Subsurface Vortex Assisted Distributed Propulsion Active Hull
First Claim
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1. A submersible Craft, apparatus or method that utilizes boundary layer conditions and distributed propulsion comprising:
- (1) the Active Hull Platform.
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Abstract
High velocity subsurface craft, apparatus or method positively affecting propulsion and limiting drag by the use of a rotating body with selected Surface Treatment. The Active Hull Platform provides Apparent Flows that allow for shorter more dispersed blade arrays and boundary layer management that impacts vorticity on skin surfaces by controlling the angular momentum of the vortices formed. By converting drag forces into thrust, vortices need not be avoided and an even non pulsating distributed thrust is the result.
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Citations
10 Claims
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1. A submersible Craft, apparatus or method that utilizes boundary layer conditions and distributed propulsion comprising:
(1) the Active Hull Platform. - View Dependent Claims (2, 8, 9, 10)
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3. An underwater Craft or apparatus that utilizes boundary layer conditions and distributed propulsion comprising:
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(1) an Active Hull; and (2) managed Apparent Flow in Area (1) and Area (2); and (3) Surface Treatment in Area (1) or Area (1) and Area (2).
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4. A submersible Craft or apparatus that utilizes boundary layer conditions and distributed propulsion comprising:
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(1) an Active Hull; and (2) means of power and power conveyance to all systems including rotation of the Active Hull and traditional propulsion when applicable such as propellers or screws for the Fixed Hull within; and (3) means to provide anti-torque for the inner Fixed Hull to stabilize rotational moments; and (4) mechanical and/or electromagnetic means for support and bearing including radial and thrust bearing to limit noise and friction between the Active Hull and Fixed Hull; and (5) velocity sensors and control systems to measure and control rotational velocities for the Active Hull and fore-aft velocities for the Fixed Hull and Craft and maintain some ratio of the two; and (6) means of balancing the Active Hull either during fabrication or during operation or both to allow smooth running and less bearing pressures; and (7) means of controlling ballast to regulate buoyancy including maintaining neutral buoyancy either during fabrication or during operation or both for the Active Hull and Fixed Hull within; and (8) means of sealing, expanding, controlling or limiting the flow of fluids in Area (2); and (9) at least one of the following; a. traditional means of accelerating and directing mass flows into and out of Area (2) such as turbine fins, fixed and/or variable blades, and nozzles; b. traditional means of propelling, guidance, ballasting, and/or stabilizing the Fixed Hull within allowing the Active Hull to become inoperable, disengaged from power, or jettisoned and still maintain a functioning Craft; c. traditional means of propelling, guidance and/or stabilizing the Active Hull that are used in conjunction with Surface Treatment in Area (1); d. Surface Treatment in Area (1); e. a means of controlling fluid properties and additives in Area (2); f. Surface Treatments in Area (2). - View Dependent Claims (5, 6, 7)
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Specification