Marine Propulsion Lever Return Control for Reliable Speed Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing marine propulsion control systems lack reliable feedback mechanisms for operators, particularly when the lever is moved to a specific position, requiring reliance on other means for speed control, which can lead to operator error and reduced vessel control reliability.
Innovation Solution
A propulsion control arrangement with a movable lever that automatically returns to a predefined intermediate position when released within a specific sub-range, providing an opposing force through a spring arrangement or similar mechanism, and allowing for adjustable intermediate positions based on pre-set operational parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the lever is moved to a specific position without automatic return, then the operator has manual control flexibility, but the reliability of vessel control is reduced due to lack of feedback and potential unintended positions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic return means that provide tactile feedback to the operator when the lever is released in the second sub-range. The lever automatically returns to the intermediate position, giving the operator immediate feedback about the actual position achieved and preventing unintended positions, thus improving reliability while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The automatic return means enable the lever to self-correct its position automatically when released in the second sub-range. The system serves itself by automatically returning to the intended intermediate position without requiring operator intervention, thereby improving control reliability while keeping the operation simple.
2Reliability
If automatic return functionality is implemented throughout the entire operational range, then feedback reliability is improved, but the operator must always keep a hand on the lever to ensure forward motion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies automatic return functionality selectively only in the second sub-range (from intermediate position to maximum forward position), not throughout the entire operational range. This local application provides feedback reliability where needed while avoiding the inconvenience of automatic return in the first sub-range, thus maintaining operational convenience.
Solution Approach 2:
The operational range is segmented into two sub-ranges with different characteristics. The first sub-range (neutral to intermediate) allows manual positioning without automatic return, while the second sub-range (intermediate to maximum forward) implements automatic return. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by applying automatic return only where it provides benefit.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the intermediate position is fixed, then the control system is simpler, but the system cannot adapt to different operational parameters and conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the intermediate position adjustable rather than fixed, allowing it to be dynamically repositioned based on operational parameters. This dynamic capability enables the system to adapt to different operating conditions while maintaining a relatively simple control structure through electronic adjustment rather than mechanical reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate position can be adjusted as a variable parameter based on operational requirements. By changing the position parameter electronically, the system gains adaptability to different operational conditions without requiring complex mechanical adjustments, thus balancing adaptability with control system simplicity.
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
Enhances operator feedback and reduces the likelihood of unintended vessel speed or direction changes by providing automatic return functionality and adjustable intermediate positions, thereby improving overall vessel control and energy efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the automatic return functionality is implemented using a spring arrangement (or similar)
Data Source
AI summary
A propulsion control arrangement operable to control a speed and possible direction of a marine vessel. A marine propulsion control system controlling a carried by a hull of a marine vessel, wherein the marine propulsion control system is adapted to receive an input command from the propulsion control arrangement.