Display control method for maneuvering function display unit and maneuvering system

Abstract

To improve usability of a maneuvering function display unit.SOLUTION: BCU12 carries out switching of display and non-display of respective touch buttons 20 to 26 or carries out change in display positions of respective touch buttons 20 to 26 on a maneuvering panel 15 arranged in a steering mechanism 5 based on: structure of a maneuvering system 11; maneuvering situation of a vessel 1; use purpose of the vessel 1; and present position of the vessel 1 and execution track record of maneuvering mode.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a display control method for a ship-maneuvering function display unit of a ship capable of executing various ship-maneuvering functions, and a ship-maneuvering system. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, the number of operable maneuvering functions (hereinafter referred to as "maneuvering functions"), for example, maneuvering modes, has been increasing in small vessels, and correspondingly, multiple physical switches for executing various maneuvering functions are arranged on the console panel of the pilot's seat. Meanwhile, because the console panel also includes a vessel steering mechanism, a remote control, a joystick, and an MFD (Multi Function Display), it has become difficult to secure space for arranging a large number of physical switches as the maneuvering functions increase.

[0003] In response to this, a technique has been proposed in which the MFD is configured with a display device equipped with a touch panel function, touch buttons are displayed on the MFD as software keys corresponding to each maneuvering function, and the desired function is executed when the maneuverer touches the touch button (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In this technique, the device operation screen displayed on the MFD is switched according to the maneuverer's operation purpose and the ship's status, and the touch buttons corresponding to each maneuvering function are changed accordingly. Also, when a certain maneuvering function is not enabled, the corresponding touch button is displayed in a non-operated state. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2015-66978 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, in the technology described in Patent Document 1, even if a touch button corresponding to an inactivated maneuvering function is in an inactive state, the touch button remains displayed and the display position of the touch button does not change. Therefore, if a touch button corresponding to an inactivated maneuvering function is located in a position that is easy for the maneuverer to operate, the maneuverer may mistakenly operate the touch button, which is inconvenient for the maneuverer. Therefore, the technology described in Patent Document 1 has room for improvement in terms of usability.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to improve the usability of a vessel maneuvering function display unit. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A display control method for a steering function display unit according to one embodiment of the present invention is a display control method for a plurality of steering function display units that display steering functions, wherein the plurality of steering function display units include a first steering function display unit that displays the steering functions that can be started to be used while the ship is traveling, and a second steering function display unit that displays the steering functions that can be started to be used while the ship is not traveling, and switches between displaying and hiding each of the steering function display units, or changes the display position of each of the steering function display units, based on at least one of the configuration of the ship's steering system, the ship's steering status, the purpose of use of the ship, the current position of the ship, and the execution history of the steering functions.

[0008] According to this configuration, the display and non-display of each maneuvering function display unit is switched, or the display position of each maneuvering function display unit is changed, based on at least one of the configuration of the ship maneuvering system, the maneuvering status of the ship, the use of the ship, the current position of the ship, and the execution record of the maneuvering functions. This makes it possible to hide a maneuvering function display unit that displays a maneuvering function that cannot be started or a maneuvering function that is used infrequently, or to change the display position of the maneuvering function display unit so as to be away from a position where the maneuverer can easily operate it. As a result, it is possible to prevent the maneuverer from accidentally touching a maneuvering function display unit that displays a maneuvering function that cannot be started or a maneuvering function that is used infrequently, thereby improving the usability of the maneuvering function display unit. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, the usability of the vessel maneuvering function display unit can be improved. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a ship equipped with a ship maneuvering system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a main part of a steering seat in the ship of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram for illustrating a schematic configuration of a ship maneuvering system provided in the ship of FIG. [Figure 4] 4 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of a steering mechanism in the ship maneuvering system of FIG. 3. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a case where each touch button on the ship steering panel is switched between display and non-display in the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a case where the display positions of the touch buttons on the ship maneuvering panel are changed in the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a case where the display positions of the touch buttons on the ship maneuvering panel are changed in the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a case where the display form of each touch button on the ship steering panel is changed in a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a case where a navigation panel is arranged on a remote control. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a case where a ship operation panel is arranged on a joystick. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a case where a partial area of ​​the touch panel of the MFD is made to function as a ship steering panel. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of a steering mechanism in a boat maneuvering system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13]13 is a diagram for explaining a case where each function display icon of a ship steering panel is switched between display and non-display and the display position of each function display icon is changed in the second embodiment. FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a case where each push button and each function display icon are arranged separately. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a boat equipped with a boat steering system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The boat 1 includes a hull 2 ​​and two outboard motors 3 (boat propulsion machines) mounted on the hull 2. Each outboard motor 3 has an engine and a propeller (neither shown), and generates thrust by rotating the propeller with the driving force of the engine. The number of outboard motors 3 equipped on the boat 1 is not limited to two, and the boat 1 may include only one outboard motor 3, or the boat 1 may include three or more outboard motors 3. The boat 1 may also include an inboard motor or an inboard-outboard motor as a boat propulsion machine instead of the outboard motor 3. Furthermore, the boat 1 may be a jet propulsion boat.

[0012] In the boat 1, a helm seat 4 is provided on the bow side, which is the front part of the hull 2. Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the main parts of the helm seat 4. In the helm seat 4, a steering mechanism 5, a remote control 6, a joystick 7, and an MFD 8 are arranged.

[0013] The steering mechanism 5 is a device that enables the vessel operator to determine the course of the vessel 1. The steering mechanism 5 has a rotatable steering wheel 9, and the vessel operator turns the vessel 1 left and right by rotating the steering wheel 9 left and right.

[0014] The remote control 6 has levers 10 corresponding to each outboard motor 3, and the boat operator can operate each lever 10 to switch the direction of thrust generated by the corresponding outboard motor 3 between forward and reverse, and adjust the output of the corresponding outboard motor 3 to adjust the boat speed. For example, when the lever 10 is pushed forward toward the "F" position, the corresponding outboard motor 3 generates forward thrust. When the lever 10 is pushed backward toward the "R" position, the corresponding outboard motor 3 generates reverse thrust. When the lever 10 is placed in the "N" position, which is intermediate between the "F" and "R" positions, the connection between the engine and the propeller in the outboard motor 3 is disconnected by the clutch, and the corresponding outboard motor 3 does not generate thrust.

[0015] The joystick 7 can be tilted forward, backward, left and right, and can also be rotated around an axis. By operating the joystick 7, the vessel operator can move the vessel 1 along a course corresponding to the tilt direction of the joystick 7 with a thrust according to the amount of tilt of the joystick 7.

[0016] The MFD 8 is, for example, a color LCD display, and functions as a display that displays various information and also functions as a touch panel that receives input from the operator. For example, the MFD 8 displays the engine speed of each outboard motor 3 and the boat speed of the boat 1.

[0017] Fig. 3 is a block diagram for illustrating a schematic configuration of a ship steering system 11 provided in the boat 1 of Fig. 1. In Fig. 3, the ship steering system 11 includes an outboard motor 3, a BCU (Boat Control Unit) 12 (controller), an MFD 8, a GPS 13, a compass 14, a remote control 6, a joystick 7, a steering mechanism 5, a ship steering panel 15, a remote control ECU 16, and a SW (Switch) 17. The components of the ship steering system 11 are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0018] The GPS 13 grasps the current position of the boat 1 and transmits the current position of the boat 1 to the BCU 12 as position information. The compass 14 grasps the direction of the boat 1 (direction of the bow) and transmits the direction of the boat 1 to the BCU 12. The steering mechanism 5 accepts steering operations by the operator and transmits rudder angle signals corresponding to the accepted operations to each remote control ECU 16. The SW 17 accepts instructions to power on or start each outboard motor 3, and transmits signals corresponding to the accepted instructions to the BCU 12 and each remote control ECU 16.

[0019] The BCU 12 grasps the state of the boat 1 based on signals transmitted from each component of the boat steering system 11, determines the thrust that each outboard motor 3 should generate and the direction of thrust action that each outboard motor 3 should take, and transmits control signals to each remote control ECU 16. One remote control ECU 16 is provided for each outboard motor 3, and controls the engine and steering mechanism (not shown) of the corresponding outboard motor 3 in response to signals transmitted from the BCU 12, remote control 6, joystick 7, etc., to adjust the thrust and the direction of thrust action of the outboard motor 3. Thus, in the boat steering system 11, the boat operator can control the boat speed and bow direction of the boat 1 by operating the joystick 7 or lever 10 of the remote control 6.

[0020] Fig. 4 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of the steering mechanism 5, and shows the steering mechanism 5 as viewed from the operator's side. The up-down and left-right directions in Fig. 4 coincide with the up-down and left-right directions of the boat 1.

[0021] 4, the steering mechanism 5 has a steering wheel 9 and a column portion (not shown) that supports the steering wheel 9 rotatably about a steering axis. The steering wheel 9 has an annular wheel portion 18 and, for example, three spoke portions 19 that connect the column portion and the wheel portion 18.

[0022] In this embodiment, a ship operation panel 15 is disposed on the steering mechanism 5 (operation means). The ship operation panel 15 is attached to the column portion so as not to rotate even when the steering wheel 9 rotates about the steering shaft.

[0023] The ship steering panel 15 is, for example, an LCD display, functions as a touch panel that accepts input from the ship helmsman, and displays touch buttons 20-26 (ship steering function display section) as software keys corresponding to each ship steering mode. When the ship helmsman touches each of the touch buttons 20-26, an instruction to execute the ship steering mode corresponding to the touch button is transmitted from the ship steering panel 15 to the BCU 12.

[0024] The ship maneuvering modes corresponding to the touch buttons 20 to 26 will be described below.

[0025] The CourseHold button 20 corresponds to a course hold mode. The course hold mode is a maneuvering mode that can be started while the vessel 1 is sailing, and is a maneuvering mode that causes the vessel 1 to maintain a predetermined course while taking into account the influence of tides and winds even if there are currents or winds.

[0026] The TrackPoint button 21 corresponds to the trackPoint mode. The trackPoint mode is a maneuvering mode that can be started while the vessel 1 is sailing. In the trackPoint mode, the vessel 1 moves along a preset movement route, passing through a number of mooring points. When executing the trackPoint mode, the vessel helmsman sets the movement route and a number of mooring points of the vessel 1 in advance using the MFD 8. For example, the vessel helmsman directly touches a desired point on the touch panel of the MFD 8 with a finger or the like to set each mooring point as a destination from the current mooring point. At this time, the movement route is set by connecting the straight line routes connecting each mooring point.

[0027] The PatternSteer button 22 corresponds to the pattern steering mode. The pattern steering mode is a steering mode that can be started while the boat 1 is sailing, and is used when searching for a school of fish using a fish finder after the boat 1 arrives at an anchorage point for fishing. In the pattern steering mode, the boat 1 moves along a movement route that is set in advance based on the current steering location, and a zigzag route or a turning route is set as the movement route at this time.

[0028] The Joystick button 23 corresponds to the joystick mode. The joystick mode is a maneuvering mode that can be started while the boat 1 is not moving, and in the joystick mode, the outboard motor 3 operates mainly in accordance with the operation of the joystick 7. The StayPoint button 24 corresponds to StayPoint (registered trademark). The staypoint is a maneuvering mode that can be started while the boat 1 is not moving. In the staypoint, the thrust and the direction of thrust application of the outboard motor 3 are controlled in an integrated manner so as to keep the boat 1 at one point and maintain the heading (direction of the bow) of the boat 1 in a specific direction.

[0029] The DriftPoint button 25 corresponds to DriftPoint (registered trademark). DriftPoint is a maneuvering mode that can be started while the boat 1 is not moving. In DriftPoint, the thrust and the direction of thrust of the outboard motor 3 are controlled to keep the bow of the boat 1 facing a specific direction, but the boat 1 is not kept at a single mooring point, and the boat 1 moves while being carried away by wind and water currents. The FishPoint button 26 corresponds to FishPoint (registered trademark). FishPoint is a maneuvering mode that can be started while the boat 1 is not moving. In FishPoint, the thrust and the direction of thrust of the outboard motor 3 are controlled to keep the boat 1 at a single mooring point, but the direction of the bow of the boat 1 changes depending on the tide and wind.

[0030] In order to execute a stay point, the vessel 1 needs to move sideways against the wind or current. However, if the vessel 1 is equipped with only one outboard motor 3, the vessel 1 cannot move sideways, and therefore a stay point that requires lateral movement cannot be executed.

[0031] In addition, in this embodiment, "traveling" refers to a case where the boat operator is intentionally trying to move the boat 1, that is, where one of the levers 10 of the remote control 6 is tilted toward the "F" position or toward the "R" position. "Not traveling" refers to a case where the boat operator is not intentionally trying to move the boat 1, that is, where both levers 10 of the remote control 6 are in the "N" position and each outboard motor 3 of the boat 1 is not generating thrust, or where a fixed point holding function such as a stay point, fish point, or drift point is being executed.

[0032] As described above, the maneuvering modes that can be started while the vessel 1 is traveling are the course hold mode, the track point mode, and the pattern maneuvering mode, so the CourseHold button 20, the TrackPoint button 21, and the PatternSteer button 22 are touch buttons (first maneuvering function display unit) that display the maneuvering modes that can be started while the vessel 1 is traveling (hereinafter abbreviated as "modes that can be used while traveling"). Also, the maneuvering modes that can be started while the vessel 1 is not traveling are the joystick mode, stay point, drift point, and fish point, so the Joystick button 23, the StayPoint button 24, the DriftPoint button 25, and the FishPoint button 26 are touch buttons (second maneuvering function display unit) that display the maneuvering modes that can be started while the vessel 1 is not traveling (hereinafter abbreviated as "modes that can be used while not traveling").

[0033] In this way, the maneuvering modes that can be used change depending on whether the boat 1 is traveling or not, and therefore, there are unusable maneuvering modes depending on the state of the boat 1. Also, there are unusable maneuvering modes when the boat 1 is equipped with only one outboard motor 3. In this case, if a touch button corresponding to an unusable maneuvering mode continues to be displayed or if the touch button is displayed in a position that is easily visible to the boat operator, the boat operator may operate the touch button by mistake.

[0034] In response to this, in this embodiment, the BCU 12 controls the steering panel 15 to switch between displaying and hiding each of the touch buttons 20-26, or change the display position of each of the touch buttons 20-26, based on the configuration of the steering system 11, the steering status of the ship 1, the intended use of the ship 1, the current position of the ship 1, and the execution history of each steering mode.

[0035] Fig. 5 is a diagram for explaining a case where the touch buttons 20 to 26 of the ship operation panel 15 are switched between displayed and hidden. Note that Fig. 5 shows the ship operation panel 15, but does not show the steering wheel 9 or the spoke portion 19.

[0036] First, when the boat 1 is equipped with only one outboard motor 3, as described above, the boat 1 cannot move laterally and therefore the StayPoint cannot be executed. Therefore, the BCU 12 does not display the StayPoint button 24 on the steering panel 15. In this case, the DriftPoint button 25 may be moved to a position closer to the hands of the boat operator holding the steering wheel 9, taking into consideration the operability of the boat operator (FIG. 5(A)).

[0037] Furthermore, when the lever 10 of the remote control 6 is tilted toward the "F" position, the boat 1 is moving, so the BCU 12 does not display the Joystick button 23, the StayPoint button 24, the DriftPoint button 25, and the FishPoint button 26, which are touch buttons that indicate modes that can be used while not moving, on the steering panel 15. In this case, taking into account the operability of the boat operator, the TrackPoint button 21 may be moved to a position closer to the hands of the boat operator holding the steering wheel 9 (FIG. 5(B)).

[0038] Furthermore, when the lever 10 of the remote control 6 is in the "N" position, the boat 1 is not moving, so the BCU 12 does not display the CourseHold button 20, the TrackPoint button 21, and the PatternSteer button 22, which are touch buttons that display modes available while moving, on the steering panel 15. In this case, taking into consideration the operability of the boat operator, the StayPoint button 24, the DriftPoint button 25, and the FishPoint button 26 may be moved to positions closer to the hands of the boat operator holding the steering wheel 9 (FIG. 5(C)).

[0039] Fig. 6 is a diagram for explaining a case where the display positions of the touch buttons 20 to 26 of the vessel operation panel 15 are changed. Note that Fig. 6 also shows the vessel operation panel 15, but does not show the steering wheel 9 or the spoke portion 19.

[0040] When the ship steering system 11 is started up in the ship 1, the BCU 12 may use the MFD 8 to inquire of the ship operator about the intended use of the ship 1, for example, whether the ship 1 will be primarily used offshore (distant waters) or inshore (coastal waters).

[0041] In contrast, if the vessel operator responds by inputting information into the MFD 8 that the vessel 1 will be mainly used offshore, it is considered that the vessel 1 will spend a long time at sea, and therefore the modes available while sailing will be mainly used. Therefore, the BCU 12 displays the touch buttons CourseHold button 20, TrackPoint button 21, and PatternSteer button 22, which indicate the modes available while sailing, in a position that is easier for the vessel operator to see than the touch buttons Joystick button 23, StayPoint button 24, DriftPoint button 25, and FishPoint button 26, which indicate the modes available while not sailing.

[0042] Specifically, since the operator holding the wheel portion 18 of the steering wheel 9 will be looking at the maneuvering panel 15 from above, the CourseHold button 20, the TrackPoint button 21, and the PatternSteer button 22 are displayed above the Joystick button 23, the StayPoint button 24, the DriftPoint button 25, and the FishPoint button 26. However, depending on the size of the display area of ​​the maneuvering panel 15, for example, the Joystick button 23 may be displayed above the maneuvering panel 15. In this case, taking into consideration the operability of the operator, the TrackPoint button 21 may be moved to a position closer to the hand of the operator holding the steering wheel 9 ( FIG. 6(A) ).

[0043] On the other hand, if the vessel helmsman responds to the MFD 8 that the vessel 1 will be mainly used inshore, the vessel 1 will not be traveling for a long time, and therefore the modes available while not traveling will be mainly used. Therefore, the BCU 12 displays the Joystick button 23, the StayPoint button 24, the DriftPoint button 25, and the FishPoint button 26, which are touch buttons indicating the modes available while not traveling, in a position that is easier for the vessel helmsman to see than the CourseHold button 20, the TrackPoint button 21, and the PatternSteer button 22, which are touch buttons indicating the modes available while traveling. Specifically, the Joystick button 23, the StayPoint button 24, the DriftPoint button 25, and the FishPoint button 26 are displayed above the CourseHold button 20, the TrackPoint button 21, and the PatternSteer button 22 ( FIG. 6(B) ).

[0044] Furthermore, in the boat 1, when the boat maneuvering system 11 is started up, the BCU 12 may inquire of the boat operator through the MFD 8 whether or not the boat 1 will be used for fishing purposes.

[0045] In response to this, if the helmsman responds by inputting to the MFD 8 that the helmsman will use the boat 1 for fishing purposes, it is considered that the boat 1 will not be traveling for a long time. Therefore, the BCU 12 displays the Joystick button 23, the StayPoint button 24, the DriftPoint button 25, and the FishPoint button 26, which are touch buttons that display modes that can be used while the boat is not traveling, in a position that is easier for the helmsman to see than the CourseHold button 20 and the TrackPoint button 21, which are touch buttons that display modes that can be used while the boat is traveling. Note that although the PatternSteer button 22 is a touch button that displays modes that can be used while the boat is traveling, the helmsman or passengers may also use the pattern steering mode when fishing, so the PatternSteer button 22 is also displayed in a position that is easier for the helmsman to see than the CourseHold button 20 and the TrackPoint button 21.

[0046] Specifically, the PatternSteer button 22, StayPoint button 24, DriftPoint button 25, and FishPoint button 26 are displayed above the CourseHold button 20 and TrackPoint button 21 (FIG. 6(C)). Note that even in the example of FIG. 6(C), since there is not enough display area above the steering panel 15 to display the five touch buttons, the Joystick button 23, which is thought to be used less frequently for fishing among the touch buttons in the mode that can be used while not traveling, is displayed below the steering panel 15 for the sake of convenience.

[0047] Furthermore, in the vessel 1, when the maneuvering system 11 is started, the BCU 12 may inquire of the vessel helmsman through the MFD 8 whether or not the vessel 1 will be used for cruising. In response to this, if the vessel helmsman responds that the vessel 1 will be used for cruising by inputting information into the MFD 8, it is considered that the vessel 1 will be traveling for a long time. Therefore, the BCU 12 displays the CourseHold button 20, TrackPoint button 21, and PatternSteer button 22, which are touch buttons indicating modes available while traveling, in a position that is easier for the vessel helmsman to see than the Joystick button 23, StayPoint button 24, DriftPoint button 25, and FishPoint button 26, which are touch buttons indicating modes available while not traveling ( FIG. 6(A) ).

[0048] Furthermore, the BCU 12 changes the display positions of the touch buttons 20 to 26 based on the execution records of each maneuvering mode. For example, when the vessel 1 is mainly used inshore and the joystick mode, stay point, drift point, and fish point are executed more frequently than the pattern maneuvering mode, course hold mode, and track point mode, the BCU 12 displays the Joystick button 23, StayPoint button 24, DriftPoint button 25, and FishPoint button 26 above the CourseHold button 20, TrackPoint button 21, and PatternSteer button 22 (FIG. 6(D)).

[0049] Fig. 7 is a diagram for explaining a case where the display positions of the touch buttons 20 to 26 of the vessel operation panel 15 are changed. Note that Fig. 7 also shows the vessel operation panel 15, but the steering wheel 9 and the spoke portion 19 are omitted.

[0050] The BCU 12 changes the display positions of the touch buttons 20 to 26 based on the maneuvering status (e.g., maneuvering pattern and maneuvering time) of the boat 1. For example, when the boat 1 stops after traveling to the last mooring point in the track point mode or stops after cruising for a predetermined time, it is considered that there is a high possibility that the operator or passengers will fish after the boat stops.

[0051] Therefore, the BCU 12 displays the Joystick button 23, StayPoint button 24, DriftPoint button 25, and FishPoint button 26, which are touch buttons indicating modes that can be used while not traveling, in a position that is easier for the operator to see than the CourseHold button 20 and TrackPoint button 21, which are touch buttons indicating modes that can be used while traveling. In addition, the PatternSteer button 22, which indicates a pattern maneuvering mode that can be used while the operator or passengers are fishing, is also displayed in a position that is easier to see than the CourseHold button 20 and TrackPoint button 21 (FIG. 7(A)). In the example of FIG. 7(A), as in the example of FIG. 6(C), due to the size of the display area of ​​the maneuvering panel 15, the Joystick button 23, which is considered to be used less frequently while fishing, is displayed at the bottom of the maneuvering panel 15 for the sake of convenience.

[0052] Furthermore, the BCU 12 changes the display positions of the touch buttons 20 to 26 based on the maneuvering location of the vessel 1. For example, when the vessel 1 moves the lever 10 of the remote control 6 to the "N" position after the vessel 1 moves near a pier, for example, after the center of gravity of the vessel 1 moves to within 100 m of the pier, it is considered that there is a high possibility that the vessel helmsman will use the joystick 7 to maneuver the vessel 1 to dock at the pier.

[0053] Therefore, the BCU 12 displays the Joystick button 23 in a position that is easily visible to the vessel operator. In addition, since it is considered that the mode available while not traveling is more likely to be used than the mode available while traveling, the BCU 12 displays the StayPoint button 24, DriftPoint button 25, and FishPoint button 26 other than the Joystick button 23 in a position that is easier for the vessel operator to see than the CourseHold button 20, TrackPoint button 21, and PatternSteer button 22 (FIG. 7(B)).

[0054] In addition, since there is a high possibility that the operator will use the joystick 7 to move the boat 1 away from the pier until a predetermined time has elapsed since the outboard motors 3 are powered on or started up after SW17 receives the instructions to power on or start each outboard motor 3, the BCU 12 displays the joystick button 23 in a position that is easily visible to the operator (Figure 7(B)).

[0055] Furthermore, the BCU 12 changes the display positions of the touch buttons 20 to 26 based on the execution record of each maneuvering mode and the maneuvering situation when each maneuvering mode was executed. For example, if a specific maneuvering mode (e.g., joystick mode, stay point, drift point, or fish point) is often executed after the ship 1 moves to the last mooring point in the track point mode and stops there, or after cruising for a predetermined time and stops there, the BCU 12 displays the Joystick button 23, StayPoint button 24, DriftPoint button 25, and FishPoint button 26 in positions that are easier for the ship navigator to see than the PatternSteer button 22, CourseHold button 20, and TrackPoint button 21 after the ship 1 moves to the last mooring point in the track point mode and stops there, or after cruising for a predetermined time and stops there (FIG. 7(C)).

[0056] Furthermore, the BCU 12 changes the display positions of the touch buttons 20 to 26 based on the execution record of each maneuvering mode and the location where each maneuvering mode was executed. For example, if the boat 1 often executes drift points for fishing in a specific sea area with a tidal current, the BCU 12 displays the DriftPoint button 25 in a position that is easily visible to the boat helmsman after the boat 1 moves to the specific sea area again. In addition, since it is considered that the mode that is not available while traveling is more likely to be used at this time than the mode that is available while traveling, the BCU 12 displays the Joystick button 23, StayPoint button 24, and FishPoint button 26 other than the DriftPoint button 25 in positions that are easier for the boat helmsman to see than the CourseHold button 20, TrackPoint button 21, and PatternSteer button 22 (FIG. 7(D)).

[0057] According to this embodiment, the display and non-display of each of the touch buttons 20-26 is switched, or the display position of each of the touch buttons 20-26 is changed, based on the configuration of the maneuvering system 11, the maneuvering status of the vessel 1, the intended use of the vessel 1, the current position of the vessel 1, and the execution record of each maneuvering mode. Specifically, touch buttons corresponding to unavailable maneuvering modes are hidden, or touch buttons corresponding to maneuvering modes that are considered to be used frequently are displayed in positions that are easy for the vessel operator to see. This can reduce the possibility that the vessel operator will mistakenly operate a touch button corresponding to an unavailable maneuvering mode or a touch button corresponding to a maneuvering mode that is considered to be used infrequently. As a result, the usability of each of the touch buttons 20-26 can be improved.

[0058] Furthermore, in this embodiment, since only the display / non-display switching and the change of the display position of each of the touch buttons 20-26 displayed on the maneuvering panel 15 are performed, there is no need to prepare multiple layout patterns of physical switches according to the configuration of the maneuvering system 11, the maneuvering status of the ship 1, the intended use of the ship 1, the current position of the ship 1, and the execution record of each maneuvering mode. In other words, there is no need to prepare an operation panel or the like on which multiple physical switches are arranged, which is also advantageous in terms of cost.

[0059] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a CourseHold button 20, a TrackPoint button 21, a PatternSteer button 22, a Joystick button 23, a StayPoint button 24, a DriftPoint button 25, and a FishPoint button 26 are displayed on the vessel maneuvering panel 15. However, the touch buttons displayed on the vessel maneuvering panel 15 are not limited to these, and touch buttons corresponding to other vessel maneuvering modes may be displayed.

[0060] In the present embodiment, the touch buttons 20-26 are switched between display and non-display, but the size of each of the touch buttons 20-26 may be changed. For example, if the boat 1 is equipped with only one outboard motor 3, the StayPoint button 24 is not displayed on the maneuvering panel 15, and this leaves some space in the display area of ​​the maneuvering panel 15. By utilizing this space, the CourseHold button 20, the TrackPoint button 21, the PatternSteer button 22, the Joystick button 23, the DriftPoint button 25, and the FishPoint button 26 may be enlarged (FIG. 8(A)). This can improve the visibility and operability of the touch buttons 20-23, 25, and 26 for the operator.

[0061] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the display positions of the touch buttons 20 to 26 are changed by swapping the display positions of the touch buttons 20 to 26 as shown in Fig. 6 and Fig. 7, but the touch buttons 20 to 26 may be moved to positions where they were not displayed. For example, as shown in Fig. 6(B), when the helmsman responds to the MFD 8 that the vessel 1 will be mainly used inshore, the Joystick button 23, the StayPoint button 24, the DriftPoint button 25, and the FishPoint button 26 may be moved to positions where the touch buttons 20 to 26 were not displayed, to create space in the display area above the maneuvering panel 15. In this case, even if the mode is a mode available while traveling, the PatternSteer button 22, which displays a pattern maneuvering mode that is also expected to be used inshore, may be displayed above the CourseHold button 20 and the TrackPoint button 21 (Fig. 8(B)).

[0062] Also, the size of each of the touch buttons 20-26 may be changed, and each of the touch buttons 20-26 may be moved to a position where it was not displayed before. For example, if the operator answers to the MFD 8 that he / she will mainly use the vessel 1 inshore, it is considered that the CourseHold button 20 and the TrackPoint button 21 will not be used, and the StayPoint button 24 and the Joystick button 23 will be used more frequently. Therefore, by not displaying the CourseHold button 20 and the TrackPoint button 21, and further by moving the PatternSteer button 22, the DriftPoint button 25, and the FishPoint button 26 to a position where each of the touch buttons 20-26 was not displayed before, a margin in the display area of ​​the maneuvering panel 15 may be created, and this margin may be utilized to enlarge the StayPoint button 24 and the Joystick button 23 (FIG. 8(C)). This can improve the visibility and operability of the StayPoint button 24 and the Joystick button 23. It should be noted that the switching between display and non-display of each of the touch buttons 20 to 26 and the change in the display position of each of the touch buttons 20 to 26 are not limited to the examples shown in FIGS.

[0063] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the steering panel 15 is disposed on the steering mechanism 5, but the steering panel 15 may be disposed on the remote control 6 (operation means) as shown in Fig. 9, or on the joystick 7 (operation means) as shown in Fig. 10. Also, instead of the steering system 11 being provided with the steering panel 15, as shown in Fig. 11, a partial area of ​​the touch panel of the MFD 8 may function as the steering panel, and a CourseHold button 20, a TrackPoint button 21, a PatternSteer button 22, a Joystick button 23, a StayPoint button 24, a DriftPoint button 25, and a FishPoint button 26 may be displayed in that area.

[0064] In the cases of Figures 9 to 11, too, the display and non-display of each touch button 20 to 26 is switched, or the display position of each touch button 20 to 26 is changed, based on the configuration of the steering system 11, the steering status of the ship 1, the intended use of the ship 1, the current position of the ship 1, and the execution history of each steering mode.

[0065] Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Since the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment only in the form of the navigation panel, the description of the overlapping configurations and operations will be omitted and the different configurations and operations will be described below.

[0066] Fig. 12 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of the steering mechanism 5 in this embodiment, and shows the steering mechanism 5 as viewed from the operator's side. The up-down and left-right directions in Fig. 12 coincide with the up-down and left-right directions of the boat 1.

[0067] 12, a steering panel 27 is disposed on the steering mechanism 5. Similar to the steering panel 15, the steering panel 27 is attached to the column portion so as not to rotate even when the steering wheel 9 rotates about the steering axis.

[0068] The ship steering panel 27 is a horizontally long rectangular panel, and has a number of push buttons 28 arranged vertically on the left and right sides of the ship steering panel 27. Each push button 28 is a physical switch that the ship operator presses with his / her finger to perform an input operation. The ship steering panel 27 also has a display 29 (display device) in the center. The display 29 is, for example, an LCD display, and displays a number of function display icons 30-36 (ship steering function display section) adjacent to each push button 28.

[0069] Each of the function display icons 30 to 36 includes a character string indicating a ship maneuvering mode that is executed when the adjacent push button 28 is pressed. For example, the CourseHold icon 30 corresponds to the course holding mode, and when the push button 28 adjacent to the CourseHold icon 30 is pressed, an instruction to execute the course holding mode is transmitted from the ship maneuvering panel 27 to the BCU 12. The TrackPoint icon 31 corresponds to the track point mode, and when the push button 28 adjacent to the TrackPoint icon 31 is pressed, an instruction to execute the track point mode is transmitted from the ship maneuvering panel 27 to the BCU 12. The PatternSteer icon 32 corresponds to the pattern ship maneuvering mode, and when the push button 28 adjacent to the PatternSteer icon 32 is pressed, an instruction to execute the pattern ship maneuvering mode is transmitted from the ship maneuvering panel 27 to the BCU 12.

[0070] Furthermore, the Joystick icon 33 corresponds to the joystick mode, and when the push button 28 adjacent to the Joystick icon 33 is pressed, an instruction to execute the joystick mode is transmitted from the steering panel 27 to the BCU 12. The StayPoint icon 34 corresponds to a stay point, and when the push button 28 adjacent to the StayPoint icon 34 is pressed, an instruction to execute the stay point is transmitted from the steering panel 27 to the BCU 12. The DriftPoint icon 35 corresponds to a drift point, and when the push button 28 adjacent to the DriftPoint icon 35 is pressed, an instruction to execute the drift point is transmitted from the steering panel 27 to the BCU 12. The FishPoint icon 36 corresponds to a fish point, and when the push button 28 adjacent to the FishPoint icon 36 is pressed, an instruction to execute the fish point is transmitted from the steering panel 27 to the BCU 12.

[0071] The display positions of the function display icons 30-36 on the display 29 can be changed, and in accordance with the change in the display positions of the function display icons 30-36, the vessel maneuvering mode to be executed changes even when the same push button 28 is pressed. For example, when the FishPoint icon 36 moves from next to the lowest left push button 28 to next to the highest right push button 28, FishPoint is executed when the lowest left push button 28 is pressed before the FishPoint icon 36 moves, but after the FishPoint icon 36 moves, FishPoint is not executed even when the same lowest left push button 28 is pressed, and instead, the vessel maneuvering mode indicated by the function display icon adjacent to the lowest left push button 28 at that time is executed. Note that after the FishPoint icon 36 moves, FishPoint is executed when the highest right push button 28 is pressed.

[0072] In this embodiment, the CourseHold icon 30, the TrackPoint icon 31 and the PatternSteer icon 32 are function display icons (first steering function display section) indicating modes that can be used while traveling, and the Joystick icon 33, the StayPoint icon 34, the DriftPoint icon 35 and the FishPoint icon 36 are function display icons (second steering function display section) that indicate modes that can be used while not traveling.

[0073] In addition, in this embodiment, the BCU 12 controls the display 29 of the steering panel 27 based on the configuration of the steering system 11, the steering status of the ship 1, the use of the ship 1, the current position of the ship 1, and the execution history of each steering mode, and switches between displaying and hiding each of the function display icons 30-36, or changes the display position of each of the function display icons 30-36.

[0074] Fig. 13 is a diagram for explaining a case where the display / non-display of each of the function display icons 30 to 36 of the ship maneuvering panel 27 is switched and the display positions of each of the function display icons 30 to 36 are changed. Note that the display / non-display of each of the function display icons 30 to 36 and the display positions of each of the function display icons 30 to 36 are not limited to the example shown in Fig. 13.

[0075] For example, when the boat 1 is equipped with only one outboard motor 3, the BCU 12 does not display the StayPoint icon 34 on the display 29 (FIG. 13(A)). Also, when the lever 10 of the remote control 6 is in the "N" position, the BCU 12 does not display the CourseHold icon 30, TrackPoint icon 31, and PatternSteer icon 32, which are function display icons indicating modes that can be used while traveling, on the display 29. In this case, the Joystick icon 33, StayPoint icon 34, and FishPoint icon 36 may be moved upward in consideration of the visibility of the operator (FIG. 13(B)).

[0076] Furthermore, when the operator responds by inputting information into the MFD 8 that he or she will use the boat 1 for fishing, the StayPoint icon 34, DriftPoint icon 35, and FishPoint icon 36, which are function display icons indicating modes that can be used while not traveling, and the PatternSteer icon 32, which indicates a pattern steering mode that can be used while traveling but may be used for fishing, are displayed above the CourseHold icon 30 and the TrackPoint icon 31 (FIG. 13(C)). Note that in the example of FIG. 13(C), due to the size of the display area of ​​the display 29, the Joystick icon 33, which is considered to be used less frequently for fishing, among the function display icons for modes that can be used while not traveling, is displayed conveniently below the display 29.

[0077] Furthermore, when the vessel 1 moves to the vicinity of a pier, for example, after the center of gravity of the vessel 1 moves to within 100 m of the pier, and the vessel helmsman moves the lever 10 of the remote control 6 to the "N" position, the BCU 12 displays the Joystick icon 33 in the top position where it is easily visible to the vessel helmsman. Also, since it is considered that the vessel helmsman is more likely to use the mode that is not available while traveling than the mode that is available while traveling at this time, the BCU 12 displays the StayPoint icon 34, DriftPoint icon 35, and FishPoint icon 36 other than the Joystick icon 33 above the CourseHold icon 30, TrackPoint icon 31, and PatternSteer icon 32 (FIG. 13(D)).

[0078] According to this embodiment, the display and non-display of each of the function display icons 30 to 36 is switched, or the display positions of each of the function display icons 30 to 36 are changed, based on the configuration of the maneuvering system 11, the maneuvering status of the vessel 1, the use purpose of the vessel 1, the current position of the vessel 1, and the execution record of each maneuvering mode. Specifically, the function display icon corresponding to an unavailable vessel maneuvering mode is hidden, or the function display icon corresponding to a vessel maneuvering mode considered to be used frequently is displayed in a position that is easily visible to the vessel operator. This can reduce the possibility that the vessel operator will mistakenly operate the push button 28 adjacent to a function display icon corresponding to an unavailable vessel maneuvering mode or a push button 28 adjacent to a function display icon corresponding to a vessel maneuvering mode considered to be used less frequently. As a result, the usability of the vessel maneuvering panel 27 can be improved.

[0079] In this embodiment, each of the function display icons 30-36 includes a character string indicating the corresponding maneuvering mode, but each of the function display icons 30-36 may not include a character string and may be configured with an illustration indicating the corresponding maneuvering mode. Also, in this embodiment, the maneuvering panel 27 is provided on the steering mechanism 5, but the maneuvering panel 27 may be provided on the remote control 6 or the joystick 7.

[0080] Furthermore, the push buttons 28 and the function display icons 30-36 may be arranged separately. Fig. 14 is a diagram for explaining a case where the push buttons 28 and the function display icons 30-36 are arranged separately. In this case, for example, as shown in Fig. 14(A), the ship maneuvering panel 27 arranged on the steering mechanism 5 does not include a display 29, and the function display icons 30-36 are displayed on the touch panel of the MFD 8. However, in this area, the arrangement of the function display icons 30-36 corresponds to the arrangement of the push buttons 28 on the ship maneuvering panel 27, and when a certain push button 28 is pressed down, the ship maneuvering mode of the function display icon whose position corresponds to that push button 28 is executed.

[0081] Also in this case, the display positions of the function display icons 30-36 on the touch panel of the MFD 8 can be changed, and when the display positions of the function display icons 30-36 are changed, the maneuvering mode that is executed when a certain push button 28 is pressed down is changed from the maneuvering mode of the function display icon whose position corresponded to that push button 28 before the change to the maneuvering mode of the function display icon whose position now corresponds to that push button 28 after the change.

[0082] In this way, even when each push button 28 and each function display icon 30-36 are arranged separately, the BCU 12 controls the touch panel of the MFD 8 to switch between displaying and hiding each function display icon 30-36, or change the display position of each function display icon 30-36, based on the configuration of the steering system 11, the steering status of the vessel 1, the use of the vessel 1, the current position of the vessel 1, and the execution history of each steering mode.

[0083] For example, when the lever 10 of the remote control 6 is in the "N" position, the BCU 12 does not display the PatternSteer icon 32, the CourseHold icon 30, and the TrackPoint icon 31 on the touch panel of the MFD 8. In this case, the Joystick icon 33, the StayPoint icon 34, and the FishPoint icon 36 may be moved upward in consideration of the visibility of the operator (FIG. 14(B)).

[0084] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and changes are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention.

[0085] For example, the execution records of each maneuvering mode may be shared among multiple ships 1. Specifically, the BCU 12 of a certain ship 1 may store the execution records of each maneuvering mode of that ship 1 in a server via a network, and when another ship 1 starts sailing, the BCU 12 of that other ship 1 may refer to the execution records of each maneuvering mode stored in the server and, based on this, switch between displaying and not displaying each of the touch buttons 20 to 26 or change the display positions of each of the touch buttons 20 to 26.

[0086] The present invention may also be realized by reading a program that realizes the functions of each of the above-mentioned embodiments from a memory or the like included in the BCU 12 and having the BCU 12 execute the program, or by supplying a program that realizes the functions of each of the above-mentioned embodiments to the ship maneuvering system 11 via a network or a storage medium and having the BCU 12 execute the supplied program. Furthermore, the present invention may also be realized by a circuit (e.g., an ASIC) that realizes one or more functions of the BCU 12. [Explanation of symbols]

[0087] 1 Boat, 3 Outboard motor, 5 Steering mechanism, 6 Remote control, 7 Joystick, 8 MFD, 12 BCU, 15, 27 Navigation panel, 20 to 26 Touch buttons, 28 push button, 29 display, 30~36 function display icon

Claims

1. A display control method for a plurality of ship maneuvering function display units that display ship maneuvering functions, comprising: the plurality of ship maneuvering function display units include a first ship maneuvering function display unit that displays the ship maneuvering functions that can be started to be used while the ship is traveling, and a second ship maneuvering function display unit that displays the ship maneuvering functions that can be started to be used while the ship is not traveling, A display control method for a ship steering function display unit, which switches between displaying and hiding each of the ship steering function display units, or changes the display position of each of the ship steering function display units, based on at least one of the configuration of the ship steering system, the ship steering status, the intended use of the ship, the current position of the ship, and the performance record of the ship steering functions.

2. 2. The display control method for a vessel maneuvering function display unit according to claim 1, wherein the vessel maneuvering function display unit is a touch button serving as a software key displayed on a touch panel.

3. a physical switch corresponding to each of the marine vessel maneuvering functions and a display device separate from the physical switch are provided; The display control method for a ship maneuvering function display unit according to claim 1 , wherein the ship maneuvering function display unit is a display that indicates the ship maneuvering function corresponding to the physical switch on the display device.

4. 2. The display control method for a ship maneuvering function display unit according to claim 1, wherein, when the ship is equipped with only one ship propulsion unit, the second ship maneuvering function display unit related to a ship maneuvering function involving lateral movement of the ship is not displayed.

5. The display control method for a ship maneuvering function display unit according to claim 1 , wherein the second ship maneuvering function display unit is not displayed when the ship is traveling.

6. 2. The display control method for a ship maneuvering function display unit according to claim 1, wherein the first ship maneuvering function display unit is not displayed when the ship is not traveling.

7. 2. A display control method for a ship steering function display unit as described in claim 1, wherein the ship steering function display unit corresponding to a ship steering function that is considered to be used frequently is displayed at a position closer to the ship operator than the other ship steering function display units based on at least one of the configuration of the ship steering system, the ship steering status, the intended use of the ship, the current position of the ship, and the execution history of the ship steering functions.

8. 8. The display control method for a ship maneuvering function display unit according to claim 7, wherein, when the ship is used inshore, the second ship maneuvering function display unit is displayed at a position closer to a ship operator than the first ship maneuvering function display unit.

9. The display control method for a ship maneuvering function display unit according to claim 7, wherein, when the ship is used offshore, the first ship maneuvering function display unit is displayed at a position closer to a ship operator than the second ship maneuvering function display unit.

10. 8. The display control method for a vessel maneuvering function display unit according to claim 7, wherein, when the vessel is used for fishing, the second vessel maneuvering function display unit is displayed at a position closer to a vessel operator than the first vessel maneuvering function display unit.

11. 8. The display control method for a ship maneuvering function display unit according to claim 7, wherein, when the ship stops after traveling, the second ship maneuvering function display unit is displayed at a position closer to the ship operator than the first ship maneuvering function display unit.

12. 8. The display control method for a ship maneuvering function display unit according to claim 7, wherein, when the ship moves near a pier, the second ship maneuvering function display unit is displayed at a position closer to the ship operator than the first ship maneuvering function display unit.

13. 8. The display control method for a ship maneuvering function display unit according to claim 7, wherein the ship is equipped with a ship propulsion unit, and until a predetermined time has elapsed after the ship propulsion unit is started, the second ship maneuvering function display unit is displayed at a position closer to the ship operator than the first ship maneuvering function display unit.

14. 2. A display control method for a ship steering function display unit as described in claim 1, wherein the ship steering function display unit corresponding to a ship steering function that is considered to be used frequently based on at least one of the configuration of the ship steering system, the ship steering status, the intended use of the ship, the current position of the ship, and the execution history of the ship steering function is enlarged and displayed more than the other ship steering function display units.

15. The vessel includes an operation means operated by a vessel operator for vessel operation, the plurality of marine vessel maneuvering function display units are arranged on the operation means, 2. A display control method for a ship steering function display unit as described in claim 1, wherein the ship steering function display unit corresponding to a ship steering function that is considered to be used frequently based on at least one of the configuration of the ship steering system, the ship steering status, the intended use of the ship, the current position of the ship, and the execution history of the ship steering functions is displayed at a position closer to the hand of the ship operator who operates the operating means than the other ship steering function display units.

16. 16. The display control method for a marine vessel maneuvering function display unit according to claim 15, wherein the operation means is any one of a steering mechanism, a remote control, and a joystick.

17. A ship maneuvering system including a plurality of ship maneuvering function display units that display ship maneuvering functions, and a control unit, the plurality of ship maneuvering function display units include a first ship maneuvering function display unit that displays the ship maneuvering functions that can be started to be used while the ship is traveling, and a second ship maneuvering function display unit that displays the ship maneuvering functions that can be started to be used while the ship is not traveling, The control unit switches between displaying and hiding each of the maneuvering function display units, or changes the display position of each of the maneuvering function display units, based on at least one of the configuration of the ship's maneuvering system, the maneuvering status of the ship, the intended use of the ship, the current position of the ship, and the performance record of the maneuvering functions.

18. The boat maneuvering system according to claim 17, wherein the boat maneuvering function display unit is a touch button serving as a software key displayed on a touch panel.

19. Further comprising a physical switch corresponding to each of the marine vessel maneuvering functions and a display device separate from the physical switch, The boat maneuvering system according to claim 17 , wherein the boat maneuvering function display unit is an indication on the display device that indicates the boat maneuvering function corresponding to the physical switch.

20. A display control method for a plurality of ship maneuvering function display units that display ship maneuvering functions, comprising: the plurality of ship maneuvering function display units include a first ship maneuvering function display unit that displays the ship maneuvering functions that can be started to be used while the ship is traveling, and a second ship maneuvering function display unit that displays the ship maneuvering functions that can be started to be used while the ship is not traveling, A display control method for a ship steering function display unit, which changes the display form of each of the ship steering function display units based on at least one of the configuration of the ship steering system, the ship steering status, the intended use of the ship, the current position of the ship, and the execution history of the ship steering functions.

Images