Adaptive Electric Throttle Control for Marine Vessel Maneuvering
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Solution Overview
Problem
The nonlinear relationship between engine speed and throttle opening degree in traditional outboard motor systems makes it difficult for unskilled operators to control marine vessels, especially in low-speed maneuvers, and requires higher responsiveness in middle-to-high speed ranges, which is not met by the existing throttle characteristics.
Innovation Solution
A marine vessel running controlling apparatus that includes an engine characteristic measuring unit, a throttle opening degree characteristic setting unit, and a target throttle opening degree setting unit to determine a desired operation amount-target throttle opening degree characteristic based on actual engine output measurements, allowing for adaptive control of the electric throttle to provide linear engine output changes with respect to operational unit inputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional mechanical throttle connection is used with a fixed linear relationship between throttle lever operation and throttle opening, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the engine speed changes steeply in the low-speed range making fine control difficult and requiring high operator skill
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the throttle opening degree characteristic adjustable and adaptive. The control unit dynamically modifies the relationship between throttle lever operation and throttle opening based on engine operating conditions, allowing the system to transition from a fixed mechanical connection to a dynamic electronic control system that adapts to different speed ranges and operator needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of throttle opening degree characteristic from a fixed linear relationship to a variable nonlinear relationship. By modifying the throttle opening degree characteristic according to engine speed and operating conditions, the system achieves easier control in low-speed ranges while maintaining simplicity through electronic control rather than mechanical complexity.
2Speed
If the engine speed-steeply increases with small throttle opening changes in the low-speed range, then the engine responds quickly to throttle input, but the propulsive force becomes difficult to control precisely for docking and maneuvering operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by having the control unit continuously monitor engine operating conditions and adjust the throttle opening degree characteristic accordingly. The system uses feedback from engine speed and load conditions to modify the throttle response characteristics, ensuring precise propulsive force control while maintaining appropriate responsiveness across different operating ranges.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the throttle opening degree characteristic based on real-time engine conditions. In the low-speed range, the control unit modifies the characteristic to reduce the steepness of engine speed increase, while in higher speed ranges it restores responsiveness, creating a dynamic balance between responsiveness and controllability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the throttle opening degree-engine speed characteristic is kept as a fixed nonlinear curve, then the engine maintains its natural response characteristics, but the marine vessel cannot achieve both easy low-speed control and high-speed responsiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the control characteristic dynamic by allowing the throttle opening degree characteristic to change based on engine operating conditions. The control unit adjusts the characteristic in real-time, enabling the system to adapt to different speed ranges and operational requirements without requiring multiple separate control systems or complex mechanical adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it monitors engine conditions, calculates appropriate throttle characteristics, and adjusts the throttle opening degree accordingly. This multi-functional electronic control system replaces what would otherwise require multiple separate systems or complex mechanical arrangements, achieving adaptability while maintaining relative simplicity.
4Ease of operation
If an electric throttle with adjustable characteristic is implemented, then the operation amount-throttle opening degree characteristic can be flexibly modified for better maneuvering, but the system complexity increases compared to traditional mechanical throttles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical throttle connection with an electric throttle system controlled by a control unit. This substitution eliminates the need for complex mechanical linkages and adjustment mechanisms, achieving flexible characteristic modification through electronic control while reducing overall system complexity despite the added electronic components.
Data Source
AI summary
A marine vessel running controlling apparatus is applicable to a marine vessel which includes a propulsive force generating unit having an engine with an electric throttle as a drive source for generating a propulsive force to propel a hull of the marine vessel. The apparatus includes an operational unit to be operated by an operator of the marine vessel so as to control the propulsive force, and a control unit which updates control information related to an opening degree of the electric throttle with respect to an operation amount of the operational unit based on a marine vessel traveling result.