"Richard Smith" wrote in message ...

"Jim Wilkins" writes:

"DoN. Nichols" wrote in message
...

On 2020-03-22, Richard Smith wrote:
Hello all




==========================

Is this a work boat?
https://www.zf.com/products/en/marin...cts_29102.html

Link goes to webpage showing a thruster for boats. ZF suggests you
install at least one of these on your boat and you will benefit. This
propeller can retract. So the vessel motoring normally on a voyage
doesn't have to drag it through the water.

A thruster propels a boat in the direction the thruster is pointed.
"Bow thrusters" are in a tube through the bow and only propel the bow
around "sideways". They are very useful.
This will propel the boat in any direction. Notably useful.
But...

There's a balance to reckon - is it more advantageous to have than the
disadvantages.

A work boat might have one.
If it were judged worth installing one.
Given - negative side
* capital cost of the "as supplied" equipment
* the installation cost
* the running cost
* the risk to the boat if the equipment malfunctions
* the risk to the boat if the installation malfunctions
Explaining the latter - without proper compartments, a leaking
bow-thruster tube can be the reason a boat sinks.

To the benefit:
* the boat might be more capable of doing manouvring operations,
perhaps pushing barges into awkward locations - and customers might
preferentially seek its services over other boats.

As best as I can say.

Ask an expert if it matters to you.

Rich S
============================

Actually I was thinking of a work boat that uses GPS and Azipods to hold its
position while working on a bridge etc in a tidal estuary. I considered that
sort of problem when I was at Segway. It might be a good field for someone
who understands both fabrication and higher math, such as complex numbers
and servo loop stability. If the arc interferes with satellite reception you
could use pseudolites on shore.


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