in order to avoid damage to the ship's structure, which can even lead to the hull breaking.

It is the object of the present invention to provide an improved position change device, in particular to provide an improved trimming device which provides the user with adaptation options with regard to the tare-off of a watercraft in the water and / or to provide an improved drive device, in particular for a watercraft, which has a high level of reliability .

According to the invention, the object is achieved by a position changing device according to claim 14. The object is achieved independently of this by a drive device according to claim 1 and a trimming device according to claim 7.

A position change device according to the invention, in particular for a watercraft, has a drive device of the type described here and a trimming device of the type described here.

A position change device in the sense of the present invention is in particular a device which is provided, in particular set up, for the position, in particular of a watercraft, in the plane (drive device) and / or the alignment along the vertical axis, in particular relative to a water surface (trimming device). to influence and / or define.

This is particularly advantageous since a watercraft can be provided in this way, combining the advantages of the drive device according to the invention described here with those of the trimming device according to the invention. In addition to the simple "addition" of these advantages, the combination results in advantageous synergy effects, in particular with regard to flow resistance, maneuverability, stability in water and / or energy efficiency.

1. (a) ein Gehäuse mit einem stromaufwärtigen und einem stromabwärtigen Ende, wobei das Gehäuse dafür eingerichtet ist, außerhalb eines Wasserfahrzeugrumpfes des Wasserfahrzeugs angeordnet zu werden;
2. (b) wenigstens eine Vorschubeinrichtung, welche zumindest teilweise, insbesondere vollständig, unterhalb der Wasseroberfläche angeordnet ist; und
3. (c) wenigstens eine Antriebseinrichtung, welche die Vorschubeinrichtung mit einem Drehmoment beaufschlagt,

wobei das Gehäuse in dem stromaufwärtigen und in dem stromabwärtigen Ende jeweils zumindest eine Öffnung aufweist, welche durch einen im Querschnitt senkrecht zu einer Strömungsrichtung zumindest teilweise geschlossenen Kanal miteinander verbunden sind und durch welche jeweils ein Wasservolumenstrom ein- bzw. austreten kann, wobei
die Vorschubeinrichtung zumindest teilweise, insbesondere vollständig, innerhalb des Kanals angeordnet ist,
das Gehäuse dazu eingerichtet ist, elektrische und/oder elektronische Komponenten in sich aufzunehmen und vor dem Eindringen von Flüssigkeiten zu schützen und den Wasservolumenstrom davon abzuhalten, in andere Bereiche des Gehäuses einzudringen,
wobei die Antriebsvorrichtung innerhalb des Gehäuses weiterhin wenigstens einen Auftriebskörper aufweist, wobei wenigstens einer der Auftriebskörper hinsichtlich der durch ihn bereitgestellten Auftriebskraft steuerbar, insbesondere regelbar, ist.A drive device according to the invention, in particular for a watercraft, has:

1. (a) a housing having an upstream and a downstream end, the housing being adapted to be arranged outside a hull of the watercraft;
2. (b) at least one feed device which is at least partially, in particular completely, arranged below the water surface; and
3. (c) at least one drive device which applies a torque to the feed device,

wherein the housing has at least one opening in the upstream and in the downstream end, which are connected to one another by a channel that is at least partially closed in cross section perpendicular to a flow direction and through which a water volume flow can enter or exit, respectively
the feed device is arranged at least partially, in particular completely, within the channel,
the housing is designed to accommodate electrical and / or electronic components and to protect them against the ingress of liquids and to prevent the water volume flow from penetrating into other areas of the housing,
wherein the drive device further comprises at least one buoyancy body within the housing, wherein at least one of the buoyancy bodies can be controlled, in particular regulated, with regard to the buoyancy force provided by it.

The arrangement of the housing outside of the watercraft hull is particularly advantageous, since in this way the at least partially arranged within the housing components such. B. the feed device and the drive device are outsourced from the watercraft hull, whereby the space available within the watercraft hull can be used for other purposes.

Furthermore, the drive device according to the invention makes it possible to provide very good maneuverability and positional accuracy, as z. B. is required from utilities in the offshore sector.

The arrangement of the feed device provided at least partially within the channel allows a very free design of the outside of the housing, since requirements of the feed device in the design of the outside of the housing - with the exception of the upstream and downstream openings - are at least of minor importance, in particular at least essentially not relevant are.

The channel, which is at least partially closed in cross section perpendicular to the direction of flow, provides at least substantially defined flow properties of the medium passing through, in particular fresh and / or salt water. A suitable design of the at least partially closed channel makes the energy efficiency particularly advantageous.

A “drive device” in the sense of the present invention is to be understood in particular as a device which is provided, in particular, is set up to provide a feed in at least one direction. A drive device for a watercraft preferably provides the feed at least at least substantially parallel to the keel line of the watercraft. A drive device in the sense of the present invention is mounted at least substantially perpendicularly to the keel line so as to be rotatable about a vertical axis, as a result of which a change in the direction of advance relative to the keel line of the watercraft can be made possible by up to 360 °.

A “watercraft” in the sense of the present invention is to be understood explicitly broadly, so that it includes all objects that are on, in or under the water surface and that are provided, in particular, set up for this purpose, for example people and / or goods transport or carry. Examples of watercraft in the sense of the present invention are boats, ships, submarines, rafts, platforms, in particular conveyor platforms, and the like.

A "housing" in the sense of the present invention is to be understood in particular as a hollow body which is provided, in particular, is designed to accommodate objects or components, to connect them to form a unit and / or to protect them from external influences, in particular mechanical influences, Protect the penetration of liquids and / or gases or the like. A housing can either be made in one part or in several parts. The housing in the sense of the present invention has at least one upstream and one downstream opening, through which a water volume flow can enter or exit. However, the housing can be designed in such a way that this water volume flow is prevented from penetrating into other areas of the housing, such as a technical room.

The term "upstream" or "downstream" in the sense of the present invention describes the orientation of an object, for example the housing, with respect to a water flow, "upstream" describing the side of the housing to which the water flow moves, while "downstream" describes the side of the housing which is opposite to the side of the housing which the water flows against.

A "feed device" in the sense of the present invention is to be understood in particular to mean a device which takes up mechanical work and releases it to the surrounding medium in the form of flow energy. Feed devices in the sense of the present invention are, for example, a jet drive, a nozzle ring propeller, a propeller on a shaft or a propeller in an outer ring rotor.

A "drive device" in the sense of the present invention is to be understood in particular as a constructive device which provides kinetic energy, in particular in the form of a force or a torque, by means of energy conversion. Drive devices in the sense of the present invention are, for example, electric drives, internal combustion engine drives, pneumatic drives, atomic energy drives, hydraulic drives or the like.

A “channel” in the sense of the present invention is to be understood in particular as a recess in a base body that is at least partially closed with respect to a cross section, which is viewed at least substantially perpendicular to an extension direction of the channel. This means that a channel in the sense of the present invention can be, for example, a groove or groove which is molded into the basic object (here there is a partially closed cross section) or can be in the form of a passage or tunnel (in this context, a closed cross section spoken).

According to a preferred embodiment, the channel is designed as a tubular tunnel with a closed cross section perpendicular to the flow direction and / or the feed device is completely enclosed by the housing in a plane perpendicular to the flow direction.

According to this embodiment, the channel does not have to be formed over the entire length as a tubular tunnel perpendicular to the direction of flow with a closed cross section, but can also have, for example, a channel-like inlet and / or outlet, so that only an area arranged in between in the form of a tubular tunnel is formed with a closed cross-section, the feed device being located at least partially, in particular completely, within this tubular section arranged between them.

A "watercraft hull" in the sense of the present invention is to be understood in particular as the one-part or multi-part part of the watercraft which is intended, in particular, designed to accommodate machines, goods and / or people on or in itself. The According to one embodiment, the watercraft hull is at least partially, in particular completely, arranged above the water surface. The watercraft hull itself provides at least part of the desired buoyancy force and / or is at least mechanically connected to devices that provide buoyancy, for example floating bodies. A watercraft hull in the sense of the present invention is, for example, a classic ship or boat hull, the at least essentially flat platform of a raft, a boat or ship's shell or the like. A watercraft can only have one hull (e.g. monohull), two hulls (e.g. catamaran) or more hulls (e.g. trimaran).

A "buoyancy body" in the sense of the present invention is to be understood in particular to mean a device which, because of its ratio of volume and mass, is intended, in particular set up, for influencing its position in the water mechanically connected objects, in particular on and / or in the immediate vicinity of the water surface. Examples of buoyancy bodies in the sense of the present invention include hollow bodies made of metal and / or plastic and / or rubber-like material, in particular balloons, foam bodies, or the like, filled with gases, in particular ambient air. Floats in the sense of the present invention can have active and / or passive components. Passive components are, for example, tanks, cavities, canisters, balloons, hoses, pipes and the like. Active components are, for example, valves, pumps, gas-operated blow-out devices, but also those devices which themselves actively and directly generate a lift, such as, for example, B. at least substantially aligned along the vertical axis propeller and / or screw drives, water and / or gas nozzles, internal combustion engines or the like.

According to a preferred embodiment, the housing is provided, in particular set up to be arranged at a distance from the watercraft hull, and the drive device further has a connecting device which is provided, in particular, set up to provide a mechanical connection between the housing and the watercraft hull.

A “connection device” in the sense of the present invention is to be understood in particular to mean a device which provides a mechanical connection between the housing and the watercraft hull. This can be, for example, in the form of a rod which is firmly connected at both ends, a hollow body, for example a tubular hollow body, or of limp elements such as. B. consist of a rope, rope, chain, hose or the like. According to one embodiment, the connection device is designed with regard to its outer geometry with regard to its fluidic properties, in particular with regard to the flow resistance.

According to one embodiment, the connection device itself is optimized with regard to its fluidic properties, in particular with regard to its outer geometry. According to one embodiment, the connection device takes on other tasks, such as, in addition to providing a mechanical connection between the housing and the watercraft hull. B. the provision of electrical energy and / or liquid or gaseous fuels and / or in particular gaseous, propellant media, in particular for blowing out floating bodies, as will be described in more detail below, or a transmission of control signals electrical, electronic and / or mechanical Type of components in or on the watercraft hull on components within the housing.

According to a preferred embodiment, the distance between the housing and the watercraft hull can be varied, in particular by means of a telescopic construction of the connecting device. The connecting device of the drive device provides a rotating / pivoting unit on the side of the watercraft hull and / or on the side of the housing, by means of which the drive device can be rotated as desired about the horizontal about a vertical axis of rotation.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the rotating / pivoting unit provides the possibility of pivoting and a further axis, in particular about an at least substantially horizontal axis.

According to a preferred embodiment, the housing is movable with respect to the watercraft, in particular with respect to the watercraft hull, in particular pivotable about a vertical axis and / or at least about another axis.

This results in a very high maneuverability of the watercraft and, if necessary, the use of an additional rudder can be dispensed with entirely. The rotation around the vertical axis is particularly suitable for moving the watercraft in two-dimensional space, i.e. especially on the surface of the water. A pivoting of the housing about a different axis than the vertical axis is provided, in particular set up to enable part of the feed generated by the feed device to change the position of the watercraft in the water, for example at least partially lifting the watercraft out of the water by means of the drive device in order to thereby reduce the draft of the watercraft in particular when overcoming areas with low water, in particular shallows, or areas close to the shore.

According to a preferred embodiment, the channel is designed as a tubular tunnel with a closed cross section perpendicular to the flow direction and / or the feed device is completely enclosed by the housing in a plane perpendicular to the flow direction.

According to this embodiment, the channel does not have to be formed over the entire length as a tubular tunnel perpendicular to the direction of flow with a closed cross section, but can also have, for example, a channel-like inlet and / or outlet, so that only an area arranged in between in the form of a tubular tunnel is formed with a closed cross-section, the feed device being at least partially, in particular completely, within this section arranged therebetween.

According to a preferred embodiment, the drive device further has at least one buoyancy body within the housing.

This buoyancy body is arranged, in particular, between an outer wall of the housing and the at least partially closed channel, the at least one buoyancy body being provided for this purpose, in particular being designed to be at least at least substantially watertightly separated from the water surrounding the housing. The drive device according to this embodiment is at least essentially freely scalable in terms of buoyancy and drive within the design limits.

According to a preferred embodiment, at least one of the buoyancy bodies has a plurality of separate volume regions. This makes it possible to adjust individual volume sections of the buoyancy body independently of the others with regard to the buoyancy force provided by it. Such a separation is preferably carried out by at least one partition and / or at least one bulkhead.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the buoyancy body can be controlled, in particular regulated, with regard to the buoyancy force provided by it. In other words, the buoyancy body is tare, e.g. B. by pumps, so that the draft / buoyancy of a watercraft connected via the connecting device to the drive device can be controlled, in particular regulated. For this purpose, it is provided that the buoyancy body is either filled exclusively with gas, in particular air, or completely with fluid, in particular water, or can assume any degree of filling of gas or fluid located between these two extremes.

For certain applications, such as B. loading processes, the buoyancy can be selected so that the drive device or the drive devices sink or rise relative to the water surface.

This also makes it possible to prevent parts of the feed device, in particular the blade tips, from emerging from the water. Dipping leaf tips out of the water, even a critical approach to the water surface, leads not only to a drop in the degree of feed rate, but also to increased irregularity in thrust generation, increased noise and cavitation effects. It can also be avoided in this way that the dynamic positioning of a watercraft due to undesired movements, which is initiated by an exchange of propeller blade tips, is difficult.

A reduction in the buoyancy force provided by the buoyancy means that the watercraft with its watercraft hull lies deeper in the water. The result of this is that the watercraft is less sensitive to the influence of sea and / or wind, since the position of the center of gravity is lowered, in particular in the area below the water surface.

1. a) eine Ventileinrichtung mit wenigstens einer Schließstellung und einer Durchlassstellung, welche dafür eingerichtet ist, einen Fluidzustrom und/oder einen Gaszustrom in den Auftriebskörper zu steuern, insbesondere zu regeln; und/oder
2. b) eine Entleerungseinrichtung, insbesondere aufweisend eine Pumpeneinrichtung und/oder eine Anblaseinrichtung, welche dafür vorgesehen, insbesondere eingerichtet ist, einen Fluidabfluss aus dem Auftriebskörper zu steuern, insbesondere zu regeln.

According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one controllable, in particular adjustable, buoyancy body has:

1. a) a valve device with at least one closed position and one passage position, which is set up to control, in particular to regulate, a fluid inflow and / or a gas inflow into the buoyancy body; and or
2. b) an emptying device, in particular having a pump device and / or a blowing device, which is provided, in particular, is set up to control, in particular to regulate, a fluid outflow from the buoyancy body.

As a pump device in the sense of the present invention, all pump concepts come into question which are provided, in particular, are set up to effect the required fluid outflow or fluid inflow or gas outflow or gas inflow. Examples of pump devices include positive displacement pumps, in particular diaphragm pumps, rotary piston pumps, eccentric screw pumps, impeller pumps, chain pumps, piston pumps, ring piston pumps and the like, as well as flow pumps, in particular axial pumps, diagonal pumps or radial pumps. A blowing device according to a preferred embodiment has: a gas valve device with at least one closed position and a passage position, a pressure supply device, in particular a pressure tank and / or compressor and a gas-carrying connection between the pressure supply device and the floating body that can be released by the valve device.

According to a preferred embodiment, at least the opening in the upstream end of the housing has a protective device which is designed to at least reduce the likelihood of solids entering the channel. According to one embodiment, the protective device has a structure made of at least substantially parallel flexible or rigid bodies (so-called grill) and / or a grid or mesh formed from metal, plastic or other flexible material and / or another suitable filter structure.

According to a preferred embodiment, the feed device has an outer retaining ring which limits the diameter of the feed device to the outside. In this design, there is no need for a shaft. The feed device according to this embodiment is directed inwards on the axis of rotation, the ring is mounted in the channel or within the housing. This is particularly advantageous, since in this type of construction there is no need for a shaft, hub, around which nets, fishing lines and hawser could be wound. Especially with a view to the high demands on operational reliability of ship drives that are used for dynamic positioning, this design variant of the drive device meets the requirements in offshore operation very well.

The housing of the drive device preferably has a streamlined channel profile and / or a streamlined outer profile. Furthermore, aerodynamic, in particular round, formations can be provided on the upstream and downstream ends of the housing in order to reduce turbulence around the drive device. The nozzle effect of the channel achieved by this design helps to achieve a very good bollard pull of the feed device and to make the dynamic positioning of the watercraft easy.

According to a preferred embodiment, the drive device also has an energy recovery device, which is provided for this, in particular is set up to absorb braking energy and / or swirl energy, in particular by utilizing an inflowing water volume flow.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the housing is provided, in particular set up, electrical and / or electronic components, such as. B. energy storage, batteries, regulating devices, control devices and pumps.

According to a preferred embodiment, the drive device furthermore has a pull drive, in particular a combined pull and push drive. In this case, the drive device preferably has two impellers within the channel, which, due to the blade geometries and / or the directions of rotation, generate a pulling force and a feed. According to a preferred embodiment, both the feed device and the pulling device are driven by one and the same drive device, in particular via a gear.

A watercraft in the sense of the present invention has at least one drive device of the type described here.

For the advantages of a watercraft designed in this way, reference is made to the corresponding statements in order to avoid unnecessary repetitions. These apply to the watercraft in the same way.

According to a preferred embodiment, such a watercraft has a plurality of drive devices which can be controlled or regulated at least partially with regard to their buoyancy, in particular with one another. So it is z. B. possible to balance load balancing. After an execution, targeted sinking processes are possible, similar to submarines.

Furthermore, superstructures or loads arranged later on the deck of the watercraft can also be variably placed and / or loaded and / or deleted without this having an effect on e.g. B. has the relative horizontal position of the deck. Furthermore, the position of the deck can be customized to the requirements of a loading or Deletion process adjusted, e.g. B. be inclined, lowered and / or raised to directly support a charging, extinguishing and / or jamming process.

Each feed device can preferably be regulated, in particular separately, with respect to the direction of thrust and / or thrust strength.

The dynamic positioning of the watercraft can be realized by rotating one and / or several drive devices about the respective axes of rotation A and / or by varying the thrust and / or by varying the buoyancy provided between a plurality of feed devices and / or floating bodies distributed over several drive devices.

Furthermore, the combination of several drive devices on a watercraft is possible, in particular with regard to geometry, power, buoyancy and drives of different drive devices, in order to be able to respond to the individual requirements of the watercraft or the carrier platform.

An inventive use of a drive device consists in the drive of a watercraft.

Here, too, reference is made to the above statements regarding the drive device with regard to further configurations and advantages, which apply in the same way at this point.

According to a preferred use, the drive device is provided, in particular set up, to be subsequently attached to and / or in the watercraft as a retrofit device.

This makes it possible to make maneuverable again with the help of the drive device according to the invention, and / or water vehicles, such as, for example, from engine failure. B. platforms to move to their assembly position and then remove the drives again, since these are not needed at least for the duration of the stationary attachment to the seabed.

For this purpose, according to a preferred embodiment, the connecting device has flexible, releasable fixings in order to attach the drive device to the watercraft.

1. (a) ein Gehäuse mit einem stromaufwärtigen und einem stromabwärtigen Ende, welches dafür eingerichtet ist, außerhalb, insbesondere wenigstens im Wesentlichen unterhalb, des Wasserfahrzeugs angeordnet zu werden;
2. (b) wenigstens einen Auftriebskörper, welcher zumindest teilweise innerhalb des Gehäuses angeordnet ist und eine steuerbare Auftriebskraft bereitstellt;
3. (c) wenigstens eine Verbindungseinrichtung, welche dafür eingerichtet ist, das Gehäuse beabstandet von einem Wasserfahrzeugrumpf des Wasserfahrzeugs mit diesem zumindest mechanisch zu verbinden; und
4. (d) einer Steuerungseinrichtung, welche dafür eingerichtet ist, die Lage des Wasserfahrzeugs relativ zur Wasseroberfläche zu steuern, wobei

die Steuerungseinrichtung dafür eingerichtet ist, die von dem Auftriebskörper bereitgestellte Auftriebskraft zu steuern, insbesondere zu regeln; und/oder die Steuerungseinrichtung dafür eingerichtet ist, einen von der Verbindungseinrichtung bereitgestellten Abstand zwischen dem Wasserfahrzeugrumpf und dem Gehäuse zu steuern, insbesondere zu regeln; und wobei das Gehäuse gegenüber dem Wasserfahrzeug beweglich, insbesondere um eine Hochachse und/oder wenigstens um eine andere Achse schwenkbar, ist.A trimming device in the sense of the present invention, in particular for a watercraft, has:

1. (a) a housing with an upstream and a downstream end, which is designed to be arranged outside, in particular at least substantially below, the watercraft;
2. (b) at least one buoyancy body, which is arranged at least partially within the housing and provides a controllable buoyancy force;
3. (c) at least one connecting device which is set up to connect the housing to the watercraft hull at a distance from it, at least mechanically; and
4. (d) a control device which is set up to control the position of the watercraft relative to the water surface, wherein

the control device is set up to control, in particular to regulate, the buoyancy force provided by the buoyancy body; and / or the control device is set up to control, in particular to regulate, a distance provided by the connecting device between the watercraft hull and the housing; and the housing being movable relative to the watercraft, in particular pivotable about a vertical axis and / or at least about another axis.

The basic idea of the present invention is to change the buoyancy force of a buoyancy body which is arranged outside a watercraft, in order to thereby influence the position of the watercraft in the water. This takes place according to the invention either by adapting the buoyancy force provided by the buoyancy body, in particular when the distance between the housing and the base body is at least substantially constant, and / or by changing the said distance.

The arrangement of the housing or the housing with the buoyancy body or the buoyancy bodies outside, in particular at least substantially below the watercraft, enables a very good use of space in or on the watercraft, since the space gained for accommodating people and / or goods or the like can be provided. As an alternative and / or in addition, it is possible with the trimming device according to the invention to implement the watercraft in a compact manner and / or to optimize the flow properties of the elements in the water.

By controlling the buoyancy, it is possible to influence the position of the watercraft in the water. A high provided buoyancy force ensures that the watercraft is higher in the water and therefore provides less resistance to the water when moving. A low, provided buoyancy force ensures that the watercraft lies deeper in the water, as a result of which the center of gravity is lowered relative to the water surface, which means increased stability of the watercraft against swell and / or gusts of wind. The position of the watercraft in the water can also be influenced by changing the distance between the base body and the housing due to the Archimedean principle.

According to one embodiment, such a buoyancy is generated by means of the buoyancy body that the lower edge of the watercraft hull is located completely above the smooth water level, in particular above the water surface. As a result, the water resistance of the watercraft can be reduced and / or the draft can be reduced, for example in order to overcome shallows. Furthermore, the buoyancy body can be controlled, in particular regulated, in such a way that an adaptation of the height level to another watercraft (not shown) or another object statically arranged in or on the water can be achieved, for example, to translate goods and / or people to facilitate.

Due to the mobility of the housing in relation to the watercraft, in particular in relation to the watercraft hull, a very high Maneuverability of the watercraft is achieved, in particular since the housings can be aligned with respect to the watercraft hull in such a way that the water resistance of the trimming device can be kept low, in particular when there are changes in direction.

A “trimming device” in the sense of the present invention is to be understood in particular to be a device which is provided, in particular set up, for aligning a body in a desired position. The trimming forces generated here compensate for forces which undesirably change the position of the body. For the purposes of the present invention, the trim primarily relates to a static trim, i.e. the trimming forces generated are at least substantially independent of the speed of a trimmed body. The trimming device according to the invention changes a parameter from a group consisting of: a yaw angle, i.e. an angle which describes a rotation about the Z axis of a Cartesian coordinate system, the Z axis also being able to be referred to as the yaw, vertical or vertical axis; a pitch angle, i.e. an angle which describes a rotation about the Y axis of the Cartesian coordinate system, the Y axis also being able to be referred to as a pitch or transverse axis; a roll angle, i.e. an angle which describes a rotation about the X-axis of the Cartesian coordinate system extending in the longitudinal direction of the body, the X-axis also being able to be called the roll, roll or longitudinal axis; and an orientation of the body in the Z direction relative to the water surface. The water surface defines the X-Y plane, which is spanned by the axes of the Cartesian coordinate system.

A “watercraft” in the sense of the present invention is to be understood explicitly broadly, so that it includes all objects that are on, in or under the water surface and that are provided, in particular, set up for this purpose, for example people and / or goods transport or carry. Examples of watercraft in the sense of the present invention are boats, ships, submarines, rafts, platforms, in particular conveyor platforms, and the like.

A "housing" in the sense of the present invention is to be understood in particular as a hollow body which is provided, in particular, is designed to accommodate objects and / or components, to connect them to form a unit and / or to protect them from external influences, in particular mechanical ones Protect effects, penetration of liquids and / or gases or the like. A housing can either be made in one part or in several parts. The housing in the sense of the present invention has at least one upstream and one downstream opening, through which a water volume flow can enter or exit. According to one embodiment, the housing is designed in such a way that this water volume flow is prevented from penetrating into other areas of the housing, such as a technical room.

The term "upstream" or "downstream" in the sense of the present invention describes the orientation of an object, for example the housing, with respect to a water flow, "upstream" describing the side of the housing to which the water flow moves, while "downstream" describes the side of the housing which is opposite to the side of the housing which the water flows against.

A "watercraft hull" in the sense of the present invention is to be understood in particular as the one-part or multi-part part of the watercraft which is intended, in particular, designed to accommodate machines, goods and / or people on or in itself. According to one embodiment, the watercraft hull is at least partially, in particular completely, arranged above the water surface. The watercraft hull itself provides at least part of the desired buoyancy force and / or is at least mechanically connected to devices that provide buoyancy, for example floating bodies. A watercraft hull in the sense of the present invention is, for example, a classic ship or boat hull, the at least essentially flat platform of a raft, a boat or ship's shell or the like. A watercraft can only have one hull (e.g. monohull), two hulls (e.g. catamaran) or more hulls (e.g. trimaran).

A "buoyancy body" in the sense of the present invention is to be understood in particular to mean a device which, because of its ratio of volume and mass, is intended, in particular set up, for influencing its position in the water mechanically connected objects, in particular on and / or in the immediate vicinity of the water surface. Examples of buoyancy bodies in the sense of the present invention include hollow bodies made of metal and / or plastic and / or rubber-like material, in particular balloons, foam bodies or the like, filled with gases, in particular ambient air. Floats in the sense of the present invention can have active and / or passive components. Passive components are, for example, tanks, cavities, canisters, balloons, hoses, pipes and the like. Active components are, for example, valves, pumps, gas-operated blow-out devices, but also those devices which themselves actively and directly generate a lift, such as, for example, B. propellers and / or screw drives, water and / or gas nozzles, internal combustion engines or the like.

A “connection device” in the sense of the present invention is to be understood in particular to mean a device which provides a mechanical connection between the housing and the watercraft hull. This can be, for example, in the form of a rod which is firmly connected at both ends, a hollow body, for example a tubular hollow body. According to one embodiment, the connection device is designed to be adapted with regard to its external geometry with regard to its fluidic properties, in particular with regard to the flow resistance.

According to one embodiment, the connecting device on the side of the watercraft hull and / or on the side of the housing has a rotating and / or pivoting device, via which the housing can be rotated about an axis of rotation.

According to one embodiment, the connection device itself is optimized with regard to its fluidic properties, in particular with regard to its outer geometry. According to one embodiment, the connection device takes on other tasks, such as, in addition to providing a mechanical connection between the housing and the watercraft hull. B. the provision of electrical Energy and / or liquid or gaseous fuels and / or in particular gaseous, propellant media, in particular for blowing out floating bodies, as will be described in more detail below, or a transmission of control signals of electrical, electronic and / or mechanical type of components in or on the hull of components on the housing.

The height of the connecting device is structurally designed for a required draft of the watercraft. According to a preferred embodiment, the distance between the housing and the watercraft hull is kept variable, in particular by means of a telescopic construction of the connecting device.

A “control device” in the sense of the present invention is to be understood in particular to mean a device which receives and processes data, generates a control signal for at least one other component of the trimming device, and transmits it to it. For this purpose, the control device has, for example, a processor device and a memory device and at least one sensor device which receives at least one measurement signal and transmits it to the processor device. Sensor devices in the sense of the present invention are, for example, position and / or position sensors, antennas for receiving external control commands, GPS receivers, DGPS receivers (DGPS: Differential Global Positioning System) or the like. Based on such measurements, a controlled position of the watercraft in the water can be achieved. In accordance with these measurements and the trimming specifications, at least one component of the trimming device is activated in order to set the desired position and / or the desired draft of the watercraft. According to a preferred embodiment, the buoyancy body is provided, in particular set up, to be filled exclusively with gas, in particular air, or completely with fluid, in particular water, or in particular at least essentially any degree of filling of gas or between these two extremes. To accept fluid.

For certain applications, such as B. loading processes, the buoyancy can be selected so that a reference plane of the watercraft drops or rises relative to the water surface.

According to a preferred embodiment, the buoyancy body has a plurality of volume regions, in particular separated by at least one partition. This makes it possible to adjust individual volume sections of the buoyancy body independently of the others with regard to the buoyancy force provided by it. Such a separation is preferably carried out by a partition and / or a bulkhead.

1. a) eine Ventileinrichtung mit wenigstens einer Schließstellung und einer Durchlassstellung, welche dafür vorgesehen, insbesondere eingerichtet ist, einen Fluidzustrom in den Auftriebskörper zu steuern, insbesondere zu regeln; und/oder
2. b) eine Entleerungseinrichtung, insbesondere aufweisend eine Pumpeneinrichtung und/oder eine Anblaseinrichtung, welche dafür vorgesehen, insbesondere eingerichtet ist, einen Fluidabfluss aus dem Auftriebskörper zu steuern, insbesondere zu regeln.

According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one controllable, in particular adjustable, buoyancy body has:

1. a) a valve device with at least one closed position and one passage position, which is provided, in particular, is set up to control, in particular to regulate, a fluid inflow into the buoyancy body; and or
2. b) an emptying device, in particular having a pump device and / or a blowing device, which is provided, in particular, is set up to control, in particular to regulate, a fluid outflow from the buoyancy body.

As a pump device in the sense of the present invention, all pump concepts come into question which are provided, in particular, are set up to bring about the required gas outflow or gas inflow or fluid outflow or fluid inflow. Examples of pump devices include positive displacement pumps, in particular diaphragm pumps, rotary piston pumps, eccentric screw pumps, impeller pumps, chain pumps, piston pumps, ring piston pumps and the like, as well as flow pumps, in particular axial pumps, diagonal pumps or radial pumps. A blowing device after A preferred embodiment has: a gas valve device with at least one closed position and a passage position, a pressure supply device, in particular a pressure tank and / or a compressor, and a gas-carrying connection between the pressure supply device and the floating body that can be released by the valve device.

1. a) wenigstens zwei Elemente, welche teleskopartig ineinander verschieblich sind; und/oder
2. b) Mittel, welche dafür vorgesehen, insbesondere eingerichtet, sind, die Verbindungseinrichtung zumindest teilweise durch einen Wasserfahrzeugrumpf hindurchzuführen und zumindest teilweise innerhalb des Wasserfahrzeugrumpfes einzufahren.

According to a preferred embodiment, the connecting device has:

1. a) at least two elements which are telescopically displaceable; and or
2. b) Means, which are provided, in particular, are set up for at least partially leading the connecting device through a watercraft hull and at least partially retracting it within the watercraft hull.

According to one embodiment, the connecting device has at least two, in particular two, three, four, five, six or more, elements which can be telescoped into one another. The change in the distance provided between the base body and the housing can be controlled in such a way that at least substantially no components of the connecting device enter the watercraft hull. In other words: the connecting device is fastened to the outside of the watercraft hull and is not intended, in particular, to be at least partially drawn into the interior of the watercraft hull. As a result, with regard to the arrangement of goods and / or persons in or on the watercraft, at least essentially at least essentially no consideration has to be given to the connecting devices.

Alternatively and / or optionally, the connecting devices can be at least partially inserted into the watercraft hull. This enables a very simple constructive implementation of the connecting device.

According to a preferred embodiment, the connection device is provided, in particular set up, to protrude at least partially beyond a deck of the watercraft. In this way, a very simple constructional implementation can also be realized even relatively large distances between the hull and the housing.

1. a) wenigstens eine Vorschubeinrichtung, welche zumindest teilweise, insbesondere vollständig, unterhalb der Wasseroberfläche angeordnet ist; und
2. b) wenigstens eine Antriebseinrichtung, welche dafür vorgesehen, insbesondere eingerichtet ist, die Vorschubeinrichtung mit einem Drehmoment zu beaufschlagen.

According to a preferred embodiment, the trimming device also has:

1. a) at least one feed device, which is at least partially, in particular completely, arranged below the water surface; and
2. b) at least one drive device which is provided, in particular, is set up to apply a torque to the feed device.

According to this version, the original properties of a trimming device, as described above, are supplemented by the ability of the watercraft in X or. Y direction, i.e. to maneuver into a desired position on the water surface.

A "feed device" in the sense of the present invention is to be understood in particular to mean a device which takes up mechanical work and releases it to the surrounding medium in the form of flow energy. Feed devices in the sense of the present invention are, for example, a jet drive, a nozzle ring propeller, a propeller on a shaft or a propeller in an outer ring rotor.

A "drive device" in the sense of the present invention is to be understood in particular as a constructive device which provides kinetic energy, in particular in the form of a force or a torque, by means of energy conversion. Drive devices in the sense of the present invention are, for example, electric drives, internal combustion engine drives, pneumatic drives, atomic energy drives, hydraulic drives or the like.

A suitably trained trimming device provides a very good maneuverability and positional accuracy, as z. B. is required from utilities in the offshore sector.

According to a preferred embodiment, the housing each has at least one opening in the upstream end and the downstream end, which are connected to one another by a channel which is at least partially closed in cross section perpendicular to the direction of flow; and wherein the feed device is arranged at least partially within, in particular completely, within the channel. The basic idea of these embodiments is to arrange the feed device at least partially within the channel and thus connected within the housing in such a way that the latter at least partially protects the feed device from damage, for example when running on ground.

As a result, a prescribed minimum distance between the feed device and the base can be selected to be small, since the drive device is protected even with slight ground contact.

The arrangement of the feed device provided at least partially within the channel allows a very free design of the outside of the housing, since requirements of the feed device in the design of the outside of the housing - with the exception of the upstream and downstream openings - are at least of minor importance, in particular at least essentially not relevant are.

The channel, which is at least partially closed in cross section perpendicular to the direction of flow, provides at least substantially defined flow properties of the medium passing through, particularly fresh or salt water. A suitable design of the at least partially closed channel can make the energy efficiency particularly advantageous.

A “channel” in the sense of the present invention is to be understood in particular as a recess in a base body that is at least partially closed with respect to a cross section, which is viewed at least substantially perpendicular to an extension direction of the channel. This means that a channel in the sense of the present invention can be, for example, a groove or groove which is molded into the basic object (here there is a partially closed cross section) or can be in the form of a passage or tunnel (in this context, a closed cross section spoken).

According to a preferred embodiment, the channel is designed as a tubular tunnel with a closed cross section perpendicular to the flow direction and / or the feed device is completely enclosed by the housing in a plane perpendicular to the flow direction.

According to this embodiment, the channel does not have to be formed over the entire length as a tubular tunnel perpendicular to the direction of flow with a closed cross section, but can also have, for example, a channel-like inlet and / or outlet, so that only an area arranged in between in the form of a tubular tunnel is formed with a closed cross-section, the feed device being located at least partially, in particular completely, within this tubular section arranged between them.

The combination of the trimming device with elements of a drive device also makes it possible to prevent parts of the feed device, in particular the blade tips, from emerging from the water. Dipping leaf tips out of the water, even a critical approach to the water surface, leads not only to a drop in the degree of feed rate, but also to increased irregularity in thrust generation, increased noise and cavitation effects. It can also be avoided in this way that the dynamic positioning of a watercraft is made more difficult due to undesired movements, which is initiated by an exchange of propeller blade tips.

According to a preferred embodiment, the feed device is selected from a group comprising: a jet drive, a nozzle ring propeller, a propeller on a shaft or a propeller in an outer ring rotor.

According to a preferred embodiment, at least one opening in the upstream end of the housing has a protective device which is provided, in particular designed, for at least reducing the likelihood of solids entering the channel. According to one embodiment, the protective device has a structure of at least essentially parallel, limp or rigid bodies (so-called grill) and / or a grid or net formed from metal, plastic or other limp material and / or another suitable filter structure.

A watercraft according to the invention has a trimming device according to one of the embodiments described above.

For the advantages of a watercraft equipped in this way, reference is made to the above explanations regarding the trimming device, which apply in the same way to the watercraft.

An inventive use of a trimming device consists in trimming a watercraft.

Here too, reference is made to the above explanations regarding the advantages in order to avoid repetitions.

A preferred use provides for retrofitting the trimming device on and / or in the watercraft.

This makes it possible to make maneuverable again with the help of the drive device according to the invention, and / or water vehicles, such as, for example, from engine failure. B. platforms to move to their mounting position and the devices afterwards to remove again, as these are not needed at least for the duration of the stationary fortification on the seabed.

For this purpose, according to a preferred embodiment, the connecting device has flexible, releasable fixings in order to fasten the drive device to the watercraft.

Fig. 1

eine schematisierte Ansicht einer Antriebsvorrichtung nach einer Ausführung der vorliegenden Erfindung an einem Wasserfahrzeug;

Fig. 2

drei weitere Ausführungsformen der erfindungsgemäßen Antriebsvorrichtung;

Fig. 3

eine schematisierte Ansicht eines Wasserfahrzeugs mit einer Mehrzahl von Trimmvorrichtungen mit Vorschubfunktion nach einer Ausführung der vorliegenden Erfindung;

Fig. 4

eine schematisierte Ansicht eines Wasserfahrzeugs mit einer Kombination aus Trimmvorrichtungen mit und ohne Vorschubfunktion nach einer Ausführung der vorliegenden Erfindung; und

Fig. 5

eine schematisierte Ansicht einer Trimmvorrichtung mit zusätzlicher Vorschubfunktion nach einer Ausführung der vorliegenden Erfindung an einem Wasserfahrzeug.

Further advantageous developments of the present invention result from the subclaims and the following description of preferred embodiments. Here shows, partly schematically:

Fig. 1

a schematic view of a drive device according to an embodiment of the present invention on a watercraft;

Fig. 2

three further embodiments of the drive device according to the invention;

Fig. 3

a schematic view of a watercraft with a plurality of trimming devices with feed function according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 4

a schematic view of a watercraft with a combination of trimming devices with and without feed function according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

Fig. 5

a schematic view of a trimming device with additional feed function according to an embodiment of the present invention on a watercraft.

Fig. 1 10 shows a drive device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The drive device 100 has a housing 110, a feed device 120, a channel 130, a buoyancy body 140 and a connecting device 150. Via the connecting device 150 Drive device 100 with a watercraft 1, more precisely, mechanically connected to the watercraft hull 1a of the watercraft 1.

The drive device 100 can be rotated or pivoted relative to the watercraft 1 about an axis of rotation A. The feed device 120 is driven by a drive device (not shown). The drive device can either be arranged inside the channel 130 in front of or behind the feed device 120 or else be arranged inside the housing 110, the drive device being mechanically connected to the feed device according to this embodiment, in particular via a shaft, a gearbox or the like.

A flow S is generated by the drive device 120, whereby water is sucked in at the upstream end of the housing 110 and expelled at the downstream end of the housing 110. As a result, a mechanical feed is generated which is transmitted to the watercraft via the connecting device 150, as a result of which the watercraft is set in motion.

According to the present embodiment, the floating body 140 is dimensioned in such a way that it is intended, in particular, set up to influence the position of the watercraft in the water.

In the in Fig. 1 shown state, such a buoyancy is generated by means of the buoyancy body 140 that a lower edge 1b of the watercraft hull 1a is located entirely above the smooth water level W _G , in particular above the water surface W. As a result, the water resistance of the watercraft can be reduced and / or the draft can be reduced, for example in order to overcome shallows. Furthermore, the buoyancy body can be controlled, in particular regulated, in such a way that an adaptation of the height level to another watercraft (not shown) or another object arranged statically in or on the water can thereby be achieved, for example in order to translate goods and / or To facilitate people.

Fig. 2 shows further embodiments of a drive device 100 'according to the invention; 100 "and 100"'. The above statements with regard to the design and the mode of operation apply in the same way to the embodiments 100 ', 100 "and 100'", unless the following statements result in something different.

In the Fig. 2 The illustrated embodiments of the drive device 100 ', 100 "and 100'" differ from the embodiment of FIG Fig. 1 only with regard to the fluidic design of the housing and / or the channels. In this way, the properties of the drive device according to the invention can be adapted to the respective requirements. For example, as in the embodiment of the drive device 100 ′, the housing can be designed with an enlarged volume in order to preferably provide a larger volume for the buoyancy body (s) and thus to provide greater scope for action when modifying the position of the watercraft in the water. The embodiment 100 '", on the other hand, has a rather small-sized housing 110, so that here the modification possibilities are either limited or in the case of an embodiment without a buoyancy body are completely eliminated.

The geometric shape of the drive device can therefore be adapted to the needs of a watercraft almost as desired, in order to also take into account "form follow function" aspects in the design of the watercraft and / or the drive device. The shape of the drive device z. B. by different tasks in relation to driving resistance, dynamic positioning, cheap manufacturing, low location or a favorable ratio of mass to displacement.

Exact shaping depends on the task of the watercraft use and is only limited to a very small extent by the technical specifications of the drive. The shape of the at least partially closed channel and the outer geometry of the housing are chosen, taking into account further criteria, for example, so that an advantageous ratio of flow resistance and degree of feed quality can be achieved.

Fig. 3 shows a watercraft 1, having a watercraft hull 1a and three trimming devices 10 'with additional feed function according to an embodiment of the present invention. The trimming devices 10 ′ have: a housing 110, a feed device 120, a buoyancy body 140 and a connecting device 150 Fig. 3 The buoyancy bodies 140 arranged in the housings 110 are connected to the watercraft hull 1a of the watercraft 1 via rod-shaped connecting devices 150. The individual housings are also each provided with a feed device 120, each of which is driven by a drive device (not shown). The feed device and buoyancy body are arranged in relation to the water surface W in such a way that hydrostatic buoyancy and thrust generation take place outside the main area of influence of the waves, ie below the lowest permissible wave valley for calm sea behavior W _T. When the sea is calm, the watercraft is preferably brought into a position by the trimming devices according to the invention, so that the watercraft hull 1a has emerged completely from the water, that is to say the lower edge 1b of the watercraft hull 1a is arranged above the height of the highest permissible wave crest for calm sea behavior W _H. The horizontally aligned plane in the plane of the still water level corresponds to the plane spanned by the X and Y axes in the Cartesian coordinate system shown.

In order to also ensure the requirements of safe transport, according to a preferred embodiment, the center of gravity of the entire watercraft 1 in relation to the metacenter M is to be chosen so low that a stable swimming position is ensured even when the sea is conceivable during transport. Above the ship's hull 1a there may be deck structures as well as the people and / or materials to be transported. Furthermore, there may also be possible superstructures and technical supply systems.

The trimming devices 10 'can each be rotated about an axis A. In addition, one or more of the trimming devices 10 'can be provided, in particular set up, for being pivoted about a further axis, in particular an axis perpendicular to the axis of rotation A. This makes it possible to actively control the provided buoyancy of the trimming device in a further way. Trimming devices 10 without a feed function can also be provided, in particular set up, to be rotated around a vertical axis A, in particular to adjust the flow resistance, for example, during a turn.

The connecting devices 150 of the trimming devices 10 'can either have elements which can be moved telescopically one behind the other and / or have means which are intended, in particular, for guiding the connecting device 150 through the hull 1a of the watercraft 1, in particular such that these protrude at least partially over a deck of the watercraft 1. The above applies equally to the embodiments of the trimming device 10 or 10 ″ described below.

Fig. 4 shows the watercraft 1 with a combination of trimming devices 10 'with a feed function, which already refer to FIG Fig. 3 and trimming devices 10 without a feed function according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

As in Fig. 4 shown, various embodiments of trimming devices according to the invention can also be arranged on one and the same watercraft. It is explicitly pointed out that hull gondolas which are not according to the invention can also be arranged below a watercraft according to the invention, in particular in order to provide a feed, with at least essentially no contribution, in particular no controllable contribution to the buoyancy. After running the Fig. 4 provide the two trimming devices 10 'with an additional feed function in addition to a buoyancy force the feed required for the watercraft 1. At the corners of the watercraft hull 1a, for example a platform, trimming devices 10 are provided without such a feed function. These consequently serve to stabilize the watercraft 1 in the water and / or to balance it.

Fig. 5 shows a schematic view of a further embodiment of a trimming device 10 "according to the invention with internal feed device 120. In contrast to the embodiment of the trimming device 10 ', the trimming device 10" has a channel 130 in which the feed device 120 is at least partially arranged. The trimming device 10 ″ can be rotated or pivoted relative to the watercraft 1 about an axis of rotation A. The feed device 120 is driven by a drive device (not shown). The drive device can either be arranged inside the channel 130 in front of or behind the feed device 120 or but can be arranged within the housing 110, the drive device being mechanically connected to the feed device 120 in one embodiment, in particular via a shaft, a gearbox or the like.

A flow S is generated by the drive device 120, whereby water is sucked in at the upstream end of the housing 110 and expelled at the downstream end of the housing 110. In this way, a mechanical feed is generated, which is transmitted to the watercraft 1 via the connecting device 150, whereby the watercraft 1 is set in motion. <b> List of reference symbols </b> 1 Watercraft 1a Watercraft hull 1b Lower edge of the hull 1a 10th Trimmer 10 ' Trimming device with additional feed function 10 " Trimming device with additional feed function 100 Drive device 100 ' Drive device 100 " Drive device 100 '" Drive device 110 casing 120 Feed device 130 channel 140 Buoyancy body 150 Connecting device A Axis of rotation B Focus of buoyancy G Center of gravity M Metacenter O _G Upper edge of housing 110 O _V Upper edge of the feed device 120 S Flow direction W Water surface W _G Smooth water level W _H highest permissible wave crest for calm sea behavior W _T deepest permissible wave trough for calm sea behavior X Direction of the X axis Y Direction of the Y axis Z Direction of the Z axis

Claims (14)

1. A drive apparatus (100, 100', 100", 100'") for a watercraft (1) comprising:

   (a) a housing (110) having an upstream and a downstream end, wherein the housing (110) is configured to be arranged outboard of a watercraft hull (1a) of the watercraft (1);

   (b) at least one advancing device (120) which is arranged at least partly, in particular completely, below the water surface (W); and

   (c) at least one drive device which applies a torque to the advancing device (120),
   wherein the housing (110) has at least one opening in both the upstream and the downstream end respectively connected together by a channel (130) at least partially closed in the cross section perpendicular to the flow direction (S) and through which a volumetric flow of water can enter or exit respectively, wherein
   the advancing device (120) is arranged at least partly, in particular completely, within the channel (130),
   the housing (110) is configured to accommodate electrical and/or electronic components and protect them against the ingress of liquids and to keep the volumetric flow of water from ingressing into other areas of the housing,
   characterized in that
   the drive apparatus (100, 100', 100", 100'") within the housing (110) further comprises at least one buoyancy body (140), wherein at least one of the buoyancy bodies (140) can be controlled, in particular regulated, with respect to the buoyant force it provides.
2. The drive apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the housing (110) is distanced from the watercraft hull (1a) and wherein the drive apparatus (100, 100', 100", 100'") further comprises a connecting device (150) which provides a mechanical connection between the housing (110) and the watercraft hull (1a).
3. The drive apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the housing (110) is movable relative to the watercraft (1), in particular pivotable about a vertical axis (A) and/or at least one other axis.
4. The drive apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the channel (130) is designed as a tubular tunnel having a closed cross section perpendicular to the direction of flow (S) and/or the advancing device (120) is completely enclosed by the housing (110) in a plane perpendicular to the direction of flow (S).
5. The drive apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the buoyancy bodies (140) can be controlled, in particular regulated, with respect to the buoyant force it provides, and comprises:

   (a) a valve device having at least one closed position and one open position which is configured to control, in particular regulate, an inflow of fluid and/or an inflow of gas into the buoyancy body (140); and/or

   (b) a discharge device, in particular comprising a pump device and/or a blowing device, which is configured to control, in particular regulate, fluid outflow from the buoyancy body (140).
6. A watercraft (1) comprising at least one drive apparatus (100, 100', 100", 100'") according to one of claims 1 to 5.
7. A trimming apparatus (10, 10', 10") for a watercraft (1) comprising:

   (a) a housing (110) having an upstream and a downstream end, wherein the housing (110) is configured to be arranged outboard of, in particular at least substantially beneath, the watercraft (1);

   (b) at least one buoyancy body (140) which is at least partly arranged within the housing (110) and provides a controllable buoyant force;

   (c) at least one connecting device (150) which is configured to at least mechanically connect the housing (110) distanced from a watercraft hull (1a) of the watercraft (1) to same; and

   (d) a control device which is configured to control the position of the watercraft (1) relative to the water surface (W),
   wherein the housing (110) is movable relative to the watercraft (1), in particular pivotable about a vertical axis (A) and/or at least one other axis, and the control device is configured to control, in particular regulate, the buoyant force provided by the buoyancy body (140),
   characterized in that
   the control device is configured to control, in particular regulate, a distance between the watercraft hull (1a) and the housing (110) provided by the connecting device (150).
8. The trimming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the at least one buoyancy body (140) comprises:

   (a) a valve device having at least one closed position and one open position which is configured to control, in particular regulate, an inflow of gas and/or fluid into the buoyancy body (140); and/or

   (b) a discharge device, in particular comprising a pump device and/or a blowing device, which is configured to control, in particular regulate, a gas and/or fluid outflow from the buoyancy body (140).
9. The trimming apparatus according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the connecting device (150) comprises:

   (a) at least two elements which are telescopically displaceable into each other; and/or

   (b) means which are configured to guide the connecting device (150) at least partly through an outer shell of the watercraft hull (1a) and at least partially travel into the watercraft hull (1a).
10. The trimming apparatus according to one of claims 7 to 9, further comprising:

    (a) at least one advancing device (120), which is arranged at least partly, in particular completely, below the water surface (W); and

    (b) at least one drive device which is designed to apply a torque to the advancing device (120).
11. The trimming apparatus according to claim 10, wherein
    the housing (110) has at least one opening in both the upstream and the downstream end respectively connected together by a channel (130) at least partially closed in the cross section perpendicular to the flow direction (S); and wherein
    the advancing device (120) is arranged at least partly, in particular completely, within the channel (130).
12. The trimming apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the channel (130) is configured as a tubular tunnel having a closed cross section perpendicular to the direction of flow (S) and/or the advancing device (120) is completely enclosed by the housing (110) in a plane perpendicular to the direction of flow (S).
13. A watercraft (1) comprising at least one trimming apparatus (10, 10', 10") according to one of clams 7 to 12.
14. A position changing device for a watercraft comprising:

    a drive apparatus (100, 100', 100", 100'") according to one of clams 1 to 5; and

    a trimming apparatus (10, 10', 10") according to one of clams 7 to 12.

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