Bow Thruster Protection: Summary

The Bow Thruster Protection solves the technical problem of protecting the bow thruster from damage, while providing a method for simple mounting and dismounting of the unit for the purpose of periodical servicing or emergency repair operations.

The unit is comprised of a manifold that houses the extension mechanism and arms. The movement of a conical nut inside the mechanism initiates extension of the arms in order to achieve a firm connection between the Bow Thruster Protection and the surface of the bow thruster tunnel.

The Bow Thruster Protection is intended for multiple uses (mounting and dismounting operations) without the use of mounting screws or rivets.

The intent of this invention is to prevent damage to bow thruster by blocking floating debris from entering the propeller tunnel. At the same time it provides a method for simple and quick mounting and dismounting without the need for screws, rivets, or drilling into the vessel’s hull.

While maneuvering vessels in tight quarters such as marinas, engaged unprotected bow thruster propellers often draw in floating ropes causing instant damage and malfunction.

Bow thruster periodic servicing and emergency repair operations require access to its propeller, which require dismounting of protection devices. Standard protection grills are typically screwed into the vessel’s hull. Significant wear of the threaded holes is noticeable after only several mounting and dismounting operations, thus severely reducing their strength and functionality.

At that point new holes are needed while the old ones require patching or plugging.

Mounting and dismounting of this product is simple and can be performed in submerged conditions or on dry land.  No specials tools are required. It allows unlimited number of installations without any damage to the vessel’s hull, unlike standard grill protection mounted with screws.

This invention is a direct result of witnessing countless damaged bow thrusters throughout years of maintenance and servicing experience on private and commercial vessels.