Abstract: ABSTRACT PROPULSION SYSTEM The present disclosure provides a propulsion system (100) to drive a vessel on a water body. The propulsion system (100) includes a supporting frame (102), a connecting box (104), a control unit, an anti-cavitation plate (106), a skeg (112), a handle (114), and a tiller arm (116). In addition, the control unit is positioned within the connecting box (104), that is connected between the supporting frame (102) and the electric motor (108). Further, the electric motor (108) is configured to drive a propeller (110) to facilitate movement of the vessel, resulting in cooling of the connecting box (104) and the electric motor (108) by flow of water. Furthermore, the handle (114) is connected to the supporting frame (102). Moreover, the handle (114) is configured to carry the propulsion system (100). Also, the tiller arm (116) is operatively connected to the handle (114). (to be published with fig. 1)
Description:FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 OF 1970)
&
THE PATENT RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See Section 10 & Rule 13)
TITLE OF THE INVENTION:
PROPULSION SYSTEM
APPLICANT:
KALBHORZ ELECTRIC PRIVATE LIMITED
An Indian Entity Having Address As:
Plot A-9, MIDC Technology Park, Near Hotel Down Town, Talawade, Pune, Maharashtra, India - 411062
The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS AND PRIORITY
[0001] The present application does not claim priority from any of the patent application(s).
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates to the field of propulsion systems and, in particular, relates to a propulsion system to drive a vessel in a water body.
BACKGROUND
[0003] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of art, which may be related to various aspects of the present disclosure that are described or claimed below. This discussion is believed to be helpful in providing the reader with background information to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that these statements in this background section are to be read in this light, and not as admissions of prior art. Similarly, a problem mentioned in the background section or associated with the subject matter of the background section should not be assumed to have been previously recognized in the prior art. The subject matter in the background section merely represents different approaches, which in and of themselves may also correspond to implementations of the claimed technology.
[0004] Traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) based propulsion systems for vessels come with several drawbacks, that includes noise signatures, heat signatures, and pollution from exhaust emissions, which negatively affect marine life (or ecosystem).
[0005] Transitioning to electric alternatives for vessel propulsion introduces its own set of challenges, that include differences in power consumption, performance, and physical limitations related to size and weight. Many electric propulsion systems use radial flux motors, which are bulkier and heavier, particularly in power ranges of 30 horsepower (HP) and above. Thus, these systems tend to be over three times as heavy and occupy more space than their ICE counterparts, making them less practical for common use. Additionally, such electric propulsion systems are mostly inefficient, that require large battery packs to meet desired operational range, and lack the necessary power for propelling vessels of average size.
[0006] Another issue with these electric propulsion systems is unwanted noise generated by gear reducers. They also have heat management issues, as the motors and controllers, that are mounted above the waterline, produce heat signatures that require complex cooling systems to manage the heat effectively.
[0007] In light of the foregoing discussion, there exists a need for more efficient, compact, and powerful electric propulsion system for vessels that can address at least one of the above discussed limitations.
SUMMARY
[0008] Before the present system and its components are summarized, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the system and its arrangement as described, as there can be multiple possible embodiments which are not expressly illustrated in the present disclosure. The present disclosure overcomes one or more shortcomings of the prior art and provides additional advantages discussed throughout the present disclosure. Additional features and advantages are realized through the techniques of the present disclosure. It is also to be understood that the terminology used in the description is for the purpose of describing the versions or embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. This summary is not intended to identify essential features of the claimed subject matter nor is it intended for use in detecting or limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter.
[0009] In an example aspect, the present disclosure provides a propulsion system to drive a vessel on a water body. The propulsion system includes a supporting frame, a connecting box, a control unit, an anti-cavitation plate, a skeg, a handle, and a tiller arm. The connecting box is connected to the supporting frame. Further, the control unit is positioned within the connecting box. The anti-cavitation plate is mounted on the connecting box. The electric motor is connected to the connecting box. In addition, the electric motor is configured to drive a propeller to facilitate movement of the vessel on the water body. A flow of water on the connecting box and the electric motor due to the movement of the vessel on the water body facilitates cooling of the connecting box and the electric motor. The skeg is removably connected to the electric motor. Additionally, the handle is connected to the supporting frame. The handle is configured to carry the propulsion system. Furthermore, the tiller arm is operatively connected to the handle.
[0010] In an embodiment, the propulsion system includes a plunger mechanism mounted on the tiller arm. The plunger mechanism disengages form the handle to facilitate rotation of the tiller arm relative to the handle. Also, the plunger mechanism engages with the handle to facilitate locking of the tiller arm in a fixed position relative to the handle.
[0011] In another embodiment, the propulsion system includes a swivel shaft mounted on the supporting frame, by a first clamp and a second clamp. The handle is mounted on the first clamp.
[0012] In yet another embodiment, the propulsion system includes a swivel cylinder surrounding the swivel shaft. The swivel shaft is rotatably connected to the swivel cylinder.
[0013] In yet another embodiment, the propulsion system includes a bracket mounted on the swivel cylinder. The bracket is configured to be connected to a hull of the vessel. In addition, movement of the tiller arm about a steering axis facilitates movement of the propulsion system relative to the vessel.
[0014] In yet another embodiment, the propulsion system includes a steering angle restriction bracket mounted on the supporting frame.
[0015] In yet another embodiment, the propulsion system includes an adapter bracket configured to connect the electric motor to the connecting box.
[0016] In yet another embodiment, the connecting box includes a housing and a plate. The plate is mounted on the housing. In addition, the control unit is mounted in a space formed between the housing and the plate.
[0017] In yet another embodiment, the propulsion system includes a protrusion on the housing of the connecting box to facilitate mounting of the anti-cavitation plate therein.
[0018] In yet another embodiment, the propulsion system includes a top housing connected to the supporting frame via a first mount. In addition, the top housing may accommodate at least one of display panel, PCB board, DC-DC converter, GPS module, and the like. Further, the DC-DC converter may be directly or indirectly connected with at least one battery pack.
[0019] In yet another embodiment, the propulsion system includes GPS module which may continuously or periodically determine, stores, and transmits GPS data. In addition, the GPS data may be directly or indirectly transmitted to a server and/or a mobile device.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES
[0020] Having thus described the disclosure in general terms, references will now be made to the accompanying figures, wherein:
[0021] Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a propulsion system (100), in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0022] Figure 2 illustrates an exploded view (200) of a connecting box (104) of the propulsion system (100), in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure; and
[0023] Figure 3 illustrates an isometric view (300) of a handle (114) and a tiller arm (116) of the propulsion system (100), in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0024] It should be noted that the accompanying figures are intended to present illustrations of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. These figures are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. It should also be noted that accompanying figures are not necessarily drawn to scale.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0025] Reference will now be made in more detail to embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the specification. In this regard, the present embodiments may have different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the descriptions set forth herein. Accordingly, the embodiments are merely described below, by referring to the figures, to explain aspects of embodiments of the present description. As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Throughout the present disclosure, the expression "at least one of a, b and c" indicates only a, only b, only c, both a and b, both a and c, both b and c, all of a, b, and c, or variations thereof.
[0026] The subject matter of the present disclosure may include various modifications and various embodiments, and example embodiments will be illustrated in the drawings and described in more detail in the detailed description. Effects and features of the subject matter of the present disclosure, and implementation methods therefor will become clear with reference to the embodiments described herein below together with the drawings. The subject matter of the present disclosure may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein.
[0027] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same or corresponding elements will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and thus, redundant description thereof will not be repeated.
[0028] It will be understood that although the terms "first," "second," etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another.
[0029] An expression used in the singular may also encompasses the expression of the plural, unless it has a clearly different meaning in the context.
[0030] In the following embodiments, it is to be understood that the terms such as "including," "includes," "having," "comprises," and "comprising," are intended to indicate the existence of the features or elements disclosed in the specification, and are not intended to preclude the possibility that one or more other features or elements may exist or may be added.
[0031] Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a propulsion system (100), in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 2 illustrates an exploded view (200) of a connecting box (104) of the propulsion system (100), in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 3 illustrates an isometric view (300) of a handle (114) and a tiller arm (116) of the propulsion system (100), in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0032] In an implementation, the propulsion system (100) includes a supporting frame (102), the connecting box (104), a control unit, an anti-cavitation plate (106), an electric motor (108), a skeg (112), the handle (114) and the tiller arm (116). The propulsion system (100) is configured to drive (or propel) a vessel on a water body.
[0033] In some embodiments, the supporting frame (102) may also be referred to as a beam, or a structural section, and the like. In an exemplary embodiment, the supporting frame (102) may include a through hollow cavity along a length of the supporting frame (102). A cross-section of the supporting frame (102) may define a first inner periphery and a first outer periphery. The through hollow cavity within the supporting frame (102) may define the first inner periphery.
[0034] In another exemplary embodiment, the first outer periphery of the supporting frame (102) may define an elliptical geometry (or shape). In an example, the first outer periphery of the supporting frame (102) may define a tear-drop geometry. In another example, the first outer periphery of the supporting frame (102) may define any geometry. In some other examples, the first outer periphery of the supporting frame (102) may define a hydrodynamic geometry. Additionally, the first inner periphery of the supporting frame (102) may define any geometry or shape.
[0035] The connecting box (104) is connected to the supporting frame (102). In addition, the control unit is positioned within the connecting box (104). In an exemplary embodiment, the connecting box (104) may be connected (or fastened or mounted) to a lower end of the supporting frame (102), or the supporting frame (102) may be connected to an upper end of the connecting box (104). The connecting box (104) includes a housing (202) and a plate (204). The plate (204) is mounted on the housing (202). In addition, the control unit is mounted in a space (206) formed between the housing (202) and the plate (204).
[0036] In some embodiments, the plate (204) may be mounted on the housing (202) using a plurality of fasteners. In an example, the plate (204) may be bolted on the housing (202). In another example, a seal (or gasket) may be disposed (or positioned) between the housing (202) and the plate (204), in order to prevent entry of water inside the space (206).
[0037] In an embodiment, a cross-section of the connecting box (104) may define a second inner periphery and a second outer periphery. In an exemplary embodiment, the second outer periphery of the connecting box (104) may define an elliptical geometry (or shape). In an example, the second outer periphery of the connecting box (104) may define a tear-drop geometry. In another example, the second outer periphery of the connecting box (104) may define any geometry. In some other example, the second outer periphery of the connecting box (104) may define a hydrodynamic geometry. Additionally, the second inner periphery of the connecting box (104) may define any geometry or shape.
[0038] Further, the anti-cavitation plate (106) may be mounted on the connecting box (104). In addition, the housing (202) may include a protrusion (208) to facilitate mounting of the anti-cavitation plate (106) therein. In some embodiments, the anti-cavitation plate (106) may be formed integral on the housing (202) of the connecting box (104). In one example, anti-cavitation plate (106) and the connecting box (104) may be formed by Aluminium.
[0039] In some embodiments, the electric motor (108) is directly connected to the connecting box (104). In an exemplary embodiment, an adapter bracket may be configured to connect the electric motor (108) to the connecting box (104). In an example, the electric motor (108) may be an axial-flux motor. In addition, the skeg (112) is removably connected on (or mounted on) the electric motor (108). In another example, the skeg (112) may be integrated to the electric motor (108).
[0040] In an exemplary embodiment, the electric motor (108) may be connected to a lower end of the connecting box (104) via the adapter bracket, or the connecting box (104) may be connected to an upper end of the electric motor (108) via the adapter bracket. In another exemplary embodiment, a cross-section of the adapter bracket may define a third inner periphery and a third outer periphery. In one example, the third outer periphery of the adapter bracket may define an elliptical geometry (or shape). In an example, the third outer periphery of the adapter bracket may define a tear-drop geometry. In another example, the third outer periphery of the adapter bracket may define any geometry. In some other example, the third outer periphery of the adapter bracket may define a hydrodynamic geometry. Additionally, the third inner periphery of the adapter bracket may define any geometry or shape.
[0041] In another exemplary embodiment, the electric motor (108) may be directly connected to a lower end of the connecting box (104), or the connecting box (104) may be directly connected to an upper end of the electric motor (108).
[0042] In yet another exemplary embodiment, the housing (202) may include a first hole within the space (206). The first hole, a second passage formed by the second inner periphery, and a third passage formed may be configured to direct a first set of wirings from the control unit to the electric motor (108).
[0043] The electric motor (108) is configured to drive a propeller (110). In an exemplary embodiment, the propeller (110) may be mounted a shaft of the electric motor (108). The driving (or rotation) of the propeller (110) facilitates movement of the vessel on the water body in a direction (X’). In another exemplary embodiment, the connecting box (104), the adapter bracket, the electric motor (108), and the skeg (112) may be submerged in the water body. In addition, a flow of water on (or around) the connecting box (104) and the electric motor (108), due to the movement of the vessel on the water body, facilitates cooling (or forced convection) of the connecting box (104) and the electric motor (108). Thus, heat generated by the control unit (enclosed within the connecting box (104)) and the electric motor (108) may be effectively transferred to the water body.
[0044] In an implementation, the electric motor (108) includes a shaft. In an embodiment, the shaft may include threads and/or male splines. In one example, the shaft may include one or more step portions. Further, the threads of the shaft engages with a locknut. In an example, the locknut may be secured in place by a washer and/or a cotter pin. In another embodiment, the propeller (110) may include female splines located on an inner periphery. Further, splined connection between the male splines of the shaft and the female splines of the propeller (110) locks the propeller (110) to the shaft of the electric motor (108).
[0045] In an exemplary embodiment, the electric motor (108) may feature an extreme portion. In an example, the extreme portion of the electric motor (108) may define an elliptical geometry (or shape). In another example, the extreme portion of the electric motor (108) may define a tear-drop geometry. In some other examples, the extreme portion of the electric motor (108) may define a hydrodynamic geometry. In some another example, the extreme portion of the electric motor (108) may define any geometry or shape.
[0046] In some embodiments, the handle (114) is connected to the supporting frame (102). In addition, the handle (114) is configured to carry the propulsion system (100). In an example, the propulsion system (100) may be carried (or slung) on shoulders of a person. In addition, the person may grip an edge of the handle (114) by a hand, in order to balance the propulsion system (100) on the shoulder. In another example, the edge of the handle (114) may include a hand grip for providing extra traction for the hand.
[0047] In some embodiments, the tiller arm (116) is operatively connected to the handle (114). In addition, a plunger mechanism (302) is mounted on the tiller arm (116). In an exemplary embodiment, the tiller arm (116) may be pivoted to the handle (114) relative to an axis (T’). The tiller arm (116) may be configured to rotate relative to the handle (114) along the axis (T’). In an example, the plunger mechanism (302) may be mounted coaxially to the axis (T’). The plunger mechanism (302) may be configured to facilitate rotation of the tiller arm (116) relative to the handle (114) along the axis (T’). In another example, the plunger mechanism (302) may be mounted on the tiller arm (116) at an offset distance from to the axis (T’). In some other examples, the plunger mechanism (302) may be mounted on the handle (114).
[0048] Furthermore, the plunger mechanism (302) disengages form the handle (114) to facilitate rotation of the tiller arm (116) relative to the handle (114). Also, the plunger mechanism (302) engages with the handle (114) to facilitate locking of the tiller arm (116) in a fixed position relative to the handle (114). The handle (114) may define a base plane, disposed parallelly to a surface of the handle (114). In an example, a relative angle between the tiller arm (116) and the base plane may be 0 degrees. In another example, the relative angle between the tiller arm (116) and the base plane may be 90 degrees. In some examples, the relative angle between the tiller arm (116) and the base plane may be 270 degrees. In some other examples, the relative angle between the tiller arm (116) and the base plane may lie between 0 to 360 degrees. The locking of the tiller arm (116) relative to the handle (114) in any of the above mentioned relative angle(s) may define the fixed position of the tiller arm (116).
[0049] In an exemplary embodiment, the tiller arm (116) may include a throttle for controlling the electric motor (108). In another exemplary embodiment, the tiller arm (116) may include a plurality of switch. In an example, a switch from the plurality of switch may be a kill (or dead-man) switch, configured to quickly shut down the electric motor (108), in case of emergency (or when an operator loses control) for preventing accidents or damage. In another example, a switch from the plurality of switch may be a forward selector switch configured to facilitate the movement of the propulsion system (100) in the direction (X’). In some examples, a switch from the plurality of switch may be a neutral selector switch configured to stop the movement of the propulsion system (100). In some other examples, a switch from the plurality of switch may be a reverse selector switch configured to facilitate the movement of the propulsion system (100) opposite to the direction (X’). In some another example, a switch from the plurality of switch may be a cruise control switch configured to maintain constant speed of the vessel, without requiring the operator to control the throttle.
[0050] In some embodiments, a swivel shaft (122) is mounted on the supporting frame (102) by a first clamp (118) and a second clamp (120). The swivel shaft (122) may be rigidly fixed between the first clamp (118) and the second clamp (120), proximal to the supporting frame (102). The handle (114) is mounted on the first clamp (118). In addition, a swivel cylinder (124) surrounds the swivel shaft (122). The swivel shaft (122) is rotatably connected to the swivel cylinder (124).
[0051] Furthermore, a bracket is mounted on the swivel cylinder (124). The bracket is configured to be connected to a hull of the vessel. The movement of the tiller arm (116) about a steering axis (S’) facilitates movement of the propulsion system (100) relative to the vessel. In an example, the operator positioned on the vessel may be able to steer the vessel on the water body using the tiller arm (116), when the vessel is moving. The swivel shaft (122) and the swivel cylinder (124) collectively may be referred to as a steering mechanism.
[0052] In some embodiments, the propulsion system (100) may include a steering angle restriction bracket (126) mounted on the supporting frame (102). The steering angle restriction bracket (126) is configured to limit range of motion of the tiller arm (116) (or the steering mechanism). The steering angle restriction bracket (126) is configured to restrict a maximum turning angle of the electric motor (108) to prevent oversteering of the vessel, which could lead to loss of control or damage to the steering system.
[0053] Additionally, a top housing (132) is connected to the supporting frame (102) by a first mount (130). The top housing (132) may be configured to house a display panel therein. In an example, the top housing (132) may include an extended portion positioned above the display panel. In another example, a base of the top housing (132) may include a second hole. In an exemplary embodiment, the top housing (132) may be connected to an upper end of the supporting frame (102) by the first mount (130), or the supporting frame (102) may be connected to a lower end of the top housing (132) by the first mount (130). In some embodiments, the top housing may accommodate at least one of the display panel, PCB board, DC-DC converter, GPS module, and the like. In some examples, the DC-DC converter may be directly or indirectly connected with at least one battery pack. In an example embodiment, the GPS module may be connected to the at least one battery pack. In another example embodiment, the GPS module may have an independent power source. In one embodiment, the GPS module may periodically determine, stores, and transmits GPS data. In another embodiment, the GPS module may continuously determine, stores, and transmits the GPS data. In an example, the GPS data may be directly or indirectly transmitted to a server and/or a mobile device. Further, the GPS module may transmit the GPS data with wire connection or wirelessly.
[0054] In some implementations, the GPS module may include a paper display. The paper display often referred to as electronic paper or e-paper, is a technology that mimics the appearance of traditional ink on paper, providing a reflective display that is easy on the eyes and readable in bright light. Further, an implementation of the paper display with GPS module provides various advantages which may include low power consumption (as it only uses energy when changing the displayed content), excellent readability in various lighting conditions, lightweight, waterproof, and flexible.
[0055] In an exemplary embodiment, the first hole, the second passage formed by the second inner periphery, a first passage formed by the first inner periphery (or the through hollow cavity), and the second hole may be configured to direct a first set of wirings from the control unit to the top housing (132). In another exemplary embodiment, a third set of wirings may connect the control unit to the tiller arm (116).
[0056] In an exemplary embodiment, the propulsion system (100) may be used to drive fishing boats (bass boats, Jon boats, skiffs, pontoon boats), recreational and pleasure boats (inflatable boats/RIBs, runabouts, center console boats, deck boats), small commercial and work boats (dinghies and tenders, rescue boats, patrol boats, work boats), personal watercraft and utility boats (jet skis, utility boats), sailboats (small sailboats, dinghy sailboats, catamarans), shallow water boats (flats boats, kayaks, canoes), or small passenger vessels (tour boats, water taxis), and the like.
[0057] Various embodiments of the disclosure offers numerous technical advantages of the propulsion system (100). The disclosed propulsion system (100) provides several technical advantages, but not limited to the following:
• The propulsion system (100) generates negligible heat signatures, since the connecting box (104) and the electric motor (108) are be submerged in the water body. The flow of water on (or around) the connecting box (104) and the electric motor (108), due to the movement of the vessel on the water body, facilitates cooling (or forced convection) of the connecting box (104) and the electric motor (108). Thus, the heat generated by the control unit (enclosed within the connecting box (104)) and the electric motor (108) is effectively transferred to the water body.
• The propulsion system (100) offers reduced noise, minimizing disturbances to marine ecosystem (or life) and provides a quieter experience for the operator(s) of the vessel, due to use of the electric motor (108).
• The propulsion system (100) is configured to dampen noise and heat signatures (if any), this is achieved due to immersion of the electric motor (108) and the connecting box (104) during the movement of the vessel on the water body.
• The cooling of the connecting box (104) and the electric motor (108) reduces the need for complex heat management systems (or external cooling systems), and enhances operational efficiency of the propulsion system (100).
• The propulsion system (100) produces no exhaust emissions, due to use of the electric motor (108). Thus, contributing to a cleaner marine environment and reducing the ecological impact.
• The propulsion system (100) is compact and lightweight compared to traditional ICE based propulsion systems, due to implementation of the electric motor (100). The propulsion system (100) maximizes space utilization and enhances vessel performance by optimizing power-to-weight ratios.
• No gear transmissions are used in the propulsion system (100), instead the propeller (110) is mounted directly onto the shaft of the electric motor (108). Thus, reducing number of components in the propulsion system (100), contributing to its overall lighter weight.
• The propulsion system (100), utilizing the electric motor (108) of axial flux type, requires smaller battery packs to achieve extended range. The electric motor (108) provides equivalent power at a reduced weight, increasing power density of the propulsion system (100) within a compact form factor. As a result, the system offers enhanced efficiency without compromising power or vessel size. (A compact form factor means that the propulsion system (100) is designed to occupy less physical space and have a lower overall weight while maintaining or even enhancing performance capabilities. This makes it easier to install, fit within restricted spaces, and potentially improves the vessel's balance and fuel efficiency.)
• The skeg (112) mounted below the electric motor (108) is removable, unlike traditional propulsion systems that tend to wear out their skegs during beaching or operation in shallow waters.
• Integration of the anti-cavitation plate (106) with the housing (202) eliminates the need for additional mounting hardware and reduces parts count, thereby lowering manufacturing costs and assembly time. Further, the integral design ensures optimal heat transfer from the control unit to the surrounding water through the aluminum construction, enhancing cooling efficiency of the system. Furthermore, the unibody construction improves structural rigidity and eliminates potential failure points that could occur with separate mounting arrangements.
• The combination of splined connection and locknut provides dual securing mechanism, ensuring reliable power transmission while preventing unintended loosening of the propeller (110) during operation. Further, male-female spline arrangement enables precise angular alignment and even distribution of torque along the shaft of the electric motor (108), reducing wear and extending component life. Furthermore, the threaded locknut with splined connection design allows for quick assembly and disassembly during maintenance while maintaining secure engagement during operation.
[0058] It should be understood that embodiments described herein should be considered in a descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. Descriptions of features or aspects within each embodiment should typically be considered as available for other similar features or aspects in other embodiments. While one or more embodiments have been described with reference to the figures, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the following claims, and equivalents thereof.
, Claims:We Claim:
1. A propulsion system (100) to drive a vessel on a water body, the propulsion system (100) comprising:
a supporting frame (102);
a connecting box (104) connected to the supporting frame (102);
a control unit positioned within the connecting box (104);
an anti-cavitation plate (106) mounted on the connecting box (104);
an electric motor (108) connected to the connecting box (104), wherein the electric motor (108) is configured to drive a propeller (110) to facilitate movement of the vessel on the water body, wherein a flow of water on the connecting box (104) and the electric motor (108) due to the movement of the vessel on the water body facilitates cooling of the connecting box (104) and the electric motor (108);
a skeg (112) removably connected to the electric motor (108);
a handle (114) connected to the supporting frame (102), wherein the handle (114) is configured to carry the propulsion system (100); and
a tiller arm (116) operatively connected to the handle (114).
2. The propulsion system (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprises a plunger mechanism (302) mounted on the tiller arm (116), wherein the plunger mechanism (302) disengages form the handle (114) facilitating rotation of the tiller arm (116) relative to the handle (114), wherein the plunger mechanism (302) engages with the handle (114) facilitating locking of the tiller arm (116) in a fixed position relative to the handle (114).
3. The propulsion system (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprises a swivel shaft (122) mounted on the supporting frame (102) by a first clamp (118) and a second clamp (120), wherein the handle (114) is mounted on the first clamp (118).
4. The propulsion system (100) as claimed in claim 3, comprises a swivel cylinder (124) surrounding the swivel shaft (122), wherein the swivel shaft (122) is rotatably connected to the swivel cylinder (124).
5. The propulsion system (100) as claimed in claim 4, comprises a bracket mounted on the swivel cylinder (124), wherein the bracket is configured to be connected to a hull of the vessel, wherein movement of the tiller arm (116) about a steering axis (S’) facilitates movement of the propulsion system (100) relative to the vessel.
6. The propulsion system (100) as claimed in claim 5, comprises a steering angle restriction bracket (126) mounted on the supporting frame (102).
7. The propulsion system (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprises an adapter bracket configured to connect the electric motor (108) to the connecting box (104).
8. The propulsion system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the connecting box (104) comprises a housing (202) and a plate (204), wherein the plate (204) is mounted on the housing (202), wherein the control unit is mounted in a space (206) formed between the housing (202) and the plate (204).
9. The propulsion system (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprises a protrusion (208) on the housing (202) of the connecting box (104) to facilitate mounting of the anti-cavitation plate (106) therein.
10. The propulsion system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the anti-cavitation plate (106) is formed integral on the housing (202) of the connecting box (104).
11. The propulsion system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electric motor (108) comprises a shaft, wherein the shaft comprises threads and male splines, wherein the threads of the shaft engages with a locknut, wherein the propeller (110) comprises female splines located on an inner periphery, and wherein splined connection between the male splines of the shaft and the female splines of the propeller (110) locks the propeller (110) to the shaft of the electric motor (108).
12. The propulsion system (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprises a top housing (132) connected to the supporting frame (102) via a first mount (130), wherein the top housing accommodates at least one of display panel, PCB board, DC-DC converter, and GPS module, and wherein the DC-DC converter is directly or indirectly connected with at least one battery pack.
13. The propulsion system (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprises GPS module which continuously or periodically determine, stores, and transmits GPS data, wherein the GPS data is directly or indirectly transmitted to a server and/or a mobile device.
Dated this 18th day of December, 2024
Abhijeet Gidde
Agent for the Applicant
IN/PA-4407
| # | Name | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 202421100612-STATEMENT OF UNDERTAKING (FORM 3) [18-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-18 |
| 2 | 202421100612-REQUEST FOR EARLY PUBLICATION(FORM-9) [18-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-18 |
| 3 | 202421100612-FORM-9 [18-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-18 |
| 4 | 202421100612-FORM FOR STARTUP [18-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-18 |
| 5 | 202421100612-FORM FOR SMALL ENTITY(FORM-28) [18-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-18 |
| 6 | 202421100612-FORM 1 [18-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-18 |
| 7 | 202421100612-FIGURE OF ABSTRACT [18-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-18 |
| 8 | 202421100612-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI(FORM-28) [18-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-18 |
| 9 | 202421100612-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI [18-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-18 |
| 10 | 202421100612-DRAWINGS [18-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-18 |
| 11 | 202421100612-DECLARATION OF INVENTORSHIP (FORM 5) [18-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-18 |
| 12 | 202421100612-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [18-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-18 |
| 13 | 202421100612-STARTUP [19-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-19 |
| 14 | 202421100612-FORM28 [19-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-19 |
| 15 | 202421100612-FORM 18A [19-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-19 |
| 16 | 202421100612-Proof of Right [23-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-23 |
| 17 | 202421100612-FORM-26 [23-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-23 |
| 18 | Abstract.jpg | 2025-01-16 |
| 19 | 202421100612-FER.pdf | 2025-11-11 |
| 1 | 202421100612_SearchStrategyNew_E_ApplicationNo202421100612E_07-11-2025.pdf |