Large diameter low RPM propeller for torpedoes

U.S. Patent Number: 5343823

Abstract: A propulsion system for a submerged vehicle which operates at a relatively low RPM includes a pair of coaxial drive shafts for producing counterrotating torques. A first propeller unit is attached for rotation with one of the drive shafts and a second propeller units is attached for rotation with the other drive shaft. Each propeller unit includes a plurality of arcuate propeller blades which are deployed upon rotation of their respective drive shaft. Specifically, this deployment is from a first configuration wherein the blades are disposed along the surface of the vehicle and into a second configuration wherein the blades are extended from the surface of the vehicle.

Inventors: Blaha; John G. (Garden Grove, CA)

Assignee: Hughes Aircraft Company (Los Angeles, CA)

Application Number: 08/041,535

Issued: 1994-09-06

Expired: 2006-09-06

Classes: 114/338 ; 416/128; 416/143

Field of search: 416/142R,142A,142B,143,120,124-129 114/312,337,338,2R,2A 440/49,79-81

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