Marine Display Controller Adapting Layout to Outboard Motor Count
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing display devices for marine vehicles cannot optimally display navigation information compatible with varying numbers and types of outboard motors, requiring cumbersome and costly adjustments in the dashboard layout.
Innovation Solution
A navigation information display control device that collects and determines the display layout based on navigation data, using a network management system to identify and allocate physical node IDs for outboard motors, allowing for automatic adjustment of the display layout according to the number and type of engines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple speed meters and gauges are installed to accommodate multiple outboard motors, then the navigation information display becomes compatible with different motor configurations, but the device complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal display device that can function with different numbers and types of outboard motors through a networked system. The display controller receives data from multiple engines via a network interface and automatically configures the display layout, eliminating the need for separate gauges for each motor while maintaining full compatibility with various configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple separate gauges and speed meters into a single integrated display device. By merging the functions of multiple individual instruments into one networked display system, the patent reduces the total number of devices while preserving the ability to monitor all engines simultaneously.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the dashboard layout is altered to accommodate more gauges, then the navigation information display becomes compatible with different outboard motor configurations, but the ease of manufacture and installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic display layout that automatically adapts to different engine configurations through software control. The display controller receives information about the number and type of outboard motors connected to the network and dynamically reconfigures the display parameters, eliminating the need for physical dashboard modifications while maintaining full adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes display parameters (layout, configuration, information types) based on the detected engine configuration rather than physically altering the dashboard. The display controller automatically adjusts display parameters when it receives different numbers or types of engines on the network, providing adaptability without manufacturing complexity.
3Device complexity
If a fixed display layout is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different outboard motor configurations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the display controller continuously monitors the network for connected engines and their types. Based on this feedback information, the controller automatically determines and adjusts the appropriate display layout and parameters, achieving adaptability without increasing device complexity through intelligent automatic configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The display system performs self-configuration by automatically detecting the number and types of outboard motors on the network and adjusting its display parameters accordingly. The system serves itself by autonomously determining the appropriate layout without requiring manual intervention or complex pre-programming for different configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
On a marine craft that may be equipped with plural outboard motors engine control nodes can be mounted on outboard motors, and a display control node, as well as the network management node can be connected to a bus constructing a network. Receiving a display transmission frame sent out by the engine control nodes, display control node distinguishes the number of engines mounted, determines display layout compatible with the number of engines, and displays navigation information such as engine operational information, and navigation data including boat speed and others on a navigation information display meter in accordance with the determined display layout.