Marine Propulsion Gear Layout for Lower-Section Space Saving
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing marine propulsion devices with two drive shafts face challenges in saving space in the lower portion due to the disposition of the shift mechanism, which reduces available space in this area.
Innovation Solution
The shift mechanism is positioned above the driven gear, with the drive and driven gears located in the upper portion of the marine propulsion device, allowing for efficient space utilization in the lower portion by relocating the shift mechanism to an upper position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the shift mechanism is disposed in the lower portion of the outboard motor, then the shift function can be achieved, but the available space in the lower portion is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The shift mechanism is relocated from the lower portion to the upper portion of the outboard motor, changing its vertical position. This dimensional relocation allows the lower portion to be used for other purposes (such as water intake or propulsion components) while the shift mechanism occupies space in the upper portion where it does not interfere with critical lower-section functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The outboard motor is divided into functional zones: the upper portion houses the shift mechanism and other non-critical components, while the lower portion is dedicated to propulsion and water intake functions. This segmentation allows each section to be optimized independently, with the shift mechanism positioned where it minimizes interference with the lower portion's critical functions.
2Volume of moving object
If the drive gear and driven gear are positioned in the upper portion, then space in the lower portion is saved, but the transmission path length increases
Solution Approach 1:
The gear train is arranged in a vertical configuration within the upper portion, utilizing the vertical dimension to transmit power from the drive shaft to the propeller shaft. This vertical arrangement allows the gears to be positioned in the upper portion without significantly increasing the horizontal transmission path length, as the power transmission occurs primarily in the vertical direction within the compact upper-section space.
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
This configuration effectively saves space in the lower portion of the marine propulsion device, enhances rotation transmission efficiency, and simplifies maintenance by positioning the water pump assembly and shift mechanism for improved operational efficiency and ease of access.
Implementation Method 1
a drive gear rotatable integrally with the first drive shaft, a driven gear drivable by the drive gear rotatable around a center axis of the second drive shaft
Data Source
AI summary
A marine propulsion device includes a drive source, a first drive shaft rotationally drivable by the drive source, a drive gear rotatable integrally with the first drive shaft, a second drive shaft parallel or substantially parallel to the first drive shaft, a driven gear drivable by the drive gear and rotatable around a center axis of the second drive shaft, and a shift mechanism to switch a shift position. The drive gear and the driven gear are located in an upper portion of the marine propulsion device, and the shift mechanism is above the driven gear.