Integrated thruster and ballast system
US11167822B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 27, 2020 |
| Grant date | Nov 9, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 27, 2040 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB63H2011/081
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An integrated thruster and ballast system in accordance with some examples herein may include a conduit disposed within a hull of the boat. The conduit includes a first opening in fluid communication with a body of water, a second opening in selective fluid communication with the body of water, and an outlet disposed within the boat. The integrated thruster and ballast system includes a ballast tank in selective fluid communication with the conduit via the outlet, a thruster disposed within the conduit and configured to move water through the conduit, a first valve disposed in the conduit and configured to selectively divide or establish the fluid communication between the conduit and the ballast tank; and a second valve disposed in the conduit and configured to selectively divide or establish the fluid communication between the second opening and the body of water.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.