Boat Helm Tilt Locking With Electromagnetic Brake Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional helm devices for boats lack adequate functionality and operability in adjusting the tilt angle of the steering shaft, as seen in prior art such as Patent Literature 1 (US 10, 011, 340 B2).
Innovation Solution
A helm device comprising a steering shaft housed in a rotatable housing supported by tilt mechanisms and a lock mechanism, with an electromagnetic brake providing resistance, allowing adjustable tilt angles and secure locking positions through stoppers and a lever system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the tilt angle of the steering shaft is made adjustable to improve operability, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional tilt mechanisms and locking systems
Solution Approach 1:
The helm device enables dynamic adjustment of the steering shaft tilt angle through a tilt mechanism that allows the housing to rotate relative to the tilt base about a tilt axis. The system transitions from a fixed tilt angle to an adjustable range, with a lock mechanism providing dynamic locking at desired positions. This dynamic capability directly improves operational comfort while managing complexity through a focused adjustment system.
2Reliability
If a lock mechanism is added to fix the tilt angle positions, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism is designed to maintain the housing at a desired tilt angle position once adjusted, providing self-servicing functionality. The mechanism includes a lockable position feature that secures the tilt angle without requiring continuous external intervention, thereby improving reliability while minimizing ongoing operational complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the housing is made rotatable about a tilt axis to enable tilt angle adjustment, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the tilt mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is designed to rotate dynamically about a tilt axis that is inclined relative to the steering shaft axis, enabling the steering shaft tilt angle to be adjusted within a predetermined range. This dynamic rotation capability provides adaptability for different operating conditions while the tilt mechanism manages the complexity through a controlled degree of freedom.
Solution Approach 2:
The tilt mechanism serves multiple functions: it enables tilt angle adjustment, provides a lockable position for securing the angle, and allows rotation about an inclined tilt axis. This multi-functionality improves adaptability while consolidating features that would otherwise require separate systems, thereby managing overall device complexity.
4Reliability
If an electromagnetic brake is added to provide resistance to the steering shaft, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnetic brake replaces or supplements traditional mechanical braking systems for the steering shaft. By using electromagnetic forces to provide resistance, the system achieves reliable steering control with potentially reduced mechanical complexity compared to purely mechanical brake systems, while maintaining the necessary stopping power and control.
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 helm device offers enhanced functionality and operability by allowing precise tilt angle adjustments and secure locking, preventing collision with the hull and ensuring easy operation.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnetic brake, which is housed in the housing, and which gives resistance to the steering shaft
Implementation Method 2
a first urging member which urges the housing in a predetermined rotation direction around the tilt axis
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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AI summary
A helm device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a steering shaft extending in a first direction, a housing accommodating a portion of the steering shaft, a tilt base attached to a hull, a pair of tilt mechanisms that support the housing such that the housing can be pivoted about a tilt axis, which is parallel to a second direction, with respect to the tilt base, and a lock mechanism that fixes the angle of the steering shaft with respect to the tilt base by restricting the pivoting of the housing with the tilt mechanisms. Each of the tilt mechanisms includes a shaft member projecting from a side of the housing intersecting the tilt axis, a bracket provided on the tilt base and having a hole into which the shaft member is rotatably inserted, and a bushing disposed between the outer circumferential surface of the shaft member and the inner circumferential surface of the hole.