MARIN and Krona Subsea have joined forces to develop an innovative data transfer solution for ship propellers. This collaboration aims to facilitate the high-speed, real-time collection of data directly from sensors mounted on propellers, thereby advancing propeller research and the development of advisory systems. The ultimate objectives are to enhance performance, reduce fuel consumption, and mitigate underwater noise.
The technology utilizes two rings positioned just ahead of the propeller—one rotating with the propeller and the other ship-fixed. By employing inductive power transfer and microwave data transfer, these rings enable the contactless transfer of both power and high-speed data. This system is based on Krona Subsea's expertise in induction-based power and microwave data transfer, specifically leveraging the technology behind its Maelstrom connector.
MARIN began developing data transfer systems for propellers in 2021, and the project gained significant momentum with the cooperation with Krona Subsea. This collaboration has resulted in a functional prototype, successfully tested in a laboratory environment in 2024, showing data transfer during rotation above 100 Mbit, and 35W power transfer in salt water. The first onboard trial is planned for April 2025, with the goal of supporting the development of composite propellers as a first application.
By enabling real-time data transfer from sensors integrated directly into the propeller, this technology paves the way for the development of "smart propellers" with integrated monitoring capabilities. This opens new possibilities for optimizing propeller performance, improving operational efficiency, and refining propeller designs based on real-world data.