JP2023159890A - Vessel lateral propulsion unit - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a vessel lateral propulsion unit capable of reducing eddy resistance and friction generated during sailing and facilitating access during maintenance.SOLUTION: A lateral propulsion unit 1 is defined in a hull 4 of a vessel 2 and configured to include a steering propeller in a steering tunnel 3. The steering tunnel has a boundary defined by a tunnel wall extending between a first tunnel entrance 7 and a second tunnel entrance, and has a support structure 10 that includes a counter joint 27. The support structure is separably connected to a joint 9 by the counter joint. The lateral propulsion unit 1 further comprises at least two closing doors 12 formed to close the entire tunnel entrances. The support structure includes hinges 11. The closing doors 12 are rotatably fixed only to the hinges of the support structure. When the counter joint of the support structure is separated from the joint, the closing doors are separated together with the support structure from the steering tunnel, thus enabling access to the steering tunnel.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 17

Description

The present invention relates to a lateral propulsion device for ships.

As is known, maneuvering a ship is complex, especially large ships, which are steered using a main propulsion system and a rudder when docking or leaving the berth.

In fact, in tight spaces or at low speeds, using the rudder is neither easy nor effective. This is because the rudder is airfoil-shaped, so it is necessary to flow water at a predetermined speed in order to generate lift. Additionally, the main propulsion system and rudder are located at the stern, leaving the bow section virtually uncontrolled during berthing and unberthing maneuvers.

It is therefore known to equip ships with at least one transverse propulsion device, also known as a steering propeller. The transverse propulsion device includes an impeller arranged with its axis of rotation perpendicular to the ship's plane of symmetry.

Said lateral propulsion device is built into a tunnel defined in the hull of the ship (which traverses the ship from side to side, whether at the bow or stern).

In order to protect the transverse propulsion device from possible collisions and damage, it is known to install a grill or a swing door at the entrance of the tunnel in which the transverse propulsion device is accommodated.

Compared to a grid, the swing door can be closed during cruising and when the lateral propulsion device is not in use, minimizing turbulence phenomena generated from the tunnel opening, and It has the advantage that it can be covered and protected in an optimal manner and can be opened when the use of the lateral propulsion device is required.

Solutions are known in which the door is installed on several through hinges connected to the tunnel entrance. Examples of these solutions are described in CN205819525, CN105329405, CN102381439, CN109094715, CN205327529, WO2019/220152, and GB782628. These known solutions show a structure that must be accommodated in a suitable opening made as a recess at the entrance of the tunnel and, as clearly explained, is welded to the hull. These known solutions require the entrance of the maneuvering tunnel to be designed with square and sharp edges, precisely because the frame surrounding and supporting said door has to be welded to the hull, thereby making it difficult to enter and exit the tunnel. Vortices and turbulence occur in the fluid flow, causing high energy losses.

The presence of the door at the tunnel entrance makes maintenance of the lateral propulsion device slow and laborious. This is because the door prevents maintenance personnel from quickly reaching into the tunnel so that they can intervene on the lateral propulsion device.

A further disadvantage of the known lateral propulsion device is that, in the closed configuration, the door creates friction and vortex drag during cruise due to discontinuities in the hull profile at the door.

A further disadvantage of the known transverse propulsion device is that the door, in the open configuration, generates turbulence when the impeller is in use, which affects the operating state of the impeller itself. It is.

The object of the invention is to provide a lateral propulsion device which overcomes at least some of the disadvantages of the background art mentioned above.

A particular object of the invention is to provide a lateral propulsion device that facilitates maintenance operations by facilitating access to the lateral propulsion device by maintenance personnel.

A more particular object of the invention is to provide a lateral propulsion device that reduces vortex drag and friction generated during cruise.

A further particular object of the invention is to provide a transverse propulsion device which reduces the occurrence of turbulence, maintains laminar flow and avoids boundary layer separation and vortex phenomena during use of the transverse propulsion device. It is in.

These and other objects are achieved by a transverse propulsion device for a ship according to claim 1.

The dependent claims relate to preferred and advantageous embodiments of the invention.

In order to better understand the invention and appreciate its advantages, some non-limiting exemplary embodiments thereof are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawing,

1 is a detailed view of a ship installed with a lateral propulsion device according to an embodiment of the invention; FIG.

1 is a further detail view of a ship installed with a transverse propulsion device according to an embodiment of the invention; FIG.

1 is a front view of a lateral propulsion device according to an embodiment of the invention. FIG.

1 is a perspective view of a lateral propulsion device according to an embodiment of the invention; FIG.

1 is a perspective view of a lateral propulsion device in an open configuration, according to an embodiment of the invention; FIG.

Figure 6 is a front view of the lateral propulsion device shown in Figure 5 in an open configuration;

3 is a further perspective view of a lateral propulsion device according to an embodiment of the invention; FIG.

3 is a further perspective view of a lateral propulsion device according to an embodiment of the invention; FIG.

1 is a side view of a lateral propulsion device according to an embodiment of the invention; FIG.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a cross section of a lateral propulsion device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

1 is a diagram illustrating details of a lateral propulsion device according to an embodiment of the invention; FIG.

1 is a diagram illustrating details of a lateral propulsion device according to an embodiment of the invention; FIG.

1 is a detailed view of a lateral propulsion device according to an embodiment of the invention; FIG.

3 is a further detail view of a lateral propulsion device according to an embodiment of the invention; FIG.

3 is a further detail view of a lateral propulsion device according to an embodiment of the invention; FIG.

1 is a diagram illustrating parts of a lateral propulsion device according to an embodiment of the invention; FIG.

1 is a partially exploded view of a lateral propulsion device according to an embodiment of the invention; FIG.

2 is a perspective view of a lateral propulsion device associated with a disassembly tool during a first step of disassembly, according to an embodiment of the invention; FIG.

FIG. 6 is a further perspective view of a lateral propulsion device associated with a disassembly tool during a second step of disassembly, according to an embodiment of the invention;

1 is a perspective view of a disassembly tool according to an embodiment of the invention; FIG.

1 shows a local cross-section of a hull with a transverse propulsion device; FIG. The figure depicts the closing door of the maneuvering tunnel open and the maneuvering propulsion activated, highlighting the fluid flow entering the maneuvering tunnel and exiting from the other side, thanks to the proposed device. The resulting laminar flow and the rounded connection shape between the inner surface of the tunnel and the outer surface of the hull are highlighted.

FIG. 4 is an axonometric view with separate parts of another embodiment of the invention, in which the actuator of the closing door is arranged on a support, there is no passage into the hull, and the overall dimensions of the solution are limited; .

23 is a local cross-sectional view of the hull of FIG. 22; FIG. This figure depicts the closed door of the maneuvering tunnel open, highlighting the rounded shape of the connection between the inner surface of the tunnel and the outer surface of the hull.

24 is an axonometric cross-sectional view of the control tunnel of FIG. 23; FIG. In this figure, a central pair of counter-swivel doors are highlighted, facing each other in an open position and forming a hydrodynamic shape.

Referring to these figures, the lateral propulsion device is designated by the reference numeral 1.

The transverse propulsion device 1 of the ship 2 comprises a steering tunnel 3 defined in the hull 4 of the ship 2 and configured to include at least one steering propeller 5 .

The maneuvering tunnel 3 is delimited by a tunnel wall 6 extending between a first tunnel entrance 7 and an opposite second tunnel entrance 8.

The lateral propulsion device 1 further comprises at least one joint 9 extending from the tunnel wall 6 at at least one tunnel entrance 7 , 8 .

Furthermore, the transverse propulsion device 1 comprises at least one support structure 10 that includes at least one counterjoint 27 .

The support structure 10 is connected in a detachable manner to the at least one joint 9 with its at least one counterjoint 27 .

The transverse propulsion device 1 further comprises at least two closing doors 12 configured to collectively close the at least one tunnel entrance 7, 8 when in the closed position.

According to one aspect of the invention, at least one support structure 10 is configured to include hinge(s) 11 .

Furthermore, the at least two closing doors 12 are rotatably hinged only to hinges 11 of the support structure 10, such that at least one counter-joint 27 of the support structure 10 is separated from the at least one joint 9. Once done, the closing door 12 together with the support structure 10 is separated from the maneuvering tunnel 3, allowing access to the maneuvering tunnel 3.

Advantageously, a transverse propulsion device 1 configured in this way facilitates maintenance operations by facilitating access to the transverse propulsion device by maintenance personnel.

According to one embodiment, the maneuvering tunnel 3 includes a tunnel wall 6. The tunnel wall 6 forms a connecting wall 16 at the tunnel entrances 7,8. The connecting wall 16 is connected to an outer wall 17 of the hull 2.

Thanks to the connecting wall 16, any discontinuities or edges between the tunnel wall 6 and the hull outer wall 17 are avoided so that the fluid entering or exiting the maneuvering tunnel 3 moves quickly and with no or minimal eddies. This greatly reduces the forward movement resistance of the ship.

at least one joint 9 fixed to the tunnel wall 6, at least one counter-joint 27 of the removable support structure 10, which is also removable, and so as to be separable together with the support structure 10 from the maneuvering tunnel 3; Providing a closing door 12 operably connected to the support structure 10 without thereby changing the shape of the connecting wall 16 makes it possible to obtain maximum fluid dynamics of the transverse propulsion device 1. Therefore, it is possible to use this solution in existing maneuvering tunnels 3 that are optimized for hydrodynamic efficiency and are not initially equipped with closing doors 12 (retrofitting older solutions without closing doors 12). ).

(Connecting the support structure 10 to the coupling means 9)

According to one embodiment, the shape of the at least one counterjoint 27 is complementary to the shape of the at least one joint 9 such that it is geometrically combinable with the at least one joint 9.

Furthermore, at least one counter-joint 27 and at least one joint 9 are shaped such that when they are geometrically coupled they define a hydrodynamic shape.

Advantageously, the hydrodynamic geometry reduces the occurrence of turbulence and maintains laminar flow during use of the transverse propulsion device 1.

According to one embodiment, at least one counter-joint 27 can be releasably connected to at least one joint 9 via a threaded connection.

According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one counter-joint 27 and the at least one geometrically coupled joint 9 are locked together by a threaded connection, preferably by a plurality of captive screws 28 .

According to one embodiment, the lateral propulsion device 1 comprises at least one pair of joints 9 arranged opposite each other with respect to the tunnel entrances 7, 8.

According to one embodiment, the support structure 10 includes at least one beam 21 extending between two beam ends.

Each beam end is configured to create a counter joint 27.

According to this embodiment, the hinge(s) 11 are connected to at least one beam 21 so that each of the hinges 11 lies in a plane transverse to the ship (i.e. in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis of the ship). A door rotation axis 14 is defined within the door.

According to one embodiment, the support structure 10 includes at least two beams 21 that are substantially parallel to each other.

According to this embodiment, the hinges 11 arranged on one beam 21 are directed towards the hinges 11 arranged on at least one second beam 21 to form a plurality of pairs of hinges 11. It is directed towards. Each pair of hinges 11 defines a door rotation axis 14 that lies in a plane across the ship.

According to one embodiment, at least one beam 21 is airfoil-shaped or hydrodynamically shaped.

According to one embodiment, the support structure 10 includes at least one upright body 22 extending between two upright body ends. Their upright ends are connected with two opposing joints 9.

Furthermore, at least one upright body 22 is connected to at least one beam 21 and is arranged transversely to the at least one beam 21 .

According to one embodiment, the upright body ends are connected to the joint 9 by a threaded connection, preferably by a plurality of captive screws.

According to one embodiment, each upright end is configured to create a counter-joint 27 that is separable from said joint 9.

According to one embodiment, at least one upright body 22 is airfoil-shaped or hydrodynamically shaped.

According to one embodiment, the support structure 10 includes at least two upright bodies 22 substantially parallel to each other and connected to at least one beam 21 .

According to a preferred embodiment, the support structure 10 comprises two beams 21 each connected with two upright bodies 22, thereby creating a frame that is, for example, square, but not necessarily square. You don't have to.

(Connecting the closing door 12 to the hinge 11)

The closing door 12 defines an outer door surface 29 and an opposite inner door surface 30.

In the closed configuration, the outer door surface 29 faces outwardly from the maneuvering tunnel 3 and the inner door surface 30 faces inwardly from the maneuvering tunnel 3.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the closing door 12 is rotatably hinged to the hinge 11 such that the door outer surface 29 is flush with the hull outer surface 17 of the ship 2 in the closed configuration.

Advantageously, such an arrangement of the closing door 12 reduces the vortex resistance and the formation of vortices and, thanks to the closing door 12, the main part of the additional resistance provided by the water flow impinging on the inner surface of the tunnel acts as a brake. avoid possible causes.

According to one embodiment, each closure door 12 forms at least one pair of opposing protruding shaped eyelets 33 that carry the hinge 11 in alignment with the hinge 11 . This is to insert the door rotation pin 34 to rotatably connect the eyelet 33 to the hinge 11.

According to this embodiment, the closing door 12 is connected to the support structure 10 in such a way that when opened it lies in a plane transverse to the ship.

According to one embodiment, the pair of opposing eyelets 33 include a through eyelet 36 and a threaded eyelet 37.

Door rotation pin 34 is configured to be inserted through through eyelet 36 and hinge 11 and screwed into threaded eyelet 37 .

According to one embodiment, the door rotation pin 34, which is screwed into the threaded eyelet 37, projects beyond the through eyelet 36.

According to this embodiment, the nut 20 is screwed onto the protruding portion of the door rotation pin 34 so as to tighten the hinge connection of the closing door 12 to at least one hinge 11.

According to one embodiment, opposing eyelets 33 are formed in the niche 35 of the closure door 12.

According to one embodiment, each closing door 12 includes a closing wall 31 and a door frame 32 that are connected to each other.

According to this embodiment, the eyelet 33 is formed in the door frame 32.

According to one embodiment, the end wall 31 is shaped to geometrically interlock with the eyelet 33 of the door frame 32.

According to one embodiment, the first set of closing doors 12, for example having five closing doors 12, when partially open and when the ship 2 is moving forward, is It is hinged to the support structure 10 such that the generated fluid flow tends to further close said first set of closing doors 12.

Additionally, a second set of closing doors 12, such as those having a single closing door 12, when partially open and when the ship 2 is moving forward, allows the fluid generated by the movement of the ship 2 to It is hinged to the support structure 10 such that the flow tends to open said second set of closing doors 12.

According to one embodiment, the set of five doors in total consists of four doors that tend to close when the ship is moving forward and only one door that tends to open when there is forward movement. Considering that the doors are either all closed or all open, the set with more exposed hydrodynamic surface area will predominate, and the system will tend to close spontaneously when the ship is moving forward. There is.

According to one embodiment, the closure doors 12 are airfoil-shaped or hydrodynamic when the closure doors 12 are in the open or partially open position. It is shaped.

Thus, when the transverse propulsion device 1 is in operation, such a shaping of the closure door 12 limits the formation of turbulent movements of the fluid passing through the closure door 12.

According to a further embodiment, at least one pair of adjacent closing doors 12 includes an outer door surface 29 and an inner door surface 30.

In the closed configuration, the outer door surface 29 faces outwardly from the maneuvering tunnel 3 and the inner door surface 30 faces inwardly from the maneuvering tunnel 3.

In the open or open configuration, at least one pair of adjacent closure doors 12 rotate in opposite directions with respect to each closure door 12 . That is, the respective doors rotate in a counter-rotation manner in which the outer surfaces 29 of the doors face each other and the inner surfaces 30 of the doors face oppositely to each other. Thereby together they form a hydrodynamic profile (with a set of two consecutive open doors).

(Operation of closing door 12)

According to one embodiment, the lateral propulsion device 1 comprises a door control mechanism 24 configured to move the closing door 12 from a closed position to an open position and vice versa.

According to the invention, at least one closing door 12 forms at least one slot or eyelet 33 that is aligned with at least one hinge 11 provided on support structure 10 .

At least one hinge 11 of the support structure 10 is a rotary motor 50 including a rotary motor stator 51 and a rotary motor rotor 53 .

At least one eyelet 33 of the closing door 12 is connected to a rotating motor rotor 53, so that when the rotating motor rotor 53 rotates, a rotational movement is generated in the closing door 12.

According to the invention, instead, at least one closing door 12 forms at least one eyelet 33 that is aligned with at least one hinge 11 provided on support structure 10 .

At least one eyelet 33 of the closing door 12 is a rotating motor 50 including a rotating motor stator 51 and a rotating motor rotor 53.

At least one hinge 11 includes a slot, which is connected to the rotary motor rotor 53 in such a way that rotation of the rotary motor rotor 53 causes a rotary movement in the closing door 12 .

According to one embodiment, the rotary motor 50 is a hydraulic or electric motor operably coupled to the hull by a rotary motor operational connection 53.

According to one embodiment, the rotary motor 50 is a hydraulic or electric motor operatively connected to the hull by a rotary motor operational connection 53 by a removable connector 54, for example a quick connector 55.

Thanks to the provision of a rotary motor 50 fixed to the support structure 20 or to the closing door 12, it is possible to create a completely outboard solution, free from actuation mechanisms across the hull, simplifying the construction. The overall dimensions can be reduced significantly and movable sliding parts immersed in seawater can be avoided.

According to one embodiment, an actuator, but not necessarily a linear actuator, for example a linear actuator 38 exits the hull by entering the maneuvering tunnel 3 and is operatively and separably coupled to the door control mechanism 24. .

According to one embodiment, door control mechanism 24 includes a linear actuator 38 configured to operate along a door actuation axis 26 substantially transverse to door rotation axis 14 .

According to one embodiment, the linear actuator 38 is arranged at the tunnel entrance 7 , 8 and opens in a sealed manner from the tunnel wall 6 into the interior of the maneuvering tunnel 3 .

According to one embodiment, the door control mechanism 24 includes a control console 23 coupled to a linear actuator 38 via an articulation connection.

Control console 23 is further coupled to closure door 12 such that closure door 12 moves as linear actuator 38 moves.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the articulation between control console 23 and linear actuator 38 includes a coupling pin 43 rotatably coupling control console 23 to linear actuator 38 .

According to one embodiment, the control console 23 is coupled to the closure door 12 by means of a plurality of control levers 39 that are coupled to the closure door 12 and are rotatably coupled to the control console 23 .

Preferably, only one control lever 39 is connected to each closing door 12.

According to one embodiment, the reversing control lever 41 of the plurality of control levers 39 is a motion reversing connection configured to reverse the direction of rotation of the closing door 12 coupled to the reversing control lever 41. It is connected to the rod 40.

In this manner, when the control console 23 actuates the control lever 39 to open the closing door 12 in a counterclockwise direction, the movement reversing connecting rod 40 actuates the reversing control lever 41 to open the corresponding closing door clockwise. direction and vice versa.

According to one embodiment, the movement reversing coupling rod 40 is pivoted to a control rod 42 that is stationary with respect to the control console 23 .

According to one embodiment, the control console 23 is configured to act on the door frame 32 of each closing door 12.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the lateral propulsion device 1 comprises two control mechanisms 24 arranged oppositely to each other with respect to the tunnel entrances 7, 8.

Advantageously, one of the two control mechanisms 24 is redundant with respect to the other control mechanism 24, so that it can be replaced in case of malfunction of the first control mechanism 24. .

According to one embodiment, the linear actuators 38 of each of the two control mechanisms 24 act along the same door actuation axis 26 such that advancement of one of the linear actuators 38 causes retraction of the other linear actuator 38. It is now compatible.

According to one embodiment, the first set of closing doors 12 is connected to the control console 23 of one of the two control mechanisms 24, and the second set of closing doors 12 is connected to the control console 23 of one of the two control mechanisms 24. It is connected to a control console 23.

Furthermore, the control consoles 23 of the two control mechanisms 24 are rotatably coupled to each other.

According to one embodiment, both control mechanisms 24 include a reversal control lever 41 connected to the same movement reversal connecting rod 40 .

Advantageously, the two control mechanisms 24 configured in this way cooperate in the actuation of the closing door 12 during normal operation of both, while in case of a failure of one of the two control mechanisms 24 the other is configured to move all the closing doors 12 independently.

(Disassembly tool 44)

According to a further aspect of the invention, an assembly kit 45 for a lateral propulsion device 1 comprises the lateral propulsion device 1 described above and a disassembly tool 44 .

According to one embodiment, the disassembly tool 44 includes two hollow base rails 46 configured to be forked, for example by a forklift vehicle.

Furthermore, the disassembly tool 44 has at least one support column intersecting with respect to the base rail 46 and configured to support the at least one counterjoint 27 of the transverse propulsion device 1 disengaged from the hull 4 of the ship 2. Contains 47.

According to a preferred embodiment, the disassembly tool 44 comprises two support columns 47 configured to support the beam ends of at least one beam 21 of the transverse propulsion device 1 detached from the hull 4 of the ship 2. There is.

According to one embodiment, the disassembly tool 47 includes a polygonal structure 48 that connects the support column 47 to the base rail 46.

At the connection between the polygonal structure 48 and the base rail 46 there is a stop element 49 for preventing the lateral propulsion device 1 from disengaging from the hull 4 of the ship 2 and associated with the disassembly tool 44. It is formed.

(Maintenance method of lateral propulsion device 1)

According to a further aspect of the invention, a method for maintaining a transverse propulsion device 1 of a hull 4 of a ship 2 includes the following steps.

- separating at least one counter coupling 27 of the transverse propulsion device 1 from at least one coupling 9 of the hull 4 of the ship 2;

- removing the support structure 10 together with the closing door 12 from the hull 4 of the ship 2;

- Access control tunnel 3, perform maintenance intervention,

- reconnecting at least one counter coupling 27 of the transverse propulsion device 1 to at least one coupling 9 of the hull 4 of the ship 2;

According to a further aspect of the invention, a method for maintaining a transverse propulsion device 1 of a hull 4 of a ship 2 includes the following steps.

- associating the disassembly tool 44 with the lateral propulsion device 1;

- separating at least one counter coupling 27 of the transverse propulsion device 1 from at least one coupling 9 of the hull 4 of the ship 2;

- supporting the support structure 10 by a disassembly tool 44;

- separating the support structure 10 together with the closing door 12 from the hull 4 of the ship 2 by means of a disassembly tool 44;

- Access control tunnel 3, perform maintenance intervention,

- repositioning the support structure 10 in the maneuvering tunnel 3 by means of a disassembly tool 44;

- reconnecting at least one counter coupling 27 of the transverse propulsion device 1 to at least one coupling 9 of the hull 4 of the ship 2;

According to a further aspect of the invention, a method for maintaining a transverse propulsion device 1 of a hull 4 of a ship 2 includes the following steps.

- separating at least one actuator 38 from the door control mechanism 24 of the lateral propulsion device 1;

- separating at least one counter coupling 27 of the transverse propulsion device 1 from at least one coupling 9 of the hull 4 of the ship 2;

- removing the support structure 10 together with the closing door 12 from the hull 4 of the hull 2;

- Access control tunnel 3, perform maintenance intervention,

- reconnecting at least one counter coupling 27 of the transverse propulsion device 1 to at least one coupling 9 of the hull 4 of the ship 2;

- reconnecting at least one actuator 38 to the door control mechanism 24 of the lateral propulsion device 1;

According to a further embodiment, a method for maintaining a transverse propulsion device 1 of a hull 4 of a ship 2 comprises the following steps.

- associating the disassembly tool 44 with the support structure 10 of the lateral propulsion device 1;

- separating at least one actuator 38 from the door control mechanism 24 of the lateral propulsion device 1;

- separating at least one counter coupling 27 of the transverse propulsion device 1 from at least one coupling 9 of the hull 4 of the ship 2;

- supporting the support structure 10 together with the closing door 12 and the door control mechanism 24 by a disassembly tool 44;

- separating the support structure 10 together with the closing door 12 and the door control mechanism 24 from the hull 4 of the ship 2 by means of a disassembly tool 44;

- Access control tunnel 3, perform maintenance intervention,

- repositioning the support structure 10 together with the closing door 12 and the door control mechanism 24 in the maneuvering tunnel 3 by means of a disassembly tool 44;

- reconnecting at least one counter coupling 27 of the transverse propulsion device 1 to at least one coupling 9 of the hull 4 of the ship 2;

- reconnecting at least one actuator 38 to the door control mechanism 24 of the lateral propulsion device 1;

(Ship 2)

According to a further aspect of the invention, the ship 2 is equipped with at least one transverse propulsion device 1 as described above.

According to one embodiment, the ship 2 is equipped with a plurality of transverse propulsion devices 1 .

According to a preferred embodiment, the ship 2 is equipped with three transverse propulsion devices 1.

According to one embodiment, the ship 2 is equipped with at least one transverse propulsion device 1 arranged in the bow region of the ship 2.

According to one embodiment, the ship 2 is equipped with at least one transverse propulsion device 1 arranged in the stern region of the ship 2.

Preferably, the ship 2 comprises at least two transverse propulsion devices 1, one of which is arranged in the bow region of the ship 2 and the other in the stern region of the ship 2.

(Further features of the lateral propulsion device 1)

According to an embodiment of the invention, the maneuvering tunnel 3 drains into the sides 13 of the hull 4 on both sides.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the propulsion device 1 includes a steering propeller 5 of a steering thruster 15 rotatably supported on a tunnel wall 6 .

According to a preferred embodiment, the steering propeller 5 is of the variable-wing type.

Advantageously, the variable-wing type steering propeller 5 is operable to selectively pulse the ship 2 in the direction of each tunnel entrance 7,8.

According to one embodiment, the tunnel wall 6 is cylindrical.

Advantageously, said cylindrical shape maintains laminar flow within the maneuvering tunnel 3 and prevents the formation of turbulent motions.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the tunnel wall 6 forms a connecting wall 16 that is connected to the outer wall 17 of the hull 2 at the tunnel entrances 7,8. Thanks to the connecting wall 16, the inner surface of the tunnel, or the tunnel wall 6, is connected with surface continuity and thus without edges (in other words by R) to the outer wall 17 of the hull. Providing at least one joint 9 extending from the tunnel wall 6 at at least one tunnel entrance 7 , 8 makes it possible not to change this surface continuity between the tunnel wall 6 and the outer wall 17 of the hull 2 . Furthermore, the integrity of the connecting wall 16 connected to the outer wall 17 of the hull 2 is ensured, and the at least one support structure 10 is connected in a separable manner to at least one counter-joint 27 (said at least one joint 9). ), the inflow or outflow of fluid into the maneuvering tunnel 3 can be hydrodynamically optimized.

Naturally, those skilled in the art will be able to make modifications or adaptations to the invention without departing from the scope of the claims below.

1 Lateral propulsion device 2 Ship 3 Control tunnel 4 Hull 5 Control propeller 6 Tunnel wall 7 First tunnel entrance 8 Second tunnel entrance 9 Joint means 10 Support structure 11 Hinge 12 Closing door 13 Side 14 Door rotation axis 15 Control Thruster 16 Connecting wall 17 Hull outer surface 18 -
19 -
20 Nut 21 Beam 22 Upright body 23 Connection bracket 24 Door control mechanism 25 Actuator, e.g. linear actuator 26 Door operating shaft 27 Counter coupling means 28 Restriction screw 29 Door outer surface 30 Door inner surface 31 Closing wall 32 Door frame 33 Eyelet 34 Door rotation pin 35 Niche 36 Through eyelet 37 Threaded eyelet 38 Linear actuator 39 Control lever 40 Connecting rod for reversing motion 41 Control lever for reversing 42 Control rod 43 Connecting pin 44 Disassembly tool 45 Assembly kit 46 Base rail 47 Support column 48 Polygonal structure 49 Stop Elements 50 rotary motor 51 rotary motor stator 52 rotary motor rotor 53 operating connection of the rotary motor 54 removable connector

Claims (39)

A lateral propulsion device (1) for a ship (2),
a steering tunnel (3) defined within the hull (4) of said ship (2) and configured to include at least one steering propeller (5);
Said maneuvering tunnel (3) is bounded by a tunnel wall (6) extending between a first tunnel entrance (7) and an opposite second tunnel entrance (8);
Said lateral propulsion device (1) further comprises at least two closing doors (12) configured to collectively close said at least one tunnel entrance (7, 8) when in the closed position. , in the lateral propulsion device (1),
at least one fitting (9) extending from said tunnel wall (6) at said at least one tunnel entrance (7, 8);
at least one support structure (10) including at least one counterfitting (27);
said support structure (10) is releasably connected to said at least one joint 9 with its at least one counterjoint (27);
The at least one support structure (10) includes a hinge (11);
Said at least two closing doors (12) are rotatably supported only on said hinge (11) of said support structure (10), whereby said at least one counter-joint (12) of said support structure (10) 27) from said at least one joint (9), said closing door (12), together with said support structure (10), separates from said maneuvering tunnel (3), thereby causing said maneuvering tunnel to allowing access to said control tunnel (3) even when immersed;
Alternatively,
The lateral propulsion device (1) comprises a door control mechanism (24) configured to move the closing door (12) from a closed position to an open position or vice versa;
at least one closure door (12) forming at least one slot or eyelet (33) aligned with at least one hinge (11) provided on said support structure (10);
at least one hinge (11) is a rotating motor (50) including a rotating motor stator (51) and a rotating motor rotor (53);
the at least one eyelet (33) of the closing door (12) is connected to the rotating motor rotor (53);
or
The lateral propulsion device (1) comprises a door control mechanism (24) configured to move the closing door (12) from a closed position to an open position or vice versa;
at least one closure door (12) forming at least one eyelet (33) aligned with at least one hinge (11) provided on said support structure (10);
the at least one eyelet (33) of the closing door (12) is a rotating motor (50) including a rotating motor stator (51) and a rotating motor rotor (53);
Lateral propulsion device, characterized in that said at least one hinge (11) comprises a slot, said slot being connected to said rotating motor rotor (53). The lateral propulsion device (1) according to claim 1,
The control tunnel (3) includes a tunnel wall (6),
The tunnel wall (6) forms a connecting wall (16) at the tunnel entrance (7, 8),
A lateral propulsion device characterized in that the connecting wall (16) is connected to an outer wall (17) of the hull (2). The lateral propulsion device (1) according to claim 1 or 2,
a door control mechanism (24) is operably coupled to the at least two closure doors (12);
Said at least two closing doors (12) are rotatably supported only on said hinge (11) of said support structure (10), whereby said at least one counter of said support structure (10) When the coupling (27) is separated from the at least one coupling (9), the closing door (12), together with the support structure (10) and the door control mechanism (24), is removed from the maneuvering tunnel (3). A lateral propulsion device characterized in that by separating it, it becomes possible to access the control tunnel (3). A lateral propulsion device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising:
The at least one counter-joint (27) has a shape that is complementary to the shape of the at least one joint (9), such that it is geometrically combinable with the at least one joint (9). ,
Said at least one counter-joint (27) and said at least one joint (9) are hydrodynamic when said at least one counter-joint (27) and said at least one joint (9) are geometrically coupled. A lateral propulsion device characterized in that it is shaped to define a target shape. A lateral propulsion device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising:
Transverse propulsion device, characterized in that said at least one counter-joint (27) and said at least one joint (9) which are geometrically coupled are locked together by a captive screw (28). A lateral propulsion device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising:
The lateral propulsion device (1) comprises at least one pair of joints (9) arranged on opposite sides with respect to the tunnel entrance (7, 8),
Said support structure (10) comprises at least one cross member (21) extending between two beam ends;
each beam end is configured to provide a counterjoint (27);
Said hinges (11) are connected to said at least one beam (21), such that each of said hinges (11) has a door rotation axis (14) lying in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis of said ship. A lateral propulsion device characterized in that: The lateral propulsion device (1) according to claim 6,
Said support structure (10) comprises at least two beams (21) substantially parallel to each other;
The hinges (11) arranged on one beam (21) are oriented towards the hinges (11) arranged on said at least one second beam (21) so that the plurality of hinges (11) Transverse propulsion device, characterized in that the hinges (11) form pairs, each pair of hinges (11) defining a door rotation axis (14) lying in a plane transverse to said ship. The lateral propulsion device (1) according to claim 6 or 7,
Transverse propulsion device, characterized in that at least one beam (21) has a wing section or a hydrodynamically configured section. A lateral propulsion device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising:
The lateral propulsion device (1) comprises at least one pair of joints (9) arranged on opposite sides with respect to the tunnel entrance (7, 8),
The support structure (10) includes at least one upright body (22) extending between two upright body ends;
Lateral propulsion device, characterized in that said upright ends are connected with two opposite joints (9). A lateral propulsion device (1) according to claim 9 and one of claims 6 to 8, comprising:
Lateral propulsion device, characterized in that said at least one upright body (22) is connected to said at least one beam (21) and arranged transversely to said at least one beam (21). . The lateral propulsion device (1) according to claim 9 or 10,
A lateral propulsion device, characterized in that each upright end is configured to provide a counter-joint (27) separable from said joint (9). A lateral propulsion device (1) according to one of claims 9 to 11, comprising:
Transverse propulsion device, characterized in that said at least one upright body (22) has a wing section or a hydrodynamically configured section. A lateral propulsion device (1) according to claim 7 and one of claims 9 to 12, comprising:
Said support structure (10) comprises two beams (21) each connected to two upright bodies (22), thereby creating, for example, a square frame, but not necessarily a square frame. A lateral propulsion device characterized in that it is not necessary. A lateral propulsion device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, comprising:
The closing door (12) defines an outer door surface (29) and an opposite inner door surface (30),
In the closed configuration, the outer door surface (29) faces the outside of the maneuvering tunnel (3) and the inner door surface (30) faces the inside of the maneuvering tunnel 3;
The closing door (12) is rotatably hinged to the hinge (11) such that in the closed configuration the door outer surface (29) is flush with the hull outer surface (17) of the vessel (2). A lateral propulsion device characterized by: A lateral propulsion device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, comprising:
Each closing door (12) forms at least one pair of opposing protruding eyelets (33) that hold the hinge (11) in line with the hinge (11);
A lateral propulsion device characterized in that a door rotation pin 34 is inserted which rotatably connects the eyelet (33) to the hinge (11). A lateral propulsion device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, comprising:
A lateral propulsion device, characterized in that the closing door (12) is connected to the support structure (10) in such a way that it lies in a plane transverse to the ship when opened. The lateral propulsion device (1) according to claim 1,
Lateral propulsion device, characterized in that said rotary motor (50) is a hydraulic motor or an electric motor operatively connected to said hull by a rotary motor operational connection (53). The lateral propulsion device (1) according to claim 1,
Said rotary motor (50) is characterized in that said rotary motor (50) is a hydraulic motor or an electric motor operatively connected to said hull by a rotary motor operational connection (53) by means of a removable connector (54), for example a quick connector. Lateral propulsion device. The lateral propulsion device (1) according to claim 15,
The pair of opposing eyelets (33) include a through eyelet (36) and a threaded eyelet (37);
The door rotation pin (34) is configured to be inserted through the through eyelet (36) and the hinge (11) and screwed into the threaded eyelet (37). Lateral propulsion device. The lateral propulsion device (1) according to claim 19,
The door rotation pin (34) screwed into the threaded eyelet (37) projects beyond the through eyelet (36);
A nut (20) is threaded onto the protruding portion of the door rotation pin (34) to tighten the hinge connection of the closing door (12) to the at least one hinge (11). Lateral propulsion device. The lateral propulsion device (1) according to claim 15, 19 or 20,
A lateral propulsion device characterized in that the opposing eyelets (33) are provided within a recess (35) of the closing door (12). A lateral propulsion device (1) according to claim 15 and one of claims 19 to 21, comprising:
Each closing door (12) includes a closing wall (31) and a door frame (32) that are connected to each other,
The lateral propulsion device is characterized in that the eyelet (33) is formed in the door frame (32). The lateral propulsion device (1) according to claim 22,
A lateral propulsion device, characterized in that said closing wall (31) is shaped to geometrically connect with said eyelet (33) of said door frame (32). A lateral propulsion device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 23, comprising:
A first set of closing doors (12), when partially open and when the vessel (2) is moving forward, allows the fluid flow generated by the movement of the vessel (2) to pass through the first set of closing doors (12). hinged to said support structure (10) to tend to further open the set of closing doors (12);
A second set of closing doors (12), when partially open and when said vessel (2) is moving forward, allows the fluid flow generated by the movement of said vessel (2) to pass through a second set of closing doors (12). A lateral propulsion device, characterized in that it is hinged to said support structure (10) so as to tend to close a set of closing doors (12). A lateral propulsion device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 24, comprising:
The closure door (12) is characterized in that it has a wing section or is shaped such that it is hydrodynamic when the closure door (12) is in the open or partially open position. Lateral propulsion device. A lateral propulsion device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 25, comprising:
Each closing door (12) includes an outer door surface (29) and an inner door surface (30),
In the closed configuration, the outer door surface (29) faces outwardly from the maneuvering tunnel (3) and the inner door surface (30) faces inwardly from the maneuvering tunnel (3);
In the open configuration, at least two adjacent closing doors (12) are rotated or counter-rotated in opposite directions, with the respective said door outer surfaces (29) facing each other and said door inner surfaces (30) facing away from each other. , a lateral propulsion device characterized in that they together form a hydrodynamic profile. A lateral propulsion device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 26, comprising:
A lateral propulsion device, characterized in that it comprises a door control mechanism (24) configured to move said closing door (12) from a closed position to an open position or vice versa. The lateral propulsion device (1) according to claim 27,
The door control mechanism (24) includes a linear actuator (38) configured to operate along a door actuation axis (26) substantially transverse to the door rotation axis (14). A lateral propulsion device featuring: The lateral propulsion device (1) according to claim 28,
The lateral propulsion device is characterized in that the linear actuator (38) is disposed at the tunnel entrance (7, 8) and opens in a sealed manner from the tunnel wall (6) to the inside of the control tunnel (3). . The lateral propulsion device (1) according to claim 28 or 29,
The door control mechanism (24) includes a control console (23) coupled to the linear actuator (38) via an articulation;
The control console (23) is further coupled to the closing door (12) so as to move the closing door (12) in accordance with the movement of the linear actuator (38). Propulsion device. The lateral propulsion device (1) according to claim 30,
The articulated connection between the control console (23) and the linear actuator (38) includes a coupling pin (43) rotatably coupling the control console (23) to the linear actuator (38). A lateral propulsion device characterized by: The lateral propulsion device (1) according to claim 30 or 31,
The control console (23) is connected to the closure door (12) by a plurality of control levers (39) connected to the closure door (12) and rotatably connected to the control console (23). and
A lateral propulsion device, characterized in that a single control lever (39) is connected to each closing door (12). The lateral propulsion device (1) according to claim 32,
The reversing control lever (41) of the plurality of control levers (39) has a movement configured to reverse the rotation direction of the closing door (12) connected to the reversing control lever (41). It is connected to a reversing connecting rod (40),
When the control console (23) actuates the control lever (39) to open the closing door (12) in a counterclockwise direction, the movement reversal connecting rod (40) connects to the reversal control lever (41). A lateral propulsion device characterized in that the corresponding closing door (12) is opened in a clockwise direction, and vice versa. The lateral propulsion device (1) according to claim 33,
A transverse propulsion device, characterized in that the movement reversal connecting rod (40) is pivotally connected to a control rod (42) which is stationary with respect to the control console (23). A lateral propulsion device (1) according to any one of claims 27 to 34,
A lateral propulsion device characterized in that it comprises two control mechanisms (24) arranged on opposite sides of the tunnel entrance (7, 8). In the lateral propulsion device (1) according to one of claims 28 to 34 and according to claim 35,
The linear actuators (38) of each of the two control mechanisms (24) act along the same door actuation axis (26) such that the advancement of one of the linear actuators (38) is caused by the linear movement of the other linear actuator (38). A lateral propulsion device characterized by being adapted to respond to retraction of an actuator (38). The lateral propulsion device (1) according to claim 36,
A first set of said closing doors (12) is connected to a control console (23) of one of said two control mechanisms (24), and a second set of said closing doors (12) is connected to the control console (23) of one of said two control mechanisms (24). connected to a control console (23) of the control mechanism (24);
The control consoles (23) of the two control mechanisms (24) are rotatably coupled to each other;
Both control mechanisms (24) include a reversal control lever (41) connected to the same movement reversal connecting rod (40);
Thereby, said two control mechanisms (24) are configured to assist in the operation of said closing door (12) during normal operation of both, while in the event of a failure of one of said two control mechanisms (24). A lateral propulsion device, characterized in that the other is configured to independently move all closing doors (12). Ship (2) comprising at least one transverse propulsion device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 37. In the ship (2) according to claim 38,
Equipped with a plurality of lateral propulsion devices (1),
At least one transverse propulsion device (1) is arranged in the bow region of said ship (2) and/or at least one transverse propulsion device (1) is arranged in the stern region of said ship (2). A ship characterized by:

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