Patent ID: 6325010
Filing Date: 2001-12-04
Classification: B63H

Abstract:
A method for enhanced vessel maneuvering vessel having a hull with a bow and port and starboard sides connected to a stern, and a motor connected to at least one propeller as a primary means for propulsion emanating from said stern thereof, said vessel including a steering mechanism connected to a rudder at said stern, said motor and said rudder providing directional control to port, starboard, forward and reverse, said method comprising:incorporating bow thrusters on said port and starboard sides of said vessel, said bow thrusters including a source of pressurized water and conduits through which said pressurized water is transmitted to a port nozzle and a starboard nozzle forwardly positioned upon said vessel and adapted to selectively emit said pressurized water approximately bilaterally with respect to said vessel;providing a coupling between said rudder and said bow thrusters for coordinated control of said rudder and said bow thrusters in response to a change in direction made by said steering mechanism;requesting an adjustment of direction of said vessel by utilizing said steering mechanism;said steering mechanism rotating said rudder about its axis of rotation; andsaid rotation instigating multi-directional and simultaneous emission of said pressurized water from said bow thrusters in an amount and a direction effective to yield the requested directional response.