Boat Auto-Docking Completion Detection Using Collision Vibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional automatic boat docking systems require multiple sensors, increasing costs without providing a cost-effective method to determine when docking is complete.
Innovation Solution
A system using a control unit with a processor that switches to an automatic docking mode, outputs control signals for steering, and ends the docking mode upon detecting a vibration, allowing the boat to collide with the pier, thereby determining docking completion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple sensors (ultrasound sonar, cameras, close range sensing devices) are added to detect docking completion, then the accuracy of determining docking completion is improved, but the cost burden increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the vibration detection function from a complex multi-sensor system and uses it as the primary detection mechanism. By focusing on vibration signals from the boat-pier collision, the system eliminates the need for multiple expensive sensors while maintaining reliable docking completion detection
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the boat's own vibration characteristics during collision with the pier as the detection signal. The collision itself generates the vibrational feedback that the control unit detects to determine docking completion, eliminating the need for external sensing devices
2Reliability
If multiple sensors are used to determine docking completion, then the reliability of docking detection is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential detection function to a single vibration sensing capability within the control unit, removing the complexity of coordinating multiple sensor types while maintaining reliable detection through focused vibration signal analysis
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit is designed to perform multiple functions: it controls the outboard motor, manages steering, and detects vibration signals for docking completion. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated sensors, reducing system complexity while maintaining reliability
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach reduces the need for multiple sensors, providing a cost-effective method to confirm automatic docking by relying on vibration detection to end the docking process, ensuring efficient and economical operation.
Implementation Method 1
obtain a vibration that is exerted on the boat, wherein, when the control unit is in the automatic docking mode, the control unit is configured to end the automatic docking mode when the control unit detects the vibration
Data Source
AI summary
A system, adapted to determine that automatic docking of a boat is completed. The system including a control unit including a processor configured to switch a control mode of the control unit to an automatic docking mode; output a control signal for controlling an automatic steering of the boat when the control mode is switched to the automatic docking mode; obtain a vibration that is exerted on the boat, wherein, when the control unit is in the automatic docking mode, the control unit is configured to end the automatic docking mode when the control unit detects the vibration.