Boat Steering System Dynamic Torque Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing boat steering systems with electric actuators face challenges in maintaining optimal steering performance due to varying steering loads influenced by boat speed, steering conditions, and electric motor conditions, leading to time lags and deteriorated steering characteristics.
Innovation Solution
A control system that detects and adjusts the drive current to the electric actuator based on multiple parameters, including steering conditions, boat running conditions, and electric actuator conditions, to provide precise torque adjustments, ensuring optimal steering performance by increasing torque when needed and reducing it when unnecessary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If excessive drive current is provided to the electric motor, then the steering torque is increased, but the control amount overshoots the target value and steering characteristics deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of drive current based on real-time detection of steering load, boat speed, and steering angle. The control system continuously adapts the electric motor's drive current to match actual steering requirements, transitioning from static to dynamic control to prevent both torque deficiency and overshooting.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms by detecting steering load, boat speed, and steering angle, then using this information to adjust the drive current. This closed-loop control ensures the steering torque matches actual needs without overshooting the target position.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the drive current is decreased for low-speed cruising, then energy consumption is reduced, but the steering torque becomes insufficient when high torque is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts drive current based on detected steering load and operational conditions. When high torque is required (detected through steering load sensors), the system increases current delivery, while during normal low-load cruising, it maintains lower current for energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system changes the drive current parameter based on detected conditions including steering load, boat speed, and steering angle. This parameter adaptation allows the system to optimize between energy consumption and torque output according to actual operational needs.
3Device complexity
If the electric actuator operates with fixed torque characteristics, then the system simplicity is maintained, but significant time lag exists between steering inputs and actual steering of the outboard motor
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from fixed torque characteristics to dynamic torque adjustment by detecting steering load, boat speed, and steering angle in real-time. This allows the electric actuator to adapt its output torque dynamically, reducing response time lag without significantly increasing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system performs preliminary detection of steering load and operational conditions before actuation, allowing it to pre-position the drive current level appropriate for the detected conditions, thereby reducing the time lag between steering input and actual motor steering.
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 enhances steering performance by maintaining responsive steering even under changing conditions, improving torque output and reducing time lag between steering inputs and actual steering responses.
Implementation Method 1
an electric actuator such as an electric motor applies a steering force to the outboard motor
Data Source
AI summary
A boat has a propulsion unit and a steering system. The steering system includes a steering device actuated by an electric actuator. A steering wheel operated by an operator is electrically connected to the actuator. Detectors collect data regarding one or more of operation status of the steering wheel, running status of the boat, status of the propulsion unit(s), status of the electric actuator, and the like. Based upon such collected data, a current for powering the electric actuator may be selectively increased to provide increased torque to ensure excellent steering response even in changing.