Boat Operation Control System for Smooth Mode Transitions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of watercraft face reduced rider comfort due to quick deceleration when switching between normal and low-speed modes, as existing systems require constant throttle lever adjustment to maintain low speeds in No Wake Zones.
Innovation Solution
An operation control system for small boats that includes acceleration displacement detection and mode selection, allowing drivers to switch between normal and low-speed modes by detecting the displacement of an acceleration controller, thereby reducing deceleration rate and improving comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the driver switches from normal mode to low-speed mode, then the boat speed is reduced to a preset low speed, but the deceleration is quick resulting in reduced rider comfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the throttle valve opening adjustable based on driving conditions. The system dynamically changes the throttle opening degree between a first value (for normal cruising) and a second value (for fuel-efficient operation), allowing smooth transitions that maintain rider comfort while achieving speed reduction and fuel economy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of throttle valve opening degree based on detected driving conditions. When the engine is in a fuel-efficient rotation range and the clutch is engaged, the system adjusts the throttle opening to a second value that maintains lower speed while improving fuel efficiency, rather than abrupt deceleration.
2Reliability
If the throttle valve is opened to a driver-determined position for cruising, then the engine speed is maintained at the current level, but the system cannot optimize for fuel efficiency in speed-limited areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses feedback by detecting engine rotation speed and clutch engagement status, then automatically adjusting the throttle valve opening degree. When the engine operates in a fuel-efficient rotation range with the clutch engaged, the system feedback-adjusts the throttle to optimize fuel consumption while maintaining stable operation, combining cruise control reliability with energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the throttle control system multi-functional by enabling it to perform both traditional cruise control (maintaining current speed) and fuel-efficient operation (optimizing for economy). The single throttle control system adapts its behavior based on detected conditions, providing either speed maintenance or fuel optimization depending on what is needed.
3Speed
If the driver manually holds the throttle lever at a precise location for low speed, then the boat moves at slow speed in No Wake Zones, but this requires constant operator attention and is tiresome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the boat to automatically maintain appropriate speed through the control system. The system detects driving conditions and automatically adjusts the throttle valve opening degree, allowing the boat to self-regulate its speed without requiring constant manual intervention from the operator, thus reducing fatigue while maintaining low-speed control.
Data Source
AI summary
An operation control system for a small boat can include a mode selection module configured to allow a driver to select between a plurality of driving modes including at least a normal operation mode, in which the boat cruises at a speed in response to the displacement of an acceleration controller, and a low-speed setting mode, in which the boat cruises at a preset low speed when a low-speed setting controller is operated; in which the mode selection module permits the driving mode to switch to the low-speed setting mode if the displacement of the acceleration controller is zero, or small or close to zero or is in or substantially at an idle position.