Jet Ski Reverse Gate Actuator Control for Smooth Deceleration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Jet propelled watercraft deceleration methods result in noticeable, sudden increases in deceleration due to multiple stages, causing discomfort for the driver.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a control unit that controls the reverse gate actuator to move the reverse gate from a stowed position to a deceleration position, with speed and power levels varying based on the actuated position of a deceleration device, using multiple operation modes to smooth the deceleration process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If the reverse gate is moved quickly to the deceleration position, then the deceleration response time is improved, but the driver experiences sudden noticeable deceleration stages causing discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The reverse gate actuator operates in different modes (first operation mode and second operation mode) with variable speeds depending on the gate position. The actuator moves faster during initial positioning and slower during final positioning, creating a dynamic speed profile that smooths the deceleration experience while maintaining responsive overall operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of the reverse gate actuator based on position. The control unit adjusts the actuator speed and power levels dynamically as the gate moves from stowed to deceleration position, optimizing both response time and comfort by varying parameters throughout the movement cycle
2Speed
If the reverse gate actuator uses constant high power throughout movement, then the deceleration speed is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator power level is dynamically adjusted based on the operational phase. High power is applied during the first operation mode when rapid positioning is needed, then transitions to lower power during the second operation mode when precise final positioning is required, optimizing the balance between speed and energy consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies excessive power (higher than minimum needed) only during the critical initial phase of gate movement where speed is most important, then reduces to partial power levels during the final positioning phase where precision is more important than speed, achieving optimal overall performance with reduced total energy consumption
Data Source
AI summary
A method for decelerating a watercraft is disclosed. The watercraft has a reverse gate and a reverse gate actuator operatively connected to the reverse gate for moving the reverse gate between at least a stowed position and a deceleration position. The method includes: receiving, in a control unit, a deceleration signal from a deceleration device position sensor, the deceleration signal being indicative of an actuated position of a deceleration device; controlling, by the control unit, an operation of the reverse gate actuator based at least in part on the actuated position of the deceleration device; and moving the reverse gate from the stowed position to the deceleration position with the reverse gate actuator, the reverse gate actuator being controlled such that a speed of rotation of the reverse gate depends at least in part on the actuated position of the deceleration device.