Modular Marine Battery Switch Box for Plug-And-Play Propulsion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric marine propulsion systems are difficult to install and maintain, requiring electrical expertise, and are not suitable for novice users, as they are sensitive to marine environments and require complex electrical rigging and dedicated spaces.
Innovation Solution
A modular and portable electric propulsion system with a switch box that connects multiple marine batteries in parallel, allowing easy addition or removal of batteries without disrupting power, and features water-safe connections and power control, enabling novice users to install and maintain the system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If complex electrical rigging and dedicated spaces are used for electric marine propulsion systems, then power delivery and system functionality are improved, but installation difficulty and maintenance complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular components: portable power banks, a control box with parallel connection capability, and a propulsion motor. This segmentation allows each component to be independently optimized and connected through simple interfaces, reducing overall installation complexity while maintaining power delivery capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The control box serves multiple functions: it connects multiple power banks in parallel, manages power distribution to the motor, and provides a user interface for operation. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate complex electrical systems into a single integrated unit.
2Measurement precision
If electrical expertise is required for installation and maintenance, then system control precision and safety are improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates automatic functions that eliminate the need for expert intervention during normal operation and maintenance. The control box automatically manages power distribution, and the modular design allows users to add or remove power banks without electrical expertise, making the system self-servicing.
Solution Approach 2:
The control box acts as an intermediary between the simple modular power banks and the propulsion motor. It handles all complex electrical control functions internally, presenting a simplified interface to the user while maintaining precise system control through its internal electronics.
3Power
If multiple marine batteries are connected in parallel, then power capacity and scalability are improved, but connection complexity and vulnerability to marine environments increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple power banks are merged into a single parallel configuration through the control box, creating one unified power source that functions as a single unit. This merging approach simplifies the system's interaction with the marine environment compared to having multiple separate battery connections exposed to water and corrosion.
Solution Approach 2:
The control box serves as a protective intermediary between the power banks and the harsh marine environment. It provides enclosed, protected connection points for parallel battery attachment, shielding the electrical connections from water, salt, and corrosion while enabling scalable power capacity.
4Use of energy by moving object
If complex electrical configurations are required, then power management capability is improved, but ease of manufacture and deployment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The power management system is segmented into independent, pre-manufactured modules (power banks with standardized interfaces) that can be manufactured separately and assembled in various configurations. This segmentation simplifies manufacturing for each component while enabling flexible deployment scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The control box is designed as a universal power management unit that can handle multiple power banks in various configurations. Its standardized interfaces and parallel connection capability allow it to manage different power capacities and types, simplifying both manufacturing and deployment across different application scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
A marine propulsion system includes a marine drive having an electric motor powerhead, at least two marine batteries, each with a maximum operating voltage at or below 60 volts, and a switch box. The switch box is configured to be removably connected to the marine drive and to each of the at least two marine batteries so as to electrically connect each of the at least two marine batteries in parallel to power the marine drive.