Boat Propulsion Controller Tilt Limit Management
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional boat propulsion systems face challenges in accurately setting the tilt limit value during maintenance or engine replacement, leading to potential interference with the hull when the outboard motor is tilted upward, especially when the environment-specific settings are not predetermined.
Innovation Solution
A controller for the boat propulsion system that includes an adjusting device for inclination angle, a storage section for limit values, and a communication connector with a service tool to set and manage tilt limits, preventing interference by stopping the drive unit when the angle reaches the set limit and ensuring only authorized personnel can adjust settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the outboard motor is tilted to a maximum upward position, then the tilt operation range is maximized, but the outboard motor may interfere with the hull
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the tilt limit angle adjustable rather than fixed. The controller dynamically changes the tilt limit angle based on operating conditions (maintenance mode vs. normal operation), allowing the system to adapt between maximum tilt range during maintenance and safe tilt range during operation to prevent hull interference
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of tilt limit angle based on different operating states. When a service tool is connected indicating maintenance mode, the tilt limit angle is set to a larger value allowing maximum tilt range. During normal operation, the tilt limit angle is reduced to prevent the outboard motor from interfering with the hull
2Device complexity
If the tilt limit value is not predetermined for maintenance environment, then the system is simple, but service staff cannot perform accurate work
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-setting different tilt limit angles for different operating conditions. The system预先 (in advance) stores multiple tilt limit angle values and automatically selects the appropriate one based on whether a service tool is connected, eliminating the need for manual prediction of tilt limits during maintenance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback by detecting whether a service tool is connected to the controller. This detection feedback triggers the controller to switch between different tilt limit angle settings, automatically providing the appropriate tilt limit for the current operating environment without requiring complex manual configuration
3Ease of operation
If the tilt limit angle is increased for maintenance work, then the outboard motor can be tilted higher for access, but it may interfere with the hull
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the tilt limit angle dynamic based on operational context. During maintenance mode (detected by service tool connection), the tilt limit angle is increased to allow higher tilt positions for better access. During normal operation, the tilt limit angle is reduced to prevent hull interference, thus resolving the contradiction between maintenance access and hull clearance
Data Source
AI summary
A controller for a boat propulsion system has an adjusting device arranged to adjust an inclination angle in the vertical direction of the boat propulsion system by a drive unit, the controller arranged to perform drive control of the adjusting device, a storage section provided in the controller and arranged to store a limit value of the inclination angle, and a connector arranged to communicate with a service tool, wherein the controller is arranged to set the limit value from the service tool and stop the drive unit when the inclination angle reaches the limit value.