Marine Propulsion Controller Merging Switches for Collective Engine Start
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing marine propulsion device controllers require complex operations to start multiple engines simultaneously, limiting user convenience and flexibility in panel layout due to the need for individual and collective switch operations.
Innovation Solution
A marine propulsion device controller with a single operation unit that outputs a start command for all engines, allowing collective starting with a simple operation, reducing the complexity of operating multiple switches and enhancing panel layout flexibility by eliminating the need for individual start switches near the operation unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a key switch and an all-device switch are provided separately on the operation panel, then engines of multiple propulsion devices can be started collectively, but the operation complexity increases and panel layout flexibility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the key switch and all-device switch into a single integrated operation unit. This operation unit can function as a key switch for power supply and as an all-device switch for collective engine starting, eliminating the need for separate switches and reducing operation panel complexity while maintaining collective starting capability
Solution Approach 2:
The operation unit is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both a key switch for power supply control and an all-device switch for collective engine starting. This multi-functional design allows a single component to replace what would traditionally require two separate components, simplifying the overall system
2Ease of operation
If a key switch and an all-device switch are provided separately on the operation panel, then collective engine starting is enabled, but the panel layout freedom is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the key switch and all-device switch into one operation unit, the patent reduces the number of components that need to be arranged on the panel. This gives designers greater freedom in panel layout design, as fewer components need to be positioned and wired, while still providing both power supply control and collective engine starting functions
3Adaptability or versatility
If individual start switches are provided near the operation unit for each propulsion device, then individual engine starting is enabled, but the panel complexity and layout constraints increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the individual engine starting function from the collective starting operation. Individual start switches are positioned separately from the main operation unit, allowing operators to start engines individually when needed while maintaining the simplified collective starting capability through the integrated operation unit. This segmentation reduces the complexity around the main operation unit while preserving individual control capability
Data Source
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AI summary
A marine propulsion device controller that is capable of starting engines of all propulsion devices collectively with a simple operation and is capable of increasing the degree of freedom of layout on a panel on which an operation unit is disposed. One main switch is provided in common for a plurality of outboard motors. The main switch is able to receive a first operation and to receive a second operation consecutively after the first operation in a state where the first operation has been received. In particular, the second operation is capable of receiving consecutively after receiving the first operation. All remote control ECUs are activated in response to receiving the first operation. The main switch outputs a collective start command for starting all engines of all outboard motors at once in response to receiving the second operation. Each remote control ECU starts the corresponding engine based on the collective start command.