Boat Steering Control System with Pulsed Reaction Torque
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electric steering control systems for boats consume excessive power and labor due to continuous torque application when steering against external forces, such as winds and waves, leading to reduced energy efficiency and operator fatigue.
Innovation Solution
A steering control system that includes an electric actuator, external force detection means, and a reaction torque motor, which applies pulsed torque only when external force variations exceed a predetermined value, reducing power consumption and operator effort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a reaction torque motor is used to apply continuous torque to counteract external forces, then the operator can detect external forces through tactile feedback, but power consumption and operator labor become excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The reaction torque motor applies torque in periodic pulses rather than continuously. The control unit determines pulse timing based on detected external force variations, applying torque only when necessary to maintain steering wheel position. This periodic action maintains tactile feedback capability while dramatically reducing power consumption compared to continuous torque application.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a reaction torque motor applies continuous torque to maintain steering position against external forces, then navigation stability is improved, but operator fatigue increases due to continuous counter-torque application
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies reaction torque in periodic pulses rather than continuously. The control unit monitors external force variations and triggers torque pulses only when deviations exceed thresholds, maintaining steering stability while allowing the operator to rest during stable conditions, thereby reducing fatigue.
Solution Approach 2:
The steering control system automatically detects external force variations and applies corrective torque pulses without operator intervention. The operator simply needs to make initial steering adjustments, after which the system autonomously maintains position against external forces, reducing continuous operator effort and fatigue.
3Measurement precision
If a sensor continuously monitors external forces and the reaction torque motor continuously counteracts them, then precise course maintenance is achieved, but energy efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors external forces with high precision sensors but applies reaction torque only in periodic pulses when detected variations exceed predetermined thresholds. This approach maintains precise course maintenance capability while avoiding continuous energy expenditure, significantly improving energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies reaction torque only partially - specifically when external force variations exceed necessary correction thresholds. This partial action approach maintains sufficient steering precision while avoiding excessive torque application during minor fluctuations, optimizing energy efficiency.
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
The system effectively reduces power consumption and operator fatigue by applying pulsed torque in response to external forces, maintaining navigation efficiency and comfort while minimizing continuous energy expenditure.
Implementation Method 1
a reaction torque motor 11 is provided for applying torque to the steering system
Implementation Method 2
External force detection means can be provided for detecting external force applied to the steering device
Data Source
AI summary
A load variation amount can be derived from an output of a load sensor for detecting an external force acting on a watercraft. A computation can be performed whether or not the load variation amount is larger than a reference value calculated based on the load sensor output, a running state, and a navigation velocity. The width and the magnitude of a pulse are determined based on the load sensor output, the running state, and the navigation velocity, and the pulse is applied to a steering as reaction torque.