Dynamic Toe Angle Adjustment for Multi-Propulsion Small Boats
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional small boats with multiple outboard motors have a fixed toe angle adjusted on land, which cannot be altered while the boat is underway, limiting optimization of performance in top speed, acceleration, fuel economy, or maneuverability.
Innovation Solution
A small boat equipped with a toe angle altering apparatus and a running state detecting apparatus, allowing the toe angle to be adjusted in real-time based on the boat's operating conditions, using a control unit to determine and achieve a target toe angle for optimized performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the toe angle is fixed and adjusted on land before shipment, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the performance cannot be optimized for different running conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the static, fixed toe angle adjustment mechanism into a dynamic system that can automatically adjust the toe angle during boat operation. The control unit receives running state data from detectors and actuates the toe angle altering apparatus in real-time, allowing the system to adapt to changing operating conditions such as speed, load, and sea state, thereby resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and performance adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the toe angle parameter based on detected running state parameters. The control unit processes data from running state detectors and adjusts the toe angle to optimal values for different operating conditions, enabling performance optimization without requiring a completely complex mechanical structure. This approach allows the system to maintain simplicity while achieving adaptability through intelligent parameter adjustment.
2Speed
If the toe angle is fixed, then the device complexity is low, but the acceleration performance and top speed cannot be optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the feedback principle by implementing a closed-loop control system where running state detectors continuously monitor operational parameters, the control unit processes this information, and the toe angle altering apparatus adjusts the toe angle accordingly. This feedback mechanism enables the system to maintain optimal toe angle settings for maximizing acceleration and top speed performance while managing the complexity through systematic control architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the boat's propulsion system to automatically adjust its own toe angle based on detected running conditions without requiring external intervention. The control unit autonomously processes running state data and actuates the adjustment mechanism, allowing the system to self-optimize its performance characteristics for acceleration and top speed while maintaining a manageable level of system complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the toe angle is adjusted on land only, then the adjustment process is simple, but the boat cannot adapt to different running states
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies mechanics substitution by replacing manual mechanical adjustment performed on land with an automated electromechanical system that operates during boat running. The control unit substitutes for manual adjustment operations, using electronic sensors and actuators to modify the toe angle in real-time based on detected running conditions, thereby achieving adaptability while managing complexity through electronic control rather than purely mechanical means.
Data Source
AI summary
A small boat has multiple propulsion units. A toe angle of the multiple propulsion units can be altered while the boat is under way. The toe angle can be adjusted to improve performance in any of a number of areas, including top speed, acceleration, fuel economy, and maneuverability, at the demand of the operator.