Electrically-Operated Jack Plate with Remote Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing jack plates for outboard motors on marine vessels are cumbersome to operate, especially when trying to adjust the motor's height while the vessel is in motion, and often require a separate battery source that can interfere with other boat operations.
Innovation Solution
A vertically adjustable electrically-operated jack plate system that includes a transom bracket, a motor mounting plate, and an electrical lift jack powered by a rechargeable battery, with a remote control for easy operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the outboard motor is tilted to raise the propeller for shallow water operation, then the motor can operate in shallower water, but the propeller's rotation axis becomes inclined producing a downward component of thrust that reduces motor efficiency and steering ability
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the functions of propeller depth adjustment and motor orientation. The jack plate independently adjusts the propeller's vertical position relative to the transom, while the motor remains level and properly oriented for efficient operation. This segmentation allows depth control without compromising motor alignment or thrust efficiency.
2Ease of operation
If a powered jack plate mechanism is used to adjust motor height, then the motor position can be varied, but the electrical source and connections become cumbersome and interfere with other boat operations
Solution Approach 1:
The battery and control electronics are integrated into the jack plate assembly itself, eliminating the need for separate electrical sources and complex wiring throughout the boat. This consolidation simplifies the electrical system while maintaining the powered height adjustment capability.
3Ease of operation
If the jack plate activation mechanism is located near the jack plate, then the motor can be controlled, but the user must divert their view from the road while driving
Solution Approach 1:
A wireless remote control serves as an intermediary device, allowing the user to operate the jack plate from a convenient location such as the dashboard or steering wheel area. This eliminates the need to physically access controls near the jack plate while driving, maintaining ease of operation without diverting attention from the road.
4Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed jack plate is used, then the motor position is stable, but the motor cannot be adjusted for varying water conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The jack plate incorporates a powered adjustment mechanism that enables dynamic repositioning of the motor. The motor can be raised or lowered electrically to adapt to different water depths and operating conditions, while maintaining stable positions when adjusted to the desired height. This transforms the fixed structure into a dynamically adjustable system.
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 allows for seamless adjustment of the outboard motor's height without tilting, improving efficiency and steering capabilities, while also providing a convenient and clutter-free operation with the remote control.
Implementation Method 1
The electrical lift jack is powered by a rechargeable battery
Data Source
AI summary
A vertically adjustable jack plate configured to attach an outboard motor (or analogous device) to the transom of a marine vessel. A transom bracket is provided for connection to the vessel. A motor mounting plate is connected to the transom bracket. An electrical lift jack vertically adjusts the position of the motor mounting plate with respect to the transom bracket. The electrical lift jack is powered by a rechargeable battery that is preferably attached and detached from a controller housing. A separate remote control is provided to control the operation of the jack plate.