Method of steering aquatic vessels

US8060265B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• AB VOLVO PENTA · SE

Inventors

• Oddbjorn Hallenstvedt · Valskog, SE
• Anders Larsson · Lotorp, SE

Key dates

• Filing date: Sep 14, 2007
• Grant date: Nov 15, 2011
• Expiry date: Sep 14, 2030

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B63H25/42
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

There is provided a boat (200) including a hull (20), and two engines (30, 50) couplable to rotationally drive mutually spaced separate corresponding propeller assemblies for providing thrusts. Directions of the thrusts are angularly adjustable (α1, α2) relative to the hull (20). A control unit (70) receives first and second user commands (S1, S2) and sends corresponding signals for controlling powers (P1, P2) coupled from the engines (30, 50) to their propeller assemblies. The control unit (70) determines a difference in power (ΔP) to be coupled to the propeller assemblies as a function of the first and second user commands (S1, S2). The control unit (70) controls coupling of power (P1, P2) to the propeller assemblies so that the propeller assemblies develop a difference in thrust which is a function of the difference in power (ΔP). The control unit (70) adjusts angles (α1, α2) of the directions of thrusts as a function of the difference in power (ΔP) to assist the difference in power (ΔP) coupled to the propeller assemblies to enhance maneuverability of the vessel (200).