Boat Auxiliary Control Device Modular Mounting Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control devices for generating auxiliary controls on boats lack adaptability to different types of boats and installations, requiring custom installation for each boat and not accommodating ergonomic upgrades, which complicates user operation and integration of new functionalities.
Innovation Solution
A control device with a clamping annular element that surrounds the drive unit casing, allowing for flexible adaptation to various boat dimensions and configurations, featuring removable fastener means and a mechanism with an oscillating lever or push-button design that can be height-adjusted and operated without removing hands from the steering wheel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If control devices are installed according to constructional characteristics of each boat, then the device can be adapted to specific boat dimensions, but the device complexity and installation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control device is divided into modular components: a support element with adjustable support members, and a control unit with auxiliary controls. This segmentation allows each module to be independently adjusted and installed, simplifying the overall installation process while maintaining adaptability to different boat configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The support element is designed with multiple adjustable support members that can accommodate various mounting positions and angles. The control unit can be positioned at different locations along the support element, making the same basic structure universally applicable to different boat types without requiring custom-designed installations for each vessel
2Ease of operation
If auxiliary controls are placed near the steering control member, then the user can operate them without removing hands from the steering wheel, but the control device occupies limited space and may interfere with steering control
Solution Approach 1:
The support element extends in multiple dimensions from the instrument panel, allowing the control unit to be positioned in three-dimensional space near the steering wheel. The adjustable support members can extend horizontally, vertically, and at various angles, enabling the auxiliary controls to be placed in available spaces that would not be occupied by traditional two-dimensional panel mounting
3Ease of operation
If the control device is made height-adjustable, then ergonomic positioning is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support element incorporates adjustable support members that can be positioned at different heights and angles. These adjustable elements allow the control unit to be dynamically repositioned to match the operator's ergonomic requirements, while the adjustment mechanisms are designed to be simple and intuitive, avoiding overly complex systems
Data Source
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AI summary
Control device for generating auxiliary controls for a boat for controlling and regulating at least one boat handling auxiliary functionality, comprising at least one intermediate switch or changeover switch or switch device located below the steering control member of said boat such as a wheel, a steering wheel or the like, said steering control member being connected to a drive unit for one or more steering actuators through a drive shaft (10) and said at least one control device for generating auxiliary controls for a boat comprising a housing case in the form of an arm (1) having at one end a member (2) controlling said control device for generating auxiliary controls. According to the invention the control device for generating auxiliary controls is provided with a terminal (5, 61, 62) removably fastening alternatively to the casing (3) holding the drive unit for the steering actuator or to a part thereof or to a wall (7) of a bridge or of a dashboard in a region adjacent to the region for mounting said casing (3) holding the drive unit for the steering actuator to said bridge or to said dashboard.