Boat Maneuvering System With Relay Controller
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing boat maneuvering systems lack the ability to easily add new operating devices and power sources, limiting their adaptability and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A boat maneuvering system design that includes a first power source, a first controller, a first operating device, a second controller, a communication path, a second power source, and a third controller, which relays control signals to enable operation of both the first and second power sources using existing devices, allowing for the easy addition of new operating and power sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a boat maneuvering system is designed with a fixed controller structure, then the system stability is maintained, but the adaptability to add new operating devices and power sources deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The third controller is designed as a universal control unit that can handle multiple functions: it receives control signals from both the second controller (for the first power source) and the second operating device (for the second power source), and generates appropriate control signals for both power sources. This multi-functional design enables the system to accommodate new operating devices and power sources without requiring complete system redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The third controller acts as an intermediary device inserted into the communication path between the second controller and the first controller. It mediates the control signals, relaying and processing them appropriately. This intermediary structure allows new components to be integrated without disrupting the existing control architecture, as the third controller handles the interface and signal translation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple operating devices control multiple power sources, then the maneuverability is enhanced, but the risk of control signal interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The third controller serves as a mediator that receives control signals from both the second controller and the second operating device, processes them independently, and generates appropriate control signals for the first and second power sources. This mediation prevents control signal interference by ensuring that signals from different operating devices are processed and routed correctly without mixing or conflict.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is segmented into distinct control paths: the third controller handles control signals for the first power source (from the second controller) and the second power source (from the second operating device) separately. This segmentation of control functions ensures that each power source receives appropriate control signals without interference from other operating devices.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a third controller is inserted in the communication path, then the adaptability to add new power sources is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The third controller is designed as a universal control unit that consolidates multiple control functions into a single device. It can receive control signals from different sources (second controller and second operating device), process them appropriately, and generate control signals for multiple power sources (first and second power sources). This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated controllers for each power source, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A boat maneuvering system, including a first power source having a first controller, a first operating device having a second controller configured to receive a first operation instruction and to output a first control signal for controlling the first power source, a second power source provided separately from the first power source, and a second operating device provided separately from the first operating device for operating the first and second power sources. The second operating device includes a third controller provided on a communication path connecting the first and second controllers, the third controller being configured to receive the first control signal, generate a second control signal, and output the second control signal to the first controller, and to receive a second operation instruction via the second operating device, generate a third control signal, and output the third control signal to the second power source.