THRUSTER DESIGN COMPRISING AN INSERT PROPELLER SHAFT IN A HOLLOW GEAR SHAFT

摘要

Thruster propulsion for vessels. In the thruster, the propeller shaft is used as an insert shaft with a coupling to a hollow gear shaft. On the one hand, this hollow insert shaft embodiment results in an increase in the torsion flexibility of the propeller shaft and, on the other hand, the flexible coupling between the propeller shaft and hollow gear shaft prevents bending of the propeller shaft from leading to a change in tooth play. The coupling may relate to a splined coupling, but may also comprise other couplings with a relatively large flexibility to bending and torsion.