Automated Winch Force Feedback for Sailboat Maneuver Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated winches in sailboats lack the ability to provide haptic feedback, leading to a high risk of equipment breakage due to variable and unpredictable forces during different sailing maneuvers, as they cannot adapt to the diverse nature of these maneuvers.
Innovation Solution
A winch automation device with a human-machine interface and memory that records pre-defined maneuvers, providing real-time force feedback and limiting forces to prevent damage, using an electric or hydraulic motor with a supervision member to control the capstan drum.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If an automated winch is used to increase maneuver speed, then productivity is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to lack of haptic feedback and inability to detect abnormal forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system through a display unit that shows real-time force values measured by a force sensor. This allows the operator to monitor the forces applied during automated winch operation and detect abnormal conditions, thereby maintaining reliability while benefiting from automated speed control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical haptic feedback system with an electronic measurement and display system. Instead of relying on mechanical sensation through the crank, the system uses a force sensor and display unit to provide information about applied forces, enabling the operator to monitor conditions without direct mechanical feedback.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple reduction speeds are provided to adapt to different maneuvers, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic control system where the operator can select different reduction speeds (first and second speeds with different reduction ratios) based on the specific maneuver requirements. The control unit allows dynamic switching between these speeds, providing adaptability without requiring a completely complex mechanical system.
3Reliability
If real-time force monitoring is added to prevent equipment breakage, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a force sensor as an intermediary element between the winch mechanism and the control system. This sensor measures the forces applied during operation and transmits this information to the display unit, enabling monitoring and protection functions while adding minimal complexity to the overall system.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a winch automation device comprising:a motor (12) intended to engage a capstan drum (2) of the winch;a supervision member (15) of the motor able to fix the torque applied by the motor to the capstan drum (2);a memory (22) integrating a set of pre-recorded manoeuvres (29, 32, 33), each manoeuvre being associated with at least one limit force (30, 31);means (28) for measuring the force engaged on the winch; anda human-machine interface (26a), connected to the supervision member, and comprising:motor-actuation means (35-37);manoeuvre selection means (34); andat least one display (27) able to convey to a user of the winch information regarding the force engaged on the winch and information regarding the expected limit force for the selected manoeuvre.