Digital Switching Layout for Waterproof Low-Wiring Watercraft Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Small watercraft like kayaks face challenges in integrating electrical systems due to space constraints and the need for waterproof installations, while ATVs and RVs require easy access to electrical controls with minimal wiring interference.
Innovation Solution
A digital switching system with a microcontroller-controlled solid state relay bank, allowing for remote control via Bluetooth or WiFi, and a compact control panel that reduces wiring and maintains water-tight integrity, along with external mounting options for power outlets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional electrical wiring systems are installed in small watercraft, then electrical components can be powered, but space is consumed and water-tight integrity is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical system is segmented into modular components: a control panel with switches, a separate relay module, and individual power outlets. This segmentation allows distributed placement of electrical components without requiring continuous wiring through the hull, preserving space and water-tight integrity while maintaining electrical functionality throughout the watercraft.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from traditional two-dimensional surface mounting to three-dimensional integration by utilizing the hollow interior space of the kayak for wire routing and component placement. Wires are routed through the hollow interior rather than along the exterior surface, enabling electrical distribution without compromising the water-tight hull structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If extensive wiring is used for electrical distribution, then all electrical components can be controlled, but installation complexity and water-tight integrity are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
A relay module serves as an intermediary between the control panel and power outlets. The control panel sends low-power control signals through a single communication cable to the relay module, which then switches the high-power circuits to the various outlets. This intermediary approach reduces wiring complexity by eliminating the need for separate heavy-gauge power wires from each switch to each outlet.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces traditional mechanical switch-wire-outlet connections with an electronic control system using a microcontroller and digital communication. Control signals are transmitted digitally from the control panel to the relay module, substituting complex physical wiring with streamlined electronic communication while maintaining full electrical control capability.
3Use of energy by moving object
If batteries and recharging devices are added to provide power, then electrical components can operate, but weight increases and space is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical system is designed to be self-sufficient by integrating a rechargeable battery with a solar panel charging system. The solar panel automatically recharges the battery during daylight hours, eliminating the need for external power sources or frequent battery replacements. This self-service approach provides continuous power availability while minimizing the weight and space requirements for power storage.
4Ease of operation
If control elements are positioned for easy access, then operator control is improved, but interference with existing systems and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control panel is designed as a universal interface that can be mounted in multiple locations (steering wheel, dashboard, or handheld) and controls all electrical outlets through a single communication cable. This multi-functional design allows easy operator access regardless of mounting position while simplifying installation by requiring only one communication cable connection rather than location-specific wiring for each control element.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical distribution system for personal water craft and recreational vehicles. The primary components include a digital switching device; a series of power lines; and one or more remote controls, a control panel, or both. The digital switching device is preferably a bank of solid state relay switches controlled by an MCU. The control panel also has an MCU. The control panel MCU communicates with the digital switching device MCU. This allows signals from the control panel to travel on a single communication cable to the digital switching device, significantly reducing the control panel footprint compared to prior art control panels. When a radio frequency (RF) receiver is provided, the electrical distribution system may receive signals from a remote control. The remote control may be utilized in addition to or in lieu of the control panel. Power lines run from the digital switching device to wherever power is desired in the vessel. When used with a recreational vehicle having multiple motor driven accessories, the electrical circuitry to the various motors is structured in a daisy chain to permit the digital switching device to activate only one motor at a time and not permit more than one motor to be operating at any given time.