Alignment and safety analysis of marine propulsion shafting using intelligent floating raft system

Abstract

An intelligent floating raft system (IFRS) for marine propulsion shafting is designed and introduced in detail in this paper. IFRS includes floating raft, air spring mounting system, and emergency protection device. The mechanical characteristics of IFRS are modeled and analyzed. The test rig is built and the deformation of IFRS and alignment of shafting are tested and monitored. According to the alignment principles, IFRS can meet the alignment requirements. When encountering extreme working conditions, the emergency protection device of IFRS can ensure the safety of marine propulsion shafting. Also, the IFRS and hull coupling finite element simulation is carried out. More low-frequency modes are excited when IFRS is used.