Self-contained hydraulic thruster for vessel
US7883384B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 10, 2009 |
| Grant date | Feb 8, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 20, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB63H25/42
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A self-contained hydraulic thruster for vessel. The hydraulic thruster incorporates a lower unit housing tiltably attached to a lower unit mounting tube attached to a base, a tube whose upper end is attached through the lower unit housing, and a shaft slidably disposed within the tube. A substantial length of tube extends downwards from the lower unit housing, thus providing support for the shaft. An actuator is disclosed which extends and retracts the shaft relative to the tube. A steering clamp is releasably attached to an end of the shaft which protrudes through the top of the lower unit housing. A steering clamp key traveling in a shaft keyway, or a shaft key in combination with a steering clamp keyway, help maintain constant the angular orientation between the steering clamp and the shaft. A steering gear meshing with a steering assembly, or an actuator driving a tie rod, provide steering.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.