Boat Propulsion Remote Control with Dynamic Reactive Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote control systems for boat propulsion devices that operate through communications lack the ability to freely adjust the reactive force against the operating lever, leading to unintentional movements due to external influences like vibrations, as they provide constant resistance.
Innovation Solution
A remote control system with a motor unit that adjusts the reactive force based on the operating direction, speed, and position of the lever, allowing for customizable resistance to mimic the feel of a mechanically coupled system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a constant braking force is applied to the operating lever, then unintentional movements due to external forces are prevented, but the magnitude of reactive force cannot be freely adjusted according to operating state
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from a static constant braking force to a dynamic reactive force that changes according to the operating state. The reactive force giving unit adjusts the magnitude of reactive force based on operating direction, operating speed, and lever position, making the system adaptive rather than fixed. This resolves the contradiction by enabling both reliability (through controlled resistance) and adaptability (through variable force magnitude).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by varying the reactive force magnitude based on multiple operating parameters including operating direction, operating speed, and lever position. Instead of maintaining a constant braking force, the system dynamically adjusts the force parameters to match the current operating state, thereby achieving both stable operation and flexible adaptability.
2Ease of operation
If a remote control system operates through communications without mechanical coupling, then the operating lever moves easily, but the system lacks the ability to provide adjustable reactive force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies mechanics substitution by replacing the mechanical cable coupling with an electronic communication system combined with a reactive force giving unit. Instead of direct mechanical connection, the system uses electronic signals for control while introducing a motor-driven reactive force mechanism to provide the necessary resistance and feedback, thereby maintaining ease of operation while enabling adjustable reactive force.
Solution Approach 2:
The reactive force giving unit acts as an intermediary between the electronic communication system and the operating lever. It provides the missing mechanical feedback element by generating reactive force based on electronic control signals, bridging the gap between the communication-based control system and the physical lever operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A remote control system of outboard motor configured to operate the outboard motor through communications with the outboard motor. The remote control system includes an operating lever operated by a boat operator and a motor unit configured to give reactive force against the operation of the operating lever. The motor unit is configured to give the reactive force according to an operating direction of the operating lever and at least any one of an operating speed and a lever position of the operating lever.