Boat Maneuvering Control System Error Signal Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing boat maneuvering control systems face significant reductions in propulsive force due to errors in operation signals and communication errors between controllers, leading to reduced propulsion efficiency, especially in long-distance open-sea operations.
Innovation Solution
A boat maneuvering control system that includes a controller capable of switching from an error-prone operation signal to a secondary operation signal, ensuring continuous propulsion by detecting and addressing errors in operation signals and communication errors between controllers, thereby maintaining propulsion efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the system stops driving engines when errors occur in operation signals, then the reliability of control is improved, but the propulsive force is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary error detection on operation signals before executing control commands. By detecting errors in advance through validation checks (such as verifying signal ranges and consistency), the system can identify problematic signals before they cause control failures, allowing for preventive switching to backup signals without stopping the engines.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces a signal validation and switching mechanism as an intermediary between the operation signals and the engine control. This intermediary layer detects errors in operation signals and switches to alternative signals (such as default signals or signals from other operators) when errors are detected, ensuring continuous engine operation without direct transmission of erroneous commands.
2Ease of operation
If multiple operators and controllers are used, then the ease of operation is improved, but the complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the control function across multiple operators and controllers, allowing different operators to control different engines or aspects of propulsion. Each operator-controller pair operates relatively independently, simplifying the interface for each user while distributing the overall system functionality across multiple components.
Solution Approach 2:
The error detection and signal switching mechanism serves multiple functions: it validates operation signals, detects communication errors, switches to alternative signals, and maintains system operation. This multi-functional approach handles various error conditions and operational scenarios without requiring separate systems for each function, thereby managing complexity while supporting multiple operators.
3Productivity
If communication between controllers is increased, then the coordination efficiency is improved, but the likelihood of communication errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where controllers exchange operation signals and status information with each other. Each controller sends its operation signals to other controllers and receives their signals in return, creating a feedback loop that enables coordinated control of multiple engines while allowing each controller to verify the consistency and validity of received signals.
Solution Approach 2:
Controllers perform preliminary validation of received communication signals before executing control actions. By checking the consistency and validity of signals from other controllers in advance, the system can identify communication errors before they affect engine coordination, allowing for error correction or switching to alternative control signals.
Data Source
AI summary
A controller of a boat maneuvering control system for a boat is configured or programmed to perform a control to switch from controlling a propulsion device based on a first operation signal that includes error information, to controlling a propulsive force of the propulsion device based on a second operation signal different from the first operation signal upon acquiring the error information.