Handheld Watercraft Controller With Interchangeable Throttle Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydrofoiling watercraft require riders to simultaneously operate a remote controller and shift their weight for steering, making them difficult to operate, especially for inexperienced users, and existing remote controllers lack customizability and are prone to generating throttle control signals due to external magnetic flux interference.
Innovation Solution
A wireless remote controller with interchangeable throttle control interfaces, including thumbwheel and trigger options, and a Hall effect sensor system that filters out stray magnetic flux, allowing for customizable control and smooth deceleration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single axis Hall effect sensor is used to detect magnetic flux from a trigger, then the controller can detect throttle input, but the controller becomes prone to generating false throttle control signals in response to external magnetic flux
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the magnetic field detection function into three independent axes (X, Y, Z) rather than using a single axis sensor. Each axis detects a component of the magnetic flux, and the processor integrates these components to determine the overall magnetic field strength and direction, thereby filtering out false signals from external magnets while maintaining accurate throttle detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The processor acts as an intermediary between the multi-axis Hall effect sensor and the throttle control output. It processes the raw sensor data by analyzing the magnetic flux components across all three axes, comparing them against predetermined thresholds and patterns, and only generating throttle control signals when the magnetic field changes correspond to actual trigger compression, thus filtering out external magnetic interference.
2Device complexity
If a trigger-based throttle controller is used, then the controller is simple in structure, but it requires the user to release the trigger to shift position, causing the watercraft to stop
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic throttle control system where the trigger can be held at any position within its range of motion. The processor continuously monitors the trigger position and maintains the corresponding throttle output signal as long as the trigger remains engaged, allowing smooth and continuous throttle control without requiring the user to release or re-engage the trigger for each adjustment.
3Ease of operation
If the rider simultaneously operates a remote controller and shifts weight for steering, then the watercraft can be controlled, but the rider must maintain balance while operating the controller, requiring skill and experience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the throttle control function with steering control by integrating a tilt sensor that detects the orientation of the remote controller. When the controller is tilted in a specific direction, it simultaneously activates both throttle adjustment and steering commands, allowing the rider to control both functions through a single unified interface without needing to manually steer while maintaining balance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical steering method (shifting weight on the board) with an electronic control system. The tilt sensor detects the controller's orientation and translates it into electronic steering commands sent to the watercraft's motor, eliminating the need for the rider to physically shift their weight for steering while maintaining ease of control.
4Adaptability or versatility
If existing remote controllers lack customizability, then the controller design is simple, but it cannot suit the preferences of individual riders
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal remote controller design that can accommodate multiple types of throttle control interfaces (trigger-based, thumbwheel-based, or other custom interfaces) through a standardized cartridge system. The processor is designed to work with different sensor types and control mechanisms, allowing riders to customize the controller according to their preferences while using the same base unit and communication 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 remote controller enables intuitive and customizable operation, reducing the skill required to ride hydrofoiling watercraft and preventing unwanted throttle signals from external magnetic interference, enhancing user experience and safety.
Implementation Method 1
many existing remote controllers include a single axis Hall effect sensor that detects the magnitude of the flux from a magnet coupled to a trigger
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, a wireless remote controller for a personal watercraft is provided that includes a watertight housing forming a watertight compartment. The housing includes a through hole extending through the housing from an upper side of the housing to a lower side of the housing. The remote controller includes a throttle interface removably attached to the housing such that the throttle interface is movable between a first position and a second position and at least a portion of the throttle interface positioned within the through hole of the housing. The remote controller further includes a sensor positioned within the watertight compartment of the housing to detect a position of the throttle interface.