Hairpin-Wound Rim-Driven Propeller for Electric Boats on Inland Waterways

Electric mobility on water is in the early stage of development but has a great potential, especially when considering inland waterway vessels. Inland waterway vessels are the best candidate to benefit from a battery electric propulsion system, since they typically operate in environments with restrictions on noise and emissions; they have short ranges and are relatively close to charging infrastructures. Rim-driven propellers actuated by large diameter hollow-shaft electrical machines are a promising technology. Rim-driven propellers present a number of advantages when compared to standard propellers, such as increased efficiency and a compact structure that is particularly suitable for small and lightweight boats. The present work details the design and numerical simulation of the electric machine for rim-driven propeller pod applied to a speedboat to be used on lakes and rivers. The electric machine main distinctive features are a high power density, a thin radial section and a hairpin winding construction.