Adaptive Resistance Marine Control Input Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing user input devices for marine vessels do not effectively adjust to unstable conditions, providing an inadequate driving experience as they lack adaptive resistance to changing conditions such as vessel rocking or sudden acceleration, relying on fixed friction mechanisms that do not adapt to dynamic operator feedback.
Innovation Solution
A user input device with a variable resistance system controlled by a controller that detects unstable conditions through sensors like inertial measurement units, pressure sensors, and engine load indicators, increasing resistance to movement in response to detected instability, using technologies such as magnetorheological devices, electric brakes, or hydraulic systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed friction mechanisms are used in user input devices, then the device structure is simple, but the device cannot adapt to unstable conditions such as vessel rocking or sudden acceleration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from fixed friction mechanisms to a variable resistance system that dynamically adjusts its characteristics. The resistance device modifies its resistance level in real-time based on detected operating conditions, making the input device adaptive to unstable conditions while maintaining operational simplicity through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using sensors (such as inertial measurement units, pressure sensors, or engine load indicators) to detect unstable conditions and automatically adjusting the resistance provided by the resistance device. This closed-loop feedback system enables the device to respond to vessel motion and operational states without requiring manual intervention, thereby improving adaptability while keeping the user interface simple.
2Adaptability or versatility
If variable resistance devices are added to user input devices, then adaptability to unstable conditions improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical resistance adjustment mechanisms with electronically controlled resistance devices. By using electric or hydraulic actuation systems controlled by a microprocessor, the patent achieves variable resistance control without the mechanical complexity of traditional adjustable friction mechanisms, thereby improving adaptability while managing system complexity through electronic control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by integrating multiple functions into a single control system. The resistance device serves both as a control mechanism for user input and as an adaptive element that responds to various unstable conditions. The controller simultaneously manages resistance adjustment based on multiple sensor inputs, consolidating multiple functions into a unified system that improves adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity.
3Reliability
If resistance is increased in response to unstable conditions, then operator control stability improves, but operator input difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the resistance level variable rather than fixed. The resistance device dynamically adjusts its resistance based on detected unstable conditions, providing higher resistance when needed for stability and lower resistance during normal operation for ease of input. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction by making the system adaptive to operational context.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by preemptively increasing resistance when unstable conditions are detected, before inadvertent inputs can occur. The system proactively counteracts the destabilizing effects of vessel motion by adjusting resistance in response to sensor feedback, thereby maintaining control stability while minimizing the impact on normal operational ease through automated, condition-based adjustment.
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 adaptive resistance system enhances operator control and comfort in unstable conditions by providing a stable feel, reducing inadvertent inputs and improving handling during choppy or rapidly changing marine vessel operations.
Implementation Method 1
using technologies such as magnetorheological devices
Implementation Method 2
using technologies such as magnetorheological devices, electric brakes
Implementation Method 3
using technologies such as magnetorheological devices, electric brakes, or hydraulic systems
Data Source
AI summary
A user input device for controlling steering and/or propulsion of a marine vessel includes a movable member movable by a vessel operator to control the steering and/or propulsion of the marine vessel, a variable resistance device controllable to vary resistance to movement of the movable member, and a controller that controls the variable resistance device. The controller is configured to detect an unstable condition indicator and, upon detecting the unstable condition indicator, control the variable resistance device to increase resistance to movement of the movable member.