Waterproof Smart Power Switching for Marine Asset Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless smart technologies are underutilized in marine environments due to the harsh conditions, leading to the continued use of outdated manual or mechanical systems for controlling electrical devices on recreational watercraft, with a lack of durable, customizable, and water-resistant solutions for controlling and monitoring electronic or electromechanical devices.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a beacon and a switch, both with waterproof and sealed designs, utilizing a wireless mesh network for communication, equipped with low-energy chipsets, microprocessors, and sensors, allowing for remote control and monitoring of assets through a user interface, including features like interchangeable inserts and bidirectional motors for versatile control and data sharing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If wireless smart technologies are implemented in marine environments, then control and monitoring capabilities are improved, but device reliability deteriorates due to harsh conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The switch device integrates multiple functions including power switching, wireless communication (multiple protocols), sensor integration, and environmental sensing into a single unit. This multi-functionality allows the device to operate autonomously in harsh marine environments while providing comprehensive control and monitoring capabilities without requiring multiple separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical switching mechanisms with solid-state Field Effect Transistors (FETs) for power switching. This substitution eliminates mechanical wear and corrosion issues that would compromise reliability in marine environments, while maintaining the ability to control electrical devices. The wireless communication protocols replace physical connection requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If customized and programmable control devices are used, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switch device incorporates programmable logic that allows its functionality to be dynamically configured and customized for different applications. The device can be programmed to respond to various sensor inputs, support different wireless communication protocols, and control different types of electrical devices. This dynamic programmability provides high adaptability while the integration of these features into a single device minimizes overall system complexity.
3Reliability
If waterproof and sealed designs are implemented, then reliability in marine environments is improved, but manufacturing difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switch device employs a nested sealing structure where the electronic components are housed within a sealed enclosure that integrates the waterproofing function. The FETs, sensors, and communication modules are nested within the sealed housing, which provides protective barriers against water and corrosion. This nested design achieves reliable waterproofing while using standard manufacturing techniques for sealed enclosures.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for controlling assets via smart power switching devices having at least one beacon, at least one switch, and at least one battery selector. The at least one switch is a power controlling device programmed to control a plurality of assets. The at least one beacon, the at least one switch, and the at least one battery selector connect through a wireless mesh network. The at least one beacon, the at least one switch, and the at least one battery selector each communicate via wireless communication.